Hokuto no Ken (Fist of the North Star) is an action game released in 1986 for the Nintendo NES platform. The game is based on the popular manga and anime series and centers on a post-apocalyptic world where players control Kenshiro, a martial artist with deadly combat skills.

The main objective is to progress through levels by defeating enemies using Kenshiro's signature fighting style, the Hokuto Shinken. The pace of the game is fast and intense, focusing on close-quarters combat and quick reflexes to overcome waves of adversaries. Players must navigate through various stages while utilizing powerful moves to clear enemies efficiently.

One unique mechanic in Hokuto no Ken is the use of pressure point attacks that cause enemies to explode, reflecting the source material's distinctive fighting techniques. This unusual idea adds a strategic layer to the otherwise straightforward beat-'em-up gameplay. The game's distinctive blend of martial arts action and graphic combat effects sets it apart from other NES action titles of its time.