Sun Corporation’s ‘The Wing of Madoola’ and ‘Ripple Island’ Revived in New Retro Collection

In a thrilling resurgence that has retro gaming enthusiasts buzzing, Sun Corporation has partnered with Red Art Games to bring a collection of three classic Famicom titles to modern platforms. This exciting compilation, titled ‘Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Collection,’ will be available digitally on September 6th, with a physical edition following on October 4th via the Red Art Games website. The collection includes ‘The Wing of Madoola,’ ‘Firework Thrower Kantaro’s 53 Stations of the Tokaido,’ and ‘Ripple Island,’ marking the first time these beloved games have been localized for Western audiences.

The decision to revive these classic titles stems from a desire to reintroduce the rich history of Sunsoft to a new generation of gamers. Sunsoft, a Japanese game publisher renowned for its contributions to the gaming world in the 1980s and 1990s, has a storied past filled with iconic games and memorable soundtracks. By localizing these games and adding modern conveniences such as save states, a rewind function, and various display options, the collection aims to make these timeless classics accessible and enjoyable for contemporary players.

One of the standout titles in the collection is ‘The Wing of Madoola,’ an action-packed adventure game where players take on the role of Lucia, a fierce warrior on a quest to retrieve the powerful Wing of Madoola from the clutches of the evil King Daltos. Directed by Kenji Sada, known for his work on ‘Blaster Master,’ and featuring music by Naoki Kodaka, the game offers a nostalgic trip back to the golden age of 8-bit gaming. The inclusion of modern features ensures that both new players and long-time fans can enjoy the game without the frustrations of its original difficulty.

‘Firework Thrower Kantaro’s 53 Stations of the Tokaido’ is another gem in the collection. This unique action game, originally released in 1986, puts players in the shoes of Kantaro, a fireworks maker tasked with preventing evil merchants from using his creations as weapons. The game’s setting in ancient Japan and its innovative gameplay mechanics make it a standout title that has aged remarkably well. The addition of quality-of-life improvements such as save states and a rewind function enhances the experience, making it more accessible to modern gamers.

‘Ripple Island,’ the third game in the collection, is an adventure game that follows the journey of a young boy named Kyle who teams up with King Dotella to defeat the evil Emperor Groaker. Directed by Atsushi Sakai and featuring music by Naoki Kodaka, ‘Ripple Island’ offers a captivating story and engaging gameplay that has endeared it to fans over the years. The game’s localization and the inclusion of modern features ensure that it can be enjoyed by a wider audience than ever before.

The ‘Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Collection’ is not just about nostalgia; it is also about preserving and celebrating the legacy of Sunsoft. The collection includes a gallery of concept and promotional art, CRT filters, multiple aspect ratio options, and 3D models of the original Famicom cartridges. These additions provide a deeper appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship that went into creating these games and offer fans a glimpse into the history of one of Japan’s most influential game publishers.

The partnership between Sunsoft and Red Art Games has made this revival possible, bringing these previously Japan-only titles to a global audience. The successful crowdfunding campaign in 2023 demonstrated the demand for these classic games and the dedication of the fanbase. The collection’s release on platforms such as PS5, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox Series X/S ensures that it reaches a wide audience, allowing both seasoned gamers and newcomers to experience the magic of Sunsoft’s 8-bit classics.

The pricing of the collection at $9.99/€9.99 is another factor that makes it an attractive proposition for gamers. For a reasonable price, players get access to three meticulously localized and enhanced games that offer hours of entertainment. The value proposition is further enhanced by the physical edition, which includes additional items for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate tangible memorabilia.

The release of the ‘Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Collection’ is a significant milestone in the preservation and celebration of video game history. It provides an opportunity for players to explore the rich tapestry of Sunsoft’s contributions to the gaming industry and to experience the creativity and innovation that defined the 1980s and 1990s. The collection’s emphasis on accessibility and quality-of-life improvements ensures that these classic games can be enjoyed by a broad audience, from retro gaming aficionados to younger players discovering these titles for the first time.

Sunsoft’s return to the gaming world with this collection is a testament to the enduring appeal of its games and the lasting impact they have had on the industry. The company’s ability to adapt and innovate while staying true to its roots is evident in the thoughtful curation and enhancement of these classic titles. As players dive into ‘The Wing of Madoola,’ ‘Firework Thrower Kantaro’s 53 Stations of the Tokaido,’ and ‘Ripple Island,’ they are not only experiencing a piece of gaming history but also witnessing the revival of a beloved brand that continues to inspire and entertain.

The anticipation surrounding the release of the ‘Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Collection’ is palpable, with fans eagerly awaiting the chance to relive their favorite moments and discover new ones. The collection’s blend of nostalgia and modern convenience strikes a perfect balance, making it a must-have for anyone interested in the history of video games. As the release date approaches, the excitement continues to build, and the gaming community looks forward to welcoming Sunsoft’s classics back into the spotlight.

In conclusion, the ‘Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Collection’ is a celebration of Sunsoft’s legacy and a tribute to the timeless appeal of its games. By bringing ‘The Wing of Madoola,’ ‘Firework Thrower Kantaro’s 53 Stations of the Tokaido,’ and ‘Ripple Island’ to modern platforms with enhanced features and localization, Sunsoft and Red Art Games have created a collection that honors the past while embracing the future. This release is a testament to the enduring power of video games to captivate and inspire, and it serves as a reminder of the rich history that continues to shape the industry today.