Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics ($49.99)
For 90s fans of Marvel, Capcom, and fighting games, Capcom's Marvel-themed fighters were a dream come true. 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 compiles these classics, plus the bonus beat 'em up, Punisher. 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 limitation is particularly frustrating with the beat 'em up, where independent saving would be preferable. However, the collection shines in other areas: extensive visual and gameplay options, a wealth of art and music, and rollback online multiplayer. The addition of NAOMI hardware emulation is noteworthy, resulting in a superb Marvel vs. Capcom 2 experience.
While not a criticism, I wish the collection included some home console versions. The PlayStation EX versions of the tag-team games offer unique differences, and the Dreamcast version of Marvel vs. Capcom 2 boasts superior solo-player extras. Including Capcom's Super NES Marvel titles, even if less celebrated, would have been a welcome addition. However, the title accurately reflects its contents: arcade classics.
Marvel and fighting game enthusiasts will find this compilation a must-have. The games are excellent, meticulously presented, and boast a comprehensive selection of extras and options. The single shared save state is a significant drawback, but overall, this is a minor flaw in an otherwise exceptional collection. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics is another triumph from Capcom, and a particularly strong addition to the Switch library.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Yars Rising ($29.99)
Initially, I was skeptical. I adore Yars’ Revenge. WayForward's Metroidvania Yars game, featuring a young hacker codenamed Yar, seemed initially incongruous. But is my skepticism justified? Partially. It's a good game; WayForward delivers solid gameplay, excellent visuals and sound, and well-designed maps. Boss battles, however, are overly lengthy, though not a deal-breaker.
WayForward admirably attempts to bridge the gap between the original single-screen shooter and this new title. Yars’ Revenge-style sequences are frequent, abilities reflect the original, and the lore is reasonably well-integrated. Despite this effort, the connection feels strained. It caters to two distinct audiences with minimal overlap, raising questions about the design choices.
Regardless of conceptual concerns, the game is undeniably enjoyable. While it may not surpass the genre's best, it provides a satisfying Metroidvania experience for a weekend playthrough. Perhaps future installments will better integrate these disparate elements.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland ($24.99)
My nostalgia for Rugrats is limited, though I recall watching it with my siblings. I knew the characters and theme song, but lacked deeper familiarity. Therefore, Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland was an unknown quantity. Comparisons to Bonk proved partially accurate, considering Tommy's physique. The game surprised me with its crisp visuals, exceeding the show's quality. Control customization was a welcome addition, and the Rugrats theme song was present. Reptar coins, puzzles, and enemies provided familiar platforming elements.
Tommy's initial damage prompted a character swap to Chuckie, revealing a high-arcing jump reminiscent of Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA). Phil's low jump and Lil's floating ability confirmed this inspiration. Enemy tossing and block stacking further solidified this connection. The game features non-linear stages with verticality, sand-digging sections, and enjoyable boss battles. The option to toggle between modern and 8-bit visuals and soundtracks is a nice touch.
The game's homages to other platformers are evident, but its core gameplay is strongly reminiscent of Super Mario Bros. 2. The Rugrats license is effectively utilized, though voice acting in cutscenes would have been a welcome enhancement. While short and simple, it's a worthwhile experience for platformer and Rugrats fans alike. The multiplayer option is a bonus.
Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland exceeded expectations. It's a high-quality platformer in the style of the Western Super Mario Bros. 2, with additional elements to differentiate it. The Rugrats theme is well-integrated. While brevity is a minor drawback, it's a fun and creative title.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
