Bubble Bobble: Sugar Dungeons is a new entry in the long-running series, which started with an arcade co-op title in the 1980s. This time, the franchise is going in a fresh direction that shares roguelike roots with Dead Cells and The Rogue Prince of Persia. Bub, the green dragon, is the star of the show in the single-player, side-scrolling platformer, searching for treasures and doughnut exits to each area.
The dungeons will change with each playthrough for Bub, but the green dragon will have the iconic bubbles to bounce on for navigation as well as trapping foes. In addition, Bub can utilize special bubbles–like fire and water–to take out enemies. Treasures found in Bubble Bobble: Sugar Dungeons then can be utilized to upgrade Bub’s bubble skills and traded for items.
Like other roguelikes, Bubble Bobble: Sugar Dungeons wants players to “grow stronger and go deeper into the dungeon,” per the game’s showcase trailer (seen above). It’s a notable departure from the last game in the franchise, Bubble Bobble 4 Friends. That title stayed true to the arcade roots of the series but offered up four-player co-op.