Hello, gentle readers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Round-Up for September 4th, 2024. As the long summer draws to a close, we reflect on the hot and sometimes uncomfortable days, but also the good times that are worth cherishing. I find myself a bit older and wiser than at the start of the season, and I'm grateful to have shared this journey with all of you. As we transition into a new season, I want to express my gratitude for being the best summer companions one could ask for. Today's article is packed with reviews, new releases, and sales—let's dive in!
The Nintendo Switch has been a platform for second chances, bringing back games that many missed out on. From Trials of Mana to Live A Live and the original Fire Emblem, we now have the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection, featuring Miles Edgeworth's two post-Trials & Tribulations adventures. This collection finally brings the unlocalized Ace Attorney game to English-speaking audiences, masterfully weaving plot threads from previous titles. The second Ace Attorney Investigations game, in particular, enhances the original's narrative, making it a rewarding experience for fans.
Focusing on Miles Edgeworth, these games offer a unique perspective from the prosecution's side. While the mechanics remain familiar—searching for clues, questioning witnesses, and solving cases—the presentation and Edgeworth's narrative voice add a refreshing twist. The pacing can feel less structured, which might be challenging for some, but overall, fans of the main series will appreciate this sub-series. Stick with the first game, as the second one significantly improves upon it.
The collection includes bonuses similar to the Apollo Justice set, with a gallery mode, a story mode for a more relaxed experience, and options to switch between original and new graphics/soundtrack. A dialog history feature enhances the gameplay experience. With both games now accessible, and every Ace Attorney game except the Professor Layton crossover available on the Switch, this collection is a must-have for fans.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
It's surprising to see a sequel to Gimmick!, a late NES game that never saw a Western release outside Scandinavia. Developed by Bitwave Games without the original creator's involvement, Gimmick! 2 remains incredibly faithful to its predecessor. The game offers six challenging, physics-based platforming levels that will test your skills. An easier mode is available for those seeking a less demanding experience, though the normal difficulty requires passing a test to unlock.
The star attack, central to the gameplay, remains versatile, serving as both a weapon and puzzle-solving tool. New collectibles add depth, rewarding players for tackling tougher sections. While not a long game if rushed through, its difficulty echoes the original's challenging nature. Generous checkpointing mitigates frustration, and the game's adorable visuals and lively music keep the experience enjoyable. Gimmick! 2 is a commendable follow-up, appealing to fans of the original and platforming enthusiasts alike.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Valfaris: Mecha Therion takes a bold step away from its predecessor's action-platforming roots, embracing a shoot 'em up style reminiscent of Lords of Thunder. While the Switch's hardware struggles to keep up at times, the game's intense action, rocking soundtrack, and eerie visuals still shine through. The game's weapon system requires players to juggle between a gun, a melee weapon that recharges the gun's energy, and a rotating third weapon, creating a dynamic and engaging experience.
Though different from the original, Mecha Therion retains the same heavy metal vibe, successfully avoiding common pitfalls in genre shifts. While other platforms may offer better performance, the Switch version still delivers a compelling experience.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Licensed games often cater to existing fans, and Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash is no exception. It excels in fan service, with engaging writing and meta-systems that reward players with fan-pleasing content. However, non-fans might find the game lacking, with only a few repetitive mini-games and a story that resonates more with dedicated followers.
Even for fans, the game's focus on fan service at the expense of diverse gameplay can feel limiting. The unlockable mini-game is a highlight, but it's not enough to sustain long-term interest. While the game captures the essence of Umamusume, it may not hold up for those without a strong connection to the franchise.
SwitchArcade Score: 3/5
Sunsoft is well-known for titles like Blaster Master and Batman, but in Japan, the company is celebrated for its 8-bit games. Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection introduces three such games to Western audiences: Firework Thrower Kantaro’s 53 Stations of the Tokaido, Ripple Island, and The Wing of Madoola. The collection includes save states, rewind, display options, and an art gallery, with all games fully localized.
