Hello fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Roundup for September 3rd, 2024! Today's article features several game reviews, including in-depth analyses of Castlevania Dominus Collection and Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn, plus quick takes on some new Pinball FX DLC. We'll then explore the day's new releases, highlighting the unique Bakeru, and wrap things up with the latest sales and expiring deals. Let's dive in!
Reviews & Mini-Views
Castlevania Dominus Collection ($24.99)
Konami's recent track record with classic game collections has been exceptional, and the Castlevania franchise has benefited greatly. Castlevania Dominus Collection, the third in the series for modern platforms, focuses on the Nintendo DS trilogy, expertly handled by M2. This might be the most comprehensive Castlevania collection to date, offering more than initially apparent.
The Nintendo DS Castlevania games represent a significant, albeit mixed, period for the franchise. Positively, the trilogy boasts unique identities, creating a surprisingly diverse set. Dawn of Sorrow, a direct sequel to Aria of Sorrow, initially suffered from clunky touchscreen controls, thankfully mitigated in this release. Portrait of Ruin cleverly incorporates touchscreen elements into a bonus mode, focusing on its innovative dual-character mechanic. Order of Ecclesia deviates significantly, featuring increased difficulty and a design reminiscent of Simon's Quest. All are excellent games; highly recommended.
However, this trilogy marked the end of Koji Igarashi's era of exploration-focused Castlevania games. While the games' distinct styles might reflect Igarashi's creative exploration, they also possibly represent attempts to revitalize a potentially waning audience's interest. Looking back, many felt fatigued by the formula, and even with my personal enjoyment of the games, I felt the series was stagnating.
Interestingly, these aren't emulated but are native ports, allowing M2 to enhance the experience. Annoying touchscreen controls in Dawn of Sorrow are replaced with button presses, and the interface displays the main screen, status screen, and map simultaneously. While retaining some DS characteristics, the games are fully playable with a controller, significantly improving Dawn of Sorrow, which now ranks among my top five Castlevania titles.
The collection is packed with options and extras. Region selection, button remapping, and controller customization are included, along with a charming credits sequence and a gallery featuring art, manuals, and box art. A music player allows custom playlist creation, and each game includes a comprehensive compendium. While additional screen layout options would be a welcome addition, this is a superb way to experience three fantastic games at an incredible price.
But the surprises don't end there! The notoriously difficult arcade title, Haunted Castle, is included. While its omission from the first collection was puzzling, it's now present, complete with the much-needed option of unlimited continues. Despite its brutal difficulty, it boasts excellent music and a stylish opening sequence. However, the real gem is the inclusion of a complete remake, Haunted Castle Revisited. M2 has essentially created a superior version of the original, maintaining its spirit while significantly improving gameplay. This is a new Castlevania game, and a good one!
Castlevania Dominus Collection is a must-have for Castlevania fans. It includes a fantastic new game and a meticulously presented trilogy. Even the original Haunted Castle is included. If you're not a Castlevania fan, well, we can't be friends. And if you're new to Castlevania, get all three collections and prepare for a great time! This is another stellar collaboration between Konami and M2.
SwitchArcade Score: 5/5
Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn ($19.99)
My experience with Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn has been a mixed bag. While I've generally enjoyed Tengo Project's previous releases, this remake presented some challenges. The team's limited involvement with the original 8-bit game, and my personal reservations about the original's quality, initially made me hesitant.
However, after a preview at Tokyo Game Show and subsequent playthroughs, my opinion has softened. Compared to Tengo Project's other remakes, Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn is less polished. Improvements include enhanced presentation and a refined weapon/item system. While no new characters are introduced, existing ones are better differentiated. It's undoubtedly superior to the original, while capturing its essence. Fans of the original will adore this.
For those who, like me, found the original merely decent, this remake won't dramatically alter your perception. Simultaneous access to the chain and sword is a welcome improvement, as is the new inventory system. The presentation is excellent, masking its 8-bit origins. However, the game features some frustrating difficulty spikes, resulting in a more challenging experience than the original. It's the best Shadow of the Ninja available, but it's still Shadow of the Ninja.
Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn is another solid Tengo Project effort, representing a significant improvement over its predecessor. Its appeal depends heavily on your opinion of the original. Newcomers will find an enjoyable but not essential action game, retaining an 8-bit aesthetic.
SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5
Pinball FX – The Princess Bride Pinball ($5.49)
A couple of quick reviews for the newly updated Pinball FX, now properly playable on Switch, along with two new DLC tables: The Princess Bride Pinball and Goat Simulator Pinball. The Princess Bride Pinball expertly utilizes voice clips and video from the film, setting a new standard for licensed tables. Mechanically sound, authentic to the source material, and rewarding to play.
Zen Studios hasn't always succeeded with licensed tables, often lacking music, voice acting, and likeness. The Princess Bride Pinball excels in these areas, appealing to both newcomers and veterans. While not overly innovative, its familiar design choices enhance the experience.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Pinball FX – Goat Simulator Pinball ($5.49)
Goat Simulator Pinball embraces its source material's absurdity. Unique and unconventional, it's a game only possible in a video game format. Goat-related antics and ball effects add to the chaotic fun. Initially bewildering, it becomes rewarding with persistence. More suited to experienced pinball players, Goat Simulator fans might find it challenging initially.
Zen Studios delivers another solid DLC entry, showcasing their willingness to experiment. While tricky to master, it offers truly wacky moments. Goat Simulator fans willing to invest the time will be rewarded, but it requires more effort than other tables.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Select New Releases
Bakeru ($39.99)
As detailed in yesterday's review, this charming 3D platformer from Good-Feel is a delightful experience. Play as Bakeru, a tanuki saving Japan from an evil overlord. Battle enemies, uncover Japan trivia, collect souvenirs, and enjoy the humor. While the Switch version's framerate is inconsistent, it's still a fun game.
Holyhunt ($4.99)
A top-down arena twin-stick shooter, described as an 8-bit homage, though it doesn't quite fit the retro mold. Shoot, dash, acquire new weapons, and defeat bosses. Looks entertaining.
Shashingo: Learn Japanese with Photography ($20.00)
While not typically reviewed here, this language-learning title stands out. Take photos, learn Japanese vocabulary. While pricey, it might be a suitable learning method for some.
Sales
(North American eShop, US Prices)
Today's sales include OrangePixel's selection of excellent games, a rare discount on Alien Hominid, and a discounted Ufouria 2. THQ and Team 17 titles are also on sale. Browse both lists for more details.
Select New Sales
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Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 4th
(List of sales)
That's all for today! Join us tomorrow for more new releases, sales, and potentially more reviews. The abundance of great games continues, so keep an eye on your wallets! Enjoy the games, and thanks for reading!
