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

Hello, fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Roundup 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 that journey 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 continues to offer second chances at classic titles. Following Trials of Mana, Live A Live, and the original Fire Emblem, we now have the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection, featuring Miles Edgeworth's adventures. This collection masterfully builds upon previous storylines, particularly in the second game, enhancing the overall experience. The shift to Edgeworth's perspective offers a fresh take on the familiar gameplay mechanics. While the pacing might feel less structured than other Ace Attorney titles, the unique presentation and Edgeworth's character make it compelling. The sequel significantly improves upon the first game, making it a worthwhile addition to any Ace Attorney fan's library.

Bonus features include an art and music gallery, a story mode, and the option to toggle between original and enhanced visuals/audio. A handy dialog history feature is also included. The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection provides a strong package, making every Ace Attorney game (excluding the Professor Layton crossover) available on the Switch.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Gimmick! 2 ($24.99)

A sequel to the obscure NES title Gimmick! is a surprising yet welcome addition. Developed by Bitwave Games, Gimmick! 2 stays true to the original's challenging physics-based platforming. Six lengthy levels test your skills, but an easier mode is available for those seeking a less demanding experience. Yumetaro's star attack remains a key element, serving as a weapon and puzzle-solving tool. Collectibles offer customization options, adding replay value.

The game's difficulty is comparable to the original, with frequent deaths, but generous checkpoints mitigate frustration. The charming visuals and music add to the experience. Gimmick! 2 is a strong sequel, building upon the original while maintaining its challenging spirit. Platforming enthusiasts who relish a high level of difficulty will find this title rewarding.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Valfaris: Mecha Therion ($19.99)

Valfaris: Mecha Therion boldly shifts from the original's action-platforming to a shoot 'em up style. While the Switch's hardware might struggle at times, 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 rhythm of combat. Mastering weapon management and dodging is crucial for survival.

While not identical to its predecessor, Mecha Therion retains the original's distinct atmosphere. Despite performance limitations on the Switch, it's a worthwhile addition for fans of the genre.

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 those familiar with the property. However, for non-fans, the limited number of repetitive mini-games might prove underwhelming. While the presentation is solid, the lack of substantial content beyond fan service limits its appeal to a broader audience.

Even for fans, the emphasis on fan service over gameplay might lead to a short-lived experience. The unlockable content might offer some extended playtime for dedicated fans.

SwitchArcade Score: 3/5

Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection ($9.99)

This collection showcases a lesser-known side of Sunsoft's Japanese library, featuring three 8-bit titles: Firework Thrower Kantaro’s 53 Stations of the Tokaido, Ripple Island, and The Wing of Madoola. Each game includes save states, rewind, display options, and an art gallery. The full localization of all three games is a noteworthy achievement.

The games themselves offer a varied experience. 53 Stations can be frustrating, while Ripple Island provides a solid adventure experience, and The Wing of Madoola is the most ambitious but potentially uneven of the three. While not groundbreaking, they offer a glimpse into a different side of 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, offering both solo and local multiplayer options.

Billy’s Game Show ($7.99)

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

Mining Mechs ($4.99)

A mech-based mining game where you collect ores, upgrade your mechs, and progress deeper into the mines.

Sales

(North American eShop, US Prices)

A brief overview of sales, with highlights of noteworthy titles. Check the full lists for more details.

Select New Sales

Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 5th

That concludes today's roundup. More reviews are on the way, and numerous new releases are expected in the coming days. Thanks for reading, and have a great Wednesday! For more gaming insights, visit my blog, Post Game Content.