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5 /5

Parasol Stars is a cute platform game by Taito and the (often forgotten) sequel of Rainbow Islands (itself sequel of the classic Bubble Bobble). Bubby and Bobby, the two main protagonists of the series, are back. Well, fans of Taito's classic will undoubtedly remember that the two dinosaurs regained their beloved human forms at the end of Bubble Bobble... and, just like in Rainbow Islands, this new appearance hasn't impaired their ability to fight. The objective of the game is to save all the planets dotted around the galaxy, which, one after the other, send distress signals and ask for help. And, as in grand Bubble Bobble tradition, each level must be cleared of enemies in order to move to the next area. However, this time around, Bubby and Bobby don't throw bubbles or rainbows, but come equipped instead with colourful magic umbrellas. Although the circular devices can be used to shield the boys against enemy projectiles, or act as parachutes and cushion their fall, they also have another crucial and unique ability - with them, they can stun enemies and throw them around the playfield like rag dolls. Another essential aspect of the game are water droplets - they usually fall from the ceiling and can be collected with the umbrellas and be later released on unsuspecting enemies. Additionally, they come in different flavors and although they start as plain and simple rain droplets, some release fire, lightning bolts and swirling magic stars later in the game. Finally, and in the Bubble Bobble tradition, the game is riddled with a plethora of miscellaneous power ups and items, such as Speed Boots, Potions (turn the whole playfield into bonus items), Magic Rings and Crosses (kill enemies on screen) to only name a few. Parasol Stars consists of eight themed worlds (with an additional two hidden worlds) and also includes a two-simultaneous player mode.