Hello, dear readers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Round-Up for September 4th, 2024. As the long summer fades into memory, I find myself reflecting on the hot days and cool moments we've shared. I've grown a bit older and wiser, and I'm thankful for the journey we've taken together. As we step into a new season, I want to express my gratitude for being the best summer companions one could hope for. Today, we have a packed lineup: numerous reviews, exciting new releases, and some noteworthy sales. Let's dive in!

Reviews & Mini-Views

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection ($39.99)

The Nintendo Switch has been a treasure trove for revisiting classics, and the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is no exception. This set brings us the previously unlocalized adventures of Miles Edgeworth, expanding on the rich narrative threads from earlier titles. The second game, in particular, enhances the original's story, making it a must-play for fans.

In these games, you step into the shoes of the prosecutor, navigating through investigations with familiar mechanics like clue hunting and witness questioning. While the pacing can feel less structured than the main series, the unique perspective and engaging presentation keep things fresh. The collection includes a gallery mode, a story mode, and options to switch between original and updated graphics and soundtracks. A dialog history feature is a welcome addition, ensuring you don't miss crucial details.

Overall, the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection offers a compelling experience, especially with the long-awaited localization of the second game. It's a must-have for Ace Attorney enthusiasts.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Gimmick! 2 ($24.99)

It's astonishing to see a sequel to Gimmick! after all these years. Originally a late NES title that barely saw a Western release, Gimmick! now has a faithful follow-up developed by Bitwave Games. Gimmick! 2 retains the challenging physics-based platforming of its predecessor, offering six lengthy levels that will test your skills.

An easier mode is available for those seeking a less demanding experience, but true to the original, the game remains tough. Yumetaro's star attack is back, serving multiple purposes from weapon to puzzle solver. New collectibles add depth, rewarding players for tackling tougher sections.

While not overly long, Gimmick! 2 demands platforming mastery and clever use of mechanics. Its adorable visuals and lively music soften the challenge, but don't be fooled—this game is as demanding as its forebear.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Valfaris: Mecha Therion ($19.99)

Valfaris: Mecha Therion takes a bold step away from the original's action-platforming roots, embracing a shoot 'em up style reminiscent of Lords of Thunder. Despite some performance hiccups on the Switch, the game delivers intense action, a rocking soundtrack, and eerie visuals.

The gameplay revolves around managing your weapons: a primary gun that weakens when out of energy, a melee weapon for recharging and deflecting, and a rotating third weapon. Mastering the rhythm of combat is key, making for a satisfying challenge.

While the Switch version may not be the smoothest, Valfaris: Mecha Therion captures the heavy metal vibe of its predecessor, offering a unique and engaging experience.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash ($44.99)

Licensed games often cater to fans, and Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Party Dash is no different. It excels in fan service, with solid writing and meta-systems that reward dedicated players. However, for non-fans, the game falls short, offering only a handful of repetitive mini-games.

The story unfolds through these mini-games, but without a deep connection to the Umamusume universe, the experience can feel lackluster. Even fans might find the game's focus on the wrong elements disappointing, as it lacks the depth needed for long-term engagement.

SwitchArcade Score: 3/5

Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection ($9.99)

Sunsoft's legacy in the West often centers around titles like Blaster Master and Batman, but in Japan, the company is known for its charming 8-bit games. Sunsoft is Back! Retro Game Selection brings three such titles to English-speaking audiences for the first time: Firework Thrower Kantaro’s 53 Stations of the Tokaido, Ripple Island, and The Wing of Madoola.

The collection includes essential features like save states, rewind, and an art gallery, all wrapped in fully localized packages. While the games vary in quality, they offer a unique glimpse into Sunsoft's lesser-known catalog. Fans of retro gaming and Sunsoft's history will appreciate this nostalgic journey.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Select New Releases

Cyborg Force ($9.95)

If you enjoy fast-paced action games like Metal Slug and Contra, Cyborg Force might be your next challenge. This tough run-and-gun title supports both solo and local multiplayer, offering a thrilling experience for fans of the genre.

