Cutesy platforming legend returns on PS4 and Nintendo Change

An actual Taito gem has been added to the Arcade Archives this week, as Hamster has re-released the veteran arcade builders’ ultra-cute, ultra-challenging platform actioner The NewZealand Story, now out there to obtain on PS4 and Nintendo Change.

Launched to the arcade market in 1988, earlier than swiftly being ported to all kinds of dwelling pc and console platforms. The story issues a captivating, dot-eyed kiwi generally known as Tiki, who’s the only real escapee from a flock of his brethren, kidnapped by an enormous, nefarious walrus. Critically outnumbered and outweighed, Tiki donss his finest pair of kicks, grabs his trusty bow-and-arrow, and ventures forth throughout a highly-stylized “NewZealand”, decided to rescue his get together of buddies and the love of his life, Phee-Phee.

You possibly can take a look at the cute motion within the video under, courtesy of YouTuber Shadowserg.

What follows is a few delightfully cartoonish platform motion, as Tiki navigates 4 distinct zones, every containing 4 levels. On the finish of every zone, an enormous degree guardian awaits, who Tiki should defeat to save lots of a pal and journey into the following sector. It’s an exquisite instance of the style, acknowledged for its enjoyable visuals, infectious music, and cute characters. As playable in the present day because it ever was.

The NewZealand Story can be a smash hit in each the arcade and the house markets, promoting an incredible quantity of copies on platforms such because the ZX Spectrum, Commodore 64, and Commodore Amiga. Such is the legacy of Taito’s ’80s hit, our loveable hero Tiki, regardless of solely cameoing in a number of titles since, is stillone of gaming’s most immediately recognizable characters, even to these but to expertise his iconic journey.

The NewZealand Story is now out there to obtain on PS4 and Nintendo Change, priced at round $8.