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Review: Irem Collection Volume 3 (Xbox) – Blast from the Pixelated Past

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If you’re a fan of side-scrolling shoot ‘em ups and wild retro weirdness, Irem Collection Volume 3 from ININ Games is like opening a time capsule filled with pixelated power-ups, dragons, and the kind of creative enemy design only the ’80s and ’90s could conjure. This lovingly compiled collection brings together three of Irem’s most eccentric and thrilling shooters: Mr. Heli/Battle Chopper, Mystic Riders, and Dragon Breed. And trust me—you’re in for a ride that’s as bizarre as it is brilliant.

🚁 Mr. Heli / Battle Chopper (Arcade & PC Engine)

This quirky little helicopter with eyes and a face is anything but cute when it comes to dishing out destruction. In Mr. Heli, you’re piloting a plucky chopper through caves, industrial complexes, and molten hellscapes, blasting enemies while navigating tight spaces and gravity-defying jumps.

The PC Engine version is a neat inclusion—it’s a faithful port with slightly different sprite work and some charming 16-bit flair. Whether you’re nostalgic for the arcade or curious about the console iteration, it’s great to have both.

🧙‍♂️ Mystic Riders (Arcade)

Mystic Riders is what happens when you mix magic carpets, flying broomsticks, and enough glittery magic spells to make Hogwarts jealous. This co-op horizontal shmup is the most whimsical of the bunch—two wizard kids take to the skies to take down fantastical foes in a world that feels like a mashup of anime and high fantasy fever dreams.

The local 2-player co-op here is where it shines. There’s something inherently joyful about launching fireballs and dodging oversized haunted pumpkins with a friend at your side.

🐉 Dragon Breed (Arcade)

Now this is the heavy-hitter. You’re not just piloting a ship—you’re riding a freaking giant golden dragon across a dystopian sci-fi landscape. The gameplay twist? Your dragon is invincible, acting like a moving shield as you rain laser death upon alien hordes. It’s smart, strategic, and the kind of game that sticks with you.

With its epic boss fights, moody soundtrack, and layers of attack options, Dragon Breed is arguably the crown jewel of this collection.

🎮 Quality of Life Upgrades

ININ Games didn’t just dump ROMs and call it a day—there are some thoughtful enhancements here:

  • Quick Save/Load and a built-in rewind system let you recover from boneheaded mistakes or rewind to finesse your dodging skills.

  • Customisable controls, including rapid-fire assignments, make a huge difference for comfort and performance.

  • Display filters recreate the glow and scanlines of old-school arcade monitors, or keep it clean with sharp pixels—it’s your choice.

  • Worldwide leaderboards add a modern challenge for competitive score-chasers.

🕹️ Final Thoughts

Irem Collection Volume 3 is a joyous blast of arcade nostalgia. Whether you’re chasing high scores, revisiting forgotten favourites, or discovering them for the first time, these games hold up remarkably well. The mix of fantasy and sci-fi, wacky enemy designs, and tight shoot ‘em up mechanics showcase why Irem was a kingpin of the genre.

And let’s be honest—riding a fire-breathing dragon while blasting biomechanical nightmares just never gets old.

Score: 7.5/10 – Pure retro arcade magic, lovingly preserved and enhanced for the modern couch warrior.

X-Out: Resurfaced Review – A Deep-Sea Shoot’em Up That Makes Waves

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Now this is literally a blast from the past! Fabulously reborn from the Rainbow Arts Amiga classic, X-Out will give your Nintendo Switch a nice jolt of nostalgia.

This revitalised classic takes the beloved 1989 Commodore 64 shoot’em-up and plunges it into modern waters, offering both nostalgia for seasoned gamers and fresh excitement for newcomers.

A Deep-Sea Adventure Awaits

Set beneath the ocean’s surface, X-Out: Resurfaced stands out in the shoot’em-up genre with its unique underwater setting. As the pilot of a formidable submarine, you’re tasked with thwarting an alien invasion brewing in the ocean’s depths. The game’s horizontal scrolling action challenges you to navigate treacherous terrains, dodge relentless enemies, and unleash a barrage of firepower to restore peace beneath the waves.

