Karnov (USA)

In Karnov, players take on the role of Jinborov Karnovski, better known as Karnov, a former Russian circus strongman with the unique ability to breathe fire. This classic side-scrolling platformer for the NES tasks you with collecting pieces of a stolen treasure map and ultimately defeating the evil wizard Ryu.

Karnov begins his journey with his primary attack, the fireball he spits from his mouth. Throughout the levels, players must navigate through a variety of diverse environments, from arid desert lands and ancient ruins to perilous underwater sections. Each stage presents unique enemies, including mythological creatures, monsters, and various obstacles to overcome.

To aid Karnov in his quest, numerous power-up items can be collected. These include: ladders to reach higher areas, bombs to clear multiple enemies, a mask to provide temporary invincibility or protect from one hit, shoes to increase movement speed, and fire icons to enhance the power or number of fireballs. Effectively utilizing these items is crucial for overcoming the challenges.

Each stage in Karnov culminates in a confrontation with a formidable boss, requiring players to discover their weaknesses and devise appropriate strategies to defeat them. The game is known for its high difficulty, demanding patience and skill to complete. The ultimate objective is to defeat Ryu and restore the lost treasure.