As in real karate, skill, speed, and timing are the necessary ingredients to play "RINGSIDE KARATE".
Each player controls one fighter with a joystick. Moving the stick right and left moves the fighter forward and back.
To punch, move
the joystick forwards your opponent and press the fire button.
To kick, push the joystick away from you (diagonally, northeast for the right player) and press the fire button.
To foot sweep move it southeast (left player) or southwest (right player) and press the fire button.
Pressing the fire button in any other position causes a defensive block. To win, you must score ten knock downs, each
worth 100 points.
Timing is crucial because the fire button must be released for a moment before another attack can be made. If the button is pressed
rapidly the fighter won't move and will likely be knocked down. Blocking provides a limited defense and is best used just before a counter
attack or when backing up.
Those who have played an arcade karate game will find the controls easy.