Customise Your Submarine

One of the standout features is the extensive submarine customisation. Before diving into each mission, you’re allotted a budget to outfit your vessel. Choose from a variety of submarines—like the agile Trilobyte or the robust Shark—and equip them with an arsenal of weapons, including heat shots, flamethrowers, and smart bombs. This strategic layer adds depth, allowing you to tailor your loadout to your playstyle and the challenges ahead.

Stunning Visuals and Sound

The developers have done a commendable job updating the game’s visuals. The underwater environments are richly detailed, immersing players in a world teeming with aquatic life and hidden dangers. Complementing the visuals is a captivating soundtrack that evokes a sense of mystery and urgency, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

Challenge and Replayability

X-Out: Resurfaced is not for the faint-hearted. Its challenging gameplay demands precision and strategy, especially with its no-continue system—losing all your health means starting over. However, this difficulty is part of the game’s charm, offering a rewarding experience for those who master its mechanics. For added fun, team up with a friend in the two-player mode and tackle the alien menace together.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a fan of the original X-Out or a newcomer seeking a fresh and challenging shoot’em-up, X-Out: Resurfaced delivers on all fronts. Its blend of classic gameplay with modern enhancements makes it a must-have for your Nintendo Switch library. Prepare to embark on an unforgettable underwater adventure!

Details:

  • Platforms: XB/SW/PS5/PC
  • Genre: Shooter
  • Price: €19.99 / £17.99 / AU$29.99
  • Release date: 20th February 2025
  • Developer: Ziggurat
  • Publisher: ININ Games

Disclaimer: X-Out: Resurfaced NS code was kindly provided by PR Hound for this review.

Review: TAITO Milestones 3 – Nintendo Switch

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A Nostalgic Arcade Adventure Awaits!

Prepare to embark on a whirlwind journey through gaming history with TAITO Milestones 3, a compilation that celebrates the timeless charm of classic arcade games. Released by ININ Games, this collection features ten titles that defined an era, each bringing a unique gameplay experience to the table. Whether you’re reliving fond memories or diving into these gems for the first time, TAITO Milestones 3 is your ticket to arcade paradise. And here’s the cherry on top: pre-order before December 11 to snag an exclusive discount! Let’s dive into each game in the collection.

Bubble Bobble (1986)

Few games capture the whimsy of the arcade scene quite like Bubble Bobble. This two-player co-op classic stars Bub and Bob, two bubble-blowing dinosaurs on a quest to rescue their kidnapped girlfriends. With its simple yet addictive gameplay, the challenge lies in navigating 100 increasingly tricky floors filled with enemies. Each stage offers a satisfying mix of strategy and reflexes as you trap foes in bubbles and burst them for points. The delightful music and cheerful visuals ensure that Bubble Bobble remains a timeless masterpiece.

Rainbow Islands: The Story of Bubble Bobble 2 (1987)

Trading bubbles for rainbows, Rainbow Islands evolves the original’s formula with vertical platforming and inventive level design. Playing as Bubby and Bobby in their human forms, you’ll ascend through colorful stages, using rainbows as both weapons and platforms. The game’s vibrant art style and imaginative enemies make every moment a joy. With an engaging narrative about saving the inhabitants of Rainbow Islands, it’s a sequel that truly shines.

Cadash (1989)

I loved Cadash on the PC-Engine, so this was a pleasant surprise! For fans of action RPGs, Cadash delivers a cooperative adventure filled with sword-swinging action and spellcasting. Choose from four distinct characters—fighter, mage, priest, or ninja—and journey through the land of Deezar to rescue Princess Sarasa. The blend of exploration, combat, and character progression is impressively deep for an arcade game, offering a satisfying quest that’s perfect for two players.

Rastan Saga (1987)

Channel your inner barbarian in Rastan Saga, a side-scrolling action game where you battle monsters and navigate treacherous terrain. As Rastan, the legendary warrior, you’ll wield weapons like fire swords and hammers to vanquish foes and protect the kingdom of Ceim. With its atmospheric soundtrack and challenging gameplay, Rastan Saga stands tall as a quintessential arcade experience.

