Hello fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Round-Up for September 4th, 2024! Summer's warmth has faded, leaving behind memories of sun-drenched days and shared gaming experiences. I'm feeling refreshed and ready for autumn, and I'm incredibly grateful for your company throughout the summer. Let's dive into today's exciting lineup: a plethora of game reviews, fresh releases, and enticing sales!
Reviews & Mini-Views
Ace Attorney Investigations Collection ($39.99)
The Nintendo Switch has given us a second chance to experience classic titles, and the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is a prime example. This compilation finally brings Miles Edgeworth's adventures, previously unavailable in English, to a wider audience. Building upon previous storylines, the second game enhances the first, creating a compelling narrative arc.
The Investigations games offer a unique perspective, showcasing the prosecution's side. While the core gameplay remains similar – searching for clues, questioning witnesses, and solving cases – the shift in perspective and Edgeworth's character add a fresh dynamic. The pacing can feel less structured than other Ace Attorney titles, leading to occasional fatigue, but overall, fans of the series will find this sub-series highly enjoyable. If the first game feels slow, persevere – the second game is significantly better.
Bonus features are generous, including an art and music gallery, a story mode for casual play, and the option to toggle between original and updated graphics/soundtracks. A helpful dialog history feature is also included.
The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection provides a fantastic package, with two games offering contrasting experiences. The official localization of the second game is a major win, and the extra features enhance the overall value. Now, with the exception of the Professor Layton crossover, every Ace Attorney game is available on Switch. If you've already enjoyed the main series, this is a must-have.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Gimmick! 2 ($24.99)
A sequel to Gimmick! is a surprising yet welcome addition. Developed by Bitwave Games, this faithful sequel stays true to the original's challenging physics-based platforming. Six lengthy levels will test your skills, but an easier mode is available for those seeking a less demanding experience.
The core gameplay revolves around Yumetaro's star, used for attacking, traversing, and solving puzzles. New collectibles provide customization options, adding replayability. The game is demanding, leading to frequent deaths, but generous checkpoints mitigate frustration. The charming visuals and music add to the overall appeal.
While not excessively long, Gimmick! 2 maintains the original's difficulty. Mastering platforming skills and utilizing the star effectively is crucial. This sequel successfully expands upon the original without losing its identity. Fans of the original and challenging platformers alike will appreciate this release. However, those seeking a casual experience should be warned – it's as challenging as its predecessor.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Valfaris: Mecha Therion ($19.99)
Valfaris: Mecha Therion boldly shifts from the original's action-platforming to a shoot 'em up style. While the Switch's hardware limitations might affect performance, the intense action, soundtrack, and visuals remain compelling. The weapon system, combining a gun, melee weapon, and rotating third weapon, creates a satisfying gameplay loop. Mastering the rhythm of weapon management and evasive maneuvers is key to success.
While a departure from the first game, Mecha Therion retains a similar atmosphere. It's a stylish, heavy metal-infused shoot 'em up that avoids many genre pitfalls. While other platforms might offer better performance, the Switch version delivers a worthwhile experience.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash ($44.99)
Licensed games often cater primarily to fans, and Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash is no exception. The game excels in fan service, offering a strong narrative and meta-systems that reward dedicated players. However, its appeal for non-fans is limited. The mini-games are repetitive, and the story will resonate only with those familiar with the Umamusume universe.
Even for fans, the game's focus on fan service might outweigh its gameplay. While the presentation is excellent, the limited number of mini-games and their lack of depth hinder the overall experience. Unlockables might offer some replay value for dedicated fans, but the limited content will likely lead to burnout.
SwitchArcade Score: 3/5
Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection ($9.99)
This collection shines a light on Sunsoft's lesser-known 8-bit titles. It includes Firework Thrower Kantaro’s 53 Stations of the Tokaido, Ripple Island, and The Wing of Madoola, all fully localized for the first time in English. The package includes save states, rewind, display options, and art galleries.
The games themselves offer a varied experience. 53 Stations is challenging due to its weapon mechanics, while Ripple Island provides a solid adventure experience, and The Wing of Madoola is an ambitious but occasionally flawed action game. While not groundbreaking, these titles offer a unique glimpse into Sunsoft's catalog. Fans of retro gaming and Sunsoft's history will find this collection particularly appealing.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Select New Releases
Cyborg Force ($9.95)
A challenging run-and-gun action game reminiscent of Metal Slug and Contra, offering both solo and local multiplayer options.
Billy’s Game Show ($7.99)
A game where you evade a stalker while managing generators and avoiding traps.
Mining Mechs ($4.99)
A mech-based mining game with progressive difficulty and story elements.
Sales
(North American eShop, US Prices)
A small selection of sales, with some noteworthy titles in the upcoming sales ending soon. Check the lists for details.
Select New Sales
Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 5th
That concludes today's roundup. More reviews are on the way, and expect a flurry of new eShop releases in the coming days. Check back tomorrow, or visit my blog, Post Game Content, for updates. Have a fantastic Wednesday! Thanks for reading!
