Top Gaming News: 'Ace Attorney' Collection Review, New Releases Unveiled

Hello, fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Round-Up for September 4th, 2024! Summer's heatwave is behind us, but the memories of sunny days remain. I'm feeling refreshed and ready for autumn, and grateful for your company throughout the season. Let's dive into today's gaming news: a plethora of reviews, exciting new releases, and some tempting sales!

Reviews & Mini-Views

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection ($39.99)

The Nintendo Switch continues to offer second chances at classic titles, and this time it's the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection. This package brings together Miles Edgeworth's two adventures, finally making them available in English. The sequel builds beautifully on the first game's plot, enhancing the overall experience.

The gameplay remains true to the series' core mechanics: finding clues, interrogating witnesses, and solving cases. However, the shift in perspective to the prosecution's side and the unique presentation keeps things fresh. While the pacing can feel less structured than other Ace Attorney games, leading to occasional fatigue, fans of the main series will find this sub-series a welcome addition. If the first game feels slow, persevere – the second is significantly better.

Bonus features are generous, including an art and music gallery, a story mode for relaxed play, and the option to switch between original and updated graphics/soundtracks. A handy dialog history feature is also included, a welcome addition to this type of game.

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection offers a compelling contrast between its two games, resulting in a highly enjoyable overall experience. The official localization of the second game is a significant achievement, and the additional features make this a must-have for Ace Attorney fans. With this release, almost every Ace Attorney game is now on the Switch.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Gimmick! 2 ($24.99)

A sequel to Gimmick! is a surprising but welcome development. Developed by Bitwave Games, this faithful sequel stays true to the original's challenging physics-based platforming. Six lengthy levels provide a steep challenge, though an easier mode is available for those seeking a less demanding experience.

Yumetaro's star attack returns, serving as a weapon, vehicle, and puzzle-solving tool. New collectible items offer customization options, rewarding players for tackling difficult sections. While a quick playthrough is possible, expect numerous deaths – the game is unforgiving. Generous checkpoints mitigate the frustration. The charming visuals and music help balance the difficulty.

Gimmick! 2 is a successful sequel, cleverly building upon its predecessor without losing its own identity. Fans of the original will be delighted, and challenging platformer enthusiasts should definitely give it a try. However, those seeking a relaxed experience should be warned: this game is just as tough as its predecessor.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Valfaris: Mecha Therion ($19.99)

Valfaris: Mecha Therion takes a bold step, abandoning the original's action-platformer style for a shoot 'em up experience. Surprisingly, it works well, though the Switch's hardware limitations are noticeable. Despite this, the intense action, rocking soundtrack, and creepy visuals remain engaging.

The weapon system is a highlight, requiring skillful management of the main gun, melee weapon, and a rotating third weapon to maintain offensive capabilities. The dash maneuver adds another layer of strategic depth. Mastering the rhythm of weapon usage and defense is crucial and rewarding.

While different from its predecessor, Valfaris: Mecha Therion maintains a similar atmosphere. It's a stylish, heavy metal-infused shoot 'em up that avoids common genre pitfalls. Performance may be better on other platforms, but the Switch version delivers a satisfying experience.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash ($44.99)

Licensed games often cater primarily to fans, and Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash is no exception. It delivers ample fan service, excelling in its presentation of the Umamusume world. The writing is well-done, and the meta-systems reward dedicated fans.

However, non-fans might find limited appeal. The game offers a small selection of repetitive mini-games, and the narrative will resonate primarily with those familiar with the source material. Even for fans, the focus on fan service might overshadow the gameplay.

While visually appealing and offering a wealth of unlockables, Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash ultimately feels unbalanced. Its strengths lie in its presentation, but the limited and repetitive gameplay hinders its overall enjoyment, especially for non-fans.

SwitchArcade Score: 3/5

Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection ($9.99)

This collection showcases a lesser-known side of Sunsoft, offering three charming 8-bit games. It includes 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 package includes save states, rewind, display options, and art galleries.

The games themselves offer a varied experience. 53 Stations is challenging due to its weapon mechanics, but possesses a unique charm. Ripple Island is a solid adventure game, while The Wing of Madoola is ambitious but uneven. While none are top-tier NES titles, they are far from bad.

Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection is a worthwhile purchase for Sunsoft fans and those who enjoy exploring lesser-known titles. The careful handling of these games and their official English localization make this a celebratory release.

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. Fans of the genre should find it appealing.

Billy’s Game Show ($7.99)

A game where you explore while evading a stalker, managing generators, and avoiding traps. A different kind of experience.

Mining Mechs ($4.99)

A straightforward mech mining game where you collect resources, upgrade your mechs, and progress deeper underground.

Sales

(North American eShop, US Prices)

A brief overview of sales, highlighting several notable titles. Refer to the images for the full list.

Select New Sales

Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 5th

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 additional updates. Have a great Wednesday, and thanks for reading!