Rainbow Islands

"Side...Err...Horizontal Scrolling at its best!"

In 1991 the Mario’s, Zelda’s, and Metroid’s were dominating the video game market. Those games went on to make big names for themselves, but then there are the over looked games that really help establish Nintendo as a gaming giant. Rainbow Islands was indeed one of those games. Rainbow Islands combined elements from different Taito games (the obvious being Bubble Bobble). I've been gaming for over a decade and this game sticks out in my head as one of my favorites of all time. Although at first the game may not seem to do anything with Bubble Bobble, but as you will come to find out there are alot of things that correspond with the game. For example you can say that Bubble Bobble is to bubbles as Rainbow Islands is to rainbows.

Graphics: 9/10

Lets face it, the Nintendo wasn't the best in the world when it came to graphics, but Rainbow Islands really took advantage of its so-called disadvantage. The game may seem cutesy at some points (lets just say 85% of the game), but that does not stop you from enjoying the visual masterpiece that is Rainbow Islands.

Sound: 10/10

The BGM for this game sticks out in my head above all else. Even though it is kinda cutesy it can be overlooked. Especially if you can still recall the exact tune the game played to even though you haven't played it in about 9 years.

Gameplay: 8/10

Keeping in sink with Taito's innovative game styles, Rainbow Island does not disappoint. Shooting rainbows instead of jumping on an enemy’s head, collecting 7 special jewels from downed enemies, and LARGE bosses who still give hardcore gamers a good run for their money. This game does not disappoint if you are looking for a challenge.

Replay Value: 6/10

Probably the biggest flaw in the game is the replay value. Although a normal gamer will probably not beat it in his/her first sitting...or second...or third really, but when you get to the end there is really no purpose to play again other than for nostalgic purposes. I've personally beat the game 3 different times to get the different endings and they are kinda disappointing...

Overall: 10/10

This game is a must for a Side Scrolling gamer or anyone with an old school taste to video gaming. It’s appropriate for kids of all ages, too. So if you ever find yourself at your nearest Used Game shop and by some twist of fate you come across Rainbow Island, drop the 5 bucks for it because you'll see its worth it in the end.

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 03/03/03, Updated 03/03/03