Farewell, dear readers, and welcome to the final regular SwitchArcade Round-Up for TouchArcade from yours truly. This concludes my years of service providing these articles, though a special edition with embargoed reviews will follow next week. This marks the end of a significant chapter, as circumstances necessitate a change of course. Let's enjoy one last packed edition featuring reviews from Mikhail and Shaun, new release summaries, and the usual sales lists.
Reviews & Mini-Views
Fitness Boxing feat. HATSUNE MIKU ($49.99)
Following Imagineer's successful Fitness Boxing series, culminating in the surprisingly enjoyable Fitness Boxing Fist of the North Star, their collaboration with Hatsune Miku was a clever move. Having played it alongside Ring Fit Adventure, I'm impressed.
The Fitness Boxing formula uses boxing and rhythm game mechanics for daily workouts, mini-games, and more. Hatsune Miku's inclusion adds a dedicated mode featuring her music alongside the game's existing tracks. Note: this is a Joy-Con-only game; Pro Controllers or third-party accessories aren't supported.
Standard features like difficulty options, free training, warm-ups, workout tracking, and customizable reminders are present. Unlockable cosmetics provide additional incentive. While I can't comment on DLC yet, the base game surpasses Fist of the North Star—except for one caveat: the main instructor's voice is jarring and oddly directed, prompting me to lower its volume.
Fitness Boxing feat. HATSUNE MIKU is a solid fitness title successfully integrating Miku's appeal. However, it's best used to complement other fitness routines rather than serving as your sole exercise program. - Mikhail Madnani
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Magical Delicacy ($24.99)
Magical Delicacy from sKaule and Whitethorn Games blends Metroidvania exploration with cooking and crafting. While it successfully incorporates elements of both genres, the integration isn't seamless. The result is a game with strong points, but flaws that detract from the overall experience.
Playing as Flora, a young witch, you cook and craft for various characters. The exploration is surprisingly well-executed, despite some frustrating backtracking. However, inventory management and UI interaction present challenges.
The game boasts stunning pixel art, charming music, and excellent customization options, including UI scaling and text settings. Early access or post-launch updates would have significantly benefited Magical Delicacy.
The Switch version performs well, aside from minor frame pacing issues. The haptic feedback is a welcome addition. Having played it on Xbox Series X, I prefer the portability of the Switch version.
Despite its potential, Magical Delicacy feels slightly unfinished due to inventory and backtracking issues. Nevertheless, it's a strong offering for Switch, and quality-of-life improvements would elevate it to a must-have. - Mikhail Madnani
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Aero The Acro-Bat 2 ($5.99)
A sequel to the 16-bit era mascot platformer, Aero The Acro-Bat 2, while not a massive success, is a solid entry. It refines the original, albeit losing some of its unique charm. This release surprisingly surpasses expectations with a tailored presentation.
This version boasts enhanced features including box and manual scans, achievements, a sprite sheet gallery, a jukebox, and various cheats. The only drawback is the omission of the SEGA Genesis/Mega Drive version.
Fans of the original will appreciate this polished sequel. Even those who found the first game flawed might find this more enjoyable. Ratalaika's improved emulation wrapper is commendable, and I hope they apply similar treatment to the first game. A recommended title for 16-bit platformer enthusiasts.
SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5
Metro Quester | Osaka ($19.99)
Building upon the original Metro Quester, Metro Quester | Osaka acts as a satisfying expansion rather than a full sequel. The prequel setting shifts to Osaka, introducing a new dungeon, character types, and challenges. The canoe mechanic adds a new layer of exploration.
The core mechanics remain similar to the original: turn-based combat, top-down exploration, and strategic progression. Careful planning is crucial for success.
Fans of the original will find ample content here, while new players can jump in directly. The expansion expands upon the existing systems in engaging ways, rewarding patience and strategic play.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Select New Releases
NBA 2K25 ($59.99)
NBA 2K25 arrives with improved gameplay, a new "Neighborhood" feature, and MyTEAM enhancements. Requires 53.3 GB of storage space.
Shogun Showdown ($14.99)
A Darkest Dungeon-inspired title with a Japanese setting and some unique twists.
Aero The Acro-Bat 2 ($5.99)
(See review above)
Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection ($9.99)
A collection of three previously unlocalized Famicom games offering diverse gameplay experiences.
Sales
(North American eShop, US Prices)
Notable sales include Cosmic Fantasy Collection (40% off) and Tinykin (at its lowest price yet).
Select New Sales (Images omitted for brevity, but maintain original image structure)
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Sales Ending This Weekend (Images omitted for brevity, but maintain original image structure)
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This concludes my contributions to SwitchArcade Round-Up and my tenure at TouchArcade. Thank you for your readership. I will continue writing at Post Game Content and Patreon. I extend my deepest gratitude to all TouchArcade readers. Farewell.