The games offer a mixed experience. 53 Stations can be frustrating due to its awkward weapon handling, but it has a charming theme. Ripple Island is a solid adventure game, while The Wing of Madoola is ambitious but uneven. This collection is a treat for Sunsoft fans and those interested in exploring lesser-known console games, celebrating the first official English release of these titles.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
If you enjoy fast-paced action games like Metal Slug and Contra, Cyborg Force might catch your interest. This challenging title offers both single and local multiplayer modes and has been available on other platforms, including the NEOGEO, for a few months.
While it may resemble Five Nights at first glance, Billy's Game Show is more about stealth and survival. Players must evade a stalker while navigating traps and maintaining generators to keep the power on. It's not everyone's cup of tea, but it has its appeal.
Mining Mechs is straightforward: use mechs to mine ores and treasures, sell them, and upgrade your equipment. As you delve deeper, the challenges increase, and the story progresses with your profits. It's simple but potentially satisfying for the price.
(North American eShop, US Prices)
Today's sales list is modest, but the outbox offers some enticing deals. It's valuable to explore and find what interests you.
Select New Sales
Nora: The Wannabe Alchemist ($1.99 from $19.99 until 9/10)
Deflector ($1.99 from $22.99 until 9/10)
Sky Caravan ($1.99 from $19.99 until 9/10)
The Blind Prophet ($1.99 from $24.99 until 9/10)
They Know ($1.99 from $6.99 until 9/10)
Conjured Through Death ($4.49 from $14.99 until 9/15)
Dark Days ($1.99 from $7.99 until 9/24)
Another Bar Game ($3.89 from $5.99 until 9/24)
Cook Serve Delicious ($4.41 from $12.99 until 9/24)
Blood Will Be Spilled ($2.99 from $14.99 until 9/24)
Feudal Alloy ($3.39 from $16.99 until 9/24)
Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 5th
Adventure Bar Story ($15.99 from $19.99 until 9/5)
Akiba's Trip: Undead & Undressed ($14.99 from $29.99 until 9/5)
Anomaly Agent ($7.49 from $14.99 until 9/5)
Avenging Spirit ($2.99 from $5.99 until 9/5)
Bug & Seek ($11.24 from $14.99 until 9/5)
Burst Hero ($5.99 from $11.99 until 9/5)
Cat Quest II ($3.74 from $14.99 until 9/5)
Corpse Party ($9.99 from $19.99 until 9/5)
Deadcraft ($5.99 from $19.99 until 9/5)
Dice Make 10! ($3.59 from $3.99 until 9/5)
Eldgear ($12.99 from $19.99 until 9/5)
Evil God Korone ($3.35 from $3.95 until 9/5)
F1 Manager 2024 ($27.99 from $34.99 until 9/5)
Fairy Elements ($8.99 from $14.99 until 9/5)
Freedom Planet 2 ($18.74 from $24.99 until 9/5)
Genso Chronicles ($9.74 from $14.99 until 9/5)
Gibbon: Beyond the Trees ($1.99 from $14.99 until 9/5)
Hide & Dance! ($2.49 from $4.99 until 9/5)
Magical Drop VI ($14.99 from $29.99 until 9/5)
Marchen Forest ($6.99 from $34.99 until 9/5)
Mom Hid My Game! ($2.49 from $4.99 until 9/5)
Mom Hid My Game! 2 ($2.49 from $4.99 until 9/5)
My Brother Ate My Pudding! ($2.49 from $4.99 until 9/5)
Port Royale 4 ($17.49 from $49.99 until 9/5)
SCHiM ($17.49 from $24.99 until 9/5)
Silent Hope ($13.99 from $39.99 until 9/5)
Super Toy Cars Offroad ($3.99 from $19.99 until 9/5)
The Sinking City ($5.99 from $49.99 until 9/5)
Untitled Goose Game ($9.99 from $19.99 until 9/5)
Wing of Darkness ($5.99 from $29.99 until 9/5)
WitchSpring R ($35.99 from $39.99 until 9/5)
Yggdra Union: WNFA ($19.99 from $24.99 until 9/5)
That's all for today, friends. Stay tuned for more reviews throughout the week, and keep an eye out for new releases on the eShop. Let's aim to meet back here tomorrow, but if we miss each other, you can always find me at my personal blog, Post Game Content. I hope you have a fantastic Wednesday, and as always, thank you for reading!
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