Home News SwitchArcade Round-Up: Reviews Featuring ‘Bakeru’ & ‘Peglin’, Plus Highlights From Nintendo’s Blockbuster Sale

SwitchArcade Round-Up: Reviews Featuring ‘Bakeru’ & ‘Peglin’, Plus Highlights From Nintendo’s Blockbuster Sale

Author : Evelyn Update : Jan 07,2025

Dive into the SwitchArcade Roundup for September 2nd, 2024! While the US celebrates a holiday, Japan's Monday brings a fresh batch of game reviews – three by your humble narrator, and one from Mikhail. We'll explore Bakeru, Star Wars: Bounty Hunter, and Mika and the Witch's Mountain, plus Mikhail's insightful look at Peglin. We'll also cover some breaking news and a massive selection of deals from Nintendo's Blockbuster Sale. Let's get started!

News

Guilty Gear Strive Arrives on Nintendo Switch in January 2025

Arc System Works is bringing the fighting game sensation, Guilty Gear Strive, to the Nintendo Switch on January 23rd, 2025! Expect 28 characters and rollback netcode for smooth online play (though sadly, no cross-play). Perfect for offline battles and Switch-to-Switch action. Having enjoyed it on Steam Deck and PS5, I'm eagerly anticipating the Switch version. Visit the official website for more details.

Reviews & Mini-Views

Bakeru ($39.99)

While developed by some Goemon/Mystical Ninja veterans, Bakeru is its own unique experience. Don't expect a Goemon clone; Bakeru forges its own path. From Good-Feel, known for charming platformers in the Wario, Yoshi, and Kirby universes, Bakeru delivers a cute, polished, and easy-going adventure.

Follow Issun and the shape-shifting tanuki, Bakeru, as they traverse Japan, battling foes, collecting cash, and uncovering secrets across sixty levels. The collectibles are particularly engaging, offering interesting snippets of Japanese culture.

The boss battles are a highlight, showcasing Good-Feel's knack for creative and rewarding encounters. The game takes creative risks, some more successful than others, but the overall experience remains enjoyable. Despite its flaws, Bakeru's charm is undeniable.

The Switch version, however, suffers from inconsistent framerates, dipping noticeably during intense action. While not a deal-breaker for all, those sensitive to framerate issues should be aware.

Bakeru is a delightful 3D platformer with a polished design and engaging gameplay. Its charm is infectious, though framerate problems on Switch hold it back slightly. Highly recommended, especially for those seeking a fun, lighthearted adventure.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Star Wars: Bounty Hunter ($19.99)

A product of the prequel trilogy era, Star Wars: Bounty Hunter tells the story of Jango Fett, Boba Fett's father. Experience Jango's adventures as he hunts down a Dark Jedi for Count Dooku, picking up extra bounties along the way.

The gameplay involves taking on levels with specific targets, utilizing various weapons and gadgets, including the iconic jetpack. While initially engaging, the repetitive gameplay and dated mechanics (common for 2002 games) can become tiresome.

Aspyr's remaster improves visuals and performance, and the controls are better than the original. However, the frustrating save system remains unchanged. Unlocking a Boba Fett skin is a nice bonus.

Star Wars: Bounty Hunter holds a nostalgic charm for fans of early 2000s gaming. While rough around the edges, its earnest action might appeal to those seeking a retro gaming experience. Otherwise, the dated mechanics might be a deterrent.

SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5

Mika and the Witch’s Mountain ($19.99)

Inspired by Ghibli films, Mika and the Witch's Mountain casts you as a rookie witch tasked with delivering packages around town to earn money for broom repairs. The vibrant world and charming characters are highlights.

The core gameplay loop of package delivery is fun, but can become repetitive. Performance issues on the Switch, impacting resolution and framerate, detract from the experience. A more powerful platform might offer a smoother experience.

If you enjoy the concept, you'll likely appreciate Mika and the Witch's Mountain. However, be prepared for some technical shortcomings on the Switch.

SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5

Peglin ($19.99)

Mikhail reviews Peglin, a pachinko roguelike, now in its 1.0 version on Switch, Steam, and mobile. The game involves aiming an orb at pegs to damage enemies and progress through zones. It's challenging but rewarding, with upgrades, events, and boss battles.

The Switch port performs well, though aiming feels less smooth than on other platforms. Touch controls are a viable alternative. Load times are longer than on mobile.

Despite some minor issues, Peglin shines on Switch thanks to good rumble, full touchscreen support, and button controls. The addition of internal achievements is a welcome feature. Cross-save functionality between platforms would be a great addition.