Retro Review: Unearthing the Joys of “Adventure Island III” on the NES

Adventure Island III stands among the most vibrant and enduring platformers of its era. Developed by Now Production and published by Hudson Soft, this third installment in the “Adventure Island” series was released in North America in 1992, serving as a testament to the enduring charm of the 8-bit adventure platformer. As a child of the ’90s, I remember my aunt Kelly had an extensive collection of NES games, and “Adventure Island III” was a treasured part of that trove. I spent countless hours in front of the TV, controller in hand, but it wasn’t until recently that I truly mastered its challenges.

The Developer’s Vision

Now Production, a lesser-known but skillful developer, worked closely with Hudson Soft to bring “Adventure Island III” to life. Their goal was to refine the mechanics and visuals of the previous entries while keeping the core gameplay familiar to fans of the series. It’s a delicate balance that they managed to strike with aplomb, further cementing the franchise’s reputation for quality platforming action.

A Tale of Rescue and Adventure

The narrative of “Adventure Island III” is simple yet engaging, in line with the storytelling traditions of classic NES games. The protagonist, Master Higgins, must once again rescue his beloved girlfriend, Tina, who has been abducted by a new alien nemesis. This premise sets the stage for a journey across a variety of landscapes, from tropical islands to icy tundras, with Master Higgins employing all his wits and agility to overcome the alien threat.

Gameplay Mechanics and Features

“Adventure Island III” remains true to the series’ gameplay formula: run, jump, dodge, and use weapons like boomerangs and axes to defeat enemies. The game introduced new animal companions that could be ridden, each with unique abilities that added depth to the gameplay. The prehistoric skateboard also makes a return, offering a speedy way to navigate levels but with the added risk of instant death upon hitting an obstacle.

This entry is particularly notable for its nonlinear approach to level progression. Players can choose different paths, lending the game a sense of exploration that was somewhat rare for platformers of the time. The game also features a rudimentary inventory system, allowing players to store power-ups for later use, a strategic element that enhances the overall experience.

The difficulty is well-calibrated, challenging but fair, and the controls are tight and responsive. Players will find that mastery of the game is an exercise in pattern recognition and precision, rewarding those willing to invest the time to learn its intricacies.

Visuals and Audio

For an NES title, “Adventure Island III” boasts vibrant graphics that push the console’s capabilities. Each level is distinct and colorful, with a variety of sprites that pop against the lush backdrops. The attention to detail in the animation, particularly Master Higgins’ expressions and movements, adds personality to the experience.

The soundtrack, composed by Miyoshi Okuyama, is a bright and energetic accompaniment to the on-screen action. The catchy tunes are emblematic of the era and serve to enhance the game’s upbeat mood.

Reactions and Impact

Upon its release, “Adventure Island III” was well-received by gamers and critics alike, praised for its polished gameplay and charming presentation. It didn’t reinvent the wheel but instead provided a solid and enjoyable addition to the NES library. In the vibrant and competitive field of 8-bit platformers, “Adventure Island III” stood out as a high-quality title that offered a satisfying challenge.

Replay Value and Longevity

The game’s multiple paths and hidden secrets give “Adventure Island III” a considerable replay value. The levels are designed to encourage exploration, and the satisfaction of discovering a new shortcut or hidden item is a feeling that never gets old. The game’s difficulty also means that players will likely not see everything on their first playthrough, inviting them to return and conquer it fully.

A member of the “Retro Replay” community, Michael Torres, encapsulates the sentiment:

“Adventure Island III isn’t just a game; it’s a rite of passage for NES enthusiasts. The colorful stages, the catchy music, and the sheer joy of riding a dinosaur friend – it’s a package that keeps me coming back even after all these years.”

Conclusion

“Adventure Island III” is a shining example of the NES’s lasting legacy. Its blend of engaging gameplay, vibrant visuals, and memorable music captures the essence of what made the era so special. It may not have been the most groundbreaking title of its time, but it stands as a polished and endearing adventure that holds up remarkably well.

For those interested in diving deeper, a wealth of information can be found on the Hudson Soft homepage (archived), and the “Adventure Island” series has an informative [Wikipedia page](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki#