Hello fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Round-Up for September 4th, 2024! Summer's warmth has faded, leaving behind memories both sweltering and sweet. I'm feeling a bit wiser after our shared summer journey, and I appreciate each and every one of you. As autumn arrives, remember you're the best gaming companions anyone could ask for! Today's article is packed with reviews, new releases, and some tempting 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 titles, and now the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection brings us Miles Edgeworth's previously unlocalized adventures. This collection masterfully builds upon previous storylines, with the second game significantly enhancing the first. Experiencing the series from the prosecution's perspective offers a fresh angle. While the core mechanics remain similar – clue-finding, witness questioning, and case-solving – the unique presentation and Edgeworth's character add a captivating twist. While pacing can feel uneven at times, fans of the main series will find this sub-series incredibly rewarding. If the first game feels slow, persevere – the second is far superior.
Bonus features are generous, including an art and music gallery, a story mode, and selectable graphics/soundtrack options. The inclusion of a dialogue history is a welcome addition.
The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection offers a compelling contrast between its two games, creating a fantastic overall experience. The official localization of the second game is a huge win, and the extra features make this a must-have for any Ace Attorney enthusiast. With this release, every Ace Attorney game (excluding the Professor Layton crossover) is now available on Switch. If you've already enjoyed the other titles, this is a no-brainer.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Gimmick! 2 ($24.99)
A sequel to Gimmick! is a surprising yet welcome development. Developed by Bitwave Games, this faithful sequel stays true to the original's challenging physics-based platforming. Six lengthy levels will push your skills to the limit. A new easier mode is included for players seeking a less intense experience. Yumetaro's star attack remains central to gameplay, serving as a weapon, vehicle, and puzzle-solving tool. Collectibles add extra replay value, unlocking customization options.
The game's length depends on your skill level, but expect a significant challenge regardless of difficulty. Frequent checkpoints mitigate frustration, and the charming visuals and music add to the experience. Don't underestimate Gimmick! 2; it's as demanding as its predecessor, even on easy mode. Mastering platforming and clever use of Yumetaro's star are essential.
Gimmick! 2 is a surprisingly excellent sequel, successfully building upon the original without losing its own identity. Fans of the original and challenging platformers should definitely check this out. However, if you prefer a relaxed experience, this isn't the game for you.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Valfaris: Mecha Therion ($19.99)
Valfaris: Mecha Therion boldly shifts from the original's action-platforming to a shoot 'em up style reminiscent of Lords of Thunder. While the Switch's hardware limitations slightly impact performance, the intense action, rocking soundtrack, and creepy visuals remain engaging. The weapon system adds a strategic layer: a primary gun, a melee weapon for energy regeneration, and a rotating third weapon, demanding skillful management of resources and cooldowns.
Despite the genre change, Mecha Therion maintains the original's distinct atmosphere. While performance is better on other platforms, the Switch version delivers a satisfying experience.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash ($44.99)
This licensed game caters heavily to fans of the Umamusume franchise. The writing and meta-systems will resonate strongly with existing fans. However, the limited number of repetitive mini-games offer little appeal to newcomers. The unlockable mini-game is the highlight, but even that falls short of providing lasting engagement.
Even for fans, the emphasis on fan service might not justify the price. While the visuals, sound, and world are well-executed, the limited gameplay quickly becomes tiresome.
SwitchArcade Score: 3/5
Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection ($9.99)
This collection shines a light on Sunsoft's lesser-known 8-bit titles, offering three fully localized games: Firework Thrower Kantaro’s 53 Stations of the Tokaido, Ripple Island, and The Wing of Madoola. The package includes save states, rewind, display options, and art galleries. The full English localization is a significant achievement.
Game quality varies; 53 Stations is frustrating, Ripple Island is a solid adventure, and The Wing of Madoola is ambitious but inconsistent. None are top-tier NES games, but they offer charm and historical significance.
Fans of Sunsoft and retro gaming will appreciate this collection. The care taken in presentation and localization makes this a worthwhile purchase.
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, offering single-player and local multiplayer options.
Billy’s Game Show ($7.99)
A stealth-survival game where you must hide from a pursuer while maintaining power generators.
Mining Mechs ($4.99)
A mech-based mining game where you collect resources, upgrade your mechs, and progress deeper underground.
Sales
(North American eShop, US Prices)
The sales are listed below in image form. Please refer to the original text for the full list of sales and their prices.
That's all for today! More reviews are coming this week, and plenty of new releases are expected in the coming days. Check out my personal blog, Post Game Content, for more updates. Have a great Wednesday, and thanks for reading!
