A throwback 3D platformer for Switch and Steam
Super Kiwi 64 looks like it’s exactly what it needs to be, which is to say a nice — but also slightly sinister — 3D platformer that would feel at home on a Nintendo 64. While it’s capturing that “low-poly late ’90s console look,” according to its creator, Siactro, this collect-a-thon game is on the way for Nintendo Switch and Steam. The perfect duo.
The announcement trailer is all gameplay footage, so you’ll get a sense of the kiwi hero’s jumping, diving, and gliding. There’s also a new-to-me ability in which the bird can climb walls by piercing them with its beak. There’s just enough going on, mechanically.
From what I remember of Macbat 64, I would expect Super Kiwi 64 to be on the shorter side, and not outstay its welcome. On that note, if the mere mention of a “collect-a-thon” pushes you away, it’s worth mentioning that “levels can be played in any order, and not every level needs to be finished in order to collect enough to reach the ending.” I mean, I’m still going to meticulously comb through them — but you don’t have to!
I can’t talk about this kiwi game without mentioning another: KeyWe. If you haven’t yet played this co-op mailroom game, I highly recommend it — it’s flying (well, strolling) under the radar. We must embrace our flightless bird games every chance we get.
While we wait for Super Kiwi 64, you can brush up on Siactro’s other retro-inspired games: Toree 3D and Toree 2. They’re also available on Steam and Itch.io; the price is right.
I’m sure some of you will bring this up as well, but it warms my heart to see indie game creators recapture that ’90s 3D look. Even if it’s not always “pretty,” I like seeing the Nintendo 64 (and PlayStation) aesthetic back in style when the project calls for it.
