The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is a legendary gaming console that has been bringing joy to gamers of all ages since its release in the mid-1980s. One of the lesser-known NES games in Japan is Karnov, an action-packed side-scrolling game developed by NCS Corporation and released under the name "Karnov" in Japan, but later modified and re-released as "Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!!" (now known as Super Punch-Out!!) outside of Japan.

In this article, we will delve into the world of Karnov and explore its features, gameplay, and reception. We'll also examine the changes made to the game when it was released in other regions and how these changes affected its final product.

History of Karnov

Karnov was initially released as an arcade game in 1989, shortly after the release of Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!! (as "Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!!" outside Japan). The original game received positive reviews from critics for its unique gameplay mechanics and challenging level design. However, due to licensing issues with the Tyson boxing organization, Nintendo decided to rebrand the game as "Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!!" when it was released in North America.

The Japanese version of Karnov retained its original name, but the game received a significant makeover before its international release. The changes included the removal of some level layouts and characters, as well as alterations to the game's difficulty curve. These modifications were likely made to ensure that the game met Nintendo's standards for quality control, rather than any attempt to mask the game's rough edges.

Gameplay

Karnov is an action-packed side-scrolling beat-em-up that pits players against various martial artists and fighters in a series of intense battles. The gameplay revolves around navigating through six levels, each representing a different opponent with its unique moveset and fighting style.

Players control Karnov as he fights his way through the levels, using a combination of punches, kicks, and special moves to take down his opponents. The game features a variety of weapons and projectiles that can be used in battle, including hammers, nunchucks, and fireballs.

One of the standout features of Karnov is its challenging level design. Each level presents a unique set of obstacles and challenges that require players to think strategically and use their skills effectively. The levels are divided into two main sections: an upper portion where players must avoid enemy attacks while navigating through narrow corridors, and a lower section where they can engage in melee combat.

Reception

Karnov received generally positive reviews from critics upon its release, with many praising its unique gameplay mechanics and challenging level design. The game's fast-paced action and addictive gameplay made it a favorite among fans of the beat-em-up genre.

However, despite its initial popularity, Karnov never quite achieved the same level of success as other NES games in Japan. This may be due to various factors, including the game's limited availability outside of Japan, its relatively short length, and the lack of marketing support from Nintendo.

Age Rating

The age rating for Karnov varies depending on the region and platform it was released on. In Japan, the game was rated "All Ages" (, Zenzen) by the Entertainment Software Rating Organization (ESRB), which means that it is suitable for players of all ages.

Outside of Japan, the game's rating has changed over time due to its content and violence. In North America, Karnov was initially released as a "M" (Mature) rated title, but after modifications were made to reduce violence and profanity, it was re-released as a "K-A" (Kids-to-Adults) rated game.

In the United Kingdom, the game is rated "15" (suitable for players aged 15 and above), while in Australia, it has been classified as "M" (Mature) by the Office of Film and Literature Classification (OFLC).

Conclusion

Karnov is a lesser-known NES game that offers a unique gaming experience unlike any other title in the series. While its international release was marred by changes to the game's content, Karnov remains an enjoyable and challenging side-scrolling beat-em-up that fans of retro games will appreciate.

If you're looking for a rare NES gem with a loyal following, look no further than Karnov. This hidden gem is sure to provide hours of entertainment and excitement for gamers of all ages.

Rating: 7/10

Recommendation:

Karnov is recommended for:

• Fans of retro gaming
• Beat-em-up enthusiasts
• Players looking for a challenging side-scrolling game

Not recommended for:

• Young children due to violence and mature themes
• Players seeking a more accessible NES experience