Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III is nostalgia personified. This wonderfully retro experience will impress fans of the genre. Furthermore, newbies will love the simple action and the garish colours. If you adore mindless gameplay that is easy to pick up, then this is the game for you.
This old-school platform title was developed by TAITO and published by United Games Entertainment. Moreover, it can be enjoyed alone or locally with a friend. Alongside this, there is a leaderboard to top and plenty of hectic enemies to thwart. Accordingly, there is plenty to do even though the action is rudimentary.
Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III focuses on madness.
Like its peers, Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III concentrates on maddening gameplay. Consequently, the story, or what little there is of it, plays second fiddle. Now, I don’t mind this, as I love the basic ideas and the straightforward mindset. Yet, if you want a complex affair, you may want to look elsewhere.
The story follows Bubby and Bobby as they take on a mission to save their solar system. Each of the planets is overrun by crazy creatures and the colourful heroes must do their best to use their special powers and their umbrellas to save the day.
Cruel creatures.
This short but enjoyable experience revolves around 8 worlds and 56 core stages. Alongside this, there are some secrets to discover and plenty of bosses to overcome. As you explore each world, you’ll notice unique themes and an array of different monsters. Additionally, you must master each drip-fed mechanic and learn about an array of special powers.
The levels use either a fixed-screen perspective or some basic side-scrolling movement. Either way, the goal remains the same. The hero or heroes must use their umbrellas to catch water and other orbs to tackle each creature. Alternatively, you may use your umbrella to float from grand heights or to act as a shield. Moreover, you can grab your enemies and chuck them at their friends. This simple idea is made a little tougher as your foes roll, jump, sprint, and move around in unpredictable ways. Subsequently, you need luck on your side to win.
Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III is a pixelated dream.
Retro gaming is all about garish colours and blocky pixelation. Luckily, Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III captures this from every angle. Each level has a unique background and the varied enemies keep you entertained. What’s more, the animation is smooth and I love the fast-paced action. As each stage evolves, the arena expands. This adds a challenging layer that ups the ante. This was a great move as it keeps you focused from beginning to end.
The audio is upbeat and entertaining. I loved the repetitive soundtrack and the uncomfortably shrill electro tones. Moreover, the rudimentary sound effects capture that dated arcade feel. This was a great move by the developers as it enhanced the retro edge.
Easy to play.
If you want a game that you can play with your kids, then look no further. Thanks to the basic control layout and easy-to-understand inputs, this can be mastered immediately. Alongside this, the gameplay is simple to understand and though you may die a lot, you can easily continue from where you left off.
This generous approach enhances replay value and longevity. Furthermore, there is an arcade and a challenge mode to test your skills. If you are competitive, you’ll love the leaderboards and the challenges they pose. Finally, there is no auto-save facility. As such, if you wish to avoid disappointment, make sure you save this regularly.
Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III is a step-down memory lane.
I remember playing Bubble Bobble as a child. Subsequently, this franchise brings back many wonderful memories. Though this latest endeavour won’t push modern consoles, it is a brilliant retro experience. I loved the gaudy colours and the upbeat music. Moreover, the simple controls are effective and each level is fun to explore. Consequently, it is a joyful game and I recommend buying it here! Can you save the solar system? Master your umbrella, use your special powers, and wipe out every monster.
