The NewZealand Story
IGDB
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About The NewZealand Story
The NewZealand Story dropped in August 1988 as a hybrid shooter and platformer from developer Taito. You control Tiki, a kiwi bird wearing sneakers on the arcade scene before landing on FM Towns and Sharp X68000 systems. The plot sees him racing through scrolling mazes to rescue his girlfriend Phee Phee and several captured chicks held by a giant blue leopard seal. It mixes fast-paced shooting with tight platforming mechanics where you must clear each maze section to free a trapped friend before moving forward. This title stands out for its quirky character design and distinct two-part gameplay loop that defines the experience.
Gameplay
You run right or left through side-scrolling stages filled with enemies and obstacles. Tiki shoots eggs at foes while jumping over gaps or climbing ladders to reach upper paths. Each level acts as a maze where you must locate and free one chick locked in a cage before the exit opens. Once a friend is saved, the screen clears for a brief intermission before the next stage loads with tougher enemies. The controls feel snappy on arcade cabinets, demanding quick reflexes when the leopard seal or its minions close in. Multiplayer mode lets a second player join as Tiki or another bird, sharing the same scrolling path and enemy threats throughout the run.
What Players Think
Current data shows a solid reputation with an IGDB score of 76.6 out of 100 based on 22 ratings. Players report high engagement with average completion rates suggesting most finish the main campaign. Community moods lean toward nostalgic appreciation for the unique premise and tight controls. Review snippets often highlight the catchy music and the novelty of playing as a kiwi bird rather than a human hero. Average playtime sits around three hours for a standard run, though speedrunners push this down significantly. The multiplayer option adds replay value without extending the core story length.
PlayPile's Take
This game works best for players who enjoy classic arcade mechanics with a distinct visual style. It costs nothing on most modern emulators but retains its original price point on rare physical copies. There are no modern achievement systems to chase, so the challenge lies purely in beating the high score or clearing all levels without losing lives. You will not find deep narrative here, but the action remains tight and responsive after thirty years. If you want a short, punchy shooter that does not rely on complex upgrades, this title delivers exactly what it promises.
Game Modes
Single player, Multiplayer
IGDB Rating
76.6
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