Ace Attorney Investigations Collection, New Games & Deals Hit Switch

Hello fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Round-Up for September 4th, 2024! Summer's warmth has faded, leaving behind memories both scorching and sweet. I'm feeling a bit wiser after this past season, and I'm thankful for sharing it with you all. As autumn arrives, I want to express my gratitude for your fantastic company – you're the best gaming buddies anyone could ask for! Today's article is packed with reviews, new releases, and sales. Let's dive in!

Reviews & Mini-Views

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection ($39.99)

The Nintendo Switch era has gifted us with second chances at many missed classics. Trials of Mana, Live A Live, the original Fire Emblem, and now, the final unlocalized Ace Attorney title arrives with the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection. This set includes Miles Edgeworth's two adventures following Trials & Tribulations. The sequel masterfully builds upon previous storylines, enhancing the original game in retrospect. Finally having it in English is fantastic!

The Ace Attorney Investigations games offer a prosecutor's perspective. Gameplay remains largely familiar: gather clues, interrogate witnesses, and solve cases. However, the unique presentation and Edgeworth's personality add a fresh feel. The pacing differs from the main series, occasionally leading to lengthy cases, but fans of the main games will appreciate this spin-off. If the first game feels slow, persevere – the second is significantly better and provides context to the first.

Bonus features are generous, similar to the Apollo Justice collection. A gallery showcases art and music; a story mode allows for passive enjoyment; and players can choose between original and updated graphics/soundtracks. A helpful dialogue history feature is also included.

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection offers a compelling contrast between its two games. The official localization of the sequel is a triumph, and the extra features create a superb package. With this release, every Ace Attorney game (excluding the Professor Layton crossover) is now available on Switch. If you've enjoyed the other titles, this is a must-have.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Gimmick! 2 ($24.99)

A sequel to Gimmick! is truly unexpected! Sunsoft's late NES title, previously unreleased in most of the West, now has a follow-up. Developed by Bitwave Games, it faithfully recreates the original's feel, perhaps too closely for some. However, this dedication is commendable.

Six extensive levels of challenging physics-based platforming await. Similar to the original, difficulty ramps up quickly. An easier mode is thankfully included. The protagonist's star attack remains central to gameplay, functioning as weapon, vehicle, and puzzle solver. Collectibles, offering customization options, reward completion of harder sections.

The game's length is moderate, but the challenge remains high. Frequent deaths are inevitable, but generous checkpoints mitigate frustration. Charming visuals and music further ease the difficulty. Gimmick! 2 retains the original's demanding nature, requiring platforming skill and strategic use of the star and enemies.

Gimmick! 2 is a surprisingly excellent sequel, successfully building upon its predecessor without losing its own identity. Fans of the original will be thrilled, and challenging platformer enthusiasts should also check it out. However, those seeking a relaxed experience should be warned – it's as tough as its predecessor, despite 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 akin to Lords of Thunder. Surprisingly, it works well, although the Switch's hardware sometimes struggles. This isn't a major flaw; the intense action, soundtrack, and visuals remain enjoyable.

The weapon system is cleverly designed. The main gun weakens when depleted, requiring use of the melee weapon to recharge it. A rotating third weapon adds further strategic depth. The dash maneuver serves both offensively and defensively. Mastering this interplay is crucial and rewarding.

While different from the original, Valfaris: Mecha Therion maintains a similar atmosphere. It's a stylish heavy metal shoot 'em up that avoids genre clichés. Performance is better on other platforms, but the Switch version is still enjoyable.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash ($44.99)

Licensed games are often targeted at fans. Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash delivers ample fan service, excelling in capturing the series' look, feel, and world. The writing is well-done, and meta-systems reward dedicated players.

However, the game lacks appeal for non-fans. The limited number of repetitive mini-games and a story only fans will fully appreciate make it a less engaging experience for those unfamiliar with the franchise. Even for fans, the emphasis on fan service might not justify the price.

Despite its strong presentation and unlockables, Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash feels unbalanced. While it successfully captures the essence of the Umamusume universe, its limited gameplay quickly becomes repetitive. Unless you're a dedicated fan, this game might not be worth the investment.

SwitchArcade Score: 3/5

Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection ($9.99)

Sunsoft is known in the West for titles like Blaster Master and Batman. However, its Japanese library contains lesser-known 8-bit gems. Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection showcases three such titles in a single, affordable package.

The collection includes Firework Thrower Kantaro’s 53 Stations of the Tokaido, Ripple Island, and The Wing of Madoola. All three games feature save states, rewind, display options, and art galleries. Remarkably, all games are fully localized, a first for these titles.

The games offer varied experiences. 53 Stations is challenging due to its weapon mechanics, but charming in its thematic execution. Ripple Island is a solid adventure game. The Wing of Madoola is ambitious but inconsistent. While not top-tier NES games, they're far from bad.

Sunsoft fans and retro game enthusiasts will appreciate Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection. The careful handling of these games and their long-awaited English localization make this collection worthwhile. Hopefully, this is the first of many such releases.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Select New Releases

Cyborg Force ($9.95)

A challenging run-and-gun game in the style of Metal Slug and Contra, offering both solo and local multiplayer options. It's been available on other platforms, so reviews are readily available. Fans of the genre should find it enjoyable.

Billy’s Game Show ($7.99)

While superficially resembling a Five Nights at Freddy's clone, this game focuses on exploration and evasion. Players must hide from a pursuer, manage generators, and avoid traps. Not for everyone, but it might appeal to a specific audience.

Mining Mechs ($4.99)

A straightforward mech mining game. Players extract ores, sell them, and upgrade their mechs to progress deeper underground. The deeper you go, the greater the challenges. A simple but potentially enjoyable experience for its price.

Sales

(North American eShop, US Prices)

The sales inbox is relatively sparse this week. However, the outbox offers some interesting deals. I encourage you to explore the lists independently.

Select New Sales

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Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 5th

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That's all for today! More reviews are coming this week, and plenty of new eShop releases are expected in the next few days. Check back tomorrow, or visit my blog, Post Game Content, for updates. Have a great Wednesday, and thanks for reading!