Hello fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Roundup for September 3rd, 2024! Today's article features in-depth reviews, starting with the Castlevania Dominus Collection, followed by a look at Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn, and concluding with quick takes on some recent Pinball FX DLC. We'll then dive into the day's new releases, including the charming Bakeru, and finally, explore the latest sales and expiring discounts. Let's get started!
Reviews & Mini-Views
Castlevania Dominus Collection ($24.99)
Konami's recent track record with classic collections has been exceptional, and the Castlevania franchise has benefited greatly. Castlevania Dominus Collection, the third in the series on modern platforms, focuses on the Nintendo DS trilogy. Developed by M2, this collection delivers excellent results and surpasses expectations, potentially becoming the most essential Castlevania compilation to date.
The Nintendo DS Castlevania games possess unique identities, forming a surprisingly diverse set. Dawn of Sorrow, a direct sequel to Aria of Sorrow, initially suffered from cumbersome touchscreen controls, thankfully mitigated in this release. Portrait of Ruin cleverly integrates touchscreen elements into a bonus mode, focusing on a dual-character mechanic. Order of Ecclesia stands out with increased difficulty and a design reminiscent of Simon's Quest. All three are strong titles, and highly recommended.
This collection marks the culmination of Koji Igarashi's era of exploration-focused Castlevania games. While each game has its own identity, some may argue that the series was showing signs of creative fatigue. This collection, however, presents these titles as native ports rather than emulations, allowing M2 to enhance the experience. The removal of frustrating touchscreen controls in Dawn of Sorrow, along with the addition of a map screen, significantly improves gameplay.
The collection is packed with options and extras. Players can select game regions, customize button mapping, and choose control schemes. A delightful credits sequence and a comprehensive gallery featuring art, manuals, and box art are included. A music player allows for custom playlist creation, showcasing the excellent soundtracks. In-game options include save states, rewind functionality, customizable screen layouts, background color choices, and audio adjustments. A detailed compendium provides information on equipment, enemies, and items. The only minor drawback is the limited screen arrangement options.
The inclusion of the notoriously difficult arcade game, Haunted Castle, is a surprise. While initially omitted from previous collections, it's here with unlimited continues (a much-needed addition). However, the real treat is Haunted Castle Revisited, a complete remake by M2 that transforms the original's flaws into a surprisingly enjoyable experience. This effectively adds a whole new Castlevania game to the collection!
Castlevania Dominus Collection is a must-have for Castlevania fans, offering exceptional value with a new game and polished versions of the DS titles. The inclusion of the original Haunted Castle, even with its challenges, adds to the overall package. If you're unfamiliar with Castlevania, this collection, along with its predecessors, is the perfect starting point. A stellar collaboration between Konami and M2.
SwitchArcade Score: 5/5
Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn ($19.99)
My experience with Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn has been a mixed bag. While Tengo Project's previous remakes have been impressive, this 8-bit update presents some unique challenges. The original game isn't as strong as their other titles, and the lack of direct involvement from the team in the original's development is noticeable.
Despite initial reservations, after playing the game extensively, my opinion has softened. While less polished than their other work, the improvements are significant. The presentation is superb, the weapon and item system is refined, and the playable characters are more distinct. It's undeniably superior to the original while retaining its core essence. Fans of the original will adore this remake.
However, if you found the original merely decent, Reborn won't drastically alter your perception. The simultaneous access to both the chain and sword is a welcome improvement, and the new inventory system adds depth. The presentation is excellent, masking its 8-bit origins. The increased difficulty might be a drawback for some. It's the definitive Shadow of the Ninja experience, but it's still fundamentally Shadow of the Ninja.
Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn is another solid entry from Tengo Project, representing a substantial improvement over its predecessor. Its appeal hinges on your enjoyment of the original. Newcomers will find a fun but not essential action game.
SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5
Pinball FX – The Princess Bride Pinball ($5.49)
Two quick reviews of Pinball FX DLC, celebrating the game's improved Switch performance. The Princess Bride Pinball features voice clips and video clips from the movie, a welcome addition. The table's design feels authentic and is satisfying to play. It's a well-executed licensed table, recommended for fans of the film and pinball enthusiasts.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Pinball FX – Goat Simulator Pinball ($5.49)
Goat Simulator Pinball embraces its source material's absurdity. It's a unique and challenging table, more suited to experienced players. While initially bewildering, it offers rewarding gameplay and humorous moments. Goat Simulator fans who can master the mechanics will find it enjoyable.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Select New Releases
Bakeru ($39.99)
A charming 3D platformer from Good-Feel. Play as a tanuki on a mission to save Japan. Features engaging gameplay, Japan trivia, and humorous elements. Note that the Switch version has inconsistent framerate issues.
Holyhunt ($4.99)
A top-down arena twin-stick shooter reminiscent of classic 8-bit games. Simple yet potentially fun gameplay loop.
Shashingo: Learn Japanese with Photography ($20.00)
A language-learning game where players take photos and learn Japanese vocabulary. The value proposition might be questionable for some.
Sales
(North American eShop, US Prices)
Several noteworthy sales are ongoing, including OrangePixel's titles and a rare discount on Alien Hominid. THQ and Team 17 titles are also on sale. Check the full lists for details.
Select New Sales (Partial List)
Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 4th
That's all for today! Join us tomorrow for more new releases, sales, and potentially a new review. Enjoy the abundance of great games available! Have a fantastic Tuesday!
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