Taito has recently announced the upcoming release of Taito Egret II Mini Arcade Memories Vol. 3, which is set to thrill gamers and arcade enthusiasts with a new collection of classic games. This release follows the success of the previous two volumes, each containing a carefully curated selection of arcade hits that have brought nostalgia and joy to fans around the world.
Arcade Memories Vol. 3 is scheduled for release in Japan on December 19, 2024, and will be available for purchase at the price of ¥8,778 exclusively from Taito's online store. This latest installment in the series will feature an exciting array of games spanning from 1982 to 1995, ensuring a diverse gameplay experience that caters to various tastes and preferences.
The line-up for this volume includes ten games, each representing a unique genre and style. Among them, "Mr. Do!" (1982) allows players to step into the shoes of a circus clown who must navigate through levels collecting cherries while avoiding dinosaur-like red monsters. Another highlight is "Aqua Jack" (1989), a pseudo-3D action game where players control a hovercraft to battle against enemy ships and aircraft.
Adding to the variety, "Galactic Storm" (1992) presents a shooting game with a chase-view perspective, reminiscent of other Taito classics like "Night Striker." This perspective offers a dynamic and engaging gameplay experience that differs from the traditional top-down or side-scrolling views commonly found in shoot 'em ups.
For those who enjoy quirky titles, "Dr. Toppel Tankentai" (1988) features a cute, green creature navigating through vertically scrolling shooter levels. Meanwhile, "Metal Soldier Isaac II" (1985) provides an overhead run-and-gun experience, blending shooting and strategic gameplay elements in a non-sequential title.
For simulation fans, "Top Landing" (1988) offers an immersive arcade flight simulation experience, and "Extermination" (1987) runs on the New Zealand Story hardware, providing another thrilling vertical shooter adventure.
Rounding out the collection are games like "Rumba Lumber" (1984), which combines the gameplay of Qix and Dig Dug in a lumberjack setting, and "Wiz" (1985), where players harness magical powers in a side-scrolling action environment.
This announcement was initially teased and later fully revealed during a Famitsu livestream hosted by Japanese voice actress Marie Miyake. The news has generated considerable excitement within the gaming community, with many fans eager to revisit these classic games. The privileged release in Japan has also sparked discussions about possible international availability in the future.
Taito's dedication to preserving and honoring arcade history is evident in their careful selection of games for the Taito Egret II Mini Arcade Memories series. Each volume serves not only as a way to enjoy these games but also as a cultural preservation effort, allowing new generations to experience the charm and challenge of classic arcade gaming.
As Taito continues to explore and expand its offerings, the arcade enthusiast community eagerly anticipates future announcements. Whether it involves additional volumes for the Egret II series or entirely new projects, Taito remains a beloved name in the gaming world, synonymous with innovation and nostalgia.
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