Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics ($49.99)
For 90s fans of Marvel, Capcom, and fighting games, Capcom's Marvel-based fighters were a dream. From the excellent X-Men: Children of the Atom, the series consistently improved, expanding to the wider Marvel universe with Marvel Super Heroes, culminating in the iconic Marvel vs. Capcom and the phenomenal Marvel vs. Capcom 2. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics encompasses this era, adding Capcom's Punisher beat 'em up as a bonus. A truly fantastic collection of classic titles.
This compilation shares similarities with the Capcom Fighting Collection, including a single shared save state across all seven games. This is inconvenient, especially with the inclusion of the Punisher beat 'em up, requiring independent save points. However, other aspects are excellent: visual filters, gameplay customization options, extensive art galleries, a music player, and rollback online multiplayer. Notably, this collection introduces NAOMI hardware emulation, resulting in a superb Marvel vs. Capcom 2 experience.
While not a criticism, the omission of home console versions is notable. The PlayStation EX versions of the tag-team games offer unique features, and the Dreamcast Marvel vs. Capcom 2 boasts additional content. The absence of Capcom's Super NES Marvel titles is also a minor disappointment. However, the collection's title accurately reflects its arcade-focused content.
Marvel and fighting game enthusiasts will appreciate this exceptional collection. The games are outstanding, meticulously preserved, and complemented by a robust set of extras and options. The single shared save state is a significant drawback, but otherwise, this is a nearly flawless compilation. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics is a must-have for Switch owners.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Yars Rising ($29.99)
Initial skepticism regarding this Metroidvania-style Yars' Revenge was understandable. The concept of a young hacker, code-named Yar, in a Metroidvania setting felt incongruous with the original. However, WayForward delivers a solid game with excellent visuals, sound, gameplay, and level design. Boss battles, while lengthy, don't detract significantly.
WayForward successfully integrates elements of the original Yars' Revenge, incorporating similar gameplay sequences and abilities within the expanded lore. The connection to the original, while ambitious, feels somewhat strained. The game seems to cater to two distinct audiences with limited overlap, raising questions about its overall design choices.
Despite conceptual concerns, Yars Rising is an enjoyable Metroidvania experience. While not genre-defining, it provides a satisfying weekend gaming experience. Future installments could potentially solidify the connection to the original.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland ($24.99)
Lacking significant nostalgia for Rugrats, expectations for Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland were modest. The game's crisp visuals and customizable controls were immediately impressive. The inclusion of Reptar coins, puzzles, and enemies established a familiar platformer structure.
The game's unique mechanic of character-switching, with each character possessing distinct jump heights and abilities (similar to Super Mario Bros. 2), is a standout feature. The inclusion of elements like sand-digging and object manipulation further enhances the gameplay. The game offers both modern and retro 8-bit visual and audio styles, adding replayability.
While inspired by Super Mario Bros. 2, Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland maintains its own identity. The boss battles are engaging, and the multiplayer mode adds extra value. The only drawbacks are its brevity and the lack of voice acting in cutscenes.
Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland surpasses expectations. It's a high-quality platformer with a unique character-based mechanic, effectively utilizing the Rugrats license. Despite its short length, it's a worthwhile experience for platformer and Rugrats fans alike.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
