Review of TAITO Milestones 3 for Nintendo Switch

ININ Games is back with TAITO Milestones 3, a delightful anthology offering a fresh batch of ten iconic retro games, now available on the Nintendo Switch. Let me take you through what’s in store with this latest collection and why it might just capture your heart.

TAITO Milestones first graced us in 2022, bringing a nostalgic dive into gaming history with classics from TAITO’s vast library. After the success of the first set, the sequel, TAITO Milestones 2, arrived in 2023, continuing this vintage celebration. Fast forward to 2024, and here we are, ready to explore the third installment.

What’s packed in TAITO Milestones 3 for Nintendo Switch fans? Here’s the classic lineup you’ll get to experience:

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

First up, Bubble Bobble, a timeless 2D platformer that first hit arcade screens in 1986. You dive into the roles of Bub and Bob, two dragons on a mission to save their beloveds from the villainous Baron Von Blubba. By trapping foes in bubbles and bursting them, the resulting items can either boost your score or provide power-ups. Many might recall the NES version, which also won hearts worldwide.

Next, Rainbow Islands: The Story of Bubble Bobble 2 takes the stage. Released a year after the iconic Bubble Bobble, you now meet the human forms of Bub and Bob, who use magical rainbows in place of bubbles. Not only do these rainbows deal with enemies, but they also serve as platforms as you ascend each level to avoid rising waters.

Rastan Saga, or simply Rastan in the West, presents a 1987 sidescrolling hack and slash experience. As the titular Rastan, now a King recounting his adventures, players traverse six action-packed levels, taking down bosses while snagging temporary weapons and power-ups.

Dead Connection, a 1992 release, immerses you in a 1950s-inspired big city. Drawing vibes from classics like The Untouchables, this single-screen arcade game lets up to four players engage in a shootout fest, battling hordes of enemies with available weapons and power-ups.

Now, let’s venture into Cadash, a game blending platforming with RPG elements in a fantasy setting. After a princess is kidnapped by a two-headed dragon, four heroes embark on a quest to oust the monstrous Balrog. Your mission? Save Princess Salassa before an earth-shattering ritual ties her fate to the villain.

With Rastan Saga 2, step once more into the shoes of Rastan, battling an evil wizard and his followers. Known as Nastar Warrior in the US, this hack and slash sequel continues the thrilling saga, as you reclaim peace for Rastania.

Switching gears to the world of Champion Wrestler, aim to dominate as a pro wrestler. Released in 1989, it features eight wrestlers, each boasting unique stats like Power and Technique to help secure your victory in the ring.

Runark, or Growl outside Japan, is a 1990 side-scrolling beat ’em up where you safeguard wildlife against menacing poachers. Armed with all manner of weapons from fists to grenade launchers, it’s your job to liberate animals across seven thrilling stages.

Explore the lore of Warrior Blade, the 1991 successor in the Rastan Saga. Previously confined to Japan, this Golden Axe-like adventure finally reaches wider audiences, with its stunning large sprite visuals and replayable branching paths.

Finally, there’s Thunder Fox, the adrenaline-pumping run ‘n’ gun game from 1990. In a world under terrorist siege, the heroic duo Thunder and Fox are on a mission to reclaim peace using an arsenal of high-tech weapons.

TAITO Milestones 3 is ready for action on the Nintendo Switch, offering a diverse mix of games to enjoy at home or on the move. Priced at $39.99, this collection makes for a valuable addition to any retro gaming enthusiast’s library. Don’t miss out on reliving these cherished classics, launching this December 10th.

In conclusion, TAITO Milestones 3 is yet another commendable selection of retro titles from TAITO’s rich history. Fans and newcomers alike can delve into these timeless experiences, thanks to its generous variety on the Switch. This collection was reviewed with a copy kindly provided by ININ Games.