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The Way of the Exploding Fist

Video Game
1985 (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

This game is what is known informally as a 'beat 'em up': in other words a fist-fighting game. It was a graphically impressive game, sprites could perform 18 different karate moves (including 8 kicks, 3 punches and 2 somersaults), which at the time was a very advanced. It utilised a points-based system – scores were awarded for timing of the moves – players were rewarded with part of a Yin-Yang symbol. In total, there were 11 fights, from novice to master, up to 10th Dan. In multiplayer, the first player to get a full symbol won. Certain moves were worth more than others e.g. roundhouse kick was worth more than a straight punch.


Object details

Categories
Object type
Parts
This object consists of 3 parts.

  • Case
  • Cassette
  • Insert
TitleThe Way of the Exploding Fist (assigned by artist)
Materials and techniques
Plastic, printed paper
Brief description
Video game cassette, 'The Way of the Exploding Fist', Beam Software for Melbourne House, 1985
Physical description
Video game cassette in transparent plastic case, with printed paper insert.
Production typeMass produced
Object history
Purchased for the V&A exhibition 'British Design 1948-2012: Innovation in the Modern Age' [2014/755].
Summary
This game is what is known informally as a 'beat 'em up': in other words a fist-fighting game. It was a graphically impressive game, sprites could perform 18 different karate moves (including 8 kicks, 3 punches and 2 somersaults), which at the time was a very advanced. It utilised a points-based system – scores were awarded for timing of the moves – players were rewarded with part of a Yin-Yang symbol. In total, there were 11 fights, from novice to master, up to 10th Dan. In multiplayer, the first player to get a full symbol won. Certain moves were worth more than others e.g. roundhouse kick was worth more than a straight punch.
Collection
Accession number
W.17:1 to 3-2016

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Record createdSeptember 30, 2014
Record URL
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