[Review] TAITO Milestones 3 for Nintendo Switch

ININ Games has graced us once again with TAITO Milestones 3, bringing a fresh set of 10 classic games to the Nintendo Switch. Building upon the legacy laid down by its predecessors over the past couple of years, this third collection continues to honor TAITO’s rich history of arcade brilliance. Let’s dive into the lineup and see what nostalgic joys it holds!

First, a bit of context. This retro series started in 2022 with the first TAITO Milestones compilation, which excited fans with its tribute to old-school gaming glory. Its follow-up, TAITO Milestones 2, kept the momentum going last year with another set of 10 nostalgic gems. Fast forward to today, and we’re ready to explore what 2024’s edition has to offer on the Nintendo Switch.

So, what games await us in TAITO Milestones 3? The collection features:
– Bubble Bobble
– Rainbow Islands
– Rastan Saga
– Dead Connection
– Cadash
– Rastan Saga 2
– Champion Wrestler
– Runark
– Warrior Blade
– Thunder Fox

Bubble Bobble, a beloved 1986 classic, makes a reappearance. Step into the shoes—or scales, rather—of Bub and Bob, two cute dragons on a mission to rescue their girlfriends from the clutches of Baron Von Blubba. With strategic bubble-blowing, these adorable heroes can trap and defeat enemies, amassing items and power-ups along the way. While many are familiar with its NES version, this arcade game’s charm remains timeless.

Hot on its heels is Rainbow Islands: The Story of Bubble Bobble 2. Released a year after its predecessor, this game transforms Bub and Bob back to their human selves. Instead of bubbles, they now wield rainbows to defeat foes on their quest to save Rainbow Islands from the ominous Dark Shadow. Utilizing the rainbows as platforms adds a unique layer to the gameplay, as you navigate away from the rising tides.

Next, we have the 1987 treasure Rastan Saga, known in the West just as Rastan. This side-scrolling hack-and-slash challenges players with tales of Rastan, the ruler of the Kingdom, inviting you to experience his legendary adventures as you battle through six levels, mastering weapons and timing power-ups as you go.

Jumping forward to the 1990s, we encounter Dead Connection. Set against a backdrop reminiscent of classic mobster films, this 1992 shooter lets up to four players deal with waves of enemies in a 1950s metropolis. Strategy is key here—use your collected arsenal wisely while evading perilous attacks.

Cadash enters the scene blending 2D platforming with RPG elements in a fantastical quest. As one of four heroes, you must save a princess from a monstrous plan. Adventure through Balrog’s domain before unraveling its dark magic.

Rastan returns in Rastan Saga 2, or Nastar Warrior for North American players. Once again, you’re amidst tales of royalty as the kingdom faces turmoil. Conquer The Wicked Group in this sequel and secure your kingdom’s future.

Champion Wrestler brings the athletic spirit of 1989’s wrestling scene to life. Choose one of eight wrestlers, each with unique stats and abilities, as you climb the ranks to fame and glory!

Enter the world of Runark—known as Growl internationally—a 1990 beat ’em up where you become a vigilant forest ranger. Tasked with thwarting wildlife poachers, armed with anything from fists to grenade launchers, you must protect vulnerable creatures across the game’s seven stages.

Warrior Blade, part of the Rastan Saga series from 1991, offers an experience somewhat reminiscent of Golden Axe. It unravels a tale with three heroes; Rastan, Dewey, and Sophia. Previously Japan-exclusive, the game’s large, vivid visuals come alive, inviting multiple playthroughs thanks to its branching paths.

Rounding out the collection is Thunder Fox, a run-and-gun adventure set in the dystopian 199X, where terrorism runs amok. Playing as members of Thunder Fox, a counter-terrorism duo, you’ll face relentless danger in this action-packed game that initially stayed within Japan’s borders.

All of these seasoned entries are united in TAITO Milestones 3, which becomes available for the Nintendo Switch on December 10 with a price tag of $39.99. Whether at home or on the move, this diverse bundle ensures that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Finally, a note of transparency: this review is informed by a Nintendo Switch copy provided by ININ Games. Enjoy your nostalgic journey through these classic windows to the past!