| Developer | Publisher | Platforms |
|---|---|---|
| ININ Games | ININ Games | Nintendo Switch |
Taito Milestones 3 is a curated collection of ten arcade classics from the 1980s and 1990s, developed by the renowned Japanese company Taito. This compilation offers an opportunity to experience diverse retro action-themed games that have significantly influenced the arcade gaming landscape. Established in 1953, Taito Corporation has been a pivotal entity in the video game industry, particularly noted for its innovative arcade games.
The company gained international acclaim with the release of Space Invaders in 1978, a game that not only became a cultural phenomenon but also set the stage for future developments in the gaming sector. Over the years, Taito has continued to produce a variety of games that have left an indelible mark on the industry, showcasing creativity and technological advancement.
Taito Milestones 3 Games
Bubble Bobble (1986): This iconic platformer introduces players to Bub and Bob, two dragons on a quest to rescue their friends. Players navigate through 100 levels, capturing enemies in bubbles and bursting them to progress. The game’s cooperative gameplay and charming design have solidified its status as a classic.
Rainbow Islands: The Story of Bubble Bobble 2 (1987): This game serves as a sequel to Bubble Bobble. It transforms the protagonists back into human forms, named Bubby and Bobby. Instead of bubbles, players utilize rainbows as both weapons and platforms, adding a unique twist to the gameplay. The vibrant visuals and innovative mechanics have made it a beloved title among fans.
Rastan Saga (1987): Players assume the role of Rastan, a barbarian warrior navigating through a fantasy realm filled with mythical creatures. Armed with various weapons, Rastan battles his way through challenging levels, with gameplay reminiscent of classic hack-and-slash adventures.
Rastan Saga II (1988): This sequel continues Rastan’s journey and introduces new environments and enemies. Despite its attempt to build upon the original, it received mixed reviews due to changes in gameplay mechanics and increased difficulty.
Warrior Blade: Rastan Saga Episode III (1991): The third installment in the Rastan series shifts towards a beat ’em up style, allowing players to choose from multiple characters, each with distinct abilities. The game is noted for its impressive graphics and cooperative gameplay, enhancing its appeal in arcades.
Cadash (1989): Combining elements of action and role-playing, Cadash offers players a choice among different character classes, each with unique skills. The game emphasizes exploration and character progression, setting it apart from typical arcade titles of its time.
Champion Wrestler (1989): This wrestling game provides a roster of diverse characters, each with signature moves. Its attempt to capture the excitement of professional wrestling includes various match types and a focus on strategic gameplay.
Runark (1990): Also known as Growl, this beat ’em up game places players in the role of wildlife protection agents combating poachers. Its over-the-top action and environmental themes offer a distinctive experience within the genre.
Thunder Fox (1990): In this side-scrolling action game, players control commandos on a mission to thwart a terrorist organization. The game features a variety of weapons and vehicles, contributing to dynamic and engaging gameplay.
Dead Connection (1992): Making its console debut in this collection, Dead Connection is a multi-directional shooter set in a 1950s noir environment. Players, as detectives, engage in shootouts against mobsters across destructible environments, with its unique setting and gameplay mechanics distinguishing it from contemporaries.
Evaluation in the Taito Milestones 3
Taito Milestones 3 offers a substantial selection of games, providing nostalgia for seasoned players and historical insight for newcomers. The inclusion of ten titles ensures a variety of experiences, from platformers to beat ’em ups, reflecting Taito’s versatility in game development. However, the selection criteria for the included games appear somewhat inconsistent. While series like Rastan receive multiple entries, other notable Taito franchises are absent. This uneven representation may lead to questions regarding the rationale behind the choices, especially when considering the diverse range of games in Taito’s catalog.
Additionally, the collection lacks extra content that could enhance the player’s understanding and appreciation of these classics. Features such as developer interviews, concept art, or historical context are notably missing. For presentation, the compilation maintains the authenticity of the original arcade releases. However, modern conveniences such as save states, customizable controls, or display options are limited. Implementing more features would improve accessibility and adaptability to contemporary gaming preferences.
Taito Milestones 3 serves as a respectable collection of the company’s action-oriented arcade history. The selection of ten games offers a glimpse into the creative diversity that Taito brought to the industry during the 1980s and 1990s. Nevertheless, the lack of cohesive selection criteria and the absence of additional content or modern features slightly diminish the collection’s potential. For enthusiasts of retro gaming and arcade history, this compilation provides an opportunity to revisit or discover significant titles.
The review code was provided by the publisher
| GAMEPLAY | ART | VALUE |
|---|---|---|
| 80% | 70% | 85% |