Arkanoid Returns (1997)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Arkanoid Returns (1997): A Nostalgic Trip to the Arcades

Released in 1997 by Taito, Arkanoid Returns is the fourth installment in the classic Arkanoid series. It was the third game in the series to be released in arcades, and was exclusive to Japan. The game was later ported to the PlayStation in Japan, and an updated home release titled Arkanoid R 2000 was also released.

Arkanoid Returns is a faithful return to the formula that made the original game so popular. Players control the Vaus, a spaceship that must use a ball to destroy blocks and defeat enemies. The game features 50 levels, each with its own unique layout and challenges. The environment changes every 9 levels, keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting.

One of the things that sets Arkanoid Returns apart from other games in the series is its focus on nostalgia. The game features many elements from the original Arkanoid, including the same power-ups, some re-used level designs, and the same board size. This makes it a great game for fans of the original who want to experience the classic gameplay again.

Of course, Arkanoid Returns also has its own unique features. The game introduces new enemies and power-ups, and the graphics have been updated to take advantage of the more powerful hardware. The game also features a new soundtrack that is both catchy and nostalgic.

Overall, Arkanoid Returns is a great game that is sure to please fans of the series. It is a faithful return to the classic gameplay, but with enough new features to keep things fresh. If you are a fan of Arkanoid, or if you are just looking for a fun and challenging arcade game, then you should definitely check out Arkanoid Returns.

Gameplay

The gameplay in Arkanoid Returns is very similar to the original Arkanoid. Players control the Vaus, a spaceship that must use a ball to destroy blocks and defeat enemies. The Vaus can be moved left and right, and the ball can be fired in any direction.

The goal of the game is to destroy all of the blocks on each level. Blocks can be destroyed by hitting them with the ball. Some blocks contain power-ups, which can give the Vaus special abilities, such as increased speed or the ability to shoot lasers.

Enemies will also appear on some levels. Enemies can be defeated by hitting them with the ball. Defeating enemies will earn the player points.

The game features 50 levels, each with its own unique layout and challenges. The environment changes every 9 levels, keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting.

Graphics and Sound

The graphics in Arkanoid Returns have been updated to take advantage of the more powerful hardware. The game features colorful and detailed sprites, and the backgrounds are well-drawn. The game also runs smoothly, even on older hardware.

The soundtrack in Arkanoid Returns is catchy and nostalgic. The music is reminiscent of the original Arkanoid, but with a more modern sound. The sound effects are also well-done, and they add to the overall atmosphere of the game.

Power-Ups

There are a variety of power-ups that can be collected in Arkanoid Returns. These power-ups can give the Vaus special abilities, such as increased speed, the ability to shoot lasers, or the ability to create multiple balls.

Some of the power-ups in Arkanoid Returns include:

  • Expand: Increases the size of the Vaus.
  • Shrink: Decreases the size of the Vaus.
  • Speed Up: Increases the speed of the Vaus.
  • Slow Down: Decreases the speed of the Vaus.
  • Laser: Allows the Vaus to shoot lasers.
  • Multiple Balls: Creates multiple balls.
  • Catch: Allows the Vaus to catch the ball and throw it back.
  • Bomb: Drops a bomb that destroys all of the blocks on the screen.

Enemies

There are a variety of enemies that can appear in Arkanoid Returns. These enemies can be defeated by hitting them with the ball. Defeating enemies will earn the player points.

Some of the enemies in Arkanoid Returns include:

  • Doh: The main antagonist of the game. Doh is a large, green creature with a single eye.
  • Goh: A smaller, blue version of Doh.
  • Boh: A red, flying enemy that shoots lasers.
  • Zoh: A yellow, flying enemy that drops bombs.
  • Poh: A purple, flying enemy that splits into two smaller enemies when it is hit.

Conclusion

Arkanoid Returns is a great game that is sure to please fans of the series. It is a faithful return to the classic gameplay, but with enough new features to keep things fresh. If you are a fan of Arkanoid, or if you are just looking for a fun and challenging arcade game, then you should definitely check out Arkanoid Returns.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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Nish is a software engineer by day and avid gamer who loves to play video games after he puts his two boys to bed. His insights delve into the mechanics, and storytelling of the games he plays with the aim to share his passion with the audience. He loves to travel back to his native India and travel the country on his restored Royal Enfield Bullet 350, a relic from a simpler time, like some of the games he plays.

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