INTRODUCTION
Picture Sonic the Hedgehog taking a back seat, and instead, imagine delving into the pages of an Arabian Nights-esque realm—except it’s not Arabian Nights; it’s the Dragon’s Lair Trilogy on the Wii. Yup, this bundle of joy is a celebration of not just one but three iconic games that initially came from the esteemed house of Don Bluth Ltd.
LEGENDARY GAMES ALL UNDER ONE ROOF
This gaming trilogy isn’t just your average weekend binge material; it’s an iconic time capsule from the yesteryears of gaming. Housed under one main menu interface, the Dragon’s Lair Trilogy comprises three classic titles: Dragon’s Lair, Dragon’s Lair II: Time Warp, and Space Ace. Each one is legendary in its own right, offering a captivating, albeit sometimes frustrating, journey for gamers of all ages.
VERSATILITY IN VISUALS AND MODES
We’ve all had our share of squinting at pixelated screens, but not here! These games offer full-screen (widescreen) visuals and, for those who relish nostalgia, a 4:3 arcade cabinet backdrop. Depending on your mood or how much you want to show off to your friends, you can opt for the game visuals to have highlighted controls for Quick-Time Events (QTEs) either over the game video or on the arcade cabinet controls. It’s like choosing between watching a classic film on a vintage projector or in IMAX; it’s fantastic.
A DEEP DIVE INTO DRAGON’S LAIR
Dragon’s Lair isn’t just the first game in the series; it’s like the granddaddy that started the party. This title can be played in two modes: arcade and home. Simply put, arcade mode is where you rock up to the virtual machine, insert your non-existent coin, and start swinging your sword without leaving your couch. Home mode? Think of it as the VIP section of the trilogy—gameplay suited for the comfort of your home.
DRAGON’S LAIR II: TIME FOR A TIME WARP
This sequel is like the Empire Strikes Back for the franchise—high stakes, more drama, and tons of fun. Dragon’s Lair II offers you a choice between the original and a director’s cut modes. If you’ve ever wondered how much more excellent a game could get if the creators had a second go at it, the director’s cut gives you that experience. It’s the same epic adventure but with added pizzazz. Oh, and the time-traveling element? It’s more relaxed than your history textbook.
SPACE ACE: WHERE NO GAME HAS GONE BEFORE
If Dragon’s Lair is the Earth, then Space Ace is like Mars—similar but a different ball game altogether. This one doesn’t offer mode selections, mainly because it’s confident enough to know it doesn’t need them. Space Ace is like that enigmatic guy at a party who doesn’t say much but leaves an impression anyway. Its absence of mode selections adds a unique mystery, challenging you to take the game as it is and find your way through its cosmic wonders.
EASTER EGGS AND EXTRAS: THE CHERRY ON TOP
Just when you think the party’s over, the Dragon’s Lair Trilogy throws in some unexpected party favors. Each game has a side dish of video extras, including developer interviews and movie-like scenes from the competition. So, not only do you get to jump, swing, and zap your way through fantastical lands, but you also get a behind-the-scenes tour. It’s like attending a rock concert and getting invited to the after-party; you’re in for a full-rounded experience that will leave you hungry for more.
