Release Date and Developer
Adventure Island II, a classic side-scrolling platformer for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), was developed by Hudson Soft and first released in Japan in 1991. The North American release followed in 1992. This delightful sequel to Adventure Island continued the adventures of Master Higgins, a fearless hero who must rescue his beloved Princess Leilani from the clutches of evil aliens. The game has left an indelible mark on the hearts of many gamers, with its challenging gameplay, colorful graphics, and catchy music.
Gameplay and Storyline
The Adventure Island series is known for its simple yet addictive gameplay, and the second installment is no exception. The game features seven uniquely themed worlds, each comprising multiple levels, and concludes with an epic showdown against the alien invaders. The gameplay revolves around running, jumping, and collecting fruit to maintain your ever-depleting life bar. It's essentially a race against time, as you need to maintain a steady supply of food to stay alive.
The storyline, while straightforward, adds charm to the game. Higgins' journey takes him across various landscapes, including lush forests, fiery volcanoes, and treacherous caves. Each level is filled with obstacles and enemies, ranging from traditional platformer foes like jumping snails to more exotic adversaries like giant bees and pterodactyls. This mix of environmental challenges and enemy variety keeps the gameplay fresh throughout.
Graphics and Sound
Adventure Island II boasts vibrant and visually appealing 8-bit graphics, typical of NES classics. The game's use of color is noteworthy, with each world sporting its own distinctive palette. The character design is simple but effective, and the animations are smooth and responsive. Despite the hardware limitations, the game's visuals have a timeless charm.
The music in Adventure Island II is another highlight. The catchy, upbeat tunes, composed by Jun Chikuma, complement the tropical adventure theme. The soundtrack is full of memorable melodies that add to the overall enjoyment of the game. It's the kind of music that sticks in your head long after you've put the controller down.
Challenges and Cheats
While Adventure Island II is known for its challenging gameplay, some players might appreciate a little help along the way. Here are some cheat codes and tips to enhance your experience:
Infinite Lives: On the title screen, press Up, Down, Up, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, B, A, and Start. This classic Konami code will grant you infinite lives.
Level Select: To access the level select screen, hold Down and press A and Start on the title screen. From there, you can choose any level to start on.
Continue from Game Over: If you find yourself facing a game over screen, hold A and press Start at the title screen to continue from where you left off.
Hidden Eggs: Some levels contain hidden eggs that give you special items when you break them. Experiment with different weapons to discover these hidden treasures.
Adventure Island II's inherent difficulty is part of its charm, and some purists may prefer to take on the game without cheats. However, these codes can be a fun way to explore the game's different levels and enjoy a more relaxed gaming experience.
Finale-o-rama
Adventure Island II on the NES is a classic that has stood the test of time. With its engaging gameplay, memorable music, and distinctive visuals, it remains a favorite among retro gaming enthusiasts. Whether you're revisiting it for nostalgia or discovering it for the first time, the adventures of Master Higgins and Princess Leilani are sure to provide hours of tropical fun. So grab your trusty skateboard and embark on a journey filled with challenges and excitement in this unforgettable NES classic.
