Hello fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Roundup for September 3rd, 2024! Today's article brings you a fresh batch of reviews, starting with in-depth looks at Castlevania Dominus Collection and Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn, plus quick takes on some new Pinball FX DLC tables. Following that, we'll explore the day's new releases, including the unique Bakeru, and wrap things up with the latest sales and expiring deals. Let's dive in!
Reviews & Mini-Views
Castlevania Dominus Collection ($24.99)
Konami's recent track record with classic game collections has been undeniably impressive, and the Castlevania franchise has been a major beneficiary. Castlevania Dominus Collection, the third in the series on modern platforms, focuses on the Nintendo DS trilogy. Developed by M2, this collection delivers exceptional quality, exceeding expectations and possibly becoming the most essential Castlevania compilation yet.
First, let's discuss the core games. The Nintendo DS era of Castlevania holds a significant place in franchise history, with both highs and lows. Positively, the trilogy boasts unique identities, forming a surprisingly diverse set. Dawn of Sorrow, a direct sequel to Aria of Sorrow, initially suffered from awkward touchscreen controls, thankfully mitigated in this release. Portrait of Ruin relegates touchscreen elements to a bonus mode, focusing on its innovative dual-character gameplay. Order of Ecclesia deviates significantly, offering increased difficulty and a design reminiscent of Simon's Quest. All three are excellent games, highly recommended.
However, this collection also marked the end of Koji Igarashi's era of exploratory Castlevania titles. While these games were distinct, were their differences a result of creative exploration or an attempt to revitalize interest in a potentially waning franchise? The answer remains unclear. Many felt fatigued by the formula at the time, and even this reviewer, despite enjoying them upon release, felt a sense of repetition.
Interestingly, these aren't emulated versions but native ports, allowing M2 to enhance the experience. The annoying touchscreen controls in Dawn of Sorrow are replaced with button presses, and the interface now displays the main screen, status screen, and map simultaneously. While some DS elements remain, the games are fully playable with a controller, dramatically improving Dawn of Sorrow and cementing its place among the best Castlevania titles.
The collection is packed with options and extras. Players can choose game regions, customize button mapping, and select control schemes. A charming credits sequence, a comprehensive art gallery, a music player with playlist creation, and in-game features like save states, rewind, and customizable screen layouts are included. Each game also features a detailed compendium. The only minor drawback is the lack of additional screen layout options to maximize the gameplay area. Overall, it's a fantastic way to experience these three exceptional games, offering incredible value for the price.
But the surprises don't end there! The notoriously difficult arcade game, Haunted Castle, is also included. This is a welcome addition, particularly given the inclusion of an unlimited continues option, a necessity for this brutally challenging title. However, the real treat is the inclusion of Haunted Castle Revisited, a complete remake by M2. This isn't just a simple update; it's a fresh, enjoyable Castlevania game, a hidden gem within this DS collection.
Castlevania Dominus Collection is a must-have for Castlevania fans. The inclusion of a fantastic new game, along with the well-presented DS titles and the original Haunted Castle, makes this a phenomenal package. If you're unfamiliar with Castlevania, this collection, along with the others, is a great starting point. Another home run from 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 I've enjoyed Tengo Project's previous releases, this remake presented some challenges. The team's limited involvement with the original 8-bit game, and my personal feelings about the original's relative quality compared to their other work, made me cautious.
However, after playing the game extensively, my opinion has softened. While not as well-rounded as their other titles, Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn offers significant improvements. The presentation is excellent, the weapon and item systems are refined, and the two playable characters are now more distinct. It's undoubtedly superior to the original, while retaining its essence. Fans of the original will adore this remake.
However, if you only found the original to be a decent game, your opinion of Reborn may not differ significantly. The simultaneous use of the chain and sword is a welcome improvement, as is the enhanced inventory system. The presentation is top-notch, but the game does include some frustrating difficulty spikes. It's a challenging experience, but shorter than expected. It's the best version of Shadow of the Ninja, but it's still Shadow of the Ninja.
Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn is another solid effort from Tengo Project, showcasing substantial improvements over the original. Its appeal depends largely on your feelings toward the original game. Newcomers will find an enjoyable but not essential action game, retaining the charm of 8-bit design.
SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5
Pinball FX – The Princess Bride Pinball ($5.49)
A couple of quick reviews of the new Pinball FX DLC, celebrating the recent update improving Switch playability. The Princess Bride Pinball includes voice clips and video clips from the movie, a welcome addition. Mechanically, it feels like a real pinball table, easy to learn, authentic to the license, and fun to play. A solid addition for fans of the movie and pinball.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Pinball FX – Goat Simulator Pinball ($5.49)
Goat Simulator Pinball embraces its source material, resulting in a bizarre and unique table. The goat-related antics add chaotic elements, making it more challenging but rewarding. A table better suited for experienced pinball players, offering quirky fun for dedicated Goat Simulator fans who can master its mechanics.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Select New Releases
Bakeru ($39.99)
As mentioned in yesterday's review, this charming 3D platformer from Good-Feel is a delightful experience. Play as Bakeru, a tanuki on a mission to save Japan. Enjoy the breezy gameplay, collect souvenirs, and learn some Japanese trivia. Note the inconsistent framerate on the Switch version.
Holyhunt ($4.99)
A top-down arena twin-stick shooter described as an 8-bit homage. Shoot, dash, upgrade weapons, and defeat bosses. Seems fun and simple.
Shashingo: Learn Japanese with Photography ($20.00)
A language-learning game where you photograph objects and learn their Japanese names. Might appeal to visual learners.
Sales
(North American eShop, US Prices)
Several notable sales, including OrangePixel's titles, a rare discount on Alien Hominid, and a good deal on Ufouria 2. Check out the publisher pages for THQ and Team 17 for more sales.
Select New Sales
(List of sales)
(List of sales)
Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 4th
(List of sales)
That's all for today! Join us tomorrow for more new releases, sales, and possibly a review or two. Enjoy the abundance of great games! Thanks for reading!
