Review of TAITO Milestones 3 for Nintendo Switch

It’s always exciting when a new wave of classic arcade nostalgia arrives, and TAITO Milestones 3 from ININ Games brings us just that. With a fresh lineup of 10 iconic games now available on the Nintendo Switch, let’s dive into what makes this collection a must-play for retro gaming fans.

The journey began back in 2022 when ININ Games released the first TAITO Milestones, a collection designed to celebrate the storied legacy of TAITO’s gaming catalog. It showcased some fantastic retro gems on the Nintendo Switch. Fast forward to last year, and we received TAITO Milestones 2, expanding our library with another set of beloved games. Now, here we are in 2024, ready to explore the next batch of classics in TAITO Milestones 3.

So, what treasures can you unearth in this enticing collection? The games featured in this compilation for the Nintendo Switch are:

– Bubble Bobble
– Rainbow Islands
– Rastan Saga
– Dead Connection
– Cadash
– Rastan Saga 2
– Champion Wrestler
– Runark
– Warrior Blade
– Thunder Fox

Let’s start with the timeless Bubble Bobble, a 2D arcade platformer that first captivated audiences in 1986. Join the charming duo, Bub and Bob, two dragons on a mission to rescue their girlfriends from the clutches of the notorious Baron Von Blubba. With each stage, trap enemies in bubbles and pop them to turn them into collectible items or power-ups to boost your score. Most of us might fondly remember the classic NES version.

Continuing the adventure, we have Rainbow Islands: The Story of Bubble Bobble 2, released a year later. This sequel switches things up as players control the human forms of Bub and Bob, transformed back from dragons. Harness the power of magical rainbows to battle the evil Dark Shadow on Rainbow Islands, utilizing them as platforms to climb and escape the rising sea.

Next, we step into the world of Rastan Saga, a 1987 hack-and-slash adventure. Play as Rastan, the kingdom’s ruler, sharing tales of his epic past. Fight through six levels, facing enemies and bosses at each stage’s climax. Along the way, collect powerful weapons and bonuses that help on this challenging journey.

Let’s jump to Dead Connection from 1992, set in a city reminiscent of classic mobster films like The Untouchables. In this action-packed arcade title, one to four players tackle waves of foes in pursuit of justice. Use strategically placed weapons and power-ups to stave off attackers, displaying skillful dodging and tactical melee combat to prevail.

Onward to the fantasy realm of Cadash, blending 2D platforming with RPG elements. Embark on a daring quest with up to four heroes to save Princess Salassa from a wicked two-headed dragon, facing challenging foes along the way. Prevent the dreaded Balrog from enslaving the princess, averting its reign of terror.

In the eagerly awaited Rastan Saga 2, also known as Nastar Warrior in North America, continue exploring more of Rastan’s incredible past. Battle against a sinister wizard and his followers as you try to protect the land of Rastania, unlocking the chance to claim the kingdom as yours.

Champion Wrestler takes us into the wrestling ring, a 1989 release where players take on the role of aspiring champs. Select one among eight wrestlers, each with unique stats in Power, Durability, Technique, Speed, and Resilience to beat their foes and secure victory.

Then there’s Runark, or Growl as it’s known outside Japan, released in 1990. Become a brave forest ranger, defending innocent wildlife from malicious poachers using your combat skills and weaponry. Traverse seven levels, performing daring rescues and dispensing justice.

Warrior Blade joins the assortment, a story in the Rastan Saga series released in 1991 and akin to Golden Axe. Choose from three heroes—Rastan, Dewey, or Sophia—and engage in battles with large pixelated sprites that dazzle on the screen. Explore branching paths, ensuring multiple playthroughs are packed with fresh excitement.

Rounding things out is Thunder Fox, a frantic run-and-gun from 1990s arcade halls. Join Thunder and Fox, members of an elite anti-terrorism squad, to fight back a global menace. Use a host of weapons to thwart evil as you battle across land, sea, and air in a cinematic setting that couldn’t escape Japan’s borders until now.

TAITO Milestones 3 is more than just a nostalgia trip; it’s an exhilarating mix of classic games that offer fun both at home and on the move. This splendid collection hits the Nintendo Switch on December 10, priced at $39.99, and it caters to a wide array of tastes with its varied games lineup.

In essence, TAITO Milestones 3 is a delightful addition for any retro gaming aficionado, worth every penny for the hours of nostalgic fun it promises.

(Note: This review is based on a Switch version provided by ININ Games.)