As a run-and-gun game, the gameplay is simple – run from left to right and shoot as many enemies as possible. There’s plenty of variety in the setup and design though, with some stages featuring vertical-scrolling levels, for example. A lot of the environment is interactive too, from destroying abandoned vehicles to rescuing prisoners along the way. There are six stages (called missions here) to complete, each ramping up the difficulty level until the final mission.

There is some variety to the enemies too. You’ll mostly be dealing with soldiers, who carry a number of different weapons to take you out. One stage randomly throws bandaged mummies at you, who hurl purple venom your way that actually transforms you into a mummy too. An antidote is available throughout the level, but another hit in the meantime means death. You’ll also face some scary-looking, wall-climbing monsters in a later stage, who you have to free from cages before destroying. These moments create a sense of urgent, tense creepiness, so it becomes more than a simple war you’re fighting. Finally, each mission ends with a boss to fight, usually some sort of overly large vehicle, and these guys are significantly stronger.

With so many enemies to fight, you’d be right in assuming that death lurks at every turn. Your character will die constantly, particularly when facing the boss. As with most of these arcade conversions, I’m reminded of how many coins must have been pumped into games like this back in the day. Thankfully in these home versions, you can easily add your own credits to continue playing.

One of the best features of Metal Slug 2 is the upgradeable weapons. There are several weapons to try, each with limited ammo (though a generous amount is provided), with everything from lasers to homing missiles. You’ll also encounter special vehicles along the way that one player can jump into and ride until the shield is depleted. These add extra firepower and defense, but unfortunately only one vehicle is provided in co-op mode, which is slightly disappointing for the other player.

The simple, ‘90s graphics are great. There’s plenty going on around you and, considering it’s such a violent game, the cartoony style helps to take the edge off. For example, there’s no gore or blood (it looks like water) and enemies disappear once dispatched. For those who do enjoy that gore factor, the original and bloody Japanese version is also available from the menu. The backgrounds look fantastic, with a brilliantly retro art style that looks as good now as it did back then. The only slight downside to the visuals is the occasional slowdown that occurs when too many enemies are on screen.

Overall, Metal Slug 2 is a fun game that’s full of classic run-and-gun action. In the absence of a Virtual Console on the Switch, these SNK releases really hit that sweet spot for anyone craving retro gaming. Metal Slug 2 is arcade perfect, right down to the high difficulty level and occasional sprite slowdown. With limitless credits, it’s now much easier to play your way through, and it’s worth the ride.

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The eight events contained in World Games are Weight Lifting, Barrel Jumping, Cliff Diving, Slalom Skiing, Log Rolling, Bull Riding, Caber Toss, and Sumo Wrestling.  As you can see these are all quite unique sports, helping World Games to stand out as something different.  In a lot of ways this selection trumps the actual gameplay.  Like a number of collections, it’s uneven.

A large part of this discrepancy are the controls, which aren’t intuitive for many of these games.  You’re sure to want a manual or Faq on hand.  You can practice individual sports, which is nice and something of a necessity.  While certain ones emphasize button combos, the bulk rely more on timing.  Once you get a feel for each event it’s not overly hard to set world records on many, although with no battery backup they disappear when the console is switched off.  My favorite event is the Barrel Jumping.  Slalom and bull riding are my least favorites (counterintuitive) with the rest being middle of the road.

A travelogue is included so you can learn a bit about each sport.  I rather like this inclusion, as it gives the game background flavor with almost Carmen Sandiego like fact sheets. For instance did you know that Barrel Jumping is an over 300 year old sport, with jumpers hitting speeds of over 40 mph?  Or that to enter Sumo apprenticeship, Japanese boys must weigh at least 160 lbs by age 13?

Graphics are commendable for such an old title.  There are lots of fun little animations and touches.  The character’s face turning red if the barbell’s held too long, or bouncing off rocks and belly flopping into the water.  There’s no music during the actual events, but a unique piece opens each sport, reflecting the game’s origins.  The bagpipe number introducing the caber toss event is strong.  When playing Log Rolling, you get to hear the Lumberjack song from Monty Python!

