Hello fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Roundup for September 4th, 2024! Summer's warmth has faded, leaving behind memories both scorching and sweet. I'm feeling a bit wiser after this season, and grateful for sharing it with you all. As autumn arrives, I want to express my sincere appreciation for your fantastic company this summer. 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 a second chance at many classic titles, and now the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection brings us the previously unlocalized Miles Edgeworth adventures. This collection cleverly builds upon previous storylines, with the second game enhancing the first. Shifting the perspective to the prosecution offers a fresh take on the familiar formula. While the pacing can feel less structured than other Ace Attorney titles, the unique presentation and Edgeworth's character make it engaging. Fans of the main series will find this sub-series enjoyable. If the first game feels slow, persevere – the second is significantly better.
Bonus features are generous, including a gallery, a story mode, and the option to toggle between original and updated graphics/soundtracks. A helpful dialogue history is also included. Overall, the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection offers a compelling experience, especially with the official localization of the second game. Now, every Ace Attorney game (excluding the Professor Layton crossover) is available on Switch!
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Gimmick! 2 ($24.99)
A sequel to Gimmick! is a surprising treat! Developed by Bitwave Games, this faithful sequel stays true to the original's challenging physics-based platforming. Six lengthy levels provide a demanding experience, although an easier mode is now available. The protagonist's star attack remains central to gameplay, serving multiple purposes. Collectibles add replay value, unlocking customization options.
While not excessively long, the difficulty remains high. Generous checkpoints mitigate frustration, and the charming visuals and music add to the experience. Gimmick! 2 successfully builds upon its predecessor without losing its own identity. Fans of the original and challenging platformers will appreciate this sequel. 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 bold step, shifting from the original's action-platforming to a shoot 'em up style. While the Switch's hardware limitations may affect performance, the intense action, soundtrack, and visuals still deliver an enjoyable experience. The weapon system, featuring a gun, melee weapon, and rotating third weapon, creates a satisfying gameplay loop. Mastering weapon management and dodging is crucial for success.
While different from its predecessor, Mecha Therion maintains the original's distinct atmosphere. It's a stylish, heavy metal-infused shoot 'em up that avoids common genre pitfalls. While other platforms offer better performance, the Switch version is still a solid choice.
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, for those unfamiliar with the property, the limited number of repetitive mini-games offer little appeal. The overall experience feels unbalanced, prioritizing fan service over broader gameplay appeal.
Even for fans, the game's longevity may be limited. While the presentation is excellent, the lack of substantial gameplay content beyond fan service may leave many players wanting more.
SwitchArcade Score: 3/5
Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection ($9.99)
This collection showcases a lesser-known side of Sunsoft's Japanese library. It includes three 8-bit titles: Firework Thrower Kantaro’s 53 Stations of the Tokaido, Ripple Island, and The Wing of Madoola. All three games are fully localized, a significant achievement. The collection includes save states, rewind, display options, and art galleries.
The games themselves offer a varied experience, with some being more frustrating than others. While not top-tier NES titles, they possess a unique charm and are worth exploring for fans of retro gaming and Sunsoft's history.
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, featuring single-player and local multiplayer options.
Billy’s Game Show ($7.99)
A stealth-focused game where players must evade a stalker while maintaining power generators.
Mining Mechs ($4.99)
A mining simulation game using mechs to collect resources and progress deeper underground.
Sales
(North American eShop, US Prices)
A brief overview of sales, highlighting some noteworthy titles. Please refer to the original article for the full sales list.
Select New Sales
(List of games on sale)
Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 5th
(List of games on sale)
That's all for today! More reviews are coming this week, and plenty of new releases are expected on the eShop. Check out my blog, Post Game Content, for further updates. Have a great Wednesday, and thanks for reading!
