KiKi KaiKai

Game Details:

《KiKi KaiKai》 is an arcade game released by Taito in 1986, and was later ported to multiple platforms such as FC and SFC. The game is set in a fantasy world filled with traditional Japanese youkai and spirits. The protagonist is a shrine maiden named "Sayo-chan," who is tasked with rescuing the Seven Lucky Gods from the youkai.

The gameplay is similar to a vertical scrolling shooter, but adopts an action-shooting hybrid approach. Players can launch talismans for ranged attacks, while using the gohei for melee strikes against enemies. The levels are filled with various youkai, such as umbrella demons, fox spirits, and will-o'-the-wisps, and are set up with numerous traps and mechanisms, challenging players' reaction and judgment.

As the game progresses, Sayo can also pick up items to upgrade her attacks, or obtain amulets for defensive bonuses. Each chapter ends with a powerful Boss battle, requiring flexible movement and strategic attacks to clear. Its unique Japanese art style, refreshing combat rhythm, and cute character design have become one of the sources of inspiration for the subsequent "KiKi KaiKai" series and the "Touhou Project" games.

Editor's Recommendation:

《KiKi KaiKai》 is an excellent action-shooting game that combines oriental cultural charm with arcade thrills. Based on the fast-paced shooting gameplay, the addition of Shinto and youkai elements makes the game unique in terms of visuals and storytelling. The protagonist, Sayo, has a refreshing and cute design, which is particularly unique in the game market that was dominated by male heroes at the time.

If you like action shooting games like 《Contra》 and 《Ninja Warriors》, and are interested in Japanese monster themes, 《KiKi KaiKai》 is definitely worth a try. It can bring you a tense and exciting arcade experience, and you can also feel the full Japanese flavor in it. Whether it's revisiting a nostalgic classic or experiencing a retro work for the first time, it can provide unique fun.

Game Guide:

I. Basic Operations and Skills

• Sayo has two attack methods: talisman ranged attack (press button to fire) and gohei melee attack (suitable for close-range defense)
• When controlling movement, try to move diagonally to avoid being trapped in a circle of monsters
• Frequently hit haystacks and prop containers for a chance to obtain life replenishments or attack power enhancing talismans

II. Level Analysis and Suggestions

• Level 1 (Forest Level): Enemies move slowly, suitable for practice, pay attention to practicing movement and the rhythm of using the gohei for melee combat
• Level 2 (Shrine Corridor): The path is narrow, you need to predict the direction of the monsters' appearance, and make good use of the "walk and shoot" method to eliminate threats on both sides
• Level 3 (Cemetery): Enemies will continue to resurrect from the tombstones, so you should prioritize breaking the tombstones or quickly passing through the area to avoid being trapped
• Level 4 (Demon World Entrance): The first appearance of a stronger Boss, it is recommended to enter with full health, prioritize clearing the mobs and then focus fire on the Boss

III. Boss Battle Skills

• Each Boss has an attack rhythm: observe and quickly find the attack gaps to output damage
• Avoid standing in the center of the screen, and use horizontal movement to dodge bullets
• Using scene obstacles can avoid some attacks, but pay attention to the ability of monsters to cross obstacles

IV. Item and Talisman Descriptions

• Red Talisman: Attack power boost
• Blue Talisman: Bullet speed increase
• Guardian Orb: Temporary invincibility or defense against one damage
• Lucky God Statue: Restores health

V. Tips for Clearing the Game

• Accumulate life in the early stage to avoid frequent deaths, as the revival points are limited
• Learn to "pull monsters" and then turn around to clear enemies to avoid being attacked from the front and back
• The final Boss is extremely challenging, it is recommended to master all dodge and attack rhythms before trying to challenge