Grab a retro minded buddy or two and you’ll have some fun with World Games, at least for a little bit. Ultimately what will keep this game in your collection is just how odd some of these events are.  They make this title just interesting enough to warrant some of your nostalgic attention.

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If you’ve never played the NES version, it will probably take a fair amount of time to get comfortable with the bionic grappling arm.  With no jumping mechanic it’s the sole means to navigate platforms!  While difficult initially, the unique feel is a grower.  Once you get the swinging down it really is quite entertaining scaling the vertical oriented zones.

Its predecessor had a distinct late 80’s military setting, but this Bionic Commando is sci-fi in tone.  The backgrounds you traverse past and the defense systems you’re on guard against are more futuristic in nature.  Computer technology seems to come to the fore more often as well.  The visuals have an almost anime style, and overall it’s just a different feel.  The game is the better for it however, and it makes this entry stand out.

The plot plays out through numerous communications rooms where you can chat with your home base and intercept enemy communications.  Various neutral areas let you learn more while also providing a refreshing break from the action.  Everything flows rather nicely as you try to find agent Super Joe and learn more of the mysterious Albatross project.

This game is plenty challenging.  Besides adjusting to the controls, the map is large with no set path.  You can often encounter battles in between zones.  The layouts throughout are a maze like and it’s quite easy to get confused on the small screen.  Thankfully sharper 3DS visuals and restore points make the game a superior handheld fit on the Virtual Console than it was on the GB.  It also beats having to jot down numerous passwords.

One easy tip to help make the challenge manageable – read the manual.  Your items such as protectors, tools, and video receivers are shown as small icons which can be tough to discern in the early goings.  Familiarizing yourself with them and picking up background details can eliminate much needless frustration.  Another tip is try hard to earn continues.  They’re limited to start, but earning more through good play provides a good safety net.

The Game Boy version of Bionic Commando has several things in its favor, even for those of us who originally missed it.  While I maintain it still feels slightly misplaced on the GB, it is a quality release nonetheless. Bionic Commando should appeal to fans of the NES version, or anyone who desires to “swing into action against the forces of evil”.

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The original Pac-Man, that everyone knows, is of course included, with the welcome option to play in full screen or scroll.  While this game’s importance can’t be overstated, it also must be acknowledged that the followup, Ms. Pac-Man, is the much better game, one that’s not included here.  Still, who can resist taking the original classic for a spin now and again?

Pac-Attack is a Tetris like block dropping puzzle game.  Certainly not a bad title, though probably the weakest of the bunch.  It recently got a standalone Virtual Console release, although this version obviously represents the better value for the solo gamer.  There is no vs. mode, but normal (endless) and puzzle (100 stages) are included.

Pac-Mania is perhaps an underrated game in certain respects, and will likely grow on you the more you play it.  The isometric perspective is cool, and the jumping mechanic is smoothly implemented.  The game starts in Block Town before moving to Pac Man’s Park, Sandbox Land, and lastly Jungly Steps.  Definitley a challenging game, but one with the potential to get you hooked.

Pac-Man Arrangement in all likelihood is the star of this collection.  It’s 3-D levels are vibrant, and loaded with new elements like fresh enemies and power-ups, dash arrows and more.  The mazes aren’t always flat either, putting a new take on the pellet-munchin’.  The one drawback in my mind is that continuing puts you immediately where you left off, rather than back at the start of the maze.  I’m glad for the unlimited continues mind you – all arcade games should have them as an option – but a more moderate approach might have been better in providing more challenge.

For all its strengths, there are a couple things lacking in Pac-Man Collection.  A proper means to save high scores is one such omission.  If playing on the Wii U top scores can be saved via restore points which helps some, although the game is a superior fit on the GBA.  The control also can’t match that of the arcade, although how much this bothers may depend on experience with the coin-op’s.

Pac-Man is a video game icon, and what his collection lacks in arcade control and high score saving, it makes up for in fun quantity.  For those who don’t already own these games in various Namco Museum compilations, Pac-Man Collection is a sound buy.  It’s an enjoyable package that offers a lot for a small cost.

