Hello fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Roundup 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 at classic titles, and the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is a prime example. This collection brings Miles Edgeworth's two adventures, previously unavailable in English, to a wider audience. The sequel masterfully builds on the first game's plot, enhancing the overall experience.

Shifting the perspective to the prosecution's side offers a fresh take on the familiar gameplay. While mechanics remain largely the same – searching for clues, questioning witnesses, solving cases – the unique presentation and Edgeworth's personality add a distinct charm. The pacing can feel uneven at times, but fans of the main series will appreciate this sub-series. If the first game feels slow, persevere – the second is significantly better.

Bonus features are generous, including a gallery, a story mode, and the option to choose between original and updated graphics/soundtracks. A dialogue history feature is a welcome addition. The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection provides a compelling contrast between its two games, creating a satisfying overall experience. With this release, almost every Ace Attorney title (excluding the Professor Layton crossover) is now available on Switch. Existing fans won't want to miss this.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Gimmick! 2 ($24.99)

A sequel to Gimmick! is a surprising yet welcome addition. Developed by Bitwave Games, this faithful sequel stays true to the original's challenging physics-based platforming. Six lengthy levels await, demanding precision and skill. An easier mode is included for those seeking a less demanding experience.

The gameplay remains familiar, utilizing the protagonist's star for attacks and puzzle-solving. Collectibles offer customization options, rewarding players for tackling harder challenges. While not excessively long, the game maintains the original's difficulty, leading to frequent, albeit often humorous, deaths. Generous checkpoints mitigate frustration. The charming visuals and music help balance the intense challenge.

Gimmick! 2 is a successful sequel, cleverly building upon the original without losing its unique identity. Fans of the first game will be delighted, and challenging platformer enthusiasts should definitely check it out. However, those seeking a relaxed experience should be warned – it's as tough as its predecessor.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Valfaris: Mecha Therion ($19.99)

Valfaris: Mecha Therion takes a bold step, abandoning the original's action-platforming for a shoot 'em up style. Surprisingly, it works well, though the Switch's hardware occasionally struggles to maintain optimal performance. Despite this, the intense action, soundtrack, and visuals remain engaging.

The weapon system adds strategic depth. Managing the main gun's energy, melee attacks, and a rotating third weapon requires skillful timing and rhythm. The dash maneuver serves both offensively and defensively. Mastering this interplay is crucial and rewarding.

While different from its predecessor, Mecha Therion retains the original's atmosphere. It's a stylish, heavy metal-infused shoot 'em up that avoids common genre pitfalls. Performance may be better on other platforms, but the Switch version is still enjoyable.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash ($44.99)

Licensed games often cater to fans, and Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash is no exception. It delivers ample fan service, boasting strong writing and systems that reward dedicated players. However, its appeal to non-fans is limited.

The game includes a small selection of mini-games, with repetitive gameplay that may not hold the attention of those unfamiliar with the Umamusume franchise. Even for fans, the emphasis on fan service might overshadow the overall experience. While the presentation is strong and unlockables are plentiful, the limited content might lead to quick burnout.

Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash excels in capturing the look, feel, and world of Umamusume, potentially satisfying dedicated fans. But the limited gameplay and lack of broader appeal make it a niche title.

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 games. Firework Thrower Kantaro’s 53 Stations of the Tokaido, Ripple Island, and The Wing of Madoola are presented with modern conveniences like save states, rewind, and display options. Most impressively, all three games are fully localized into English for the first time.

The games themselves offer a varied experience. 53 Stations can be frustrating, while Ripple Island is a solid adventure game. The Wing of Madoola is the most ambitious but also the most inconsistent. None are top-tier NES titles, but they possess a unique charm.

Sunsoft fans and retro gaming enthusiasts will appreciate this collection. The careful handling of these lesser-known titles, along with their official English localization, makes this a worthwhile purchase.

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, offering both solo and local multiplayer options.

Billy’s Game Show ($7.99)

A stealth-survival game where you must evade a stalker while maintaining power and avoiding traps.

Mining Mechs ($4.99)

A mining simulation game where you use mechs to collect resources, upgrade equipment, and uncover a story.

Sales

(North American eShop, US Prices)

A small selection of sales, with some notable titles ending soon. Check the lists below for details.

Select New Sales

(List of games on sale)

Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 5th

(List of games on sale)

That's all for today! More reviews are coming this week, and plenty of new releases are expected in the coming days. Check out my personal blog, Post Game Content, for additional updates. Have a great Wednesday, and thanks for reading!