[Nintendo Switch] Review of TAITO Milestones 3

ININ Games has brought us the third installment in their nostalgic TAITO Milestones series, showcasing 10 beloved classics on the Nintendo Switch. Let’s dive into what’s in store with TAITO Milestones 3 in this review!

As we wind the clock back to 2022, ININ Games launched the inaugural TAITO Milestones collection, celebrating an impressive catalog of retro games from TAITO. This was followed up in 2023 with TAITO Milestones 2, introducing another set of 10 vintage titles for Nintendo’s hybrid console. Fast forward to 2024, and here we are, eager to explore what the third chapter has in store for retro gaming enthusiasts.

So, what gems from the TAITO vault can you expect in TAITO Milestones 3 on the Nintendo Switch? Here’s the lineup:

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

Starting with Bubble Bobble, this iconic 2D platformer first saw the light of day in 1986 in arcades. Players embark on a quest with Bub and Bob, two adorable dragons determined to rescue their girlfriends from the clutches of the villainous Baron Von Blubba. Their weapon of choice? Bubbles! These bubbles trap foes, letting Bub and Bob pop them to collect goodies and power-ups. If the arcade seems distant, you might recall playing this on the classic NES.

Hot on Bubble Bobble’s heels is Rainbow Islands: The Story of Bubble Bobble 2. Released a year later, this sequel sees Bub and Bob back in their human form, harnessing the power of rainbows to battle evil across the enchanting Rainbow Islands. Magical rainbows aren’t just weapons; they’re also the paths you scale to dodge the rising seas and defeat the ominous Dark Shadow.

Then there’s 1987’s Rastan Saga, or just Rastan in Western territories, a side-scrolling hack-and-slash adventure. You’ll step into the boots of a mighty warrior recounting tales from his past, adventuring through six distinct levels with epic boss battles. Weapons and power-ups add to the excitement, though be quick as many vanish after a short time!

Dead Connection, a 1992 arcade classic, immerses players in a 1950s noir-esque city. Supporting up to four players, this game bears a cinematic flair reminiscent of crime films like “The Untouchables.” Armed with an arsenal of weapons, you’ll battle waves of enemies, keeping your wits sharp and using melee moves only as a last resort.

Enter Cadash, a delightful blend of 2D platforming and RPG elements set in a mystical realm. The princess has been captured by a fearsome two-headed dragon, and it’s up to four heroic figures to rescue her. The mission? Stop the villainous Balrog and save the Kingdom of Dirzir before the dragon binds itself to the princess, becoming unbreakable!

Next, we revisit Rastan in Rastan Saga 2, released as Nastar Warrior in North America. This sequel carries on the saga with more side-scrolling action, where you face off against malign wizards and their minions, hoping to save Rastania and earn your place as its ruler.

For those with a passion for wrestling, 1989’s Champion Wrestler lets you step into the ring. Choose from 8 distinctive wrestlers, each boasting different skills and stats. It’s your chance to shine and claim the title of champion, using your unique strengths to turn the battles in your favor.

In Runark, known widely as Growl outside of Japan, you play as a vigilant ranger fighting to save wildlife from malevolent poachers. Traverse through seven stages, utilizing everything from your fists to grenade launchers to protect endangered animals.

Warrior Blade: Rastan Saga Episode III, a Japan-exclusive until now, embraces a style akin to Golden Axe. With three heroes to choose from, this captivating installment features branching paths and oversized character sprites, providing ample replay value.

Lastly, Thunder Fox delivers run-and-gun thrills, set in a 199X dystopia riddled with terrorism. As part of the elite anti-terror unit, Thunder Fox, players must thwart global terror threats, using a myriad of weapons in this action-packed title that previously remained in Japan.

TAITO Milestones 3 brings together an eclectic collection of retro games perfect for your Nintendo Switch, offering something for every gaming enthusiast. Whether it’s reliving the adventures of Bubble Bobble or diving into the gritty action of Warrior Blade, this collection hits the nostalgic sweet spot, retailing at $39.99, launching on December 10.

This review of TAITO Milestones 3 was crafted with a Nintendo Switch copy provided by ININ Games.