Rastan Saga 2 (1988)

This sequel takes the action up a notch, but not in a good way – tasking Rastan with defending the holy city of Rastania. Rastan Saga 2 introduces new enemies, traps, and stages, while retaining the series’ signature swordplay. Although the visuals received a notable upgrade, some may find the pacing slower than the original. Nonetheless, it’s a worthy continuation of the barbarian’s saga.

Champion Wrestler (1989)

Step into the ring with Champion Wrestler, a competitive brawler that captures the drama and excitement of professional wrestling. With a roster of unique fighters and moves ranging from aerial techniques to submission holds, the game offers depth and variety. Whether you’re playing solo, head-to-head, or in tag-team mode, Champion Wrestler guarantees hours of couch co-op fun.

Runark (aka: Growl) (1990)

Animal lovers, rejoice! Runark pits you against evil poachers in a thrilling beat-em-up adventure. Armed with everything from fists to rocket launchers, you’ll save endangered animals across wild and colorful stages. The game’s four-player co-op mode makes it an absolute blast for friends, combining chaotic combat with a surprisingly heartfelt premise.

Warrior Blade (1991)

The Rastan series reaches new heights with Warrior Blade, a dual-screen epic that introduces three playable characters. Set in the perilous kingdom of Depon, this co-op adventure blends intense combat with rich storytelling. The expanded screen space and diverse character abilities make this entry a standout, even among its illustrious predecessors.

Thunder Fox (1990)

Action fans will relish the explosive thrills of Thunder Fox, a run-and-gun game where you battle terrorists with tanks, autogyros, and marine jets. The fast-paced gameplay and cinematic set pieces deliver an adrenaline rush, while the varied environments keep things fresh. It’s an arcade classic that’s perfect for quick bursts of excitement.

Dead Connection (1992)

Rounding out the collection is Dead Connection, a noir-inspired action shooter set in 1950s America. As detectives taking on the mafia, you’ll engage in frantic gunfights across stylishly designed stages. The game’s destructible environments and dynamic combat add depth, while its gritty aesthetic provides a unique contrast to the rest of the collection.

Final Thoughts

TAITO Milestones 3 is a treasure trove for arcade enthusiasts, offering a diverse lineup of titles that showcase the creativity and innovation of TAITO’s golden era. Each game brims with nostalgia and charm, and the addition of modern conveniences, like save states, ensures accessibility for new and returning players alike. Don’t miss your chance to own this slice of gaming history—pre-order now and enjoy a discount before the December 11 release!

  • Where to buy: Nintendo Switch eShop
  • Release date: December 11, 2024 (Australia)
  • Price: $53.99 (10% discount prior to release date)

Disclaimer: TAITO Milestones 2 was kindly provided by PR Hound for this review.

IREM COLLECTION VOL. 2 – Nintendo Switch Review

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IREM Collection Vol. 2 – A Balanced Look at Value & Nostalgia

The IREM Collection Vol. 2 brings classic arcade games from the ’80s and ’90s to the Nintendo Switch, presenting retro gaming fans with a package of old-school titles that includes GunForce, GunForce II, and Air Duel. While this collection may seem enticing to arcade enthusiasts, the real question is whether the compilation justifies its price tag in terms of gameplay variety, quality, and overall value for money.

The Line-Up: Nostalgic Shooters with Flaws

The collection comprises three main games, all in the shooter genre and all displaying the unique style of IREM from its golden years. However, while nostalgia might draw players in, some elements could deter those expecting a more comprehensive or refined package.

  • GunForce (1991): The first GunForce is a run-and-gun shooter that feels somewhat rudimentary by today’s standards. Released at a time when side-scrolling shooters were flourishing, it can feel dated both graphically and in gameplay mechanics. It’s an interesting look back at IREM’s early approach to the genre, though some players might find it overly simplistic compared to other games in this collection.

