Rainbow Islands Extra

Rainbow Islands Extra is a vertical-scrolling arcade created by Taito in 1990. Rainbow Islands, also known as Rainbow Islands: The Story of Bubble Bobble 2, is a sequel to Taito's hit title Bubble Bobble. The "extra" is a special mode with a different order of enemies and bosses. It was released as a coin-op and for the Sega Genesis/Mega Drive.

The story continues from where it ended in Bubble Bobble, where Bubby and Bobby, the two dinosaur brothers, emerge victorious after defeating the villainous super drunk. The two brother's skin dissolves away to show that they are, in fact, human after all. Deciding to take a bit of a breather after their tiresome quest, they head back to their home in the Rainbow Islands. Upon arrival, they are brought to light the events that happened during their journey; an entity known as "Dark Shadow" has seized control over the territory. The two brothers' ability to conjure rainbows is the last ray of hope in turning the region back into its former playfulness.

First, the sequel isn't remotely similar to Bubble Bobble as the brightly colored cheerful environments are the opposite of the original's glum and gloomy cave systems. Not to mention that Bubby and Bobby are two chubby little kids that use rainbows instead of bubbles to turn their enemies into various miscellaneous items.

As I started to play the game, I agreed it felt pretty bland and straightforward. However, it is safe to say that I was completely deceived. The game consists of seven islands with four stages in each. You will control Bubby, who can cast duel-purpose rainbows, which you can utilize to jump and clear your way to the stop, periodically killing the enemies that make it your way. The path to the top is littered with fruits, meat, and treasure that can be collected for points. There are unique items that can be obtained that give special abilities to Bubby. Like any other arcade game, Rainbow Islands Extra contains secrets and exclusive bonuses that could reward players with anything ranging from extra levels to powerups and score multipliers.

Like the predecessor, Rainbow Islands Extra has an actual ending that can only be achieved by beating the game with two players. After collecting seven diamonds from the first seven islands (obtained from beating each respective boss), the game reveals three hidden islands that further extend your quest. Each playable island in the game has a fun theme, such as Insect Island, Toy Island, Robot Island, and so on; with several different enemies ranging from ants, popes to robots, it never gets dull at any point in the game.

It is quite a shame that the game never made it out of Japan, considering how great it is. The colorful, cheery gameplay, creative level, and boss designs will keep any avid gamer hooked on it until the end. I think Rainbow Islands Extra is not only a perfect arcade conversion, but it's also the best edition of Rainbow Island you can play at home.