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

Hello, fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Round-Up for September 2nd, 2024! While it might be a holiday in the US, it's business as usual here in Japan. That means a fresh batch of reviews for you – three from yours truly, and one from our insightful colleague, Mikhail. I'll be tackling Bakeru, Star Wars: Bounty Hunter, and Mika and the Witch’s Mountain, while Mikhail offers his expert opinion on Peglin. We'll also have some news from Mikhail, and a colossal list of deals from Nintendo's Blockbuster Sale. Let's dive in!

News

Guilty Gear Strive Arrives on Nintendo Switch – January 2025

Arc System Works is bringing the fighting game sensation, Guilty Gear Strive, to the Nintendo Switch on January 23rd! Expect 28 characters and rollback netcode for smooth online battles. While crossplay isn't included, it's still a fantastic addition for offline play and battles with other Switch owners. Having enjoyed it immensely on Steam Deck and PS5, I'm eagerly anticipating this version. For more details, visit the official website.

Reviews & Mini-Views

Bakeru ($39.99)

Let's be clear: Bakeru is not Goemon/Mystical Ninja, despite sharing some surface-level similarities. It's a distinct creation from some of the same talented individuals. Comparing it directly to Goemon is unfair to both games. Bakeru stands on its own merits. Developed by Good-Feel (known for their work on Wario, Yoshi, and Kirby titles), Bakeru is a charming, accessible, and polished 3D platformer.

The game follows Issun and Bakeru as they traverse Japan, battling foes, collecting coins, and uncovering secrets across over sixty levels. While not all levels are equally memorable, the gameplay remains engaging. I particularly enjoyed the collectibles, which often reflect the unique aspects of each region. The game offers many fascinating insights into Japanese culture, even surprising a long-time resident like myself.

The boss battles are a highlight! Good-Feel's expertise shines through in these creative and rewarding encounters. Bakeru takes creative risks, and while some experiments are more successful than others, the overall quality is impressive. The game's endearing nature outweighs its minor flaws.

The Switch version's performance is the only significant drawback. The framerate fluctuates, occasionally reaching 60fps but often dipping lower during intense moments. While I'm not overly sensitive to framerate inconsistencies, those who are should be aware of this issue, despite improvements since the Japanese release.

Bakeru is a delightful 3D platformer with polished gameplay and inventive design elements. Its charm is infectious. While performance issues on the Switch and the lack of Goemon-like gameplay might disappoint some, it's still a highly recommended title.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Star Wars: Bounty Hunter ($19.99)

The prequel trilogy era spawned a plethora of Star Wars games, and Star Wars: Bounty Hunter focuses on Jango Fett, Boba Fett's father. This game chronicles Jango's adventures before his appearance in Attack of the Clones, detailing his rise as a bounty hunter and his involvement with Count Dooku.

The gameplay involves completing levels with specific targets, while also allowing for optional bounties. A variety of weapons and gadgets, including the iconic jetpack, are available. While initially engaging, the repetitive gameplay and dated mechanics (typical of a 2002 game) become apparent. Targeting, cover mechanics, and level design are all problematic.

Aspyr's remaster improves the visuals and performance, and the control scheme is better than the original. However, the unforgiving save system remains, potentially requiring restarts of lengthy levels. The addition of a Boba Fett skin is a nice touch.

Star Wars: Bounty Hunter possesses a nostalgic charm, reflecting the quirks of its era. If you crave a retro gaming experience with a distinct Star Wars flavor, this remaster is worth considering. Otherwise, its rough edges might prove too much.

SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5

Mika and the Witch’s Mountain ($19.99)

Inspired by Studio Ghibli films, Mika and the Witch’s Mountain casts you as a rookie witch whose flying broom is broken after a mishap. To earn money for repairs, you take on package delivery jobs, zipping around on your broom.

The core gameplay loop is simple yet effective, enhanced by the vibrant world and charming characters. However, the Switch version suffers from performance issues, impacting resolution and framerate. The game would likely run better on more powerful hardware.

While the repetitive nature of the core mechanic can become tiresome, the overall experience is enjoyable, especially for those who appreciate the game's artistic style and charming characters. If you enjoy the concept, you'll likely find this game enjoyable despite its technical limitations.

SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5

Peglin ($19.99)

Peglin, a pachinko-inspired roguelike, has reached its 1.0 release across multiple platforms, including the Nintendo Switch. The game challenges players to strategically aim an orb at pegs to damage enemies and progress through zone maps. The gameplay is challenging, particularly in the early stages.

Players can upgrade orbs, heal, and collect relics to enhance their chances of survival. The game’s strategic depth comes from mastering the use of critical and bomb pegs, as well as refreshing the board. The learning curve is steep, but the gameplay becomes addictive once mastered.

The Switch port performs well, although aiming feels less smooth than on other platforms. Touch controls offer an alternative. Load times are longer than on other platforms. The inclusion of in-game achievements is a welcome addition.

The lack of cross-save functionality is a minor drawback. Despite some minor issues, Peglin is a fantastic game for fans of the genre. The developers' use of Switch features, including rumble and touch controls, enhances the experience.

Peglin is a highly recommended title for those who enjoy the unique blend of pachinko and roguelike mechanics. The Switch version provides a solid experience, despite some minor performance issues. -Mikhail Madnani

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Sales

(North American eShop, US Prices)

Nintendo's Blockbuster Sale offers a massive selection of games on sale. A separate article will highlight the best deals. The following is a partial list of the sales:

(Note: Due to the extensive sales list, I cannot reproduce all images and game titles here. Refer to the original article for the complete list.)