SwitchArcade Round-Up: Reviews Featuring ‘Ace Attorney Investigations Collection’, Plus New Releases and Sales

Hello fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Round-Up for September 4th, 2024! Summer's warmth has faded, leaving behind cherished memories. I'm feeling refreshed and ready for autumn, and I appreciate sharing those summer moments with you all. Let's dive into today's gaming news: a plethora of reviews, fresh releases, and enticing sales!

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 the narrative threads from earlier games, particularly in the second title, which significantly enhances the first. Experiencing the series from the prosecutor's perspective offers a fresh viewpoint.

While the core gameplay remains similar—investigating, questioning witnesses, solving cases—the unique presentation and Edgeworth's personality add a distinct flavor. The pacing can feel less structured than other Ace Attorney titles, potentially leading to some lengthy cases, but fans of the main series will undoubtedly appreciate this sub-series. If the first game feels a bit slow, persevere; the second is far superior and adds context to the first.

Bonus features are plentiful, including an art and music gallery, a story mode for relaxed play, and the option to switch between original and updated graphics/soundtracks. A helpful dialogue history feature is also included.

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection provides a compelling contrast between the two games, creating a fantastic overall experience. The official localization of the second game is a major win, and the additional features enhance the package. Now, every Ace Attorney game (excluding the Professor Layton crossover) is available on Switch. If you've enjoyed previous titles, this is a must-have.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Gimmick! 2 ($24.99)

A sequel to Gimmick! is unexpected, but welcome! Developed by Bitwave Games, this faithful sequel stays true to the original's challenging physics-based platforming, perhaps even too much for some. Six extensive levels test your skills from the outset. Fortunately, an easier mode is available for those seeking a less demanding experience.

The protagonist's star attack remains central to gameplay, serving as a weapon, vehicle, and puzzle solver. Collectibles offer customization options, rewarding players for completing challenging optional sections. While not overly long, the game presents a significant challenge, reminiscent of its predecessor. Frequent checkpoints mitigate frustration. The charming visuals and music help maintain a positive atmosphere, but don't underestimate the difficulty.

Gimmick! 2 is a surprisingly excellent sequel, building upon the original without losing its identity. Fans of the first game will adore this. Challenging platformer enthusiasts should also check it out. However, those seeking a relaxed experience should be aware of the difficulty, even with the easier mode.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Valfaris: Mecha Therion ($19.99)

Valfaris: Mecha Therion takes a bold step, shifting from the original's action-platformer style to a shoot 'em up experience. Surprisingly, it works well, although the Switch's hardware limitations may impact performance. The intense action, rocking soundtrack, and eerie visuals remain enjoyable despite this.

Weapon management is key, juggling a primary gun, a melee weapon for energy regeneration, and a rotating third weapon. Mastering the rhythm of weapon use and evasive maneuvers is crucial.

While different from its predecessor, Valfaris: Mecha Therion retains the original's atmosphere. It's a stylish heavy metal 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 to fans, and Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash is no exception. It delivers ample fan service, with strong writing and meta-systems rewarding dedicated players. However, its appeal to non-fans is limited. The few mini-games lack depth and replayability, making it a less engaging experience for those unfamiliar with the franchise.

Even for fans, the game might feel unbalanced, prioritizing presentation over gameplay. While the visuals, sound, and world are well-executed, and unlockables offer some incentive, the limited gameplay quickly becomes repetitive.

SwitchArcade Score: 3/5

Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection ($9.99)

This collection showcases 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.

The games themselves vary in quality. 53 Stations can be frustrating, while Ripple Island is a solid adventure game, and The Wing of Madoola is ambitious but inconsistent. None are groundbreaking, but none are outright bad either.

Sunsoft fans and retro gaming enthusiasts will appreciate this collection. The careful handling of these games and their long-awaited English release make it a worthwhile purchase.

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, offering single-player and local multiplayer options.

Billy’s Game Show ($7.99)

A stealth-focused game where you must evade a stalker while maintaining power and avoiding traps.

Mining Mechs ($4.99)

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

Sales

A brief overview of sales, highlighting some notable titles. (Detailed sales lists omitted for brevity).

That concludes today's round-up. More reviews are coming this week, along with several new eShop releases. See you tomorrow, or visit my blog, Post Game Content, for updates. Have a great Wednesday!