Master the islands in Adventure Island II, a classic action-platformer available on the Nintendo 3DS via the Virtual Console service. Originally developed by Hudson Soft and released for the NES in 1991, this title brings Master Higgins back for another perilous quest. The game is presented entirely in 2D, offering a faithful recreation of the retro experience on modern handheld hardware.

Adventure Island II on Nintendo 3DS

The Evil Witch Doctor has returned with malicious intent, this time kidnapping Princess Leilani's sister, Tina. Rushing to her rescue, Master Higgins must traverse eight dangerous islands to confront the forces of nature and ghoul armies blocking his path. This sequel challenges players with a hostile environment where survival is just as critical as combat prowess.

Story and Setting Overview

The adventure spans a variety of island biomes, each presenting unique threats. Players will battle against a menagerie of enemies, including giant scorpions and cobras, while navigating treacherous waters. The natural hazards are formidable; adventurers must survive sudden avalanches and volcanic eruptions that threaten to end the mission. The setting emphasizes a vibrant yet deadly world where every step requires caution and agility.

Gameplay Mechanics and Features

At its core, the gameplay revolves around side-scrolling platforming and axe-wielding combat. Higgins uses his trusty axe to clear paths and defeat foes. A standout feature is the dinosaur collection mechanic. By locating hidden items, players can transform into four different dinosaurs, each granting unique abilities to tackle specific challenges. This adds strategic depth to the platforming, as choosing the right form is essential for progression.

  • Dinosaur Transformations: Collect items to become four distinct dinosaurs with special powers.
  • Skateboard Traversal: Return to land to ride the skateboard for fast-paced movement segments.
  • Environmental Hazards: Dodge avalanches and volcanic eruptions alongside enemy attacks.
  • Axe Combat: Utilize the iconic axe for ranged and melee attacks against ghouls and beasts.

Platform Availability and Release

Adventure Island II is playable in 2D on the Nintendo 3DS. The title is part of the Virtual Console service, which brings great games from classic consoles to the eShop. It was released for the 3DS eShop on March 6, 2014. While the original NES game is a clone of the Wonder Boy property licensed by Hudson Soft, this version focuses on the platforming formula that defined the series. The game supports single-player and is designed for one player seeking a challenging retro experience.

Who It Appeals To

This title is ideal for retro gaming enthusiasts who appreciate the design of early 1990s platformers. Fans of Hudson Soft's work will find a nostalgic trip through Higgins' world. The game also appeals to action-platformer fans looking for a mix of combat, transformation mechanics, and environmental puzzles. The Virtual Console release makes it easily accessible for 3DS owners to add this classic rescue mission to their digital library.