Kyle Blackthorne
The human prince and protagonist. Armed with a shotgun, he returns to Tuul to defeat Sarlac and liberate the human population.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
D-pad LeftD-pad Right | Move left or right |
|---|---|
D-pad Down | Crouch |
D-pad Up | Aim the shotgun upward when available |
B | Jump |
Y | Draw or fire the shotgun |
X | Use or select an inventory item |
LR | Turn to face the opposite direction |
Control notes
Button assignments can vary by regional manual or controller configuration; these are the standard SNES controls commonly documented for Blackthorne.
The game uses a password system rather than battery-backed cartridge saving.
How it plays
How does Blackhawk play?
Blackhawk is viewed from the side across four themed worlds on Tuul. Kyle progresses through connected screens containing cliffs, caves, locked doors, lifts, traps, enemies, and prisoners. The objective is to find keys and usable items, defeat guards, rescue captives, and reach the exit of each area.
Kyle can run, jump, crouch, draw or fire his shotgun, and turn his back to shoot enemies behind him. Combat depends on positioning because guards can attack from several heights and may block narrow passages. Rescued prisoners can provide items or information, while bombs, shields, and other equipment expand the routes Kyle can survive. A password system provides continues between sessions.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Blackhawk?
Conserve shotgun ammunition when a guard can be bypassed or defeated with positioning. Crouch behind cover, use Kyle's back-facing shot to handle enemies approaching from behind, and avoid jumping blindly near cliffs or traps.
Search each screen before leaving it. Prisoners and containers can reveal bombs, shields, ammunition, or route-opening items, and several apparent dead ends become accessible only after a nearby guard or mechanism is dealt with. Passwords are especially useful after completing a difficult section.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Sarlac
The evil ruler of Tuul and the principal antagonist who enslaves the planet's humans.
The Ka'Dra'Sul
The reptilian species that rules Tuul under Sarlac's authority and supplies many of the game's armed enemies.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Use the shotgun from cover whenever possible; standing in an enemy's line of fire makes close combat dangerous.
- 2
Check upper and lower parts of each screen for prisoners, switches, and items before moving onward.
- 3
Treat bombs and shields as route-solving equipment rather than wasting them in routine encounters.
Community discussion
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