Hello fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Round-Up for September 4th, 2024! Summer's over, but the gaming fun continues! I'm back with a bumper crop of reviews, new releases, and some sizzling sales. Let's dive in!
Reviews & Mini-Views
Ace Attorney Investigations Collection ($39.99)
The Nintendo Switch has given us second chances at many classic games, and now it's the turn of the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection! This package includes Miles Edgeworth's two adventures, finally bringing the previously unlocalized second game to English-speaking audiences. The sequel cleverly builds upon the original's storyline, enhancing the experience retrospectively.
Shifting the perspective to the prosecution's side offers a fresh take on the familiar Ace Attorney gameplay. While the core mechanics remain largely unchanged—searching for clues, questioning witnesses, solving cases—the unique presentation and Edgeworth's personality add a new dimension. The pacing can feel less structured than the main series, leading to occasional lengthy cases, but fans of the franchise will appreciate this spin-off. If the first game feels a bit slow, persevere—the second is significantly better.
Bonus features rival those of the Apollo Justice collection, including an art and music gallery, a story mode for casual play, and the option to switch between original and updated graphics/soundtracks. A helpful dialog history feature is also included.
The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection offers a compelling dual experience, culminating in a highly satisfying whole. The localization of the second game is a major win, and the added extras make it a fantastic package. Now, with the exception of the Professor Layton crossover, every Ace Attorney game is available on Switch! If you've enjoyed previous entries, this is a must-have.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Gimmick! 2 ($24.99)
A sequel to Gimmick!? It's certainly unexpected! Developed by Bitwave Games, this faithful follow-up to the NES classic remains true to its challenging physics-based platforming. Six lengthy levels will test your skills, but an easier mode is now available for those seeking a less punishing experience.
The core gameplay revolves around Yumetaro's star attack, used for combat, traversal, and puzzle-solving. Collectibles add a new layer, unlocking customization options. While the game isn't excessively long, its difficulty remains a defining feature. Expect frequent deaths, but generous checkpoints mitigate frustration. The charming visuals and music also contribute to the overall experience.
Gimmick! 2 is a surprisingly excellent sequel, successfully building upon the original without sacrificing its identity. Fans of the first game will be delighted, and challenging platformer enthusiasts should also give it a try. However, those seeking a relaxed experience should be warned—this game is as tough as its predecessor, even on the easier setting.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Valfaris: Mecha Therion ($19.99)
Valfaris: Mecha Therion takes a bold step, abandoning the original's action-platforming for a shoot 'em up style reminiscent of Lords of Thunder. Surprisingly, it works well, though the Switch's hardware sometimes struggles to deliver optimal performance. Despite this, the intense action, soundtrack, and creepy visuals remain engaging.
The weapon system adds a strategic layer. Juggling your main gun, melee weapon, and rotating third weapon requires careful timing and skill. The dash maneuver adds another dimension to both offense and defense. Mastering this rhythm is crucial for survival.
While different from its predecessor, Valfaris: Mecha Therion retains the original's distinctive style. It avoids many common pitfalls of the genre. While other platforms may offer better performance, the Switch version is still a worthwhile experience.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash ($44.99)
Licensed games often cater to fans, and Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash is no exception. It delivers ample fan service, with strong writing and meta-systems rewarding dedicated players. However, its appeal to non-fans is limited. The mini-games are repetitive, and the story unfolds in a way that only fans will fully appreciate.
Even for fans, the game's focus feels misplaced. While the visuals and audio are excellent, and unlockables provide some incentive, the overall experience lacks longevity. Without prior attachment to the franchise, the game quickly loses its charm.
SwitchArcade Score: 3/5
Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection ($9.99)
This collection shines a light on Sunsoft's lesser-known side—charming 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 modern conveniences like save states, rewind, display options, and art galleries. The games themselves offer a varied experience. 53 Stations is challenging, Ripple Island is a solid adventure, and The Wing of Madoola is ambitious but uneven. While not top-tier NES games, they offer a unique glimpse into Sunsoft's history.
Sunsoft fans and retro enthusiasts will appreciate this collection. The care taken with the localization and added features makes it a worthwhile purchase.
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, with single-player and local multiplayer options.
Billy’s Game Show ($7.99)
A stealth-survival game where you must evade a stalker while maintaining power generators.
Mining Mechs ($4.99)
A mech-based mining game where you explore, collect resources, and upgrade your mechs.
Sales
(North American eShop, US Prices)
A smaller selection of sales this week, but the outbox offers some noteworthy discounts. Check the lists below for details.
Select New Sales
(List of sales)
Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 5th
(List of sales)
That's all for today! More reviews are coming this week, and plenty of new releases are on the horizon. See you tomorrow, or check out my blog, Post Game Content, for more gaming news. Have a great Wednesday!
