SwitchArcade Round-Up: Reviews Featuring ‘Ace Attorney Investigations Collection’, Plus New Releases and Sales

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've grown a bit wiser, and I'm thankful for sharing that journey with you all. As autumn arrives, remember: you're the best gaming companions 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 has given us second chances with many classic titles. Trials of Mana, Live A Live, the original Fire Emblem, and now, the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection, finally bringing Miles Edgeworth's adventures to English speakers. The sequel masterfully builds on the first game's plot, enhancing the original experience.

Shifting to Edgeworth's perspective offers a fresh take on the prosecution's side. Gameplay remains largely familiar: searching for clues, questioning witnesses, solving cases. However, the unique presentation adds excitement, and Edgeworth's personality colors the narrative. While the pacing can feel less structured than other Ace Attorney games, fans will appreciate this sub-series. If the first game feels slow, persevere – the second is significantly better.

Bonus features are generous, including an art and music gallery, a story mode, and selectable graphics/soundtracks. A helpful dialogue history is also included.

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection offers a compelling contrast between the two games. The official localization of the second game is fantastic, and the extra features make this a must-have for Ace Attorney fans. With this release, nearly every Ace Attorney title (excluding the Professor Layton crossover) is now on Switch.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Gimmick! 2 ($24.99)

A sequel to Gimmick! is surprising, considering the original's limited Western release. Developed by Bitwave Games, this sequel remains remarkably faithful to the original, perhaps excessively so for some. Six challenging physics-based platforming levels await, demanding skill from the start. A new easier mode caters to a wider audience.

Yumetaro's star attack returns as a versatile tool for combat and puzzle-solving. Collectibles add replayability, unlocking customization options. While not excessively long, the game's difficulty is comparable to the original. Frequent checkpoints mitigate frustration. The charming visuals and music enhance the experience.

Gimmick! 2 is a surprisingly excellent sequel, cleverly building upon the original without losing its identity. Fans of the first game and challenging platformers will be delighted. However, those seeking a relaxed experience should be warned – this game is tough.

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 reminiscent of Lords of Thunder. Surprisingly, it works well, though performance on the Switch can be hampered by the system's limitations. Despite this, the intense action, soundtrack, and visuals remain enjoyable.

Weapon management is key, juggling a primary gun, a melee weapon for energy recharge, and a rotating third weapon. Mastering the rhythm of weapon usage and dodging is crucial. The game retains the original's distinctive atmosphere. While other platforms offer better performance, the Switch version delivers a satisfying experience.

Don't expect a clone of the first game, but embrace a similar aesthetic. Valfaris: Mecha Therion offers a unique shoot 'em up experience.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash ($44.99)

Licensed games often cater to existing fans. Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash delivers ample fan service, excelling in its presentation and meta-systems. However, the limited number of repetitive mini-games offer little appeal to non-fans. The story unfolds primarily for those familiar with the Umamusume universe.

Even for fans, the game's focus may feel misplaced. While the visuals, audio, and world are well-executed, the limited gameplay may lead to quick burnout.

Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash is a mixed bag. While visually appealing and packed with fan service, its limited gameplay restricts its appeal.

SwitchArcade Score: 3/5

Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection ($9.99)

Sunsoft is known for titles like Blaster Master and Batman, but this collection showcases lesser-known 8-bit Japanese games. Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection includes Firework Thrower Kantaro’s 53 Stations of the Tokaido, Ripple Island, and The Wing of Madoola. All three games are fully localized, a remarkable achievement.

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

This collection is a treasure trove for Sunsoft fans and retro gaming enthusiasts. The careful handling and localization make this a worthwhile purchase.

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 single-player and local multiplayer options.

Billy’s Game Show ($7.99)

A stealth-based game where you must evade a stalker while maintaining power generators.

Mining Mechs ($4.99)

A mech-based mining game where you collect resources, upgrade your mechs, and progress deeper underground.

Sales

(North American eShop, US Prices)

A brief overview of sales, highlighting notable titles. Please refer to the provided images for a complete list.

Select New Sales

Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 5th

That concludes today's round-up! More reviews are coming this week, along with new eShop releases. Check out my blog, Post Game Content, for additional updates. Have a great Wednesday, and thanks for reading!