“Someone, somewhere is being chased by monsters!”

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Will Kirby be able to save the Dream Land from Dark Matter?

The original Kirby’s Dream Land was a big success, and three years (and an NES hit) later this sequel arrived.  It brought a lot more of everything, plus some fun new additions.  Helping Kirby solve the mystery of the disappearing Rainbow Bridges would delight gamers, but does the same still hold true today?

Kirby’s second quest is huge when compared to his debut!  It takes place through seven levels of four to eight stages each.  The first area alone (Grass Land) is bigger than the whole original game!  Kirby’s copy abilities are in full force here, but the biggest new additions are probably the animals.  Rick the hamster, Kine the fish, and Coo the owl are three new animal friends that can escort Kirby around.  Besides their own individual strengths, Kirby’s copy abilities fluctuate when he is in company with them.  Trying all of the different animal/power combinations and discovering favorites is definitely a key highlight!

These powers come in handy, especially when searching for hidden rainbow drops to fight Dark Matter.  Collecting all of them adds satisfying challenge and replay value.  You can also collect small stars to earn extra lives, although the game is still quite easy.  There’s no unlockable harder difficulty this time, but overall there’s just much more to do in this considerable adventure.

The graphics and music are of course great for a Game Boy game.  This should come as no surprise with the precedent set  by Kirby’s earlier titles. Once again the animals are a highlight, with nice animations and unique music tracks for each.  It reflects improvements we’d expect for a handheld release from 1995, and is also enhanced for the Super Game Boy SNES accessory.  Yet it’s a real shame that the GBC DX version was cancelled.

Though still very familiar in many respects, Dream Land 2 brought enough positive changes to make it a big hit.  Heck even a straight sequel probably would’ve been a hit, but Kirby’s new animal friends really are a major asset – they’d take on even greater starring roles in Dream Land 3!   Our roly-poly hero no longer needed to adventure all by his lonesome.  Whether you play the original on the Game Boy, on the Wii’s Dream Collection, or the 3DS Virtual Console, make sure you don’t miss Dream Land 2.  It’s a highly enjoyable platformer that has held up wonderfully!

The post PN Retro Review: Kirby’s Dream Land 2 (GB) appeared first on Pure Nintendo.

Time takes its toll on most sport games, and Double Dribble is certainly no exception.  Not only has it not aged as well as some other NES sport games, but it isn’t even the best basketball game on the console.  Timeless appeal or not, I can’t help but try viewing it in the context of its release, coupled with a healthy dose of nostalgia.  Rather than blinding me to the game’s faults, it helps me appreciate what it was.

Even though it originates from the arcades, I feel Double Dribble is a sim at heart.  Not to say it’s always accurate in how it portrays basketball, but the five on five contests strive to present more realistic action.  What it lacks in gameplay it makes up for in presentation.  Right from the start this is evident, as you  watch a crowd filter into the arena while the Konami blimp and balloons fliy overhead.  Even the menu excels with normally mundane choices made more lively from some catchy music and a player shooting the ball through the hoop as selections are made.

The options include adjusting time periods and selecting from three levels of difficulty.  The four generic teams you can choose from are listed under the cities of Boston, L.A, Chicago, and New York.  The computer always picks Boston though, which limits your choice to three.  A sizable weakness for sure, but the game is best played against a friend anyway.  That’s how nostalgic memories were formed.

Double Dribble has a lot of characters on screen, so expect sprite flicker (this may be improved on the Virtual Console).  The main visual highlights are the cut scenes that show one of three slam dunk animations.  These looked very impressive, especially for early NES!  Other highlights include an animated halftime show, with unique mascots.  The music is limited, but the tunes present are quality pieces.  There’s even a small sampling of speech, albeit garbled.  Hearing “Double Dwibble” still brings a smile to my face.

The controls are very basic, and can seem sluggish.  They are not always responsive either.  Certain functions though, like stealing, are ridiculous in how easy they can be done with frequency.  You’ll also be grabbing offensive rebounds like a young Charles Barkley.  But whether your clanging dunks off the rim or sinking shots from a 3 point sweet spot, you’ll soon grow accustomed to things.

