Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics ($49.99)
For 90s fans of Marvel, Capcom, and fighting games, Capcom's Marvel-based fighters were a dream. Beginning with the excellent X-Men: Children of the Atom, the series consistently improved, expanding to the wider Marvel universe with Marvel Super Heroes, then the groundbreaking Marvel/Street Fighter crossovers, culminating in the iconic Marvel vs. Capcom and the phenomenal Marvel vs. Capcom 2. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics encompasses this era, plus the bonus beat 'em up, Punisher. A truly fantastic collection of classic titles.
This compilation shares many features with the Capcom Fighting Collection, including, unfortunately, a single shared save state across all seven games. This is particularly inconvenient for the beat 'em up, where individual save points would be beneficial. However, the collection otherwise delivers. It boasts extensive customization options (visual filters, gameplay settings), impressive extras (artwork, music player), and rollback online multiplayer. The addition of NAOMI hardware emulation enhances the experience, making Marvel vs. Capcom 2 a visual and gameplay triumph.
While not a criticism, I wish the collection included home console versions. The PlayStation EX versions of the tag-team games offer unique differences, and the Dreamcast version of Marvel vs. Capcom 2 boasts enjoyable extra content. Including Capcom's Super NES Marvel titles, even if not their best, would have been a welcome addition. However, the collection's title accurately reflects its arcade-focused content.
Marvel and fighting game enthusiasts will be thrilled with this exceptional collection. The games are superb, meticulously presented, and complemented by a comprehensive array of extras and options. The single shared save state is a significant drawback, but otherwise, this is a nearly flawless compilation. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics is a must-have for Switch owners.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Yars Rising ($29.99)
Initially, I was skeptical. I adore Yars' Revenge. A WayForward Metroidvania Yars game featuring a young hacker named Yar felt… odd. However, this is a genuinely good game. WayForward's expertise shines through; the visuals and audio are excellent, gameplay is smooth, and level design is solid. As is typical of WayForward, boss battles are somewhat protracted, but not overly detrimental.
WayForward cleverly integrates elements of the original Yars' Revenge. The game frequently features Yars' Revenge-style sequences, abilities evoke the original, and the lore is surprisingly well-integrated. While the connection to the original feels somewhat tenuous, Atari's attempts to expand its classic library are understandable. The game seems to cater to two largely distinct audiences, which may not be the optimal approach. A wholly original concept might have been more successful.
Despite the conceptual debate, Yars Rising is undeniably enjoyable. It may not challenge the genre's best, but it's a satisfying Metroidvania experience for a weekend playthrough. Perhaps future installments will further solidify the connection to the original.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland ($24.99)
My nostalgia for Rugrats is limited, but I'm familiar with the characters and theme song. Approaching Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland, I had low expectations. Comparisons to Bonk were mentioned, but the game's actual mechanics proved surprising. The game features crisp visuals, adjustable controls (thankfully!), the Rugrats theme music, and Reptar coin collectibles. It's a solid platformer with exploration elements.
The game's unique twist is its clear inspiration from Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA). Each character has distinct jump heights and abilities, mirroring the original game's diverse character mechanics. Enemies can be picked up and thrown, and levels incorporate verticality and puzzle elements, including sand-digging mechanics. The boss battles are surprisingly engaging. The game also offers selectable 8-bit visuals and soundtrack, both of which are well-executed.
Beyond a minor control issue and its somewhat brief length, my only complaint is its simplicity. Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland surpasses expectations. It's a high-quality platformer inspired by Super Mario Bros. 2, with added features and a well-integrated Rugrats theme. While lacking voice acting in cutscenes, it's a fun and creative game, especially for platformer and Rugrats fans. Multiplayer is also a nice addition.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
