Quick answer

The Making of Karateka Standard Edition is worth buying if you're a fan of gaming history, Jordan Mechner's work, or interactive documentaries. It's a unique package that goes beyond a simple port, but it's not for everyone.

What makes this documentary special?

Unlike a standard game re-release, The Making of Karateka is an interactive documentary from Digital Eclipse. It tells the story of how a college student created one of 1984's biggest-selling games, Karateka. You get to explore the development process through playable prototypes, video interviews, and archival materials.

This is not just a game; it's a deep dive into video game history. If you enjoy behind-the-scenes content and learning about classic game development, this package offers a lot of value.

Platform choice: Switch vs PS5

The Standard Edition is available for both Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5, and the content is identical on both platforms. Your choice comes down to which console you prefer to play on. The Switch version offers portability, while the PS5 version may offer slightly faster load times.

The product is region-free, so you can play it on any console regardless of where you bought it.

Pre-order window and availability

This is an open pre-order for a limited time. Pre-orders close on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. After that, it may not be available again, so if you're interested, you need to act before the deadline.

This limited availability is typical for Limited Run Games releases. If you miss the window, you may have to look for it on the secondary market, often at a higher price.

Decision rules

  • Buy if you love gaming history: If you enjoy learning about the development of classic games and the people behind them, this interactive documentary offers a rich experience with playable prototypes and interviews.
  • Buy if you're a Jordan Mechner fan: Fans of Prince of Persia or other Mechner titles will appreciate this deep dive into his early career and creative process.
  • Skip if you only want the original game: If you just want to play the original Karateka without the documentary extras, this package may feel like more than you need. Consider a simpler re-release instead. Check if a basic digital version of Karateka is available on your platform.
  • Skip if you dislike interactive documentaries: This is not a traditional game. If you prefer straightforward gameplay without historical context or archival material, this may not hold your interest.

Product facts

  • The Making of Karateka Standard Edition (Switch, PS5): The Making of Karateka is region-free. You can play it on any console worldwide, regardless of where you purchased it.

    The Making of Karateka Standard Edition (Switch, PS5)

    The Making of Karateka Standard Edition (Switch, PS5)

  • The Making of Karateka Standard Edition (Switch, PS5): This is an open pre-order for a limited time. PRE-ORDERS CLOSE ON SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2025 AT 11:59 PM EASTERN TIME. You must order before the deadline to guarantee a copy; after that, availability is uncertain.

  • The Making of Karateka Standard Edition (Switch, PS5): Prince of Persia creator Jordan Mechner was a college student when he created one of the biggest-selling games of 1984: Karateka. Now, in a new interactive documentary from Digital Eclipse, the story of how a teenager with an Apple II created one of the most… This is not just a game re-release; it's an interactive documentary that provides deep historical context and playable prototypes.

Who should buy?

Best for

  • Retro gaming enthusiasts who want to explore game development history
  • Collectors of Limited Run Games releases and interactive documentaries

Not for

  • Players who just want to play the original Karateka game without extras
  • Gamers who prefer modern action titles over historical content