  • GunForce II (1994): Known for its influence on later hits like Metal Slug, GunForce II stands out in the collection. With better visuals, smoother controls, and a significant evolution from the original, it’s the collection’s highlight. The game’s action is fast, explosive, and feels more polished, capturing the chaotic fun that makes these retro shooters enjoyable. GunForce II alone may be worth the collection for fans of IREM or Metal Slug, but it may not fully satisfy players looking for a robust modern experience.

  • Air Duel (1990): Air Duel brings classic vertical scrolling shoot-‘em-up gameplay, showcasing a more traditional arcade style. With two playable aircraft and challenging gameplay, it’s a solid addition but can feel repetitive. While visually charming in a retro way, it doesn’t quite reach the level of uniqueness or replayability some modern gamers might expect, though it certainly satisfies nostalgia seekers.

Presentation and Performance

The collection runs smoothly on the Nintendo Switch, and IREM has preserved the games’ original aesthetics well. From pixel art to sound design, these games retain their classic feel, which is key for fans who want an authentic arcade experience. However, some reviewers have noted that the presentation, while true to the originals, doesn’t offer additional value, such as behind-the-scenes insights, extra artwork, or additional modern features like leaderboards or online co-op, which are often expected in retro compilations today.

The user interface and emulation quality are serviceable, but lacking in extra features or enhancements that could elevate the experience for new players. Unlike other retro collections on the Switch, IREM Collection Vol. 2 has a rather bare-bones presentation, which might feel lackluster to gamers who have seen more polished compilations from other classic game developers.


source: ININ Games

Value for Money: Worth the Price?

The most significant factor for prospective buyers is likely the value for money—and here, opinions might diverge. While hardcore fans of IREM’s catalog or those who enjoy deep cuts of arcade history might appreciate this package, the AU$34.99 price point could feel steep for others. Considering that only three games are included, none of which have significant updates or added features, the price might not appeal to players simply curious about retro games.

When comparing this compilation to other retro packages on the Switch, such as the Capcom Arcade Stadium, which provides a wider variety of games and sometimes more quality-of-life enhancements, IREM Collection Vol. 2 feels limited. For those who aren’t already fans of these particular titles, the lack of additional context, developer notes, or enhancements might make the collection feel overpriced.

Final Verdict: A Collection for the Dedicated Few

IREM Collection Vol. 2 is a mixed bag. It has an undeniable charm for retro gaming enthusiasts, with GunForce II standing out as a true classic and an influence on future titles. However, without a wider selection of games or added features, it’s hard to recommend wholeheartedly to casual retro gamers or younger players unfamiliar with IREM’s legacy.

In the end, IREM Collection Vol. 2 is best suited for those who appreciate a faithful emulation of IREM’s vintage titles and who are willing to invest for the sake of nostalgia. But for the average player, the value for money may be questionable given the limited selection and lack of additional modern features. Retro enthusiasts with a love for IREM shooters might find it worthwhile, but others might want to wait for a sale or look elsewhere for a more varied arcade experience.

GunForce II is the pick of the three games in this collection

Disclaimer: IREM Collection Vol. 2 download code for the Nintendo Switch was kindly provided by PR Hound for this review.

Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III – A Nostalgic Gem on the Nintendo Switch

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Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III on the Nintendo Switch is a delightful journey back to the golden era of arcade gaming. This game, the third installment in the beloved Bubble Bobble series, successfully captures the essence of its predecessors while introducing fresh and exciting gameplay mechanics that both new players and longtime fans will adore.

Origins: Originally released in 1991, “Parasol Stars” continues the charming adventures of the iconic Bubble Bobble duo, Bub and Bob. This time, our heroes wield magical parasols that open up a whole new world of possibilities. This game was a standout on the PC-Engine, and its transition to the Nintendo Switch has been executed flawlessly, maintaining its retro charm while enhancing it for modern audiences.

Gameplay: At its core, Parasol Stars is a platformer that combines elements of action and puzzle-solving. Players navigate through vibrant, colorful levels, using their parasols to capture and throw enemies, collect power-ups, and solve intricate puzzles. The game’s level design is ingenious, offering a perfect balance of challenge and fun. Each stage feels unique, filled with hidden secrets and rewards that encourage exploration and replayability.

