Hello fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Roundup for September 3rd, 2024! Today's article features several game reviews, including in-depth analyses of Castlevania Dominus Collection and Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn, plus quick takes on some new Pinball FX DLC. We'll also cover the day's new releases, highlighting the charming Bakeru, and round things off with a look at the latest sales and expiring deals. Let's dive in!
Reviews & Mini-Reviews
Castlevania Dominus Collection ($24.99)
Konami's recent track record with classic game collections has been exceptional, and the Castlevania franchise has benefited greatly. Castlevania Dominus Collection, the third in the series for modern platforms, focuses on the Nintendo DS trilogy. Developed by M2, it delivers the usual high quality, but this collection offers more than initially apparent, possibly making it the most essential Castlevania compilation yet.
The Nintendo DS Castlevania games hold a significant place in the franchise's history, with both highs and lows. Positively, the trilogy boasts unique identities, forming a surprisingly diverse set. Dawn of Sorrow, a direct sequel to Aria of Sorrow, initially suffered from clunky touchscreen controls, thankfully mitigated in this release. Portrait of Ruin cleverly integrates touchscreen elements into a bonus mode, focusing on a dual-character mechanic. Order of Ecclesia stands apart with increased difficulty and a design reminiscent of Simon's Quest. All three are excellent games, highly recommended.
However, this trilogy marked the end of Koji Igarashi's era of exploration-focused Castlevania games. While each title had its own distinct identity, some felt the series was stagnating. Was this creative exploration or a desperate search for a winning formula? Regardless, the collection's unique approach is noteworthy. These aren't emulations, but native ports, allowing M2 to enhance gameplay. The troublesome touchscreen controls in Dawn of Sorrow are replaced with button presses, and the addition of a map alongside the main and status screens greatly improves the experience.
The collection is packed with options and extras. Players can select game regions, customize button mappings, and choose control schemes. A charming credits sequence and a gallery featuring art, manuals, and box art are included. A music player allows for custom playlist creation. In-game options include save states, rewind, customizable screen layouts, background color choices, audio adjustments, and comprehensive compendiums for each game. The only minor drawback is the limited screen arrangement options. For the price, this is an incredible value.
But the surprises don't end there! The notoriously difficult arcade game, Haunted Castle, is included. This brutal title, while possessing good music and a stylish opening, is notoriously unforgiving. However, the collection includes a complete remake, Haunted Castle Revisited. M2 has essentially created a new, enjoyable Castlevania game, a significant addition to this already impressive package.
Castlevania Dominus Collection is a must-have for Castlevania fans. It includes a fantastic new game alongside three classic DS titles, presented flawlessly. The original Haunted Castle is also included, adding to the overall value. If you're a Castlevania enthusiast, this collection is a no-brainer. If you're new to the series, this is a great starting point. Another stellar collaboration between Konami and M2.
SwitchArcade Score: 5/5
Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn ($19.99)
My experience with Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn has been a mixed bag. While I've enjoyed Tengo Project's previous releases, this remake presented some challenges. The original game wasn't as strong as their other titles, and this being an 8-bit upgrade, rather than a 16-bit one, raised concerns. My initial hesitation was somewhat alleviated after a preview at Tokyo Game Show. After completing the game multiple times, my opinion is nuanced.
Compared to Tengo Project's other work, Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn feels less polished. However, the improvements over the original are substantial, from the enhanced presentation to a refined weapon and item system. While no new characters are introduced, the existing characters are better differentiated. It's undoubtedly superior to the original while retaining its core spirit. Fans of the original will adore this remake.
However, if you found the original merely decent, this remake won't drastically change your perception. The simultaneous access to both the chain and sword is a welcome improvement, and the sword is more effective. The new inventory system adds a layer of depth. The presentation is excellent, masking its 8-bit origins. The difficulty is notably higher than the original, potentially necessary given its shorter length. It's the best version of Shadow of the Ninja, but it's still Shadow of the Ninja.
Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn is another solid effort from Tengo Project, representing a substantial improvement over the original. Its appeal depends on your feelings toward the original game. Newcomers will find an enjoyable but not essential action game.
SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5
Pinball FX – The Princess Bride Pinball ($5.49)
Two new Pinball FX DLC tables were released alongside a major update. The Princess Bride Pinball is a well-executed licensed table, featuring voice clips and video clips from the movie. The gameplay is solid, feeling like a well-designed physical pinball machine. It's relatively easy to learn, authentic to the source material, and satisfying to play. Zen Studios often misses the mark with licensed tables, but this one is a success.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Pinball FX – Goat Simulator Pinball ($5.49)
Goat Simulator Pinball embraces the absurdity of its source material. This unique table is only possible in a video game. The gameplay is quirky, involving goat-related antics and ball-modifying effects. It's more challenging than other tables, potentially more rewarding for experienced players. Goat Simulator fans will appreciate the humor, but it might be challenging for pinball novices.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Select New Releases
Bakeru ($39.99)
As mentioned in yesterday's review, this 3D platformer from Good-Feel is a charming and breezy experience. Play as Bakeru, a tanuki on a quest to save Japan. The inconsistent framerate on Switch might deter some, but overall it's an enjoyable title.
Holyhunt ($4.99)
A top-down arena twin-stick shooter described as an 8-bit homage. It's a straightforward shoot-'em-up with boss battles.
Shashingo: Learn Japanese with Photography ($20.00)
A language-learning game where players take pictures and learn Japanese vocabulary.
Sales
(North American eShop, US Prices)
Several noteworthy sales are happening, including OrangePixel's games and a rare discount on Alien Hominid. THQ and Team17 titles are also on sale. Check the full lists below.
Select New Sales
(List of Sales)
(List of Sales)
Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 4th
(List of Sales)
That's all for today! Join us tomorrow for more new releases, sales, and potentially a review. We're in the midst of a great game release season, so keep an eye on your wallets and enjoy the fun! Have a great Tuesday!
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