The New Zealand Story (1988-)

The New Zealand Story is a charming arcade platformer developed by Taito and originally released in 1988. Known for its colorful graphics and engaging gameplay, the game centers around Tiki, a small kiwi bird who embarks on a quest to rescue his captured friends from a variety of dangerous enemies across vibrant island levels. As a classic side-scrolling platformer, The New Zealand Story challenges players with intricate stage design, requiring precise timing and strategy to overcome obstacles and defeat foes while navigating its whimsical environments.

Initially launched as an arcade game, The New Zealand Story was later ported to several home platforms, including the Commodore 64, Amiga, Atari ST, ZX Spectrum, and the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). Each version sought to replicate the arcade experience, with varying degrees of success depending on the hardware limitations. The game’s soundtrack, composed by Hisayoshi Ogura, was widely praised for its catchy and upbeat tunes that perfectly matched the playful tone of the game. The music added a layer of charm and energy, helping to elevate the overall atmosphere and making it memorable among fans of 1980s arcade games.

While The New Zealand Story did not have a direct prequel, it was part of Taito’s broader lineup of popular arcade titles that emphasized colorful characters and tight gameplay mechanics, such as Bubble Bobble and Rainbow Islands. The game was promoted mainly through arcade distribution and magazine coverage, highlighting its vibrant visuals and accessible yet challenging gameplay. Its unique protagonist and island-themed setting helped it stand out in a crowded market of platformers, attracting players who enjoyed both the aesthetic appeal and the demanding level design.

Upon release, The New Zealand Story was generally well received by critics and players alike. It was praised for its smooth controls, creative level layouts, and the quirky, endearing character of Tiki. Some reviewers noted that the difficulty curve could be steep, but this only added to the game’s replay value for dedicated players. Over the years, the game has maintained a cult following, appreciated for its blend of classic arcade action and charming presentation, standing as a memorable title in Taito’s legacy of arcade hits.

Images from MobyGames