Discover Captivating Content: Ace Attorney Investigations Collection Unveiled

Hello fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Roundup for September 4th, 2024! Summer's over, but the memories remain. I'm feeling refreshed and ready for autumn, and grateful for your company throughout the season. Let's dive into today's gaming news: a stack of reviews, some fresh releases, and a few tempting sales!

Reviews & Mini-Views

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection ($39.99)

The Nintendo Switch has given us second chances at many classic games, and now it's the turn of the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection. This package includes Miles Edgeworth's two adventures, finally bringing the previously unlocalized titles to English-speaking audiences. The sequel cleverly builds upon the original's plot, enhancing the overall experience.

These games offer a fresh perspective, showing the case from the prosecutor's viewpoint. While the core mechanics remain largely the same—gathering clues, questioning witnesses, solving cases—the unique presentation and Edgeworth's character bring a new dynamic. The pacing can feel less structured than other Ace Attorney titles, potentially leading to some lengthy investigations, but fans of the series will appreciate this spin-off. If the first game feels a bit slow, persevere; the second is significantly better and adds context to the first.

Bonus features are generous, including an art and music gallery, a story mode for relaxed play, and the option to switch between original and updated graphics/soundtracks. A helpful dialogue history feature is also included.

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection offers a compelling dual experience. The official localization of the second game is a major win, and the extra content makes it a must-have for Ace Attorney fans. With this release, nearly every Ace Attorney title (excluding the Professor Layton crossover) is now available on Switch.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Gimmick! 2 ($24.99)

A sequel to Gimmick! is a surprising development. Developed by Bitwave Games, this faithful follow-up to the NES classic stays true to its predecessor, perhaps even a little too much for some. Six challenging physics-based platforming levels await, offering a steep learning curve. However, a new easier mode is available for those seeking a less punishing experience.

The core gameplay remains familiar, with Yumetaro's star serving as a versatile tool for attack, traversal, and puzzle-solving. Collectibles add a new layer, unlocking customization options. While completing the game quickly is possible, the difficulty will test your platforming skills. Generous checkpoints mitigate frustration, and the charming visuals and soundtrack help maintain a positive experience.

Gimmick! 2 successfully captures the essence of its predecessor while adding some smart improvements. It's a rewarding experience for fans of the original and challenging platforming enthusiasts. However, those seeking a relaxed experience should be warned: this game is as demanding as its predecessor.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Valfaris: Mecha Therion ($19.99)

Valfaris: Mecha Therion takes a bold step, shifting from the original's action-platforming to a shoot 'em up style reminiscent of Lords of Thunder. Surprisingly, it works well, although the Switch's hardware might struggle at times. Despite potential performance issues, the intense action, soundtrack, and visuals are still enjoyable.

Weapon management is key, balancing your main gun, melee weapon, and a rotating third weapon to maintain offensive capabilities. Mastering the interplay between these weapons and the dash maneuver is crucial for survival.

While different from the first Valfaris, Mecha Therion maintains its unique atmosphere. It's a stylish, heavy metal-infused shoot 'em up that avoids common genre pitfalls. Performance will be better on other platforms, but the Switch version is still playable.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash ($44.99)

This licensed game is clearly targeted at fans of the Umamusume franchise. It delivers ample fan service, with strong writing and systems rewarding dedicated players. However, the appeal for non-fans is limited. The mini-games are repetitive, and the storyline will likely only resonate with those familiar with the source material.

Even for fans, the game's focus might feel misplaced. While the presentation is excellent, the limited gameplay might not justify the price, especially for those unfamiliar with the franchise.

SwitchArcade Score: 3/5

Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection ($9.99)

This collection showcases a lesser-known side of Sunsoft, offering three charming 8-bit games. It includes Firework Thrower Kantaro’s 53 Stations of the Tokaido, Ripple Island, and The Wing of Madoola. All three games are fully localized into English for the first time. The package includes save states, rewind, display options, and art galleries.

The games themselves vary in quality. 53 Stations can be frustrating, Ripple Island is a decent adventure game, and The Wing of Madoola is ambitious but inconsistent. None are top-tier NES titles, but they offer unique charm and historical significance.

This collection is a must-have for Sunsoft fans and those interested in exploring lesser-known retro games. The careful localization and inclusion of modern conveniences make this a valuable addition to any retro game library.

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, playable solo or with a friend in local multiplayer.

Billy’s Game Show ($7.99)

A game where you move around, hide, and manage generators while evading a creepy stalker.

Mining Mechs ($4.99)

A mining game using mechs, with progression tied to profit levels and increasing difficulty.

Sales

(North American eShop, US Prices)

A small selection of sales, with some noteworthy titles in the outbox.

Select New Sales

(List of sales)

Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 5th

(List of sales)

That's it for today! More reviews are coming this week, and expect a busy few days of new releases on the eShop. Check out my personal blog, Post Game Content, for further updates. Have a great Wednesday, and thanks for reading!