Ken-Go (also known internationally as Lightning Swords) is a 2D side-scrolling hack-and-slash beat ’em up released in 1991 for the arcade by Irem. Set in feudal Japan, players take on the role of a samuraiโeither the Blue Dragon or Red Dragon in two-player co-opโfighting through five challenging levels. The game is notable for its focused combat mechanics, eschewing a complex control scheme in favor of precise, timing-based sword strikes and an unconventional jumping system.
How to Play
Insert a coin using Shift and press Enter to start. Move your samurai using the arrow keys. Unusually for the genre, there is no dedicated jump button; instead, press Up on the directional keys to jump. Combat relies on a single action button (Z). Holding Z allows you to block incoming attacks while simultaneously charging your sword up to five power levels. Releasing the button unleashes a devastating strike.
Tips
- Master the charge: Since holding the attack button also acts as your block, you should be charging almost constantly when approaching enemies.
- Upward strikes: Use the Up-to-jump mechanic in combination with your sword swings to hit enemies and bosses positioned on higher elevations or swooping in from above.
- Manage your health: You can only take four hits before losing a life, so prioritize blocking and careful strikes over rushing into crowds.
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