Karateka is a 1984 action game designed by Jordan Mechner. First released on Apple II, it was later ported to multiple platforms including the NES (Nintendo Entertainment System).
Players take on the role of an unnamed samurai who travels to the castle of the evil warlord Akuma to rescue the imprisoned Princess Mariko. The game uses a side-scrolling format, requiring players to defeat enemies along the way before facing Akuma himself.
The combat system lets players use punches and kicks at different heights in one-on-one battles. Each hit reduces the player’s health, which can be restored by resting. Akuma’s trained falcon also serves as an extra challenge.
Known for its smooth animation and cinematic storytelling, Karateka became one of the most influential games of its era.