It’s kind of crazy how Taito is going through a retro resurgence right now. Name any one of their given classics and it’s making some form of comeback. Taito Milestones 4 will re-introduce several of these favorites this week. (The Ninja Kids!) And then there’s re-releases of long lost favorites, like my much-cherished copy of Elevator Action Returns. Now another game joins the fray, the impressive PC reimagining of The New Zealand Story: Untold Adventure.
Although not as popular as other Taito games, Zealand holds a special place in many hearts. You guide a kiwi on a journey that involves increasingly difficult stages, a bevy of power-ups, and even vehicles that let you fly. (Never mind your precious wings.) You can find new friends along the way and partake in dangerous boss battles as well.
Though the game still remains difficult, Untold Adventure benefits greatly from a nice new level of polish. But don’t worry, it doesn’t wear out its welcome. It still looks like New Zealand Story, but it’s never looked better. Plus the new content will keep you plenty busy, too.
It doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but that wasn’t the point. The New Zealand Story: Untold Adventure celebrates everything that the original game was about, even if it’s not for everyone. But if you ever got into this, ahem, kiwi craze to begin with, you’ve got more than enough here to jump back into. Just mind the water being a little hot.
The New Zealand Story Reintroduces the Angry Kiwi
Why in the world would an evil walrus going and kidnap all the damn kiwis? It makes no sense. Is he jealous? Does he want to build a collection? Anyway, never mind. That greedy jerk goes and does it, leaving the solo Kiwi to go after him and his army in an effort to free his friends.
This involves going through ever-changing levels and acquiring new power-ups along the way. You start with a pithy bow and arrow, but it’s not long before your firepower heavily increases. And every weapon has a nice level of balance, with some having benefits over others. Don’t be afraid to experiment.
Along with all the original levels, there are also new worlds to explore here. And they’re nicely designed by bitobit, with just the right amount of challenge. And, oh yeah, there is challenge. This game looks all cute and wholesome, but hang on tight. It hits you like a hammer. Take that for what you will.
Still, retro purists will like what’s included here; and the mix of new kiwis and power-ups keep events from going stale. The only downsides I can think of are that it’s $20 (instead of $15, which would be better) and it’s currently only on Steam. Hopefully this will change in the future.
Small squabbles aside, The New Zealand Story: Untold Adventure feels like a winner. And there’s enough old and new content alike to keep you engaged. Just make sure you’re ready for battle.
This Kiwi’s a Looker
For the refresh of The New Zealand Story, bitobit pulls off a nice trick. Everything looks polished and clean here, but it’s also heavily nostalgic, reminding us of the classic version of the game. It might be a little too modern for some, but I admire the approach here. I wouldn’t mind seeing other Taito games take this route.
The music hasn’t changed much, but Zealand has some fun little tunes. In fact, it’s a little too innocent of a soundtrack, considering the bombardment you’re going through here. The sound effects are minimal, but work where needed.
Retro Fans, Enjoy This New Zealand Story If It’s Your Speed
Will you enjoy The New Zealand Story: Untold Adventure? Well, it all depends on if you can fathom its difficulty. It ramps up fairly quickly. However, those who stick with it will find abundant power-ups to change the tide, along with great new worlds. And, again, I love the trick that the presentation pulls off with the visuals. They pop off the screen.
With a lower price point and release across more platforms, I think this Story can thrive. As it stands, it definitely deserves an audience. When a kiwi picks up a weapon, you better damn sure pay attention.
GAMERHUB UK RATING: 3.5 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
Thanks to bitobit for providing us with a review code! The New Zealand Story: Untold Adventure is available now for PC/Steam and works great on Steam Deck!
Need more retro goodness in your life? Check out our review of Jaws: Retro Edition!