Controls: The controls are intuitive and responsive, making it easy to pick up and play while still offering depth for those who seek to master the game. The parasol mechanic is brilliantly implemented, allowing players to use it as a shield, a weapon, and a tool for interacting with the environment. The seamless controls enhance the overall gameplay experience, ensuring that players of all skill levels can enjoy the adventure.

Features: This game is packed with quality-of-life features that make it a must-have on the Nintendo Switch. The game supports both single-player and local multiplayer modes, allowing friends to join the fun and tackle levels together. The Switch’s portability means you can enjoy Parasol Stars on the go, making it a perfect addition to your travel gaming collection.

Visually, the game retains its retro pixel art style, which has been lovingly updated to look stunning on the Switch’s screen (especially on the OLED iteration). The soundtrack is equally nostalgic, featuring catchy tunes that complement the whimsical atmosphere of the game. The addition of leaderboards and achievements adds a competitive edge, encouraging players to perfect their skills and compete with others worldwide.

In conclusion, Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III on the Nintendo Switch is a joyous celebration of classic arcade gaming. Its engaging gameplay, intuitive controls, and charming aesthetics make it a standout title that should not be missed. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the series or a newcomer looking for a fun and challenging platformer, Parasol Stars is a shining example of how timeless gameplay can continue to captivate and entertain.

Disclaimer: Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III NS review code supplied by PR Hound

Review: TAITO’s Ray’z Arcade Chronology – Nintendo Switch

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Pew, pew, pew, we review Taito’s Ray’z Arcade Chronology on the Nintendo Switch

When it comes to shoot’em ups (shmups), we can’t get enough of them – the more the merrier! Luckily for us, ININ Games has delivered a delicious serving of shmup action on the Switch, or have they?

Ray’z Arcade Chronology for the Nintendo Switch delivers a nostalgic blast from the past, presenting three superb shoot ’em up classics (plus 2 x HD remasters), each with its own unique charm and engaging gameplay mechanics. Published by Taito for the Switch and PlayStation 4, this European release by ININ Games is a fine package, showcasing the expertise of seasoned gaming port-masters, M2. However, the presence of multiple editions and some missing features leave the overall experience feeling slightly incomplete.

The lineup includes three revered arcade titles: RayForce (also known as Layer Section and Galactic Attack), RayStorm, and RayCrisis. RayForce, a 2D pixel-drawn masterpiece from 1994, captivates players with contiguous stages and an outstanding Zuntata soundtrack. The gameplay, operating on two planes of battle, encourages strategic scoring through lock-on chains, delivering an immersive and satisfying experience. The presentation is top-notch, and M2’s Gadgets enhance the user interface, allowing players to customize the display to their liking.

RayStorm, Taito’s 1996 sequel, blends 2D action with 3D polygon visuals, creating a cinematic space battle with breathtaking aesthetics. Offering multiple ships with unique properties, RayStorm challenges players to anticipate incoming attacks and utilize the regenerating special attack with precision. The soundtrack consistently impresses, complementing the awe-inspiring visuals and intense gameplay. Although slightly more challenging than RayForce, RayStorm remains a thrilling experience, worth every moment spent mining for a one-credit clear.

RayCrisis, serving as a prequel to the first game, takes a more eccentric narrative approach while maintaining straightforward shoot ’em up gameplay. The vertical 2D plane with 3D graphics sets the stage for nuanced scoring mechanics, beyond mere lock-on chaining. The Encroachment system adds depth to the gameplay, offering a form of rank that keeps players engaged in strategic decision-making. RayCrisis stands out as the most involving of the three titles, boasting a wealth of content and scoring potential.

M2’s work on these arcade ports is commendable, delivering accurate and polished adaptations of the original games. The HD upscaling adds visual splendor to these classics, and the minimal lag ensures a smooth and responsive gameplay experience. The ‘no burn-in’ screen option is a thoughtful touch for players seeking a more authentic feel on older tech.

While the Ray’z Arcade Chronology offers a strong selection of arcade shoot ’em ups, the review points out some areas of disappointment. The fragmented release strategy and the omission of R-Gear leave collectors and fans puzzled about which edition to choose. Additionally, the absence of bonuses such as art galleries and historical tidbits dampens the overall package’s appeal, and the lack of training modes and slow/rewind features feels like a missed opportunity to enhance the gaming experience.

