Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics ($49.99)
For 90s fans of Marvel, Capcom, and fighting games, Capcom's Marvel-based fighting games were a dream. Beginning with the excellent 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 phenomenal Marvel vs. Capcom 2. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics captures this golden age, also including Capcom's classic Punisher beat 'em up as a bonus. 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. While inconvenient for fighting games, it's particularly frustrating with the beat 'em up, where independent saves would be ideal. However, the collection excels in other areas: extensive visual and gameplay options, a wealth of bonus art and music, and rollback online multiplayer. Notably, this collection boasts new 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 version of Marvel vs. Capcom 2 boasts superior solo-player extras. Including Capcom's two Super NES Marvel titles, despite their imperfections, would have been a welcome addition. However, the title accurately reflects its content: "Arcade Classics," and unlike some other compilations, the term is used appropriately.
This collection is a must-have for Marvel and fighting game enthusiasts. The games are outstanding, meticulously preserved, and complemented by excellent extras and options. The single shared save state is a significant drawback, but otherwise, this is a near-perfect compilation. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics is another triumph from Capcom, offering a fantastic experience on the Switch.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Yars Rising ($29.99)
Initially, I was skeptical. I love Yars' Revenge. A WayForward Metroidvania Yars game featuring a young, bare-midriff hacker codenamed Yar? It seemed like a bizarre concept. But is my initial skepticism justified? Partially. It's a good game; WayForward delivers solid gameplay, attractive visuals and audio, and well-designed levels. As is typical of WayForward, boss battles are a bit drawn-out, but not overly detrimental.
WayForward admirably attempts to bridge the gap between this new game and the original single-screen shooter. Yars' Revenge-style sequences are frequent, abilities evoke the original, and the lore is surprisingly well-integrated. While the connection feels tenuous, Atari's attempts to revitalize its classic library are understandable. However, the game seems to cater to two largely disparate audiences, which might not have been the optimal approach compared to a wholly original concept.
Despite conceptual concerns, the game is undeniably enjoyable. It might not challenge the genre's best, but it provides a satisfying Metroidvania experience for a weekend's play. Perhaps future installments will better integrate the original's legacy.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland ($24.99)
My nostalgia for Rugrats is limited, despite watching it occasionally with younger siblings. I know the characters and theme song, but little else. Therefore, I approached Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland with an open mind. I'd heard comparisons to Bonk, which somewhat fits Tommy's physique.
The game immediately impressed with its crisp visuals, superior to the show's animation. The controls were initially awkward but adjustable. The Rugrats theme song is present, Reptar coins are collectible, and the gameplay involves simple puzzles and enemies. It's a platformer with exploration, a familiar formula.
Switching characters revealed a surprising homage to Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA)! Chuckie's high jump, Phil's low jump, and Lil's float ability are direct references. Enemies can be picked up and thrown, blocks can be stacked, and levels feature verticality and sand-digging mechanics, perfectly fitting Phil's character. This is a creative and fun take on a classic.
The game features homages to other platformers, but the core gameplay draws heavily from Super Mario Bros. 2. Boss battles are engaging, and the game offers selectable modern and 8-bit visuals and soundtracks. The only drawbacks are its brevity and simplicity.
Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland surpasses expectations. It's a high-quality platformer reminiscent of Super Mario Bros. 2, enhanced by additional elements. The Rugrats license is well-utilized, although voice acting in cutscenes would have been a nice addition. While short, it's a worthwhile experience for platformer and Rugrats fans.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
