Apidya is a horizontally scrolling shoot 'em up originally released in 1992 for the Commodore Amiga. Developed by the German studio Kaiko and published by Play Byte, this title distinguishes itself within the genre by abandoning traditional military or space warfare themes in favor of a chaotic insect battle set in a back garden. Although the Japanese version displays the characters アビヂャ (Abidja) and the English title features a "II", these additions are merely a gag; Apidya is not a sequel but a standalone game based on the biological family Apidae, which includes honey bees.
Story and Setting Overview
The game begins with the Evil Lord of Black Magic, Hexaae, sending a swarm of a thousand mutated insects to wreak havoc upon a couple named Ikuro and Yuki. After Yuki is poisoned, Ikuro vows to find a cure and transforms himself into a bee to combat the threat. Players traverse a variety of distinct environments, starting in picturesque gardens and moving through water-based pond stages. The journey eventually descends into darker areas, including sewers infested with maggots sprouting from dead rat carcasses.
Instead of alien invaders, players face an eclectic roster of garden dwellers. The enemy list includes beetles of both stag and dung varieties, bees, butterflies, snails, hornets, and mosquitoes. Boss battles feature monstrous foes such as a mole that shoots fireballs, a giant praying mantis, and a demonic doll encountered in the sewer levels.
Gameplay Mechanics and Features
Apidya operates as a side-scrolling shooter comparable to titles like R-Type and UN Squadron. Players control the bee protagonist, navigating the screen to blast incoming enemies both in the air and on the ground. A unique mechanic allows players to hold down the fire button to launch a missile that visually resembles a giant turnip, fitting the game's quirky aesthetic perfectly. As enemies are defeated, they drop upgrades that enhance the standard attack power, which is essential for progressing against tougher foes.
Notable Features
- Unique Garden Theme: The game offers a refreshing departure from the "tedious vacuum of space," immersing players in a colorful world of flora and fauna.
- Iconic Soundtrack: The audio is composed by video game legend Chris Hülsbeck, delivering a kickass, memorable score that stands the test of time.
- Stunning 16-bit Visuals: Apidya showcases gorgeous representations of outdoor areas, from standard garden grass to detailed pond environments, making it a visual standout on the Amiga.
- Japanese-Inspired Presentation: Despite Kaiko being a German company, the game embraces a Japanese console style, featuring anime-inspired cutscenes and the inclusion of katakana on the title screen.
- Bizarre Bonus Stages: Players can encounter strange bonus rounds, such as a sequence where they must collect angelic cherubs while avoiding devils wielding pitchforks.
Who Should Play Apidya?
Apidya appeals strongly to fans of classic shoot 'em ups who crave variety in their settings. It is ideal for retro gaming enthusiasts who appreciate the Amiga's 16-bit capabilities and those looking for a shmup with a distinct personality rather than a generic simulation. Gamers who enjoy unique art styles, challenging boss fights, and the work of Chris Hülsbeck will find this Commodore exclusive to be a polished and unforgettable experience.