Billy’s Game Show ($7.99)

At first glance, Billy’s Game Show might seem like a Five Nights clone, but it's more about evading a stalker while managing generators and avoiding traps. It's not for everyone, but if you enjoy tense, hide-and-seek gameplay, it could be worth a look.

Mining Mechs ($4.99)

Mining Mechs is straightforward: use mechs to mine, collect resources, and upgrade to delve deeper into increasingly dangerous territories. As you progress, the story unfolds. It's a simple yet engaging concept, especially at its budget-friendly price.

Sales

(North American eShop, US Prices)

Today's sales list is modest, but the outbox offers some enticing deals. Here are some highlights:

Select New Sales

Nora: The Wannabe Alchemist ($1.99 from $19.99 until 9/10)
Deflector ($1.99 from $22.99 until 9/10)
Sky Caravan ($1.99 from $19.99 until 9/10)
The Blind Prophet ($1.99 from $24.99 until 9/10)
They Know ($1.99 from $6.99 until 9/10)
Conjured Through Death ($4.49 from $14.99 until 9/15)
Dark Days ($1.99 from $7.99 until 9/24)
Another Bar Game ($3.89 from $5.99 until 9/24)
Cook Serve Delicious ($4.41 from $12.99 until 9/24)
Blood Will Be Spilled ($2.99 from $14.99 until 9/24)
Feudal Alloy ($3.39 from $16.99 until 9/24)

Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 5th

Adventure Bar Story ($15.99 from $19.99 until 9/5)
Akiba’s Trip: Undead & Undressed ($14.99 from $29.99 until 9/5)
Anomaly Agent ($7.49 from $14.99 until 9/5)
Avenging Spirit ($2.99 from $5.99 until 9/5)
Bug & Seek ($11.24 from $14.99 until 9/5)
Burst Hero ($5.99 from $11.99 until 9/5)
Cat Quest II ($3.74 from $14.99 until 9/5)
Corpse Party ($9.99 from $19.99 until 9/5)
Deadcraft ($5.99 from $19.99 until 9/5)
Dice Make 10! ($3.59 from $3.99 until 9/5)
Eldgear ($12.99 from $19.99 until 9/5)
Evil God Korone ($3.35 from $3.95 until 9/5)
F1 Manager 2024 ($27.99 from $34.99 until 9/5)
Fairy Elements ($8.99 from $14.99 until 9/5)

Freedom Planet 2 ($18.74 from $24.99 until 9/5)
Genso Chronicles ($9.74 from $14.99 until 9/5)
Gibbon: Beyond the Trees ($1.99 from $14.99 until 9/5)
Hide & Dance! ($2.49 from $4.99 until 9/5)
Magical Drop VI ($14.99 from $29.99 until 9/5)
Marchen Forest ($6.99 from $34.99 until 9/5)
Mom Hid My Game! ($2.49 from $4.99 until 9/5)
Mom Hid My Game! 2 ($2.49 from $4.99 until 9/5)
My Brother Ate My Pudding! ($2.49 from $4.99 until 9/5)
Port Royale 4 ($17.49 from $49.99 until 9/5)
SCHiM ($17.49 from $24.99 until 9/5)
Silent Hope ($13.99 from $39.99 until 9/5)
Super Toy Cars Offroad ($3.99 from $19.99 until 9/5)
The Sinking City ($5.99 from $49.99 until 9/5)
Untitled Goose Game ($9.99 from $19.99 until 9/5)
Wing of Darkness ($5.99 from $29.99 until 9/5)
WitchSpring R ($35.99 from $39.99 until 9/5)
Yggdra Union: WNFA ($19.99 from $24.99 until 9/5)

That wraps up today's SwitchArcade Round-Up. Stay tuned for more reviews this week, and keep an eye out for the upcoming eShop releases. Let's aim to meet again tomorrow, but if you can't find me, check out my personal blog, Post Game Content. It's been a while since I've updated it, but I feel a resurgence coming soon. Wishing you all a fantastic Wednesday, and thank you for reading!