Karnov

Karnov is a 1987 arcade game released by Data East. It was also ported to the Famicom and Nintendo Entertainment System, Commodore 64 and others.

Plot
In the original arcade port, Karnov is on a quest to obtain the ultimate treasure. The treasure map leading to it is guarded by fierce monsters. The final boss is The Wizard.

In the NES version, the story is that the kingdom of peace, Kriamina, is under attack by the evil demon dragon, Arakatai. Karnov is sent by God to restore peace and destroy Arakatai.

Why It Rocks

 * 1) Fluent controls.
 * 2) Wide variety of enemies to fight.
 * 3) Very good graphics for both the arcade and NES versions.
 * 4) Numerous power-ups, some of which are needed to beat the game.
 * 5) Different routes to take in several stages.
 * 6) As you jump you float down for easy landing.
 * 7) The first boss of the game, a jumping fishman, reappears often as a sort of mini-boss. He's a bit weaker in the hit point department.
 * 8) Some stages in the NES version are altered give a little more variety than the arcade while still staying faithful to the original.
 * 9) Difficult but fair challenge.
 * 10) Many items are hidden but can be found if Karnov is at a perfect spot.

The Only Bad Quality

 * 1) If you walk off a cliff or other platform, you'll lose control of Karnov.

Reception
Although there was never a sequel to this game, Karnov became a mascot for Data East appearing in several other games, usually as a villain or final boss.

Trivia
Karnov's full name is Jinborov Karnovski.

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