An isometric tactical shooter by Blizzard, slow and strategic, with a truly unique feel. A standout curiosity well worth rediscovering.
Your verdict
Category
Action1 player12+
Description
Side-scrolling action game featuring a combat pilot across varied military missions. Published by Thalion, released in Japan in 1994. Helicopter and on-foot missions, weapons and gadgets to collect, mission bosses and detailed 16-bit visuals. An original little-known military action game on Super Nintendo.
Blackthorne - Fukushuu no Kuroki Toge review
4/5
Art direction
★★★★★
"Striking"
4/5
Music
★★★★★
"Excellent"
3/5
Story
★★★★★
"Solid"
Gameplay
"Excellent"
Fun
"Pleasant"
Addictiveness
"Engaging"
Difficulty
"Balanced"
Lifespan
"Average"
Technical info
💾0,68 MB📅11/08/1995
Published by Interplay
Blackthorne - Fukushuu no Kuroki Toge (SNES) price, value & rarity
The Japanese Super Famicom version of Blackthorne with a dramatic subtitle exclusive to the local pressing. The Japanese cart is rarer than the US and PAL versions, and the 'Fukushuu no Kuroki Toge' ('Black Thorn of Vengeance') subtitle gives the Japanese pressing a specific narrative identity. Intact boxed CIB with cardboard sleeve and illustrated manual is valued by Blizzard collectors chasing the Japanese variant, and the cote climbs hard.
Is Blackthorne - Fukushuu no Kuroki Toge still worth playing in 2026?
Also released as Blackhawk in Europe, Blackthorne is a platform action signed by Blizzard with a very singular touch, namely rotoscoped animation in the Prince of Persia tradition, firearms aimed left or right and dark corridors crossed at a measured pace. The blend of thinking, dialogue and gunfights builds a narrative tension rare for the system. The slow tempo may surprise, but the atmosphere remains immersive. Recommended to fans of off norm 16 bit experiences and auteur driven games.
