[Nintendo Switch] Review of TAITO Milestones 3

ININ Games has rolled out TAITO Milestones 3, a delightful bouquet of ten retro classics, ready for a spin on the Nintendo Switch. This latest offering revisits TAITO’s rich library, following the footsteps of its predecessors. If you’ve been clued into the series, you’ll recall that in 2022, ININ Games unveiled the first batch of these nostalgic gems. Fast forward to 2023, TAITO Milestones 2 hit the scene with another set of ten classics. Now, as 2024 ushers in the latest collection, let’s dive into what makes this third installment so exciting.

So, what treasures await in TAITO Milestones 3? This compilation brings the likes of:
– Bubble Bobble
– Rainbow Islands
– Rastan Saga
– Dead Connection
– Cadash
– Rastan Saga 2
– Champion Wrestler
– Runark
– Warrior Blade
– Thunder Fox

Bubble Bobble, an arcade favorite from 1986, kicks things off. Embark on an adventure as Bub and Bob, dragons on a mission to save their beloveds from the clutches of the sinister Baron Von Blubba. Armed with bubble-spitting abilities to trap and pop enemies, the duo gathers items and power-ups, reminiscent of what many might remember from the NES version.

Then came Rainbow Islands: The Story of Bubble Bobble 2, just a year later. This sequel swaps dragon scales for human faces, casting Bub and Bob against foes in the Rainbow Islands. Magical rainbows replace bubbles, serving both as weapons and platforms to ascend while dodging the menacing rising waters.

Next up is Rastan Saga from 1987, a sidescrolling hack and slash where you embody Rasatan, the kingdom’s ruler sharing past heroic tales. Traverse six levels, battling fierce adversaries and bosses, with temporary power-ups and weapons to aid your quest.

Dead Connection offers a 1992 arcade throwback to the gritty 1950s. Styled like a nod to The Untouchables and The Godfather, this game plunges you into a chaotic skirmish against numerous foes across single-screen stages. Equip yourself cleverly and roll away from danger as you fight back.

In Cadash, RPG elements blend into a 2D platformer set in a fantastical realm. Embark with four heroes to rescue Princess Salassa from the clutches of a Balrog dragon. The goal? Prevent a sinister binding ritual and save the kingdom.

Rastan Saga 2, or Nastar Warrior stateside, continues the tale of King Rastan. This sidescrolling adventure sees you thwart an evil wizard while reclaiming Rastania. It’s another deep dive into hack-and-slash madness.

Champion Wrestler, launched in 1989, puts you in the shoes of a pro wrestler. Choose from eight characters, each with unique stats and abilities, to grapple your way to the top.

Runark, known as Growl internationally, hails from 1990. This beat ’em up thriller places you as a forest ranger defending wildlife from brutal poachers, with stages full of fistfights and explosive weapons.

Warrior Blade continues the Rastan saga from 1991, evoking gameplay reminiscent of the Golden Axe series. Select from three characters, embark on branching paths, and enjoy large, detailed sprites in a riveting spectacle.

Finally, Thunder Fox rounds off the collection with its 1990 arcade release. This run ‘n’ gun adventure brings you into a battle against rampant terrorism. With names like Thunder and Fox, your mission as part of an anti-terrorism unit is simple: restore peace.

TAITO Milestones 3 promises an inviting variety for any retro gaming fan, whether at home or on the move. With a well-rounded selection like this, there’s a lot to love and rediscover. Set to launch on December 10 for $39.99 on the Nintendo Switch, get ready for a nostalgic ride through gaming history.

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