Double Dribble has a fun sequel on the Genesis (Playoff Edition) but the NES version is where I have the most memories.  That said, Konami’s later sport efforts (Blades of Steel and the Track & Field games) have aged better.  If you’ve never played Double Dribble, there’s really no compelling reason to start now.  If you have strong memories of it though, know that it holds up well enough all things considered.

“The World Championship is at your finger tips.”

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When Kirby’s Dream Land arrived on the Game Boy in 1992, a new star was born for Nintendo!  Developed by Hal Laboratory, it became a series launching success.  Decades later, how does Kirby’s debut escapade through Dream Land stand up?The gluttonous King Dedede has stolen all of Dream Land’s food, and adorable little Kirby volunteers to get it back.  His platforming adventure starts off in Green Greens, before moving on to Castle Lololo (inspired by an earlier Hal hit) Float Islands, Bubbly Clouds, and finally a showdown on Mount Dedede.  Along the way he’ll confront several memorable bosses, both mid and end level.  Some of Kirby’s later abilities like copying and riding animals were absent from this first title, but flying, inhaling, and the like suffice for the action throughout the well designed stages.  There’s also some helpful items scattered from beginning to end.

Even in Game Boy green Kirby’s Dream Land has some fine looking graphics.  They’ve managed to hold up surprisingly well, and if played on the 3DS Virtual Console the visuals are stronger still.  The lively locations made for terrific impressions that have left enduring memories.  The music meanwhile is among the best you can hear on the Game Boy.  I could listen to the Float Island’s tune for hours at a time!  An unlockable music player makes for a fine replay bonus.

Kirby’s Dream Land is quite short, and can be beaten in 25 minutes or so.  It’s also quite easy, with avoidable enemies, plentiful health, and many generous checkpoints.  However the unlockable harder difficulty deserves note.  For those who might be thinking that all Kirby games are light on challenge, I suggest giving this mode a whirl.  The enemies are far more numerous, and they inflict much more damage!  Coupled with the charming presentation, Dream Land has proved enjoyable to revisit for gamers of all experience.

As such a pleasant character it’s impossible not to like Kirby, or his happy introduction onto the gaming scene.  Dream World would lead to Kirby’s Adventure (one of the best NES games ever!), numerous sequels, and other more innovative entries.  This start, though short, and humble by today’s standards, is still very much worth playing all the same.Remember, the people of Dream Land are counting on you!

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There is a surprising amount of depth in Super Dodge Ball.  You can customize the positions of each player on your team, and set the layout to your liking.  As you discover all the unique  throws (over a dozen special shots!), and statistics, you can tailor the team to your preferences.  The computer opposition strategizes as well.  When low on health and reduced to a sole player it’s not uncommon to see them toss the ball to teammates on the perimeter, constantly passing back and forth while looking for an opening.  However with a bit of skill it’s pretty easy to intercept passes.

The game’s audio-visual presentation reflects what made the NES era great.  Each country has their own unique, colorful, and detailed backdrops.  Likewise there’s plenty of catchy music – don’t be surprised if the memorable chip tunes stay with you.  The animations are terrific, and also comical as characters are hit and their energy levels drop.  They’ll bounce and fly all over the screen, staggering as they near defeat.  The main drawback is sprite flicker due to the number of characters on screen, not uncommon for NES games.

When it comes to your competition, Super Dodge Ball offers a diverse range of opponents.  Some teams have very high energy – others are lower, but excel with stamina.  The locales where they play add to the diversity also.  Iceland for example is slippery, and sliding around leads to some wild ricocheting when a powerful shot connects.   Kenya meanwhile is quite sandy, making it tough to get a running start and messing up timing on special throws.

