Review of TAITO Milestones 3 for Nintendo Switch

ININ Games has just released TAITO Milestones 3, offering up a new batch of 10 classic games for Nintendo Switch enthusiasts to explore. Let’s delve into what this third installment has in store!

In 2022, ININ Games introduced us to the first collection in this retro gaming series, shining a spotlight on some of TAITO’s extensive back catalog of arcade classics. The journey continued the following year with TAITO Milestones 2, gifting us another set of ten nostalgic titles to enjoy on the Switch. Fast forward to 2024, and we’re ready to embark on a fresh nostalgic adventure with TAITO Milestones 3.

Curious about the classic titles included in this latest Nintendo Switch collection? Here’s what you can expect:

1. Bubble Bobble
2. Rainbow Islands
3. Rastan Saga
4. Dead Connection
5. Cadash
6. Rastan Saga 2
7. Champion Wrestler
8. Runark
9. Warrior Blade
10. Thunder Fox

Let’s start with Bubble Bobble, a 2D single-screen platformer that made its debut in arcades back in 1986. Players take on the roles of Bub and Bob, two adorable dragons on a mission to rescue their girlfriends from the clutches of the evil Baron Von Blubba. They accomplish this by trapping adversaries in bubbles, popping them, and collecting the items and power-ups left behind. This title gained considerable fame on the NES, also known as the Nintendo Entertainment System.

Following closely is the sequel, Rainbow Islands: The Story of Bubble Bobble 2, which hit the scene a year after the original. This follow-up transforms Bub and Bob back to their human forms, revealing their true selves. Here, instead of bubbles, magical rainbows become your tools to combat the Dark Shadow’s minions and navigate through stages, evading the danger posed by a steadily rising sea level.

Next up is Rastan Saga from 1987, a sidescrolling adventure that casts players as Rastan, the Kingdom’s ruler, recalling the tales from his adventurous past. This hack-and-slash experience spreads across six levels, each featuring formidable foes and powerful bosses. While you can gather weapons and power-ups along the way, remember that these boosts are often fleeting.

The intrigue continues with 1992’s Dead Connection, an arcade game set against a 1950s backdrop of a bustling, ambiguous city. Up to four players can join in for a thrilling homage to famous films like The Untouchables or The Godfather. Here, strategic maneuvering and weapon prowess are key as you fend off successive waves of enemies in each level.

Enter Cadash, a vibrant blend of 2D platforming and RPG elements set in a mystical realm. When a dual-headed dragon snatches the Princess, only a group of four courageous heroes can undertake the perilous task of thwarting the Balrog’s wicked plan. The goal is to rescue Princess Salassa of Dirzir before the Balrog’s dark ritual renders him invincible.

Continuing the Rastan saga, Rastan Saga 2—or Nastar Warrior in North America—invites players once more into the King’s past. This sequel pits players against a nefarious wizard with evil intentions. By vanquishing The Wicked Group, Rastan aspires to save Rastania and ascend to power.

For wrestling fans, 1989 brought Champion Wrestler, a grappling game complete with a colorful cast of eight unique wrestlers. Each wrestler brings a distinct blend of Power, Durability, Technique, Speed, and Resilience to the ring, challenging players to master different strategies to claim victory.

Runark, known internationally as Growl, offers beat ‘em up excitement from 1990. Here, players don the mantle of a forest ranger, fiercely defending the wildlife against ruthless poachers. Across seven thrilling stages, bring down adversaries using everything from fisticuffs to grenade launchers.

Warrior Blade, part of the Rastan Saga series, debuted in 1991, delivering an experience reminiscent of Golden Axe. This title, which never left Japan until now, features large and striking character sprites and pixel art, offering diverse gameplay with its branching paths and three vibrant characters: Rastan the Bandit, Dewey the Hireling, or Sophia the Thief.

Capping off the collection is Thunder Fox, a run ‘n’ gun arcade hit from 1990. Set in a world plagued by terrorism, you must gear up with a host of weaponry to halt this menace. Entrusted to the daring duo—known as Thunder and Fox—the mission is clear: save the world from imminent chaos.

TAITO Milestones 3 is now available, offering a wonderful selection of retro games for Nintendo Switch players to enjoy, whether at home or on the move. With diverse offerings like Bubble Bobble, Rainbow Islands, and many more, there’s truly something for every gamer to appreciate. Look for TAITO Milestones 3 on the Nintendo Switch starting December 10 for $39.99.

Please note that this review of TAITO Milestones 3 was based on a Nintendo Switch copy provided by ININ Games.