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Ikari

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MSX 2 Run and Gun Pub Tradewest Dev SNK 1986 5 (0) 2

Ikari

About Ikari

Compiled by the Retro Games Online Editorial Team · Updated June 28, 2026

Ikari on MSX 2 is a port of the 1986 arcade run and gun classic originally developed by SNK. Known in the West as Ikari Warriors, this version brings the top-down shooter to the MSX 2 home computer platform. It arrived during a wave of Commando clones but distinguished itself with a unique control scheme - though on MSX 2 that's adapted to a standard keyboard or joystick. The game was originally planned as a Rambo: First Blood Part II tie-in, but SNK couldn't secure the license, so they created an original story about commandos fighting behind enemy lines. Still, the influence is clear in the jungle setting and the one-man-army feel.

How to Play Ikari Online

Getting Started

Jump straight into action by pressing Enter to start. You control a soldier moving through vertically scrolling jungle and military compound levels. The core loop is simple: move with the D-pad, shoot enemies with the B button, and avoid or destroy obstacles. Pick up weapon power-ups like the machine gun or spread shot to increase your firepower. The game throws waves of infantry, tanks, and helicopters at you, so keep moving and firing.

If you're playing the Japanese version, menus and dialogue will be in Japanese. That's not a big hurdle - just press Enter to advance through story screens and select options by moving the cursor. The only important choice is one or two players at the title screen. Two-player co-op works the same as the arcade: both players share the screen and can help each other by covering fire. There are no continues, so learn enemy patterns and use grenades (press Select) to clear tight spots. It's a short but brutal run and gun that rewards patience and memorization.

Ikari Keyboard Controls

Controls

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Roughly how long does it take to finish Ikari?

A single playthrough of Ikari on MSX 2 typically lasts around 20 to 30 minutes if you play well without losing all lives. The arcade roots mean it's designed for short bursts, though mastering it will take repeated attempts.

Is Ikari exclusive to MSX 2 or did it appear on other systems?

No, Ikari first appeared in arcades in 1986 and was ported to several home platforms, including the NES, Commodore 64, and ZX Spectrum. The MSX 2 version is one of several computer ports released around the same time.

Does Ikari have a multiplayer or co-op mode?

Yes, the original arcade version featured a two-player cooperative mode where both players fight together on the same screen. The MSX 2 port is widely believed to retain this feature, allowing a second player to join at the title screen.