たぬキッズ (Tanukids) Developer: Compile Format: PC-9801 Year: 1996
The first in a new, occaisional series "Games Like Flicky" features an obscure Japanese game released on the PC-9801, a range of Japanese Desktop PCs from the 1990s.
Tanukids sees you take control of a Father Tanuki who has to collect a number of Tanuki Kids, avoid roaming enemies, and then drop the kids of at the exit. Does this sound familiar?
Whilst the gameplay is very much like Flicky, the level layout has more in common with Pac-Man. Other twists include the fact that collisions with your tail of kids not only sets them loose but also reduces the time you have to complete the level.
There are only eight levels but they are kept fresh by having different environments and graphical themes, each have their own hazards, and the enemies they contain are varied in both appearance and ability.
The game is well worth playing if you can get hold of it. No real Japanese skills are required to enjoy it. A modern version is available for Windows through Project EGG/Amusement Center, or you can play the original using a PC-9801 emulator such as Neko Project II.