Karateka

How do you pronounce Karateka?

We say CAR-uh-TAKE-uh, but any way you like is fine.

Where can I get the game? Which version is best?

Click on the "Buy the Game" tab above for direct links and updates on game availability.

If you have an Xbox 360 video game system, Karateka is available now. You can download Karateka from the Xbox Live Arcade section of the dashboard. The game costs 800 Microsoft Points (US$9.99).

If you have a PC, Karateka is available now on Steam.

Karateka for the Playstation 3 is availible now on PSN. The XBLA, PSN and Steam versions of Karateka offer essentially identical graphics, sound and game play, so you can take your pick depending which system(s) you own.

Karateka for iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch is availible now as a universal app. The iOS version includes most of the features of the XBLA/PSN/Steam game, with iOS-optimized graphics and a one-touch interface. Supported devices: iPhone 4S or newer, iPad 2 or newer, iPad Mini, and 5th generation iPod touch.

The App Store says that it should work on my device, but it crashes and is buggy. What's the deal?

The requirements listed in the App Store are incorrect. Karateka only works on the following: iPhone 4S or newer, iPad 2 or newer, iPad Mini, and 5th generation iPod touch. We sincerely apologize to those who were misled and have purchased Karateka on an unsupported device. We're working with Apple to fix the description as soon as possible.

If you'd like to be notified about upcoming Karateka releases, sign up for our mailing list here:

What is this "Old Karateka" you speak of?

The original Karateka game was released in 1984 for the Apple II, Commodore 64, and other computers. It looked like this:

  • The original Karateka title screen on the Apple II
  • The original Karateka intro screen on the Apple II
  • Akuma commanding his guard on the original Apple II Karateka
  • Combat on the original Apple II version of Karateka

The game was made by Jordan Mechner, working on an Apple II in his college dorm room. It launched his career making games (he later went on to create Prince of Persia and The Last Express. You can read about the original Karateka on Jordan's website, or play the original game on your iOS / Android device in the app Karateka Classic.

Who made the new Karateka?

Much like the original Karateka, the new game is an independent, self-funded effort. It was made possible by a small group of people who believed in it.

The full Karateka team is listed in the credits of the game itself.

Where can I get more information about Karateka?

You can learn about upcoming Karateka releases and other Karateka-related news through the following channels:

For press inquiries, contact press@jordanmechner.com.

ESRB Rated Teen PEGI Rating 12 Coming soon on XBLA Coming soon on Steam Coming soon on the App Store Coming soon on Playstation Network