Review of TAITO Milestones 3 for Nintendo Switch

TAITO Milestones 3, brought to you by ININ Games, is finally here and it packs a punch with ten fresh classics ready for you to dive into on your Nintendo Switch. If you’ve been following the series, you’ll recall that in 2022, ININ Games launched the very first collection to honor the legendary hits from TAITO’s extensive range of cherished titles. Last year, they followed up with TAITO Milestones 2, again delivering a treasure trove of ten games for Nintendo’s hybrid console. Now, stepping into 2024, we’re gearing up for the thrill that the third installment brings.

So, which iconic TAITO games are awaiting your attention in this collection? Let’s break them down:

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

Starting with Bubble Bobble, this 1986 classic needs no introduction. It graced the arcades originally, starring Bub and Bob, the dragon duo on a mission to save their girlfriends from the malevolent Baron Von Blubba. Armed with a unique ability to trap foes in bubbles, our heroes pop these bubbly prisons to turn adversaries into collectibles for points and power-ups. Many might recall having fun with this on the trusty old NES!

Hot on its heels is Rainbow Islands: The Story of Bubble Bobble 2, which debuted a year later. Bub and Bob, in their true human forms, swapped bubbles for magical rainbows to fend off threats in Rainbow Islands. These rainbows serve as both weapons and platforms, aiding them in ascending through each stage while keeping the rising sea at bay.

Then we have Rastan Saga, also known simply as Rastan in the Western world, released in 1987. This side-scrolling adventure casts you as Rastan, slashing through tales from his past that led to his rule over the Kingdom. Each of the six levels pits you against varied adversaries and formidable bosses. Keep an eye out for weapons and power-ups, but don’t hold onto them too dearly—they disappear after a while!

Fast forward to 1992, and you get Dead Connection—a cracking arcade romp set in a hazy 1950s metropolis. Up to four players can jump in, channeling vibes from cinematic classics like The Untouchables and The Godfather. In each contained battlefield, master weaponry and power-ups while dodging enemy attacks, saving melee tactics for dire situations.

Cadash blends 2D platforming with a sprinkle of RPG, situated in a fantastical kingdom that pegs four heroes against the backdrop of a princess-snatching two-headed dragon. Your mission? Tackle the Balrog and its minions to rescue Princess Salassa of Dirzir before a terrible ritual transforms her involuntarily.

Rastan Saga 2 continues with tales from Rastan’s chronicles, dubbed Nastar Warrior in the States. Here, an evil wizard brings chaos, tasking you with vanquishing his Wicked Group to liberate Rastania and claim it as your sovereign domain.

Champion Wrestler, launching into action in 1989, is all about the wrestling ring. Choose from eight characters, each boasting unique stats and skills as you grapple your way to the top. Those attributes—Power, Durability, Technique, Speed, and Resilience—could just be your ticket to wrestling glory.

Runark, which many outside Japan recognize as Growl, is a 1990 beat ’em up focusing on safeguarding wildlife from villainous poachers. Your playable forest ranger can use anything from fists to grenade launchers to protect vulnerable animals over a seven-stage battle.

Warrior Blade, the 1991 continuation of the Rastan Saga series, carries the spirit of Golden Axe with its trio of selectable heroes: Rastan, Dewey, and Sophia. Previously locked in Japan, it’s finally within reach, showcasing massive sprites and engaging branching storylines for replay value.

Last but not least is Thunder Fox, a 1990 run-and-gun title where you combat terrorism with an arsenal of weapons. Against a backdrop of chaos spanning sky, land, and sea, it’s up to Thunder Fox to save the world. With characters named Thunder and Fox, how could they not?

TAITO Milestones 3 is certainly an eclectic bundle of games you can enjoy both at home and while on the move with your Nintendo Switch. From Bubble Bobble to Thunder Fox, the selection ensures that there’s something here for every fan of classic gaming. With a launch price of $39.99, it’s set to release on December 10.

Disclaimer: This review is based on a Nintendo Switch copy of TAITO Milestones 3 provided by ININ Games.