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Blades of Steel

NES

NES

Based on the arcade game, Blades Of Steel is a hockey arcade action game (gameplay doesn't require the need to worry about statistics or provide the ability to customize teams.) Two players can play against each other, or one player against the computer. In one player mode there are single game a...

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Developer
Konami

Released on
1988

Size
1–2 Players

Version
NES

Requirements
Nintendo Entertainment System

Downloads
Sports

ESRB Rating
Not Rated

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Description

Based on the arcade game, Blades Of Steel is a hockey arcade action game (gameplay doesn’t require the need to worry about statistics or provide the ability to customize teams.) Two players can play against each other, or one player against the computer. In one player mode there are single game and tournament mode options. From time to time a fight may break out, which will provide a close up view of the two players. The player has control during the miniature fight game sequence, with the loser having to spend time in the penalty box. The referee will break up fights that go on too long, and calls a few penalties such as icing. Several short clips of digitized voices are also featured.

Blades of Steel

Overview & History

Released by Konami in 1988 for the Nintendo Entertainment System, Blades of Steel revolutionized virtual hockey by injecting arcade-style brutality and fast-paced sports action into 8-bit living rooms. Developed as a localized port of Konami's earlier arcade hit, the NES version quickly achieved iconic status due to its digitized voice samples—most notably the booming referee shouting "Blades of Steel!" at the title screen and "Fight!" when a brawl breaks out. Unlike contemporaneous sports titles that focused purely on simulation, Konami prioritized adrenaline-fueled momentum, tight arcade controls, and visceral penalty-box altercations, cementing the title as a defining cultural touchstone of late-80s gaming.

Gameplay Features & Mechanics

The core gameplay loop bypasses deep franchise management in favor of immediate, breathless rink competition across three selectable difficulty tiers. Matches span three periods, with players choosing from eight fictional North American and Canadian city-based teams. The perspective utilizes a vertical-scrolling ice surface that shifts dynamically as skaters rush toward the opponent's net. Passing, shooting, and body-checking form the trinity of offensive and defensive execution. What truly distinguishes Blades of Steel is its combat mechanics. When two skaters repeatedly collide or slash each other, the perspective dramatically cuts to a 1D side-view fighting minigame reminiscent of boxing titles. Players exchange rapid punches and blocks until one combatant is knocked to the ice, instantly banishing the loser to the penalty box and creating a temporary power-play advantage. Furthermore, if regulation ends in a tie, the game transitions to a high-stakes, sudden-death penalty shootout where players must outwit the goaltender using precise aiming reticles and deke timings.

Keyboard Controls

Arrow Keys / D-Pad: Move skater / Aim shot / Steer during fights
Action Keys: Pass / Switch player (A Button), Shoot / Body-check / Punch (B Button)
Enter: Start / Pause