Kick Master

Game Overview

Kick Master delivers one of the most refined action-platforming experiences on the NES, distinguished by its unique emphasis on kick-based martial arts combat. Rather than relying on traditional swords or magic alone, Thonolan utilizes an impressive arsenal of extended kicking moves—including flying knee strikes, roundhouse kicks, sliding sweeps, and vertical dropkicks—to dismantle incoming enemy hordes.

The game incorporates RPG elements that reward skillful combat. Defeating enemies causes them to drop experience jewels. Gathering these jewels levels up Thonolan’s character class, increasing his maximum health bar, expanding his total magic points (MP), and unlocking devastating high-level martial arts techniques. Additionally, Thonolan can harness a variety of spell scrolls, granting him utility powers like health restoration, screen-clearing lightning attacks, and temporary flight.

With fluid character animations, smooth controls, vibrant 8-bit visual design, and a memorable fantasy soundtrack, Kick Master is widely recognized as an impressive late-era gem in the NES library.

Quick Specifications

Key Features

• Dynamic Kick Combat System: Execute over a dozen distinct kicking maneuvers, including overhead kicks, low slides, double kicks, and dive attacks.
• RPG Level-Up Progression: Collect experience items dropped by defeated foes to increase max HP, boost magic capacity, and unlock advanced moves.
• Spellcasting Magic System: Utilize collectible spell scrolls to cast offensive magic, heal damage, shield yourself, or fly across gaps.
• Eight Diverse Fantasy Stages: Journey through haunted forests, cavernous dungeons, flooded caverns, and Belzed’s dark fortress.
• Late-Era NES Graphics & Sound: Experience detailed sprite animations, responsive controls, and a high-energy chiptune soundtrack.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: How do you learn new kicks in Kick Master?

A: You unlock new kicking techniques by leveling up Thonolan. Defeat enemies and collect the experience jewels they drop to raise your experience meter and advance your rank.

Q: What happens when enemies die in Kick Master?

A: When an enemy is destroyed, three items float down from the air. Catching them yields bonus items such as experience jewels, magic power refills, or health restore items before they touch the ground.

Q: Is Kick Master an official Nintendo Entertainment System release?

A: Yes, Kick Master was officially published by Taito for the NES in North America in January 1992.

Q: Can you use magic spells and kick attacks at the same time?

A: Yes, Thonolan can switch between active magic spells via the pause menu and execute spellcasts while maintaining his core kicking physical attacks.