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. Beginning with the superb X-Men: Children of the Atom, the series consistently improved, expanding to the wider Marvel universe with Marvel Super Heroes, then the groundbreaking Marvel/ Street Fighter crossovers, culminating in the iconic Marvel vs. Capcom and the spectacular Marvel vs. Capcom 2. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics encompasses this era, bonus points for including Capcom's excellent Punisher beat 'em up. A truly fantastic collection.
This compilation shares many features with the Capcom Fighting Collection, including, unfortunately, a single shared save state across all seven games. This is inconvenient for fighting games, but especially problematic for the beat 'em up, where independent saving would be preferable. However, the collection otherwise delivers: visual filters, gameplay options, extensive art galleries, a music player, and rollback online multiplayer. A notable addition is NAOMI hardware emulation, resulting in a superb Marvel vs. Capcom 2 experience.
While not a criticism, I wish some home console versions were included. The PlayStation EX versions of the tag-team games offer unique features, and the Dreamcast Marvel vs. Capcom 2 boasts additional content beneficial for solo players. Including Capcom's two Super NES Marvel titles, despite their imperfections, would have been a welcome addition. However, the collection accurately reflects its "Arcade Classics" title.
Marvel and fighting game enthusiasts will appreciate this outstanding collection. The games are excellent, meticulously preserved, and complemented by a comprehensive array 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)
I admit initial skepticism. I love Yars’ Revenge. WayForward's Metroidvania-style Yars game, featuring a young hacker code-named Yar, seemed an odd choice. However, the game is undeniably good. WayForward delivers solid visuals, sound, gameplay, and level design. Boss battles, typical of WayForward, are a bit lengthy, but not a major issue.
Credit to WayForward for effectively bridging the gap between the original single-screen shooter and this new iteration. Yars’ Revenge-style sequences are frequent, abilities evoke the original, and the lore is surprisingly well-integrated. It's still a significant departure, but Atari's attempts to revitalize its classics are understandable. The game feels somewhat divided between two distinct audiences with limited overlap, which might have been avoided with a wholly original concept.
Despite the conceptual debate, the game is enjoyable. It might not challenge genre leaders, but it's a satisfying Metroidvania experience for a weekend playthrough. Perhaps future installments will solidify its identity.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland ($24.99)
My nostalgia for Rugrats is limited, but I'm familiar with the characters and theme song. Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland was therefore something of an unknown. Comparisons to Bonk proved partially accurate, reflecting Tommy's physique. The game boasts crisp visuals, exceeding the show's quality. Control customization addresses initial awkwardness. The Rugrats theme song is present, along with Reptar coins, simple puzzles, and enemies. A straightforward platformer with exploration elements.
The ability to switch to other characters revealed a surprising mechanic. Chuckie's high jump, Phil's low jump, and Lil's float ability are reminiscent of Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA). Enemies are throwable, and blocks can be stacked for vertical progression. The game features non-linear levels with verticality, sand-digging mechanics, and enjoyable boss battles. The visuals and soundtrack can be switched between modern and 8-bit styles. A filter is also available.
Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland surpasses expectations. It's a high-quality platformer in the style of Super Mario Bros. 2, with additional features. The Rugrats license is well-integrated, although voice acting in cutscenes would have been a nice addition. While short and simple, it's a worthwhile experience for platformer and Rugrats fans. Multiplayer is also included.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
