Kid Niki 3

Kid Niki 3 is a side-scrolling action platformer released for the Japanese Famicom in 1993. Officially titled Kaiketsu Yanchamaru 3: Taiketsu! Zōringen, it is the third entry in Irem's Kid Niki series. Although it never received an official North American release, an English fan translation is commonly known as Kid Niki 3. The game takes the series in a new direction, introducing different combat techniques and more elaborate platforming challenges.

Players control Yanchamaru, a young warrior who must travel through dangerous stages, defeat enemies, and rescue his kidnapped girlfriend. The adventure spans seven levels, each filled with hostile creatures, environmental hazards, and a boss waiting at the end. While the earlier games focused on sword-based combat, this installment gives the hero a staff, making movement and fighting feel noticeably different.

The staff is much more than a simple weapon. Yanchamaru can use it to strike enemies, perform acrobatic moves, bounce away from walls, and overcome obstacles that would otherwise block his path. Sliding, somersaults, and carefully timed jumps help him move through stages efficiently. These mechanics reward experimentation, especially when navigating narrow platforms or facing enemies positioned in awkward locations.

Exploration also plays an important role. Players can collect items scattered throughout the levels, find keys to open locked doors, and discover bonus opportunities by gathering enough objects. The combination of combat, platforming, and item collection adds variety to the adventure, while limited continues make mistakes costly.

With its colorful graphics, distinctive staff-based combat, and challenging level design, Kid Niki 3 is an interesting entry in the Famicom's library of Japanese-exclusive action games. Fans of the original Kid Niki and classic ninja platformers can enjoy a sequel that builds on the series while introducing its own unique gameplay style.