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Ninja Kun

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Ninja Kun - Platformer Classic

MSX 1
Platformer
5· 0 votes

Ninja Kun is an early side-scrolling action platformer that originally appeared on the MSX 1 in 1984. Published by Jaleco, it was one of the many ninja-themed games that popped up during the golden age of 8-bit home computers. Like many MSX titles of the time, it was only released in Japan, which means menus and text are in Japanese. The game is an official commercial release, not a hack or homebrew, and it's a straightforward example of the run-and-jump genre. You control a small ninja character who moves from left to right across increasingly tricky stages. The main goal is to reach the end flag of each level by jumping across gaps, climbing ladders, and throwing shurikens at a variety of enemies that block your path. Some enemies move in simple patterns, while others require precise timing to avoid or hit. The controls are simple - arrow keys for movement, a button for jumping, and another for attacking. There are no complex mechanics or RPG elements; it's pure arcade-style action with a focus on pattern recognition and reflexes. For today's retro gaming enthusiasts, Ninja Kun is a pleasant look at how ninja games played before the genre became more sophisticated. It's not a deep or lengthy experience - you can finish it in under 30 minutes once you know the patterns - but it captures the charm of early MSX action games. Compared to later platformers on the system, it's simpler and more forgiving, making it a decent entry point for anyone curious about Japan's home computer scene. It's a niche title, but worth a few rounds if you enjoy vintage arcade-style platformers.

GAME INFO

Platform: MSX 1
Genre: Platformer
Publisher: Jaleco
Developer: Jaleco
Released: 1984
Players: 1
Region: Japan

How to play Ninja Kun online

To start playing, press Enter to begin the game. The title screen will be in Japanese, but you can simply press Start to jump straight into the action. The first level is a straightforward walkway with a few enemies. Move right with the Arrow Keys, jump over pits using X (A button), and throw shurikens at enemies by pressing S (B button). Your character can only attack while standing still, so you'll need to time your throws carefully. The core loop is simple: clear each screen of enemies and reach the exit flag at the far right. Some stages have ladders leading to higher platforms, so use Up and Down on the D-Pad to climb. Watch out for traps and enemies that move in loops - learning their patterns is key to surviving. There is no health bar; one hit from an enemy will cost you a life, but you'll reappear at the start of the same screen. The game ends when all lives are lost, but you can continue by pressing Start. The manual and menus are entirely in Japanese, but the gameplay is intuitive enough that you can figure it out by trial and error.

CONTROLS

Controls

Arrow Keys: D-Pad / Movement
X: Trigger 1
S: Trigger 2
Enter: Start

Ninja Kun FAQ

Is Ninja Kun exclusive to MSX 1 or did it appear on other systems?

Ninja Kun was originally released for the MSX 1 in 1984, but it also received ports to other Japanese home computers like the NEC PC-8801 and Sharp X1. An arcade version exists as well, though it features different level layouts and improved graphics. It did not see an official Western release on any platform.

Does Ninja Kun have a multiplayer or co-op mode?

No, Ninja Kun is strictly a single-player experience. The game is designed around one player controlling the ninja through each side-scrolling stage with no option for a second player to join or take turns.

Roughly how long does it take to finish Ninja Kun?

Completion time depends on player skill, but most players can finish all stages in around 15 to 30 minutes. The game is short by modern standards, though its difficulty can extend playtime for those unfamiliar with the enemy patterns.

All MSX 1 games