A Spanish Games blogger is silhouetted against the logo of Microsoft's Xbox during the Xbox Play Day 2014, before the Gamescom 2014 fair in Cologne August 12, 2014.
IN PHOTO: The Gamescom convention, Europe's largest video games trade fair, is open to the public from August 14 to 17. REUTERS/Wolfgang Rattay

Back in January, both Rare and Microsoft teased that there would be big plans in store for some of the original Rare IP. It now appears that some of those plans are in motion as the classic “Battle Toads” are set to make an appearance on the upcoming Xbox One version of “Shovel Knight.”

The news was broken by “Shovel Knight” developer Yacht Games in the company’s main website for the Game Developer’s Conference or the GDC. The developer expressed plenty of excitement in bringing back the classic “Battle Toads” characters from the fondly remembered NES game that was released way back in 1991.

It appears that Rash, Zitz and Pimple, the “Battle Toads,” will be a trio of bosses for the “Shovel Knight” to take down. The short teaser for the Toads’ appearance has the Knight going to an area until music blares into the background and the “Battle Toads” make their appearance; seemingly ready to strike at the Knight, who only has a shovel to defend himself.

Due to Rare being under Microsoft, the “Battle Toads” will be completely exclusive to the upcoming Xbox One version of “Shovel Knight.” Of course, the toads won’t be the only pre-existing video game characters to have a cameo in a console version of “Shovel Knight,” as Polygon has confirmed that Kratos from the “God of War” game series will be making an appearance in the upcoming PlayStation 4 version of “Shovel Knight.”

Micosoft fans can consider the continued push for “Battle Toads” an interesting move. According to Gamespot, Microsoft recently renewed the trademark for the use of the title “Battle Toads.” Since then, the rumours of a new “Battle Toads” game have been going rampant. The Xbox One version for “Shovel Knight” will be coming this year in April.

“Shovel Knight” is currently available for the PC, Wii U and the Nintendo 3DS. The game has been a critical darling since the game made its debut, currently boasting an impressive 85 overall from Metacritic. Many critics praised the game for its challenging gameplay and its gorgeous 2D graphics that are clearly a tribute to the games of the past.

Contact Writer at: n.parungo@ibtimes.com.au

Shovel Knight and Battletoads Teaser (Credit: YouTube/Yacht Club Games)