Super Dodge ball has very good replay value, due to customization options, different modes, multiplayer support, and being just plain fun.  I have a nostalgic blast returning to this game time and again, and strongly suggest it to NES fans.  I also recommend the DS game, Super Dodge Ball Brawlers.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CYoLVeFldw0

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The gameplay in Metroid Fusion will feel very familiar to fans of the series. The game uses a 2D perspective like Super Metroid and features a similar map system. What’s unique about Metroid Fusion is the aspect of fusing with the X parasites to upgrade various parts of Samus’ suit. In past games, Samus would discover upgrades that would augment her suit in some way: new weapons, missiles, or jump abilities. In Metroid Fusion, Samus actually mergers with Core-X parasites from different bosses/mini-bosses that give her unique abilities. There are also X parasites that can refill health as well as missiles. Another difference in Metroid Fusion is the more linear nature. Navigation Rooms will direct players to where they need to go. Various doors are unlocked at different stages by the station’s computer AI so the game feels more step-by-step than previous iterations. The story also contributes to the linear nature with Samus encountering the SA-X at various times throughout the game in scripted areas. It doesn’t detract from my enjoyment of the game but for those that want to go anywhere they want from the get-go, it may hamper their enjoyment.

Metroid Fusion definitely has some advancements over Super Metroid in the visual department. The presentation is nearly identical, but the game has several unique effects that help it stand out especially with other handheld games at the time.

Those who play Metroid Fusion on the Wii U Virtual Console can have save states separate from the game’s internal save system. This is incredibly handy especially when you get to boss battles. The Wii U version also allows players to change how they want to see the graphics. They can do a pixel-perfect version or a fill the screen option, and they can also enable smoothing which removes some of the pixelated look. I found the best option was the pixel-perfect version with smoothing turned off. The smoothing augmented the graphics too much in my opinion.

Overall, if you enjoy any Metroid (or Castlevania) game, you’ll love Metroid Fusion. The plot is great and the fusion gameplay mechanic is a fun derivative on the classic Metroid formula.

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The action unfolds in a new location, Kitchen Island, and marks the debut of a new adversary, pirate leader Captain Syrup.  Whether picking up enemies and flinging them, body slamming them like a charging bull, donning new power-up helmets, or engaging in new end level mini games, Wario clearly stands separate from Mario’s platform adventures.  It’s a slower paced game, but still fun, and one that laid the foundation for adjustments to come with subsequent sequels.   It’s linear compared to its predecessor, and while that disappoints, it does allow for a more ramped up challenge in certain ways – no boss checkpoints for instance.

The Game Boy definitely wasn’t a powerhouse, but Wario Land offers a good audio-visual package for the handheld. The soundtrack balances a familiar yet fresh vibe,  Overall the music is memorable, doing the Game Boy proud!  Meanwhile the large and impressive sprite work along with some detailed backdrops shows that (in the right hands) the GB could produce pleasing visuals.  The fact that Wario Land II and subsequent GB follow-ups were in color does make this one a bit tougher to go back to – as does some sprite flicker and a bit of unevenness – but not so much that nostalgia (or sharper 3DS quality) can’t compensate.

As an anti-hero Wario certainly isn’t the most likable guy, but he is fun to control.  Slow but large, he dominates the scenery with his powerful move set.  Love him or hate him, you can’t help but be won over by his wide, devious grin, or the way he chortles as his wealth gets added between levels.  He’s balanced as well, as some of his less desirable traits hadn’t been adopted yet.  A new star was born for Nintendo!

Wario Land isn’t without room for improvement.  Its linear nature, and some visual quirks, coupled with boss fights that are rather tame, reflect a few missteps.  Overall though, the game has far more positives than it does negatives.  It’s a well developed game that’s very enjoyable and fun to replay!  It’s rightfully considered a classic, and many rank it among the GB’s best games.

Wario might be better known as of late for his Wario Ware games, with more recent releases like Wario Ware D.I.Y., Game & Wario, the VC re-release of the GBA original, etc. but his original Game Boy adventures are arguably better.  This release established the foundation for the phenomenal Virtual Boy Wario Land the following year –  how I’d love to see that come to the 3DS VC at some point!

Back in issue 11 of PNM Tristan Meiman listed this game in his Virtual Console recommendations, and I too recommend it.  At just $3.99 you get a lot of game for your buck, with multiple endings to boot!  Once you adventure with Wario Land, you’ll probably want to check out its sequels – thankfully for us, part 4 just released for the Wii U VC!

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