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 stellar X-Men: Children of the Atom, the series consistently improved. From the expansion into the wider Marvel Universe with Marvel Super Heroes, to the groundbreaking Marvel/ Street Fighter crossovers, and the over-the-top brilliance of Marvel vs. Capcom and Marvel vs. Capcom 2, Capcom continually raised the bar. While the series continued beyond this point, Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics encompasses this formative era. As a bonus, it includes Capcom's excellent Punisher beat 'em up. A truly fantastic collection of classic games.
This compilation shares similarities with the Capcom Fighting Collection, including—unfortunately—a single shared save state across all seven games. This is frustrating, especially with the inclusion of a beat 'em up requiring independent save progress. However, other aspects are excellent: extensive visual filters and gameplay options, impressive extras (artwork and a music player), and rollback online multiplayer. A notable addition is NAOMI hardware emulation, expertly implemented, 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 differences, and the Dreamcast Marvel vs. Capcom 2 boasts enjoyable extras, making it preferable for solo home play. Including Capcom's two Super NES Marvel titles, despite their imperfections, would have been a welcome addition. The collection's title, Arcade Classics, is accurately applied.
Marvel and fighting game enthusiasts will celebrate this exceptional collection. The games are outstanding, meticulously preserved, and complemented by a robust set of extras and options. The single shared save state is a significant drawback, but otherwise, there's little to fault. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics is a must-have compilation from Capcom, particularly enjoyable on the Switch.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Yars Rising ($29.99)
Initially, I was skeptical. I adore Yars’ Revenge, a 2600 favorite. WayForward's Metroidvania Yars game, featuring a young hacker (codenamed Yar), seemed jarring. The concept felt incongruous. However, the game itself is good. WayForward delivers a polished product with appealing visuals, sound, and map design. As is typical of WayForward, boss battles are overly lengthy, but not game-breaking.
WayForward impressively bridges 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 reasonably well-integrated. The connection feels tenuous, but Atari's attempts to expand its classic library are understandable. The game seems to cater to two largely disparate audiences, which may not have been the optimal approach compared to a wholly original concept.
Despite the conceptual debate, the game is undeniably enjoyable. While it may not surpass genre titans, it's a worthwhile Metroidvania for a weekend playthrough. Perhaps future installments will solidify the connection.
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 lack deeper engagement with the franchise. Therefore, my expectations for Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland were undefined. The comparison to Bonk proved partially accurate, given Tommy's physique. The game's crisp visuals, initially awkward controls (adjustable thankfully), and Rugrats theme song were immediate observations. The gameplay is a platformer with exploration, Reptar coin collection, and simple puzzles and enemies.
The game's unique element is its homage to Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA). Each character (Tommy, Chuckie, Phil, Lil) has distinct jump mechanics mirroring the Super Mario Bros. 2 cast. Enemies can be picked up and thrown, blocks must be stacked, and sand digging is featured. The levels are slightly non-linear with significant verticality. The boss battles are engaging. The game also offers selectable modern or 8-bit visuals and soundtracks, both with merit, plus a filter option. The only drawbacks are its brevity and simplicity.
Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland exceeded expectations. It's a high-quality platformer in the style of the Western Super Mario Bros. 2, with added elements. The Rugrats license is effectively utilized, although voice acting in cutscenes would have been a welcome addition. While short, it's enjoyable for platformer and Rugrats fans.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
