Review Of The Cute Platformer Parasol Stars On PS4

Parasol Stars is a delightful entry in the Bubble Bobble series, developed by Taito and originally released for the TurboGrafx-16 in 1991. The game features Bub and Bob, the lovable dinosaur protagonists from Bubble Bobble and Rainbow Islands, but this time they wield magical parasols. While it may not be as widely recognized as its predecessors, Parasol Stars is a charming and engaging platformer that deserves its place in the pantheon of classic games.

Gameplay and Mechanics

Parasol Stars stands out for its unique and whimsical gameplay mechanics. Unlike Bubble Bobble, which focused on capturing enemies in bubbles, and Rainbow Islands, which introduced the use of rainbows as weapons and platforms, Parasol Stars centers around the use of parasols. These versatile tools can be used to block enemy attacks, capture and throw enemies, and collect various power-ups. This multi-functional aspect of the parasol adds a layer of strategy and creativity to the gameplay.

The game is structured around a series of single-screen levels, much like Bubble Bobble. Players must clear each level of enemies to progress. However, Parasol Stars introduces a variety of new elements to keep the experience fresh. Each world is themed, with its own unique set of enemies and environmental hazards. The level design is clever and varied, with a good balance of challenge and accessibility. The controls are tight and responsive, making it easy to execute the necessary maneuvers with precision.

Visuals and Audio

Graphically, Parasol Stars is colorful and vibrant, staying true to the aesthetic of its predecessors. The character sprites are well-designed and full of personality, and the backgrounds are detailed and imaginative. The visual style is reminiscent of a Saturday morning cartoon, with a playful and lighthearted atmosphere that appeals to players of all ages.

The soundtrack is another highlight of the game. Composed by Hisayoshi Ogura, the music is catchy and upbeat, perfectly complementing the game’s cheerful tone. Each world has its own distinctive theme, which helps to differentiate the various stages and adds to the overall immersion. The sound effects are equally charming, with satisfying audio cues for capturing and throwing enemies, as well as collecting power-ups.

Replayability and Challenge

Parasol Stars offers a moderate level of challenge, making it accessible to both casual players and those seeking a bit more difficulty. The early levels are relatively easy, allowing players to get accustomed to the mechanics, but the difficulty ramps up as the game progresses. Boss battles are particularly engaging, requiring players to master the use of their parasol to defeat increasingly complex foes.

One of the game’s strengths is its replayability. There are numerous hidden items and secret areas to discover, which encourages players to explore each level thoroughly. Additionally, the game features multiple endings, which are determined by the player’s performance and the secrets they uncover. This adds an extra layer of depth and incentive to replay the game.

Legacy and Impact

While Parasol Stars may not have achieved the same level of fame as Bubble Bobble or Rainbow Islands, it remains a beloved title among fans of the series. Its innovative gameplay mechanics and charming presentation have earned it a dedicated following. The game has been ported to various platforms over the years, including the NES and Game Boy, ensuring that new generations of players can experience its unique charm.

Final Thoughts

Parasol Stars is a delightful and inventive platformer that builds upon the strengths of its predecessors while introducing new mechanics that keep the gameplay fresh and engaging. Its colorful visuals, catchy soundtrack, and replayability make it a standout title in the Bubble Bobble series. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, Parasol Stars is a game that deserves to be played and enjoyed.