Description

"Kiwi Kraze," also known as "The NewZealand Story" outside of North America, is a captivating platform video game developed by Taito Corporation. Originally released as an arcade game in 1988, the success of the title saw it transition to various home video game consoles, including the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). In the game, players embark on a charming yet challenging adventure set in New Zealand, taking on the role of Tiki, a plucky kiwi bird. The storyline revolves around the quest to rescue Tiki's kidnapped friends, who have been taken by a malicious leopard seal. The gameplay spans across multiple diverse and colorful levels, where Tiki has to navigate through enemy-packed terrains, utilizing different weapons and power-ups, such as lasers and bombs, to defeat foes and overcome obstacles.

The NES version of "Kiwi Kraze" stood out for its lively graphics and upbeat soundtrack that captured the essence of Taito’s original arcade hit, despite the hardware limitations of the console. This version also featured several modifications to make it more suitable for home gameplay, including adjusted level layouts and the inclusion of multiple difficulty settings to cater to a broader audience. Each level concludes with a boss fight, requiring players to devise strategic methods to prevail, adding to the game's replay value. With its engaging game mechanics and whimsical storyline, "Kiwi Kraze" not only offers entertainment but also showcases the unique fauna and vibrant settings inspired by New Zealand, making it a memorable part of NES’s expansive video game library.