Parasol Stars: A Refreshing Take on the Classic Bubble Bobble Series

In the world of classic arcade games, few titles have managed to captivate audiences quite like Bubble Bobble. First released in 1986, this side-scrolling platformer introduced players to a unique blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat, all set against a colorful backdrop of ancient Egyptian mythology. Over the years, the series has undergone numerous revisions, updates, and spin-offs, each one striving to capture the essence of the original while introducing new twists and challenges.

One such revision is Parasol Stars: A New Beginning, often simply referred to as Parasol Stars or Rainbow Islands II in some regions. Released in 1995 for arcades, this title marks a significant departure from the traditional Bubble Bobble formula, offering a fresh take on the series that has garnered both praise and criticism among fans.

In this article, we will delve into the world of Parasol Stars, exploring its unique gameplay mechanics, engaging storyline, and the age rating it receives. We will also discuss what sets it apart from other titles in the Bubble Bobble series and whether it is worth playing today.

Gameplay Mechanics

Parasol Stars begins with a brief introduction to our protagonist, a young prince named Popo, who finds himself on a quest to rescue his princess, Peachy, from an evil sorcerer. The game takes place across various islands, each with its own unique theme and challenges.

Players control Popo as he navigates through levels, using his parasol (a device that allows him to fly) to traverse obstacles, avoid enemies, and solve puzzles. One of the most distinctive features of Parasol Stars is its use of weather conditions to affect gameplay. The game's world is divided into four seasons, each with its own set of challenges and rewards.

For example, in the winter season, players must navigate through icy levels filled with slippery obstacles and enemies that move more slowly but can still cause harm. Conversely, during the summer season, the levels become warmer and more treacherous, with enemies moving faster and the parasol's abilities becoming more crucial for survival.

As players progress through the game, they will encounter a variety of enemies, from simple insects to powerful bosses, each requiring unique strategies and techniques to defeat. The game also features a range of power-ups, including the ability to fly higher, shoot fireballs, or even turn invisible.

Storyline

The storyline of Parasol Stars is an integral part of its appeal, offering players a more substantial narrative than traditional platformers of the time. Popo's quest to rescue Peachy takes him across various islands, each with its own unique culture and history.

Throughout his journey, Popo must contend with a range of allies and enemies, from friendly creatures who aid him in his quest to powerful sorceresses who seek to stop him. The game's world is richly detailed, with colorful characters, intricate backdrops, and an engaging soundtrack that perfectly complements the gameplay.

Age Rating

Parasol Stars has received an age rating of 7+ from PEGI (Pan European Game Information), indicating that it is suitable for players aged 7 and above. The game's content includes mild violence, some suggestive humor, and occasional mild language.

In terms of its overall suitability for younger audiences, Parasol Stars presents a more mature take on the Bubble Bobble series than some of its predecessors. While the gameplay remains challenging and engaging, the storyline is more substantial, and the game's world is more richly detailed.

Conclusion

Parasol Stars: A New Beginning is a refreshing take on the classic Bubble Bobble series, offering players a unique blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat set against a colorful backdrop of ancient Egyptian mythology. With its engaging storyline, distinctive gameplay mechanics, and age rating of 7+, this game is suitable for players of all ages.

Whether you are a seasoned fan of the Bubble Bobble series or simply looking for a new challenge to tackle, Parasol Stars is definitely worth playing today. Its unique take on the classic formula, combined with its richly detailed world and engaging storyline, make it a standout title in the platformer genre.

Recommendation

If you're interested in trying out Parasol Stars, we recommend starting with the original arcade version or one of the numerous ports and remasters available for modern consoles. Some notable releases include:

• Parasol Stars: A New Beginning (Arcade, 1995)
• Parasol Stars (Game Boy Advance, 2001)
• Rainbow Islands II: The Story of Bubble Bobble III (Europe) (Nintendo DS, 2008)

All of these versions offer a faithful representation of the original game and are well-suited for players looking to experience this classic title.

In conclusion, Parasol Stars is a hidden gem in the world of platformers, offering a unique take on the Bubble Bobble series that is both engaging and challenging. With its richly detailed world, distinctive gameplay mechanics, and age rating of 7+, this game is suitable for players of all ages.