Hello fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Roundup for September 4th, 2024! Summer's warmth has faded, leaving behind cherished memories. I'm feeling a bit wiser, and grateful for the journey shared with all of you. As autumn arrives, I want to express my appreciation for the fantastic summer we've had together. Today's article is packed with reviews, new releases, and sales – let's dive in!
Reviews & Mini-Views
Ace Attorney Investigations Collection ($39.99)
The Nintendo Switch has given us second chances with many previously unavailable titles. Trials of Mana, Live A Live, the original Fire Emblem, and now, the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection, featuring Miles Edgeworth's two adventures following Trials & Tribulations. This collection cleverly builds upon previous storylines, particularly the sequel, which enhances the original. Having the second game finally localized in English is fantastic.
The Investigations games offer a prosecutor's perspective. Gameplay remains largely the same: searching for clues, questioning witnesses, and solving cases. However, the unique presentation and Edgeworth's personality add a fresh feel. While the pacing can feel less structured than other Ace Attorney titles, leading to occasionally grueling cases, fans of the main series will undoubtedly enjoy this sub-series. If the first game feels slow, persevere – the second is significantly better and provides context for the first.
Bonus features are generous, including an art and music gallery, a story mode, and the ability to switch between original and updated graphics/soundtracks. A dialog history feature is a welcome addition.
The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection offers a compelling contrast between the two games, creating a superb overall experience. The localization of the second game is a major win, and the extra features enhance the package. With this release, every Ace Attorney game (excluding the Professor Layton crossover) is now available on Switch. If you've already enjoyed other Ace Attorney titles, this is a must-have.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Gimmick! 2 ($24.99)
A sequel to Gimmick! is surprising! Sunsoft's late NES title, originally released only in Scandinavia, now has a follow-up developed by Bitwave Games. While created without the original creator's involvement, it remains remarkably faithful, perhaps excessively so for some.
Six lengthy, challenging physics-based platforming levels await. The difficulty is steep, but an easier mode is included. Yumetaro's star attack returns, serving multiple functions. Collectibles add replayability, offering customization options.
The game is challenging but rewarding, similar to the original. Frequent checkpoints mitigate frustration. The charming visuals and music help maintain engagement. Gimmick! 2 successfully builds upon its predecessor without losing its own identity. Fans of the original and challenging platformers will appreciate it. However, those seeking a casual experience should be warned – it's as tough as its predecessor.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Valfaris: Mecha Therion ($19.99)
Valfaris: Mecha Therion takes a risk, shifting from the original's action-platformer style to a shoot 'em up akin to Lords of Thunder. Surprisingly, it works, though the Switch's hardware limitations are noticeable. Despite this, the intense action, soundtrack, and visuals remain engaging.
Weapon management is key. The primary gun weakens when depleted, requiring use of a melee weapon to recharge it. A rotating third weapon adds strategic depth. Mastering weapon cycling and dodging is crucial for survival.
While performance is better on other platforms, the Switch version delivers a satisfying experience. It maintains the original's atmosphere while offering a unique gameplay twist.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash ($44.99)
Licensed games often cater to fans. Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash delivers ample fan service, with strong writing and meta-systems that reward dedicated fans. However, the limited number of repetitive mini-games offer little appeal to non-fans.
The game's presentation is excellent, but the gameplay lacks depth. Even for fans, the game's focus on fan service might not justify the price. The unlockable mini-game is a highlight, but overall, the experience is short-lived.
While visually appealing and faithful to the source material, the limited gameplay will likely disappoint those unfamiliar with the Umamusume franchise.
SwitchArcade Score: 3/5
Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection ($9.99)
This collection showcases Sunsoft's lesser-known 8-bit titles, offering three games: Firework Thrower Kantaro’s 53 Stations of the Tokaido, Ripple Island, and The Wing of Madoola. All three are fully localized, a significant achievement. The package includes save states, rewind, display options, and art galleries.
The games 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. The Wing of Madoola is ambitious but inconsistent. None are top-tier NES games, but none are outright bad.
Fans of Sunsoft and obscure NES titles will find this collection worthwhile. The localization effort alone makes it a valuable addition. 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 game in the style of Metal Slug and Contra, featuring solo and local multiplayer options. Fans of the genre should check it out.
Billy’s Game Show ($7.99)
A stealth-survival game where players must hide from a stalker while maintaining generators.
Mining Mechs ($4.99)
A mech-based mining game where players collect ores, upgrade mechs, and progress deeper underground.
Sales
(North American eShop, US Prices)
A smaller selection of sales this week, but the upcoming sales list has some interesting titles.
Select New Sales
(List of sales omitted for brevity, but the image is included)
Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 5th
(List of sales omitted for brevity, but the image is included)
That concludes today's roundup. More reviews are coming this week, and several new releases are expected on the eShop. Check out my personal blog, Post Game Content, for additional updates. Have a great Wednesday, and thanks for reading!
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