China Warrior (1987). Play online

Summary

I first heard of China Warrior on the TurboGrafx‑16 when exploring the console’s library. The game is instantly recognizable for its enormous sprite graphics; the martial‑artist fills most of the screen and moves without any flicker, a technical feat for its time. Its beat‑’em‑up action mimics the style of Irem’s Kung‑Fu Master, letting you punch and kick enemies even while airborne. Each of the four levels is divided into three stages, ending with a distinct boss.

Critics were quick to note the visual wow factor but were far harsher on the play‑style, delivering scores that often hovered in the low single digits. Reviewers from major magazines such as GameSpot and IGN gave it around 1.5/10, and Eurogamer was even less generous. Despite the avalanche of unfavorable press, the game still managed a modest 474th spot in a 1993 PC Engine Fan readers’ poll, showing that a niche audience remembered it.

Storyline

In China Warrior, you play as Wang, a Chinese martial artist whose fighting style echoes Bruce Lee’s iconic moves. Wang sets out on a relentless quest across feudal China, battling a parade of hostile foes that block his path. His ultimate goal is to storm the towering Luo Yang Ge castle, where the sinister Dark Emperor reigns. The Dark Emperor, perched atop the fortress, commands a legion of minions intent on keeping the realm under his iron grip. By confronting and defeating each enemy, Wang aims to topple the Dark Emperor and restore peace to the land.