Kung Fu Kid (Master System) Playthrough
Playthrough of Sega's 1987 beat 'em up for the Sega Master System, Kung Fu Kid.
Kung Fu Kid for the Sega Master System is a fast-paced side-scrolling action game that puts players in the role of Wang, a skilled martial artist on a mission to defeat an evil sorcerer and his minions. The game features smooth and responsive controls, allowing Wang to execute high jumps, powerful kicks, and quick attacks against a variety of enemies. Unlike many other games of its time, Kung Fu Kid emphasizes speed and agility, requiring players to react swiftly to incoming threats while navigating through different levels.
The game’s stages take players through traditional martial arts-inspired environments, including forests, villages, and temples, each filled with challenging enemies and obstacles. Various foes, such as ninjas, ghosts, and mystical creatures, appear along the way, each requiring a different approach to defeat. Some enemies attack in groups, making crowd control an essential skill. Wang's primary attack is a devastating kick, but he can also collect and use magical talismans that allow him to throw energy projectiles at enemies from a distance.
One of the standout features of Kung Fu Kid is its jumping mechanics, which allow Wang to leap incredibly high compared to many other platformers of the era. This ability is crucial for avoiding enemy attacks, reaching higher platforms, and even engaging in mid-air combat. The boss battles at the end of certain levels require precise timing and strategy, as each boss has unique attack patterns that challenge the player to adapt and strike at the right moment.
The game's graphics are colorful and well-animated, with detailed character sprites and smooth movement. The background music is energetic and fitting for the martial arts theme, enhancing the overall experience. While Kung Fu Kid is relatively short compared to some other action games, its fast-paced gameplay, satisfying combat, and unique high-jump mechanics make it a fun and memorable title for Sega Master System fans.