Ray’z Arcade Chronology is a solid compilation of classic shoot ’em ups, remastered with care and attention by M2. Fans of the genre will find plenty to enjoy in the nostalgic gameplay, captivating visuals, and fantastic soundtracks. However, the absence of certain features and the confusion caused by multiple editions prevent it from being the ultimate package. Nevertheless, for enthusiasts seeking an authentic arcade experience on the Nintendo Switch, Ray’z Arcade Chronology is a worthy addition to their gaming library.



Disclaimer: Ray’z Arcade Chronology Switch review code was kindly provided by PR Hound.

Review: Wonder Boy Collection

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Let’s get one thing straight, we are checking out the digital version of the Wonder Boy Collection, which is vastly different from the physical boxed edition from Strictly Limited Games. Just so you guys are informed, this digital version contains 4 Wonder Boy games, whereas the Strictly Limited Games (physical) edition has all 6 of the classic Wonder Boy titles, plus every Master System, Mega Drive/Genesis, Game Gear and arcade versions of those games, both in English and Japanese, for a grand total of 21 games – so you see, there is a pretty big difference!

OK, we have got that out of the way, let’s get into the 4 games that you get in the digital version of the Wonder Boy Collection. First off the bat (and our absolute favourite, because we grew up with it) is the arcade version of Wonder Boy (1986). The next one is another arcade version, Wonder Boy In Monster Land (1987), with the last two titles being Mega Drive/Genesis ports of  Wonder Boy in Monster World (1991) and (Wonder Boy) Monster World IV (1994).

This is not a bad little collection, but it does feel incomplete if you are a hardcore Wonder Boy fan. Considering there other titles in the main series left off this compilation, coupled with the remakes and Adventure Island ports, this could have been such a stellar collection worthy to be in everyone’s games library. Anyway, we digress!

If you are reading this, then you will know what types of games these are. Wonder Boy is an out and out platformer with jumping and collecting items on the way to rescuing his girlfriend – sound familiar? Yeah, it is in the Super Mario Bros. ilk, which isn’t a bad thing. The rest of the collection take this formula and sprinkle RPG elements to spice things up in each of the successive titles in the collection.

All games have the option to save/load states, modify the controls, rewind speeds and importantly, the video, which includes options to change the display, scaling and shaders – ensuring that you can retro it up to your heart’s content. The arcade ports have the additional options to change the number of lives, bonus lives and difficulty level, with Monster Land having the option to change how you use your special weapon. It would be remiss of us not to mention a blaring error on the Wonder Boy (1986) selection screen where there is reference to Tom-Tom’s girlfriend as Tanya instead of Tina. Hey, we know we are being very pedantic, but come on, this is elementary detail that should have been a no brainer.

All games are faithful to their original content, with the emulation accuracy being quite good on the Nintendo Switch. As it stands, for AU$39.99 (US$29.99), you get four pretty good Wonder Boy titles, but you can’t help it think how much more awesome it would have been if they added Monster Lair and Dragon’s Trap to this collection.



Disclaimer: The Nintendo Switch eShop code for the Wonder Boy Collection was provided by PR Hound.

Taito Milestones – Nintendo Switch Review

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ININ Games has been quite prolific of late in teaming up with iconic arcade brand, TAITO – they keep giving us a jolt of nostalgia with their TAITO classics remastered for a new generation of systems (and gamers) to enjoy. Taito Milestones is the latest output of this collaboration, bringing a compilation of 80s classic Taito arcade games to the masses.

This special retro compilation may not be for everyone, but for those gamers of a certain age that played these arcade games ‘back in the day’, these games represent a new way of playing them on their contemporary consoles. Let’s get straight to the point, this Taito Milestones compilation is for those that seek a hit nostalgia, which is always welcome. For those that have no nostalgic pull to any of the games in Milestones, don’t be fooled by the simple graphics, as these games were designed to pull the player in and extract as many coins from their pockets.

