Introduction

Ah, the 1980s - a time of big hair, even bigger cell phones, and arcade games that made you question your life choices. One such gem from this era is 'Ben Bero Beh' from Taito. Originally released in 1984, this platformer invites players to guide Dami-chan, a superhero this time armed not with capes or lasers, but a humble fire extinguisher. Together, they must traverse fiery apartment complexes to save Nao-chan, the damsel in distress. But does nostalgia translate well in this 2020 Switch port? Buckle up; we’re about to find out.

Gameplay

'Ben Bero Beh' combines the thrilling notion of 'saving lives' with the fun of jumping around like a hyperactive kangaroo. As Dami-chan, players navigate through a series of apartment levels that have spontaneously turned into fiery infernos (note: do not attempt this in real life). Armed with nothing but a fire extinguisher and sheer willpower, your main goal is to douse the flames while rescuing your girlfriend - who, let's be honest, really should have checked the smoke alarms. Along the way, players avoid a cornucopia of hazards, including crumbling floors, zany enemies popping out from doorways, and gas explosions that would make even the toughest firefighter quiver in fear. Bonus points await those courageous enough to complete levels quickly. It’s like Mario mixed with a fire safety course, and who doesn’t want that combo?

Graphics

Let’s take a moment to address the visuals. For a Switch port of a game that's almost as old as some of our parents, 'Ben Bero Beh' shines with its charming retro graphics. The pixel art is so colorful it might remind you of the time you accidentally dropped a bag of Skittles on your Game Boy. The character design is simplistic yet effective, and you'll spot enemy cameos, including notable foes from other Taito titles, adding that delightful wink to the longtime fans. It's as if the Taito universe decided to throw a reunion, and everyone’s invited—even that one weird cousin everyone’s trying to forget.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 'Ben Bero Beh' offers a nostalgic trip into the pixelated past and manages to capture the chaotic charm of retro platformers. While you might not find it groundbreaking by today’s standards, it fills a nostalgic gap for those longing for the simplicity of '80s arcade classics. With its cutesy art, classic gameplay, and the ever-pressing danger of apartment fires, it’s definitely worth checking out on the Nintendo Switch. Just remember: it’s not okay to set fire to your apartment for the sake of a game. Unless, of course, you're a cartoon character. In that case, go wild!

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