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 to the epic Marvel vs. Capcom 2, the series consistently delivered thrilling gameplay and iconic crossovers. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics brings together these classic arcade titles, culminating in the wildly popular Marvel vs. Capcom 2, and throws in Capcom's Punisher beat 'em up for good measure. A truly fantastic collection of games.
This compilation shares many features with the Capcom Fighting Collection, including visual filters and gameplay options, extensive art galleries, a music player, and rollback online multiplayer. However, it also inherits the frustrating single save state across all seven games, making it particularly inconvenient for the included beat 'em up. Despite this drawback, the NAOMI hardware emulation is expertly implemented, resulting in a superb Marvel vs. Capcom 2 experience.
While the focus is on arcade versions, I wish some home console versions had been included. The PlayStation EX versions of the tag-team fighters offer unique differences, and the Dreamcast version of Marvel vs. Capcom 2 boasts additional content. The absence of Capcom's Super NES Marvel titles is also a minor disappointment. Still, the collection lives up to its "Arcade Classics" moniker, offering a faithful representation of the original arcade experiences.
Marvel and fighting game enthusiasts will find this collection a worthwhile purchase. The games are exceptional, meticulously preserved, and complemented by a strong selection of extras and options. The single save state is a significant downside, but overall, Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics is a must-have for Switch owners, delivering a fantastic retro gaming experience.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Yars Rising ($29.99)
Initially, I was skeptical about a Metroidvania Yars' Revenge. The concept of a bare-midriff hacker code-named Yar felt jarring. However, WayForward delivers a surprisingly solid game. The visuals and sound are excellent, the gameplay is smooth, and the level design is well-executed. As is typical of WayForward, boss battles might overstay their welcome, but it's not a major issue.
WayForward cleverly integrates elements of the original Yars' Revenge, incorporating similar gameplay sequences and abilities within the Metroidvania structure. The attempt to connect this to the original is ambitious, even if it feels like a stretch. It's a game seemingly aimed at two disparate audiences, raising questions about the design choices.
Despite the conceptual challenges, Yars Rising is an enjoyable Metroidvania. While it may not redefine the genre, it offers a satisfying experience for a weekend playthrough. Perhaps future installments will better bridge the gap between the original and this new iteration.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland ($24.99)
My nostalgia for Rugrats is limited, but I appreciated the game's crisp visuals and the option to adjust controls. The music uses the familiar theme song, and the gameplay involves collecting coins, solving puzzles, and battling enemies. Initially, it seemed like a standard platformer, but a surprising twist emerged.
The ability to switch between characters revealed a hidden homage to Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA). Each character possesses unique movement abilities, mirroring the diverse gameplay of the NES classic. Enemies can be picked up and thrown, and blocks must be strategically placed to progress. The inclusion of sand-digging mechanics further enhances the homage.
The game also offers selectable 8-bit visuals and soundtracks, adding another layer of charm. The boss battles are engaging, and the multiplayer mode adds replayability. While the game is relatively short and simple, and lacks voice acting in cutscenes, it's a creative and fun platformer.
Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland is a surprisingly strong platformer, cleverly incorporating elements of Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA). The Rugrats license is well-integrated, resulting in an enjoyable experience for both platformer fans and Rugrats enthusiasts. Its brevity might be a minor drawback, but overall, it's a worthwhile game.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
