Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH has announced the return of one of its most enduring creations, with the announcement of a new downloadable Rocket Knight (working title) for Xbox LIVE Arcade.

The original Rocket Knight was an extremely popular 2D side-scrolling title first released on the 16-bit SEGA Megadrive and later on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, and starred a rocket-pack wearing Opossum called Sparkster. Famed for its fast platform-based gameplay and cartoon visuals, Rocket Knight will debut on next generation consoles fifteen years after its inception with updated graphics and alluring new environments.

In Rocket Knight, players take on the role of a fiery opossum named Sparkster, who returns home to The Kingdom of Zephyrus after 15 years only to find it in shambles. Using wits and a trusty rocket pack, players must steer clear and overcome a hostile wolf army looming to take the lives of the Zephyrus people. A 2.5D action adventure title, Rocket Knight brings expansive new worlds, each with massive platform levels and a rocket flying level.

As players navigate these challenges, their rocket pack can be used to ricochet off walls, launch Sparkster through obstacles and enemies in his way, and rocket drill through weak walls to create new passageways. Along with burst projectiles that shoot from Sparkster’s sword to attack distant foes, a burst vortex can also be created from players’ rocket pack to repel enemy bombs towards them. When all else fails, players can use Sparkster’s prehensile tail to hang from and slide down rails in order to avoid danger. With timed levels and leaderboards, dedicated players will also be able to show off their high scores and fastest times online.

“Konami’s classic 2D action platform titles have a legacy of being well received and enjoyed by gamers worldwide,” said Martin Schneider, European Marketing & PR Director at Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH. “So it was only natural that we bring Sparkster, our favorite opossum hero, to the next generation consoles with a combination of elevated graphics, all new environments and of course the signature rocket action gameplay.”

Rocket Knight is rated E for Everyone by the ESRB and will be available for download in 2010 for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. Post a comment below and let us know what you think of this game.