With the success of Bubble Bobble Plus! on WiiWare, Taito thought that they would try their hand in revitalizing another series from way back in the day as well. Now if you are unfamiliar with Rainbow Island, its very similar to Bubble Bobble. While Square may have released the redone WiiWare bundle, Taito did the original arcade shooter with the two lovable dinos, Bub and Bob. They were cursed as human boys into being in those bodies, and after completing the quest in that bubble-blowing arcade adventure they went back to being human boys. This is where Rainbow Islands come into play. The boys have been forced to climb a Technicolor tower while defeating enemies with bright, magic rainbows instead of burping up bouncing bubbles. Taito wants to rejuvenate the series with its new title Rainbow Islands: Towering Adventure, but does it live up to its counterpart?
Find out after the jump!
Playing in the role of the two boys again, your quest is to make it to the top of the tropical tower that houses Holly's Comet, a celestial body rumored to grant the wishes of anyone who reaches it. Of course it’s not just that simple, the boys will encounter a mad scientist, tons of monsters and Dr. Crescent who is chasing after them with a variety of drilling devices. But if Dr. Crescent’s constantly ascending drills don’t kill you, the timer might. Yes, you also have a clock keeping you moving right along as well. Luckily you are equipped with rainbow power, which you can use for two types of offensive attacks. For instance, hitting and enemy and stunning it or hitting one from above or below causing it to burst into stars. You can also use them as platforms to help you about the stage.
The game features seven different levels, all of which are reused throughout all three gameplay modes - Story Mode, Challenge Mode and Time Trial. Story Mode is a race to the top of the tower. Challenge Mode is the same but you cannot continue if you die. Time Trial has you race through the levels section by section, testing you to get the fastest time.
Unfortunately, Rainbow Islands is mediocre. It lacks in overall game play and its weak multiplayer offering and brief amount of game time will leave players wanting. With an $8 price tag, this title is a tough one to recommend since most people could fly through this game in one sitting and be done with it.
Pros: Simple platforming, enemy design was nice
Cons: Lack of content, short, too pricey for its length
GamePro Score: 2.5
The Info: Platform: WiiWare, Publisher/Developer: Taito, ESRB: E, Players: 1-2, Price: $8.00 (800 MS points)
Related Links: Check out what new games are available for download this week, be sure to answer our question of the week, Lastly read up on the PSN news - Namco Museum Essentials to release in July