There are 10 classic Taito arcade games which you may have heard of or even better, played them in the 80s! For western gamers, there may be a few titles that you may have not gotten to play as they were either exclusive to Japan or not widely available to play in arcade centres. There are the obvious classic titles like Elevator Action, Qix, Alpine Ski and The Ninja Warriors. That doesn’t mean that the other six titles are unheard of or not playable, they were just lesser known by western audiences back in the 1980s. We love platform and shooter/shoot’em up games, so Space Seeker, The FairyLand Story and Halley’s Comet are welcome additions – we have to say, we loved Halley’s Comet as it is a super fast paced vertical shmup with great enemies and power-ups. The emulation for all ten titles is absolutely spot on, so there is nothing to be concerned about on that front – just play and enjoy!

If you are a retro fan and don’t already own some of these games on the Switch, and want to dive into a nostalgic gaming experience by playing ten classic Taito arcade games, then Taito Milestones is for you. There is definitely something in this collection for every retro gamer. Is it worth the A$58 (digital) – only if you don’t already have some of these.

The physical edition (starting at €39.99/A$58.00) and the digital download version of TAITO MILESTONES for Nintendo Switch launches on April 15th, 2022.

QIX (1981)

Space Seeker (1981)

Alpine Ski (1982)

Front Line (1982)

Wild Western (1982)

Chack’n Pop (1983)

Elevator Action (1983)

The FairyLand Story (1985)

Halley’s Comet (1986)

The Ninja Warriors (1987)
image source: ININ Games



Disclaimer: The Nintendo Switch review code for Taito Milestones was provided by PR Hound.

Space Invaders Invincible Collection – Review (Switch)

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The granddaddy of all of shoot’em ups, the legendary Space Invaders has come blasting to the west onto the Nintendo Switch (and PS4), so let’s take a trip down memory lane!

In celebration of the iconic arcade game by Taito, the Space Invaders Invincible Collection packs 11 games based around Tomohiro Nishikado’s shooter that kicked off the arcade golden age 40+ years ago. Before we go on, we better let you know which games made the cut in this collection – they are:

  • Space Invaders (1978, Arcade) – original black and white arcade game
  • Space Invaders (1978, Arcade) – original colour  arcade game
  • Space Invaders Part II (1979, Arcade)
  • Lunar Rescue (1979, Arcade)
  • Space Cyclone (1980, Arcade)
  • Majestic Twelve: The Space Invaders Part IV aka: Super Space Invaders ’91 (1990, Arcade)
  • Super Space Invaders ’91 (1990, Arcade)
  • Space Invaders DX (1994, Arcade)
  • Space Invaders Extreme (2018)
  • Space Invaders Gigamax 4 SE (2018)
  • Arkanoid vs Space Invaders (2016) – included as an additional download (not available at the time of this review!)

We were a bit puzzled with Majestic Twelve: The Space Invaders Part IV, as it is the same game as Super Space Invaders ’91. Also, the inclusion of Lunar Rescue and Space Cyclone, both based on the Space Invaders arcade hardware, are an odd addition, but they are a welcome distraction from your standard Space Invaders action, even if they bear some resemblance to the classic shooter.

The vertically oriented Space Invaders games all have the option to rotate the Switch screen to Tate mode, which is a relief, as the screen is quite limited in landscape mode on those earlier arcade titles. Other features include scan lines (on the pre-2xxx games) to give you that authentic arcade monitor glow and feel, and a welcome option is the save / load, which is great if you get interrupted and want to save and come back to start where you left off.

The pre-2000 Space Invaders games (except Super Space Invaders ’91 for some reason) have two modes of play – normal, which is your standard rules arcade game; or challenge mode, which the player competes for the highest score with special rules for each game. After you have a game or two in normal mode, it is the challenge mode that will keep you coming back for more Space Invaders action. Being high score chasers ourselves, we love the challenge mode.

The conversions of all included titles are faithful to their originals, so we can’t fault the visuals, sounds or play mechanics, if you have played any of these games before, then you will feel right at home playing them on the Switch.

