I had never played Tumblepop before so thanks to The Gay Gamer for pointing me in the right direction! Playing similar to the likes of Bubble Bobble, Pang and Snow Bros. (the latter two need to come out on the Virtual Console), Tumblepop involves you controlling a cute lil’ Ghostbuster/Panger and suck up the baddies Kirby-style in order to progress to the next stage. Each stage is reached Super Mario Land 2 map-style. Super Mario Land 2 comparisons can also be made with the huge sprites (essential for a portable title and why I tend to prefer Game Boy Virtual console games) and fantastic graphics.

The map means the game isn’t linear and can be played in a different order with the Game Boy version having a shop in which to purchase power-ups. Progress is stored via password (or obviously via save states). Tumblepop also features some amazing bosses similar to Balloon Kid and sets the game somewhat above most in the genre although the gameplay is never quite as addictive as the best versions of Bubble Bobble (I guess arcade version) and Pang (GX4000). Irregardless, Tumblepop stands out as one of the most graphically impressive and fun games on the Virtual Console and is easily worth the ¥400 asking price.

7.5/10