KiKi KaiKai: Dotou-hen

About

KiKi KaiKai: Dotou-hen is a side-scrolling shooter where a determined girl named Sayo-chan battles goblins and mythical monsters to rescue stolen gods. Players guide her through colorful stages filled with yokai, obake, and other folklore creatures, using rapid fire to clear waves of enemies. The game supports two players working together, making it one of the earliest examples of cooperative play on the Family Computer Disk System. Combat is straightforward but frantic, with boss fights against goblin leaders and a final showdown against the serpentine Orochi. Released in 1987, this Taito title stands out for its early use of multiplayer co-op and its integration of Japanese mythological themes. While not as technically advanced as later shooters, its charm and simplicity have earned it a cult following among retro gaming fans. The disk-based format allowed for larger levels than cartridges at the time, though modern players may need emulation or hardware to experience it. For those curious about 80s arcade-inspired action with a touch of yokai lore, this one’s worth a look.