Hudson Soft released Adventure Island II for the NES in 1991, the follow-up to the original Hudson’s Adventure Island. Master Higgins once again sets out to rescue Tina, travelling across eight islands filled with forests, deserts, caves, volcanoes and icy lands. The core gameplay remains fast side-scrolling action: Higgins runs, jumps and throws stone axes at enemies, while a constantly draining energy meter forces the player to keep collecting fruit. The biggest addition is a team of dinosaur companions. Each dinosaur has its own ability, such as breathing fire, swimming underwater or attacking with its tail, and protects Higgins from one hit before running away. Items and dinosaurs found in eggs can be stored in an inventory and chosen before each stage, adding strategy to the series’ formula. A world map links the stages and hidden areas reward exploration. It is often seen as a stronger and more varied sequel than the first game.