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 over, but the fun doesn't stop. This week brings a bumper crop of reviews, fresh releases, and some tempting sales. Let's dive in!

Reviews & Mini-Views

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection ($39.99)

The Nintendo Switch continues to deliver second chances at gaming classics. Following Trials of Mana, Live A Live, and the original Fire Emblem, we now have the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection, finally bringing Miles Edgeworth's adventures to English-speaking audiences. This collection cleverly builds upon previous storylines, with the sequel enhancing the original's impact. Playing as Edgeworth offers a unique perspective from the prosecution's viewpoint, maintaining the core gameplay—investigating, questioning, and solving cases—while adding fresh mechanics and a captivating narrative. While the pacing might feel less structured than other Ace Attorney titles, fans will appreciate this sub-series' distinct charm and Edgeworth's compelling presence. The second game is significantly stronger and provides context to the first.

Bonus features rival those in the Apollo Justice collection, including an art and music gallery, a story mode for relaxed play, and the option to choose between original and updated visuals/soundtracks. A convenient dialogue history feature is a welcome addition. Overall, the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is a fantastic package, offering a compelling contrast between the two games and making every Ace Attorney title (excluding the Professor Layton crossover) available on the Switch. A must-have for series enthusiasts.

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, this faithful sequel retains the original's challenging physics-based platforming, presenting six lengthy levels of intense gameplay. While maintaining the original's difficulty, a new easier mode is included for players seeking a less demanding experience. Yumetaro's star attack remains a versatile tool for combat and puzzle-solving, and new collectibles unlock customization options.

The game's length is manageable, but the high difficulty will test your skills. Frequent checkpoints mitigate frustration, and the charming visuals and music add to the experience. Gimmick! 2 successfully captures the essence of the original while adding its own unique elements. A recommended title for fans of challenging platformers and those who appreciate a well-executed sequel.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Valfaris: Mecha Therion ($19.99)

A bold departure from the original Valfaris, Mecha Therion shifts to a shoot 'em up style reminiscent of Lords of Thunder. While the Switch's hardware might struggle at times, the game's intense action, memorable soundtrack, and creepy visuals remain engaging. The weapon system, featuring a gun, melee weapon, and rotating third weapon, creates a dynamic and satisfying gameplay loop. Mastering weapon management and dodging enemy fire is crucial.

While performance may be better on other platforms, the Switch version delivers a solid experience. Valfaris: Mecha Therion maintains the original's atmosphere while offering a fresh and enjoyable shoot 'em up experience.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash ($44.99)

A licensed game primarily aimed at fans of the Umamusume franchise. The game excels in its fan service, offering a well-written story and meta-systems that reward dedicated players. However, the limited number of repetitive mini-games might leave non-fans wanting more. While the presentation is strong, the gameplay lacks depth and replayability for those unfamiliar with the source material.

Even for fans, the game's focus on fan service might overshadow its shortcomings. The extensive unlockables could keep dedicated players engaged, but the overall experience feels rushed and lacks longevity.

SwitchArcade Score: 3/5

Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection ($9.99)

This collection showcases a lesser-known side of Sunsoft, featuring three charming 8-bit titles previously unreleased in English. The package includes Firework Thrower Kantaro’s 53 Stations of the Tokaido, Ripple Island, and The Wing of Madoola, all with full localization, save states, rewind, display options, and art galleries. The games vary in quality, with some offering more frustrating experiences than others.

Despite their imperfections, these games offer a unique glimpse into Sunsoft's Japanese library and are a must-have for fans of retro gaming and those seeking obscure titles.

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, featuring solo or local multiplayer options. Fans of the genre should find this title appealing.

Billy’s Game Show ($7.99)

A game where you must evade a stalker while maintaining power generators and avoiding traps. Not for everyone, but might appeal to fans of similar stealth-focused titles.

Mining Mechs ($4.99)

A mech-based mining game where you collect resources, upgrade your mechs, and progress through increasingly challenging underground levels. A simple but potentially enjoyable title.