Hello fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Roundup for September 4th, 2024! Summer's heatwave is finally behind us, leaving behind memories of both sweltering days and delightful moments. I'm feeling a bit wiser after the season, and I'm thankful to have shared it with you all – you're the best gaming buddies anyone could ask for! Today's article is packed with game reviews, new releases, and some tempting sales. Let's dive in!

Reviews & Mini-Views

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection ($39.99)

The Nintendo Switch has given us a second chance at many classic games, and now it's the turn of the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection. This compilation includes Miles Edgeworth's two adventures following Trials & Tribulations. This series excels at weaving together plot threads, and the sequel significantly enhances the original. It's fantastic to finally have it officially translated into English.

These Investigations games offer a prosecutor's perspective. Gameplay remains largely similar: finding clues, questioning witnesses, and solving cases. However, the unique presentation and Edgeworth's character add a distinct flavor. While the pacing can sometimes feel less structured than other Ace Attorney titles, fans of the main series will undoubtedly appreciate this spin-off. If the first game feels a bit slow, persevere – the sequel is much improved and adds context to the first game's events.

Bonus features are generous, comparable to the Apollo Justice set. A gallery showcases art and music, a story mode allows for relaxed playthroughs, and players can choose between original and updated visuals/soundtracks. A helpful dialogue history is also included.

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection presents a compelling contrast between its two games. The official localization of the second game is a major win, and the extra features make this a superb package. With this release, nearly every Ace Attorney title (excluding the Professor Layton crossover) is now available on Switch. If you’ve enjoyed other entries, this is a must-have.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Gimmick! 2 ($24.99)

A sequel to Gimmick! is a surprising yet welcome development. Originally released only in Scandinavia, this NES title now gets a worldwide sequel developed by Bitwave Games. While not created by the original team, it remains incredibly faithful to the original, perhaps even too much so for some.

Six lengthy and challenging physics-based platforming levels await. The difficulty is high, but an easier mode is now available. Yumetaro's star attack functions as a weapon, vehicle, and puzzle-solving tool. Collectibles add replay value, unlocking customization options.

The game's length is moderate, but the difficulty remains high. Frequent checkpoints mitigate frustration. The charming visuals and lively music help to balance the challenge. Gimmick! 2 successfully builds upon its predecessor while maintaining its own identity. Fans of the original will be delighted, and challenging platforming enthusiasts should definitely check it out. However, those seeking a relaxed experience should be warned – it's as tough as the original, even with the easier setting.

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, though performance on the Switch can sometimes be hampered by the console's limitations. Despite this, the intense action, soundtrack, and visuals remain enjoyable.

The weapon system adds depth. The main gun's energy depletes, requiring use of the melee weapon to recharge. A third rotating weapon adds further strategic options. Mastering the weapon management and dash maneuver is key to survival.

While different from its predecessor, Valfaris: Mecha Therion maintains a similar atmosphere. It's a stylish, heavy metal-infused shoot 'em up that avoids many genre clichés. While other platforms offer better performance, the Switch version is still a satisfying experience.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash ($44.99)

Licensed games often cater primarily to fans. Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash delivers ample fan service, excelling in its presentation of the source material's world, characters, and writing. Numerous unlockables will keep dedicated fans engaged.

However, for non-fans, the game offers limited appeal. The handful of mini-games feel shallow and repetitive, lacking long-term engagement. Even for fans, the emphasis on fan service might overshadow the overall gameplay experience.

Despite its strong presentation and unlockables, Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash feels unbalanced. While visually appealing and faithful to the source material, its limited gameplay will likely disappoint those unfamiliar with the franchise and even some fans.

SwitchArcade Score: 3/5

Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection ($9.99)

Sunsoft is known for titles like Blaster Master, but this collection showcases a lesser-known side of the publisher: charming 8-bit games popular in Japan. Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection includes three such games, all fully localized in English for the first time. The package includes save states, rewind, display options, and art galleries.

The games themselves offer a varied experience. Firework Thrower Kantaro’s 53 Stations of the Tokaido is charming but frustrating. Ripple Island is a solid adventure game, and The Wing of Madoola is ambitious but uneven. While not top-tier NES titles, they offer unique charm and historical significance.

Fans of Sunsoft and retro gaming will appreciate this collection. The careful handling of these obscure titles and their full localization make this a worthwhile purchase. Hopefully, this is just the beginning of more such releases.

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, featuring solo and local multiplayer options. Fans of the genre will likely enjoy this.

Billy’s Game Show ($7.99)

A game where players explore and hide from a pursuing entity, managing generators and avoiding traps. Thematically similar to Five Nights at Freddy's, but with different gameplay mechanics.

Mining Mechs ($4.99)

A straightforward mech mining game where players explore, collect resources, upgrade mechs, and progress through a story.

Sales

(North American eShop, US Prices)

This week's sales are somewhat sparse, but the upcoming sales list contains some interesting titles.

Select New Sales

Several games on sale until September 10th or 15th

Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 5th

Many games on sale until September 5th

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