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 let's cherish those warm memories. This week brings a bounty of game reviews, exciting new releases, and some tempting sales. Let's dive in!

Reviews & Mini-Views

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection ($39.99)

The Switch has given us second chances with many classic games, and now the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection delivers. This compilation includes Miles Edgeworth's two adventures, enriching the overall Ace Attorney storyline. The shift in perspective to the prosecution's side offers a fresh take on familiar gameplay mechanics: investigating, questioning witnesses, and solving cases. While the pacing differs from main Ace Attorney titles, fans of the series will appreciate the unique narrative and Edgeworth's compelling character. The sequel significantly enhances the first game, making it a rewarding experience overall.

Bonus features include a gallery, a story mode, and the option to choose between original and updated graphics/soundtracks. A helpful dialog history feature is also included. The collection provides a satisfying experience, and with its release, nearly every Ace Attorney game (excluding the Professor Layton crossover) is now 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 classic Gimmick!? It's surprising, yet incredibly well-executed. Developed by Bitwave Games, this faithful sequel delivers six challenging levels of physics-based platforming. While maintaining the original's difficulty, an easier mode is available for those seeking a less intense experience. Yumetaro's star attack returns as a versatile tool for combat and puzzle-solving. New collectibles offer customization options, adding replay value.

Expect a tough but rewarding experience. The charming visuals and music help offset the frustration of frequent deaths, thanks to generous checkpoints. Gimmick! 2 successfully builds upon its predecessor while establishing its own identity. A recommended title for fans of challenging platformers and those who appreciate a well-crafted sequel.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Valfaris: Mecha Therion ($19.99)

A significant departure from its predecessor, Valfaris: Mecha Therion shifts to a shoot 'em up style. While the Switch's hardware limitations slightly impact performance, the game's intense action, soundtrack, and visuals remain captivating. The weapon system, featuring a gun, melee weapon, and rotating third weapon, encourages strategic gameplay. Mastering the interplay between weapons and the dash maneuver is key to survival.

While different from the original, Mecha Therion retains the same distinct atmosphere. Despite performance limitations on Switch, it's a solid entry in the shoot 'em up genre.

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, with strong writing and meta-systems rewarding dedicated players. However, the limited number of mini-games and lack of depth may leave non-fans wanting more. The unlockable mini-game is a highlight, but the overall experience feels short-lived.

Even for fans, the emphasis on fan service over gameplay might be a drawback. While visually appealing and sonically fitting, the limited content makes it a niche title.

SwitchArcade Score: 3/5

Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection ($9.99)

This collection showcases lesser-known Sunsoft titles, offering a glimpse into the publisher's Japanese library. Featuring Firework Thrower Kantaro’s 53 Stations of the Tokaido, Ripple Island, and The Wing of Madoola, the compilation includes save states, rewind, display options, and a gallery. The full localization is a commendable feat, especially for Ripple Island.

The games themselves offer a varied experience, with some being more challenging or unconventional than others. While not groundbreaking, they provide a unique look at a different side of Sunsoft's history. A worthwhile purchase for Sunsoft fans and retro gaming enthusiasts.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Select New Releases

Cyborg Force ($9.95)

A challenging run-and-gun action game similar to Metal Slug and Contra, featuring single-player and local multiplayer modes.

Billy’s Game Show ($7.99)

A stealth-based game where you must hide from a stalker while maintaining generators.

Mining Mechs ($4.99)

A mining simulator using mechs, with progressive story elements.

Sales

Several sales are highlighted, with a focus on titles ending soon. (Specific titles and prices omitted for brevity, but the images remain.)

That's it for today! More reviews are coming this week, and many new releases are expected on the eShop. Check back tomorrow, or visit Post Game Content for updates. Have a great Wednesday!