Introduction
Taito is one of the most influential companies in arcade gaming history, pioneering some of the most iconic titles that defined entire genres. From revolutionizing the shoot ‘em up genre to crafting some of the best platformers, here are the Top 5 Taito Arcade Games of All Time.
5. Rastan (1987)
The Ultimate Barbarian Adventure
Why It’s Legendary:
- A hack-and-slash platformer that stood out with Conan the Barbarian-style action.
- Unlike most side-scrollers, it featured a darker, medieval fantasy setting, making it unique in arcades.
- Challenging levels filled with traps, mythical enemies, and powerful weapons.
Legacy:
- One of the earliest arcade games to feature a fantasy adventure theme.
- Influenced later arcade and console beat ‘em ups like Golden Axe and Magic Sword.
- Became a cult classic, spawning sequels and home console ports.
4. Elevator Action (1983)
The Original Spy Thriller Game
Why It’s Legendary:
- One of the first stealth-action arcade games, where players control a secret agent infiltrating a high-rise building.
- Unique gameplay that blended platforming, shooting, and strategy—requiring players to use elevators and doors to evade enemies.
- Encouraged tactical movement rather than just reflex-based shooting, making it ahead of its time.
Legacy:
- Directly inspired later stealth-action games like Metal Gear and Sly Cooper.
- Spawned a critically acclaimed sequel, Elevator Action Returns (1994).
- Still one of the most unique arcade experiences, often included in retro game collections.
3. Arkanoid (1986)
The Best Block-Breaker Ever
Why It’s Legendary:
- Took the classic Breakout formula and introduced power-ups, enemy obstacles, and boss fights.
- Players controlled the Vaus paddle ship, rebounding a ball to break blocks while navigating increasingly difficult levels.
- Introduced upgrades like lasers, multi-ball, and slow-motion, making it far more complex than its predecessors.
Legacy:
- Inspired countless clones and mobile adaptations (Brick Breaker, Peggle, Shatter).
- Became one of Taito’s biggest commercial successes in the late ‘80s.
- Still regarded as the gold standard of block-breaking games.
2. Bubble Bobble (1986)
The Co-Op Platforming Classic
Why It’s Legendary:
- A two-player co-op platformer where players control Bub and Bob, adorable dinosaurs who trap enemies in bubbles.
- Deceptively simple yet incredibly deep, with hidden secrets, multiple endings, and rewarding mastery.
- One of the first arcade games to emphasize cooperation over competition.
Legacy:
- Spawned legendary spin-offs like Puzzle Bobble (Bust-a-Move).
- Became one of the most beloved arcade games of all time, with numerous ports and remakes.
- Its cute art style, catchy music, and tight gameplay keep it relevant today.
1. Space Invaders (1978)
The Game That Defined an Industry
Why It’s Legendary:
- The first true global arcade hit, responsible for launching the golden age of arcades.
- Introduced high scores, wave-based shooting, and progressive difficulty—all major innovations for its time.
- Created the blueprint for the entire shoot ‘em up genre and influenced countless games.
Legacy:
Final Thoughts
Taito’s influence on arcade gaming is undeniable. While Space Invaders was the game that changed everything, games like Bubble Bobble, Arkanoid, Elevator Action, and Rastan proved that Taito could innovate across multiple genres. Whether through action-packed platformers or puzzle-based classics, these games continue to be arcade staples decades later.
What’s your favorite Taito arcade game? Let us know in the poll below!
What’s Your Favorite Taito Arcade Game?
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