Knights of the Round is an arcade game developed by Capcom in 1991. It's a side-scrolling beat-'em up game loosely inspired by the legend of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. Later, in 1994, it was ported to the Super Nintendo/Super Famicom.
This beat-'em up offers a familiar yet enjoyable journey through medieval battles. While it may lack originality, its unique setting and entertaining gameplay make it a worthwhile experience, despite its flaws.
The Story
The legend speaks of the sword Excalibur, said to justify the one who draws it from the stone as king. Yet, even Excalibur's might cannot save Britain from the turmoil of civil war. Now, the land seeks hope in the legendary grail, believed to restore peace. Join Arthur, Lancelot, and Percival on their quest for this magical artifact. Battle evil knights, tyrants, and sorcerers as you overcome the darkest challenges. Only by defeating the menace can you reclaim the grail and fulfill your destiny as Knight of the Round Table!
The Graphics and Sound
The graphics offer nice-looking environments with detailed backgrounds, while the character designs evolve as they level up, adding to the visual appeal. However, there aren't many special effects, and the levels often feature castle-like settings. While the graphics are good for the Super Nintendo console, they don't introduce anything groundbreaking.
Regarding sound, the weapon clashes are satisfying, and the music serves its purpose, although some tunes may become repetitive over time. Enemy groans upon defeat can be heard throughout the game and, while not overly irritating, could have been more diverse and improved. Overall, the sound is somewhat mediocre, with some room for enhancement.
The Gameplay
Knights of the Round offers unique elements that favor it above typical beat 'em up games. One standout feature is the level-up system, where points also serve as experience. As characters level up, their appearance changes, adding a cool factor. Although there are only three characters to choose from, each with their own fighting style, they offer diversity in gameplay.
The overall challenge isn't too daunting, although some bosses can be frustrating. However, the game's short length, with only about seven stages, and limited additional features compared to the arcade version, may disappoint some players. The limited number of lives per continue can also be a drawback, especially against challenging bosses. Despite these shortcomings, Knights of the Round still offers decent replay value, making it a worthwhile addition to any fan's collection.
My Verdict
Knights of the Round is a solid beat-'em up video game. It has decent graphics, sound, and gameplay. Despite lacking some additional stages or features, it successfully captures the essence of its arcade counterpart. Overall, it is a commendable 16-bit port that deserves attention from fans of the genre.
Play it on the groovy Nintendo/Super Famicom or play it on a great emulator. Play it with a friend.