After the success of Karate Champ, it was only a question of time until the first imitations would arrive. The Way of the Exploding Fist is one of these. Whatever your personal verdict about the game's quality (and imitations in general) is: It's certainly one of the games with the most creative names ever! Exploding Fist? Hard not to like it!

The gameplay has basically been taken over from Karate Champ completely. Again, two contestants try outperforming each other in front of a referee who grants them points, depending on their fighting style. Pauses are made after every successful hit.

In contrast to its 'prequel', Exploding Fist has a more 'classy' touch to it. Instead of dirty docks, your fighting in beautiful natural surroundings. And the referee is also in accordance with the stereotype of the Japanese 'mentor' type. Definitely a plus.

Where it really outshines Karate Champ (at least on the C64 and other home computer systems) is the gameplay, though. It's faster, better animated, has more exact controls and even better graphics. Especially the digitized sound effects (screaming and grunting from the fighters) are very well done!

Can you manage to become "10th Dan"? Whatever that means, it sounds neat - like something everyone would love to be. Fulfill your dreams!


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