Elevator Action Returns: A Timeless Arcade Gem
A New Era of Arcade Action
In 1994, Taito released Elevator Action Returns, also known as Elevator Action II, a captivating sequel to the original Elevator Action arcade game. The game presented a grittier and more realistic setting, shifting from the spy motif to a gripping narrative involving a paramilitary team combating a global terrorist threat.
Innovative Gameplay Mechanics
Elevator Action Returns took the familiar elevator-based gimmick and expanded it with innovative gameplay features. Players navigate through stages using an eight-way joystick and two action buttons, aiming to enter all red-colored doors before reaching the exit. The introduction of four-way scrolling, various new moves, weapons, and a two-player cooperative mode elevated the gameplay experience.
Players could choose from three distinct characters, each with unique abilities and weapons. Kart Bradfield, the agile leader, Edie Burret, the swift shooter, and Jad the Taff, the powerhouse, brought diversity in play styles. The strategic use of melee attacks and explosives added layers of depth to the action, rewarding players who mastered these mechanics with higher scores.
Engaging Story and Characters
Set in the late 1990s, Elevator Action Returns follows the elite counter-terrorist unit DEF, comprised of Kart Bradfield, Edie Burret, and Jad the Taff. Tasked with thwarting the plans of the terrorist leader Red Suit, the team embarks on a mission to preserve global peace.
The game’s narrative, coupled with its dynamic characters, offered players a compelling reason to engage with the action-packed gameplay. The story’s tension and urgency are further heightened by the presence of a countdown in the final stage, where failure results in a catastrophic missile launch.
A Legacy of Acclaim
Upon release, Elevator Action Returns received positive feedback for its engaging gameplay and visual style. Critics praised its strategic depth and the seamless transition from arcade to home console versions. It was notably included in the Taito Legends 2 compilation and later received an enhanced port with modern features, ensuring its legacy endured in the gaming community.
Conclusion
Elevator Action Returns stands as a testament to the creativity and innovation of arcade gaming in the 1990s. Its blend of strategic gameplay, engaging narrative, and cooperative multiplayer mode offers a timeless experience for both nostalgic gamers and newcomers alike. Whether you are revisiting this classic or discovering it for the first time, Elevator Action Returns promises a thrilling ride through its beautifully chaotic world.
For fans of the genre, this game is a must-play, providing hours of entertainment and a glimpse into the golden era of arcade gaming. With its compelling characters and action-packed sequences, Elevator Action Returns remains an iconic title that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.