The NewZealand Story (1988). Play Free Online

Summary

The NewZealand Story—often just called New Zealand Story—still feels fresh when I fire up a cabinet. Tiki darts through enormous scrolling stages that sprawl in all directions, with a tiny minimap in the corner guiding you toward the cage that marks each exit. Weapons shift from endless arrows to bombs, lasers or bouncing fireballs depending on what you scoop up, and the game rewards you for swiping flying vehicles – balloons, blimps or even a UFO – straight out of an enemy’s grasp. Hidden warp portals pepper the maps, letting you zip past tricky sections, while secret shortcuts reward thorough exploration. If you bleed out to a projectile on your last life, a quirky “Heaven” round appears, offering a bizarre ending or a sneaky route back into the action. The ever‑present time limit ticks down to a jaunty "Hurry Up!" cue, spawning a red devil that ends the run in an instant. All of these quirks combine for a maze‑like platformer that keeps me returning for one more flight.

Storyline

In The NewZealand Story you play as Tiki, a plucky kiwi on a rescue mission. A massive blue leopard seal has snatched Tiki’s girlfriend and a handful of his kiwi chick friends, locking them in cages scattered across the islands. Tiki darts through scrolling, maze‑like stages, dodging the seal’s minions and other hazards while searching for the captive birds. Each level culminates in a cage where one of the kidnapped chicks is freed, bringing Tiki one step closer to reuniting with his loved ones. The frantic platforming and vibrant scenery keep the chase lively as Tiki strives to outwit the seal and bring his friends safely home.

Edited by Maya Carter