Hello fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Round-Up for September 4th, 2024! Summer's over, but let's not forget the good times. This week? A bounty of reviews, fresh releases, and some enticing sales! Let's dive in!
Reviews & Mini-Views
Ace Attorney Investigations Collection ($39.99)
The Nintendo Switch continues to deliver second chances at classic games. Following Trials of Mana, Live A Live, and the original Fire Emblem, we now have the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection, featuring Miles Edgeworth's adventures. This collection masterfully builds upon previous storylines, particularly in the second game, enhancing the overall experience. Finally, the second game is officially in English!
The Investigations games offer a fresh perspective, showcasing the prosecution's side. While mechanics remain largely similar (searching for clues, questioning witnesses), the unique presentation and Edgeworth's personality add a distinct flair. The pacing can sometimes feel less structured than other Ace Attorney titles, potentially leading to some lengthy cases. However, fans of the main series will undoubtedly appreciate this sub-series. If the first game feels a bit slow, persevere; the second is significantly better.
Bonus features are plentiful, including a gallery with art and music, a story mode for relaxed play, and the option to switch between original and updated graphics/soundtracks. A helpful dialogue history feature is also included.
The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection provides a compelling contrast between the two games. The official localization of the second game is a major win, and the added extras make this an excellent package. With this release, every Ace Attorney game (excluding the Professor Layton crossover) is now available on Switch. If you've enjoyed the series, this is a must-have.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Gimmick! 2 ($24.99)
A sequel to Gimmick! is unexpected, to say the least! Developed by Bitwave Games, this faithful sequel stays true to the original, perhaps even too much for some. Six lengthy, challenging physics-based platforming levels await, pushing players to their limits. However, an easier mode is now available.
The protagonist's star attack returns, functioning as a weapon, vehicle, and puzzle solver. New collectibles offer customization options, rewarding players for completing difficult sections. While a quick playthrough is possible, the difficulty remains high, mirroring the original. Generous checkpoints mitigate frustration, and the charming visuals and music help maintain a positive atmosphere.
Gimmick! 2 is a surprisingly excellent sequel, successfully building upon the original without losing its own identity. Fans of the original will be delighted, and challenging platformer enthusiasts should definitely check it out. However, those seeking a casual experience should be warned – it's just as difficult as its predecessor.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Valfaris: Mecha Therion ($19.99)
Valfaris: Mecha Therion takes a bold step, shifting from the original's action-platformer style to a shoot 'em up akin to Lords of Thunder. Surprisingly, it works, although the Switch's hardware struggles at times. Despite performance limitations, the intense action, rocking soundtrack, and creepy visuals remain enjoyable.
Weapon management is key, balancing the main gun, a melee weapon for energy recharge, and a rotating third weapon. Mastering the rhythm of weapon usage and dodging enemy fire is crucial and rewarding.
While different from the first game, Mecha Therion retains a similar atmosphere. It's a stylish heavy metal shoot 'em up that avoids common genre pitfalls. Performance may be better on other platforms, but the Switch version is still a worthwhile experience.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash ($44.99)
Licensed games are often fan-service driven. Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash delivers plenty of fan service, excelling in its presentation of the source material. The writing is good, and the meta-systems reward dedicated fans.
However, non-fans might find limited appeal. The few mini-games are repetitive, and the story unfolds in a way that only fans will fully appreciate. Even for fans, the game might feel unbalanced, prioritizing presentation over gameplay depth.
While visually appealing and featuring numerous unlockables, the game lacks longevity. Fans might find enough to keep them engaged, but without prior attachment, the experience quickly becomes tiresome.
SwitchArcade Score: 3/5
Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection ($9.99)
This collection showcases Sunsoft's lesser-known 8-bit games, offering a glimpse into a side of the publisher less familiar to Western audiences. It includes Firework Thrower Kantaro’s 53 Stations of the Tokaido, Ripple Island, and The Wing of Madoola. All three games are fully localized, a significant achievement.
The games themselves vary in quality. 53 Stations is frustrating due to its weapon mechanics, but charming in its thematic execution. Ripple Island is a solid adventure game, while The Wing of Madoola is ambitious but inconsistent. None are top-tier NES games, but none are outright bad.
Sunsoft fans and retro game enthusiasts will appreciate this collection. The careful handling of each game and the full localization make this a worthwhile purchase. Hopefully, this is the first of many such collections.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Select New Releases
Cyborg Force ($9.95)
A challenging run-and-gun action game in the style of Metal Slug and Contra, featuring single-player and local multiplayer options.
Billy’s Game Show ($7.99)
A game where players move around, searching for items while evading a stalker. Players must hide or run, maintaining power generators while avoiding traps.
Mining Mechs ($4.99)
A mech-based mining game where players collect ores, sell them for upgrades, and progress deeper into increasingly dangerous mines.
Sales
(North American eShop, US Prices)
A small selection of sales, with some notable titles in the upcoming sales ending September 5th. Check the lists for details.
Select New Sales
(List of new sales)
Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 5th
(List of sales ending September 5th)
That's all for today! More reviews are coming this week, and several new releases are expected in the coming days. See you tomorrow, or check out my blog, Post Game Content, for updates. Have a great Wednesday!
