Karnov is a side-scrolling, run-and-gun platform game, developed and manufactured by Data East in 1987.

Considering the sophistication of many arcade games in 1987, Karnov could be considered a bit of a runt. The graphics are plain and not particularly imaginative. The gameplay is harsh and unforgiving. If anything, I’d say that Karnov is trying to be Ghosts ‘N Goblins, and failing miserably.

It’s not a terrible game, just not a particularly good one.

A number of 8-bit home conversions were released in 1988, developed in the UK and published through Activision, and there were also conversions for the NES, PC, and Mac. A pseudo sequel also appeared on the Neo Geo, called Karnov’s Revenge.

More: Karnov on Wikipedia