Hello fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Roundup for September 4th, 2024! Summer's over, but let's not forget the good times. This week brings a bounty of game reviews, fresh releases, and some enticing sales. Let's dive in!
Reviews & Mini-Views
Ace Attorney Investigations Collection ($39.99)
The Switch has given us second chances at classic games, and now the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection delivers Miles Edgeworth's adventures. This compilation builds upon previous storylines, with the second game enhancing the first. The shift to Edgeworth's perspective offers a fresh take on the familiar gameplay: investigating, questioning witnesses, and solving cases. While the pacing can feel uneven at times, fans of the main series will appreciate this spin-off. The second game significantly improves upon the first, making it a worthwhile experience.
Bonus features include a gallery, a story mode, and the ability to toggle between original and updated visuals/soundtracks. A helpful dialog history is also included. Overall, the collection provides a satisfying experience, especially with the official English localization of the second game. Now, every Ace Attorney title (excluding the Professor Layton crossover) is available on Switch.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Gimmick! 2 ($24.99)
A sequel to the obscure NES title Gimmick! is a surprising treat. Developed by Bitwave Games, this faithful follow-up delivers six challenging physics-based platforming levels. While the difficulty remains high, an easier mode is available. Yumetaro's star attack returns, serving as a weapon and puzzle-solving tool. Collectibles unlock customization options, adding replay value.
The game's length is moderate, but the difficulty is substantial. Generous checkpoints mitigate frustration. The charming visuals and music add to the experience. Gimmick! 2 successfully builds upon its predecessor, offering a challenging yet rewarding platforming experience.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Valfaris: Mecha Therion ($19.99)
Valfaris: Mecha Therion boldly shifts from action-platforming to a shoot 'em up style. While the Switch performance might not be perfect, the intense action, soundtrack, and visuals remain engaging. The weapon system, featuring a gun, melee weapon, and rotating third weapon, creates a satisfying gameplay rhythm. Mastering weapon management and dodging is key.
While different from the original Valfaris, Mecha Therion retains the series' distinctive atmosphere. Despite potential performance limitations on Switch, it delivers a solid shoot 'em up 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 presentation are strong, and fans will appreciate the numerous unlockables. However, the limited number of repetitive mini-games may not appeal to non-fans. The core gameplay loop lacks depth and replayability.
Even for fans, the game's focus on fan service might outweigh its gameplay value. While visually appealing, the overall experience feels shallow.
SwitchArcade Score: 3/5
Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection ($9.99)
This collection showcases lesser-known Sunsoft titles, offering a glimpse into the publisher's Japanese library. It includes Firework Thrower Kantaro’s 53 Stations of the Tokaido, Ripple Island, and The Wing of Madoola, all fully localized. The package includes save states, rewind, display options, and art galleries.
The games themselves offer a varied experience, with some being more challenging or engaging than others. While not all are top-tier NES games, they offer a unique and nostalgic experience. Fans of Sunsoft and retro gaming will appreciate this collection.
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 modes.
Billy’s Game Show ($7.99)
A stealth-focused game where players must hide from a stalker while maintaining generators.
Mining Mechs ($4.99)
A mining simulation game using mechs, with progressive difficulty and story elements.
Sales
(North American eShop, US Prices)
A selection of sales are listed below, with some ending soon. Please refer to the original article for the full list.
Select New Sales
Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 5th
That's it for today! More reviews are coming this week, along with new eShop releases. Check out Post Game Content for further updates. Have a great Wednesday!
