Ark Pandora (1986)

In Ark Pandora, you play a pirate imprisoned for life on a remote island, now offered freedom if you defeat an evil high priest and his cult. Find a sacred scroll and take down as many enemies as possible. The game mixes side-scrolling action with adventure mechanics: collect, use, and manage items through icons at the bottom of the screen. The top half shows your journey, while red and green indicators warn of danger. Each hit lowers your energy – once it's gone, the game ends.

• Release Date: December 31, 1986