Player Knight
The knight controlled by the player, mounted on a flying ostrich and armed with a lance.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
Arrow Left | Move left |
|---|---|
Arrow Right | Move right |
A | Flap upward |
Start | Pause or resume the game |
Control notes
The controls listed are for the NES controller.
Flapping changes the ostrich’s vertical movement; horizontal direction is controlled separately.
How it plays
How does Joust play?
Each round takes place on a single-screen arena containing platforms, lava, enemy riders, and flying hazards. The objective is to defeat all enemy knights while keeping the player’s lance above theirs during collisions.
The directional buttons steer the ostrich horizontally, while A makes it flap upward. Enemies hatch from eggs after their riders are defeated, and later rounds increase pressure through tougher formations and hazards. A second player can join the action, either cooperatively or competitively depending on the round.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Joust?
Keep the ostrich moving with short, controlled flaps instead of holding a constant altitude. Approach enemy riders from below, then flap past them so the lance reaches their body from above.
Clear eggs quickly before they hatch into new enemies. Use platforms to reset your position, avoid the lava, and reserve open space for escaping the pterodactyl. In two-player games, avoid crowding the same platform and divide targets when possible.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Enemy Knights
Mounted opponents who patrol the platforms and attempt to collide with the player from above.
Buzzards
More dangerous flying enemies that appear as the game progresses.
Pterodactyl
A fast hostile creature that can pursue the player and complicate the arena.
Lava Troll
A hazard associated with the lava at the bottom of the arena.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Short flaps are easier to control than repeated long climbs.
- 2
Strike enemy riders from above; a level or side collision can be dangerous.
- 3
Destroy newly spawned eggs quickly to prevent the arena from filling with enemies.
- 4
Keep moving near the bottom of the screen so the lava does not trap you.
Community discussion
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