The Way of the Exploding Fist
Video Game
1985 (made)
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.
|
| Title | The 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 type | Mass 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 created | September 30, 2014 |
| Record URL |
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