Bubble Bobble sequel with improved graphics and enriched game modes. The spirit of the original is well preserved, co-op still as charming. Less iconic than the first, but solid and enjoyable in short sessions.
Your verdict
Category
Platformer2 players3+
Co-op
Description
Platform game in which Bub, Bob and friends trap enemies in bubbles to defeat them. Published by Taito, released in Japan in 1997. Four playable characters with distinct powers, over 100 levels, cooperative two-player mode, colorful visuals and catchy music. An adaptation of the Bubble Bobble II arcade enriched with a story mode.
Bubble Symphony review
MAX
Art direction
★★★★★
"Iconic"
MAX
Music
★★★★★
"Legendary"
2/5
Story
★★★★★
"Classic"
Tangy colours, round creatures and settings brimming with whimsy: the game unfurls an arcade enchantment of irresistible gentleness. The roundness of the sprites and the vividness of the hues overflow with good cheer. This visual direction, joyful and polished, perpetuates the sparkling charm of the cult series.
Sparkling and catchy, Taito's music unfurls childlike refrains of an irresistible cheer, from the famous Bubble Bobble theme to the most colourful melodies. Each level sparkles with a joyful tune that matches the game's cartoon charm. This timeless sonic freshness remains one of the most endearing of the arcade.
Gameplay
"Excellent"
Fun
"From the very first seconds"
The sequel to the bubble adventures widens the cast, piles on powers and offers branching paths that renew the formula every game. Trapping then popping keeps its gleeful punch, now elevated by richer visuals. With two players, teamwork quickly turns to laughter. Colourful, generous and inventive, an adorable, addictive arcade platformer.
Addictiveness
"Obsessive"
Picking your dragon, trapping enemies in bubbles and chaining through a hundred levels in co-op sets up a cheerful rhythm where each stage demands the next. The branching paths and multiple endings push you to start over to see it all. The recipe varies little from the original, but its colorful additions and instant co-op keep a rousing charm.
Complete: box, manual and disc/cart very clean. Lightly handled.
Q1 damagedQ6 completeQ10 new
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Collector interest
A Saturn port of Bubble Bobble II expanded with a story mode, Bubble Symphony was published in Japan by Ving in 1997 with no official Western release. The console port of this Taito arcade sequel is notably rarer than the original game, and the absence of a PAL or NTSC edition concentrates demand on the import. Appeal rests on its place in the beloved Bubble Bobble line and on a limited Japanese pressing that holds a steady price among Taito platformer fans.
Is Bubble Symphony still worth playing in 2026?
A direct sequel to Bubble Bobble from Taito, Bubble Symphony, also known as Bubble Bobble 2, moves Bub, Bob and two new characters through screens where you must trap enemies in bubbles before popping them. The enriched art direction, the new powers and the convivial co-op extend the cult formula with generosity, while keeping its readability and charm. The Saturn port restores the arcade well. For a retro arcade platforming fan, a Bubble Bobble fan or a player after co-op, the title keeps an intact freshness and addiction.
