The Best Arcade Games by Taito: A Comprehensive Review

Taito, a pioneering name in the arcade gaming industry, has crafted a series of iconic games that have shaped the landscape of video gaming. Known for their innovation and engaging gameplay, Taito’s arcade games have left an indelible mark on gaming history. This article delves into some of the best arcade games developed by Taito, highlighting their impact, gameplay mechanics, and lasting legacy.

1. Space Invaders (1978)

Overview: Released in 1978, Space Invaders is arguably Taito’s most famous arcade game. It is widely credited with pioneering the shoot-'em-up genre and becoming a cornerstone of video game culture. The game’s simple yet addictive gameplay involves defending Earth from waves of descending alien invaders.

Gameplay Mechanics: Players control a spaceship that moves horizontally across the bottom of the screen. The objective is to shoot and destroy the aliens before they reach the bottom of the screen. The game features a unique mechanic where the speed of the invaders increases as their numbers decrease, adding to the challenge.

Legacy: Space Invaders was a massive commercial success and is considered one of the most influential video games of all time. Its impact can be seen in the numerous sequels, spin-offs, and adaptations that have followed.

2. Bubble Bobble (1986)

Overview: Bubble Bobble, released in 1986, is a classic platformer that introduced players to Bub and Bob, two bubble-blowing dinosaurs. The game’s charming visuals and engaging co-op gameplay have made it a beloved title among arcade enthusiasts.

Gameplay Mechanics: Players navigate through a series of levels, trapping enemies in bubbles and then bursting them to clear the stage. The game features cooperative play, where two players can team up to tackle the game’s challenges.

Legacy: Bubble Bobble is renowned for its fun multiplayer experience and has inspired several sequels and spin-offs. Its catchy music and colorful graphics continue to endear it to fans.

3. Rastan (1987)

Overview: Rastan is a side-scrolling action game that combines elements of platforming and combat. Released in 1987, it features a sword-wielding barbarian battling through various fantasy-themed levels.

Gameplay Mechanics: Players control Rastan, navigating through different stages filled with enemies, traps, and obstacles. The game’s combat system allows players to use a variety of weapons and power-ups to defeat enemies.

Legacy: Rastan is celebrated for its engaging action and memorable music. It has been praised for its high-quality graphics and challenging gameplay, which continue to resonate with fans of classic arcade games.

4. Arkanoid (1986)

Overview: Arkanoid, released in 1986, is a classic block-breaking game that challenges players to destroy bricks using a paddle and a ball. It is a spin-off of the Breakout concept but introduces new elements and power-ups.

Gameplay Mechanics: Players control a paddle at the bottom of the screen, bouncing a ball to break bricks arranged at the top. The game features various power-ups and special bricks that enhance gameplay and add strategic depth.

Legacy: Arkanoid is known for its addictive gameplay and has inspired numerous sequels and clones. Its influence is evident in the many variations of block-breaking games that have appeared over the years.

5. Darius (1986)

Overview: Darius is a horizontal shoot-'em-up released in 1986. It is notable for its unique multi-screen setup and large-scale bosses, which set it apart from other shooters of its time.

Gameplay Mechanics: Players control a spacecraft and navigate through side-scrolling levels, battling waves of enemies and massive boss ships. The game features multiple branching paths and diverse environments.

Legacy: Darius is praised for its innovative use of multiple screens and its challenging gameplay. It has spawned numerous sequels and remains a beloved title in the shoot-'em-up genre.

6. Elevator Action (1983)

Overview: Released in 1983, Elevator Action is a classic arcade game that combines elements of platforming and stealth. Players take on the role of a secret agent tasked with retrieving classified documents from a high-rise building.

Gameplay Mechanics: Players navigate through the building using elevators and stairs, avoiding or neutralizing enemies while collecting documents. The game’s strategic element lies in its use of elevators to evade capture and move between floors.

Legacy: Elevator Action is celebrated for its innovative gameplay and engaging design. Its unique blend of action and strategy has influenced many subsequent games in the genre.

7. The Legend of Kage (1985)

Overview: The Legend of Kage is a side-scrolling action game released in 1985. It follows the adventures of a ninja who must rescue a kidnapped princess and defeat a variety of enemies.

Gameplay Mechanics: Players control a ninja character who can jump, attack with a sword, and use special abilities. The game features multiple stages filled with enemies and environmental hazards.

Legacy: The Legend of Kage is known for its fast-paced action and distinctive ninja theme. It has been praised for its graphics and challenging gameplay, making it a notable entry in Taito’s arcade lineup.

8. Operation Wolf (1987)

Overview: Operation Wolf is a light gun shooter released in 1987. It was one of the early examples of using a light gun for arcade gameplay, offering a more immersive shooting experience.

Gameplay Mechanics: Players use a light gun to aim at enemies and targets on the screen, aiming to rescue hostages and complete missions. The game features a variety of weapons and power-ups.

Legacy: Operation Wolf is recognized for its innovative use of light gun technology and its engaging shooting mechanics. It has influenced many subsequent light gun games and remains a classic in the genre.

9. New Zealand Story (1988)

Overview: New Zealand Story is a platformer released in 1988, featuring a cute kiwi bird named Tiki on a quest to rescue his friends from a villainous cat.

Gameplay Mechanics: Players navigate through colorful levels, using various tools and abilities to overcome obstacles and defeat enemies. The game features a whimsical art style and charming characters.

Legacy: New Zealand Story is beloved for its delightful graphics and engaging gameplay. It has inspired several sequels and remains a favorite among fans of classic platformers.

10. Puzzle Bobble (1994)

Overview: Puzzle Bobble, also known as Bust-a-Move, is a spin-off of Bubble Bobble released in 1994. It is a puzzle game where players aim to clear the screen of colored bubbles by matching them.

Gameplay Mechanics: Players shoot bubbles from a cannon at the top of the screen, aiming to match and clear bubbles of the same color. The game features various levels with increasing difficulty.

Legacy: Puzzle Bobble is celebrated for its addictive gameplay and has become a staple of the puzzle game genre. Its success has led to numerous sequels and adaptations across various platforms.

Conclusion

Taito’s contribution to arcade gaming is both significant and diverse. From the pioneering gameplay of Space Invaders to the charming platforming of Bubble Bobble and the strategic action of Elevator Action, Taito’s games have left a lasting impact on the industry. Their innovative mechanics and memorable experiences continue to be celebrated by gamers and have influenced countless titles that followed. These games not only represent the golden age of arcade gaming but also serve as a testament to Taito’s creativity and enduring legacy.