Space Invaders is an iconic game that is still fun for a blast 43 years after it debut in the arcades. This Invincible Collection on the Switch packs quite a few of the arcade games with a number of variations which are a lot of fun, especially Space Invaders Extreme, but the high entry cost (AU$99.99) to play Space Invaders and its variants on your Switch is a tad too steep. If you don’t have Space Invaders Forever and you are a hardcore Space Invaders fan, then this is the definitive collection to have, so grab it right away. For those of you that are on the fence, you may want to wait for a price drop to make this a compelling addition to your Switch games library.



Disclaimer: The Nintendo Switch review code for Taito’s Space Invaders Invincible Collection was provided by PR Hound.

Cotton Reboot! – Nintendo Switch Review

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Cute’em up or shoot’em up? Whichever way you look at it, Cotton Reboot! satisfies both with its extremely fun shmup elements onboard a witches broomstick wrapped in cutesy remastered HD graphics. But don’t let the cuteness fool you, as this is one wicked game!

Let’s not beat around the bush, we have been playing and have been fans of shoot’em ups (or lovingly referred to as shmups) for 40+ years, starting with Space Invaders, so seeing another classic 30 year old shmup get a contemporary console release is huge news! To the uninitiated, Cotton is a much revered and iconic series which appeared on many consoles and computers, beginning with the arcade port of Cotton: Fantastic Night Dreams on Sharp’s X68000, PC Engine, PlayStation, right through to the the Neo Geo Pocket.

Finally PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch gamers can experience some Cotton action via Cotton Reboot! for themselves, with all the colour and fun gameplay. This Reboot! offers 3 game modes (including the original X68000 Cotton: Fantastic Night Dreams) new features/options and 7 stages that highlight what a sprawling horizontal shoot ’em up should be like, with a dazzling array of onscreen cast and challenges. Oh yeah, it would be remiss of us not to mention the parallax scrolling, it is *chef’s kiss* superb!

At the heart of all shoot’em ups, regardless of their orientation (horizontal or vertical), is to use the protagonist, in this case, your young witch, Nata de Cotton, to dodge bullets, kamikaze enemies, bombs and other nasty objects while doing some pretty cool shooting yourself and powering up to inflict some serious damage, especially when battling end of level bosses! Did we mention Cotton loves Tea Time too? Well, she does, which she collects at the end of each stage.

Each shmup game has their means of powering up and Cotton Reboot! is no exception. The hook here is collecting power crystals (which are dropped by slayed enemies), but you need to be quick, as they drop off-screen if you are playing the X68000 game. If you play the Arrange game, the power crystals float, making it easier for Cotton to sweep in on her broom to pick them up. Crystals dropped by enemies can be fired upon multiple times till they change colour. Picked up crystals increase Cotton’s EXP gauge, powering up her main shot. As for the colour of the crystals, yellow and orange crystals increase the power of Cotton’s main shot, the blue and red crystals give Cotton lightning and firebombs, while in the Arrange-exclusive mode, green and purple crystals drop massive rocks and nukes, respectively. Oh yeah, another cool new feature is that bombs can be levelled up three times by collecting crystals of the same colour, increasing their destructive power – now you are playing with, erm, power! No shmup is complete without a side kick to help you through the game. In this case, you can enlist the aid of Silk, Cotton’s magical fairy friend who can summon up different configurations to easily mow down your enemies.

The action can become frenetic at times with the screen becoming so busy that it is easy to miss enemy shots which can down Cotton. We aren’t big fans of the bullet-hell shmup sub-genre, which Cotton Reboot! sometimes delves into, but luckily it doesn’t remain there for too long, but something to consider if you absolutely despise bullet-hell shooters.

Cotton Reboot! will satisfy both newcomers to shoot’em ups and those of us that have been playing these types of games for decades. Don’t be deceived by the cute and enchanting graphical presentation, this game is devilishly fun, atmospheric and addictive to play. At AU$59.99 (Switch eShop), it is on the expensive side, but if you want the best cute’em up, it is worth checking out. There is a reason this series is loved by many, it is that darn good.



Disclaimer: The Nintendo Switch review code for Cotton Reboot! was provided by PR Hound.