Review of TAITO Milestones 3 for Nintendo Switch

ININ Games has launched TAITO Milestones 3 for the Nintendo Switch, bringing 10 new classic games to fans of retro gaming. Curious about what this latest collection has to offer? You’re in the right place!

TAITO Milestones 3 is the latest in a series that began in 2022, celebrating the legendary arcade era with selections from TAITO’s vast library. The collection’s predecessors included a rich variety of titles, and 2024’s release is no different, offering another array of iconic games ready for discovery or rediscovery.

So, what gems can you expect to find on this Nintendo Switch anthology? The lineup includes: Bubble Bobble, Rainbow Islands, Rastan Saga, Dead Connection, Cadash, Rastan Saga 2, Champion Wrestler, Runark, Warrior Blade, and Thunder Fox.

Let’s take a trip back to the arcade heydays, starting with Bubble Bobble. This 1986 classic is a single-screen platformer where you control dragons Bub and Bob on their quest to rescue their girlfriends from the clutches of the menacing Baron Von Blubba. The gameplay revolves around trapping enemies in bubbles, then popping them to collect items or power-ups—a formula players familiar with the NES version may remember fondly.

Next up is Rainbow Islands: The Story of Bubble Bobble 2, the 1987 sequel where Bub and Bob, now human, battle foes using magical rainbows. These rainbows not only defeat enemies but also serve as platforms, helping players scale the levels while keeping ahead of rising water levels, adding a new layer to the gameplay.

Fast forward to 1987’s Rastan Saga, a hack-and-slash game where you embody a barbarian warrior tackling a myriad of fantastical enemies through six levels. This side-scrolling adventure challenges players with timed weapons and power-ups as they work towards defeating each level’s boss.

In a change of pace, 1992’s Dead Connection presents a 1950s-themed shooter reminiscent of classic gangster films. Up to four players can engage in frantic shootouts across single-screen stages, making strategic use of power-ups and always being ready to dodge incoming enemy fire.

For a mix of platforming and RPG elements, check out Cadash. The storyline revolves around four heroes on a mission to rescue Princess Salassa from a two-headed dragon. Players must navigate treacherous landscapes and fight the Balrog’s minions before they can confront the boss in his lair.

Rastan Saga 2, known as Nastar Warrior in North America, extends the tale of Rastan, the heroic warrior from the original game. This sequel expands on Rastan’s legendary deeds, challenging players to thwart a powerful wizard’s nefarious plans.

Wrestling fans can dive into Champion Wrestler, a 1989 arcade title that drops players into the ring to climb their way to champion status. With eight unique wrestlers available, each boasting distinct stats and moves, players must strategically use Power, Durability, Technique, Speed, and Resilience to outmaneuver their opponents.

Runark, known globally as Growl, tasks players with defending wildlife from evil poachers. This beat ’em up from 1990 takes you on a thrilling journey through forest-strewn stages, armed with nothing but your fists—or perhaps a grenade launcher—as you battle to save every endangered animal.

You’ll also find Warrior Blade, the 1991 conclusion to the Rastan Saga. Previously unreleased outside Japan, it lets you choose among three characters: Rastan, Dewey, or Sophia, to battle countless foes in a game reminiscent of Golden Axe. With branching paths and large sprites, it’s a visual treat and offers replayability.

Rounding out the collection is Thunder Fox, a run ‘n’ gun adventure from 1990. Armed to the teeth, players take on the role of elite operatives Thunder and Fox to defeat terrorists holding sway over land, sea, and air in the fictional year 199X.

TAITO Milestones 3 hits the Nintendo Switch on December 10, priced at $39.99. Whether at home or on the go, this collection offers something for everyone with its varied gameplay styles and fondly remembered classics.

The collection is more than just a nostalgic trip; it’s a reminder of the rich history of gaming and a chance to experience the charm and challenge of titles that laid the foundation for modern gaming. Special thanks to ININ Games for the opportunity to dive into this piece of gaming history on the Nintendo Switch.