Kato-chan & Ken-chan

About

In Kato-chan & Ken-chan, you play one of two detectives tasked with tracking down a missing millionaire. Your chosen character navigates side-scrolling levels filled with obstacles and enemies, using jump kicks, direct strikes, or gas attacks to clear the way. A grumpy partner accompanies you, actively trying to sabotage your progress by tossing objects that drain your health. Scrolling through stages slowly drains your vitality, which you restore by grabbing snacks like fruit or candy. The goal isn’t just to reach the end but to manage resources while dealing with your annoying coworker’s antics. The game stands out for its cheeky humor and oddball mechanics. Doors scattered throughout stages offer hints and health boosts, while kicking objects like trash cans or lamp posts triggers coin rewards or reveals hidden paths. Slot machines appear behind certain doors, letting you gamble for extra lives or more coins. While the 1987 TurboGrafx-16 original has aged visually, its goofy partner dynamic and resource-management loop carved a niche for quirky platformers with a distinctly Japanese flair.