Hello, readers! Welcome to the SwitchArcade Round-Up for September 2nd, 2024. While it might be a holiday in the US, it's business as usual here in Japan. That means a fresh batch of game reviews for you, kicking off our week in the best way possible. I'll be sharing my thoughts on Bakeru, Star Wars: Bounty Hunter, and Mika and the Witch’s Mountain, while Mikhail offers his expert perspective on Peglin. We'll also have some news from Mikhail, and a huge list of deals from Nintendo's Blockbuster Sale. Let's dive in!
News
Guilty Gear Strive Arrives on Nintendo Switch in January 2025
Arc System Works is bringing the fighting action of Guilty Gear Strive to the Nintendo Switch on January 23rd! The Switch version will include 28 characters and boasts rollback netcode for online play. While cross-platform play isn't included, it should still provide a great offline and Switch-to-Switch online experience. Having enjoyed the game immensely on Steam Deck and PS5, I'm eager to check out the Switch version. For more details, visit the official website.
Reviews & Mini-Views
Bakeru ($39.99)
Let's be clear: Bakeru isn't Goemon/Mystical Ninja. While developed by some of the same team, the similarities are largely superficial. Expecting Goemon will only shortchange both Bakeru and your enjoyment. Bakeru is its own unique experience. Good-Feel, the studio behind Bakeru, has a knack for creating charming, accessible, and polished platformers, and Bakeru fits that mold perfectly.
The game unfolds in a whimsical Japan, where a young adventurer named Issun teams up with a shape-shifting tanuki named Bakeru. Together, they'll traverse Japan, battling foes, collecting coins, interacting with unexpected characters, and uncovering hidden secrets. With over sixty levels, the adventure is quite lengthy, offering a consistently engaging, if not always memorable, experience. I particularly enjoyed the collectibles, often reflecting the unique aspects of each location, offering little-known facts about Japan.
The boss battles are a standout element. Good-Feel understands the importance of creative and rewarding boss encounters, and Bakeru delivers. The game takes some creative risks within its 3D platforming structure, with varying degrees of success, but the overall effect is undeniably enjoyable. I found myself charmed by the game despite its minor flaws. It's intensely likable.
The only significant drawback is the Switch version's performance. The framerate fluctuates, occasionally reaching 60fps but often dropping significantly during intense moments. While I'm not overly sensitive to framerate inconsistencies, it's worth noting for those who are. Despite improvements since the Japanese release, performance issues remain.
Bakeru is a delightful 3D platformer with polished gameplay and inventive elements. Its charm is infectious. While framerate issues prevent it from reaching its full potential on Switch, and those expecting a Goemon clone will be disappointed, it's still a highly recommended title.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Star Wars: Bounty Hunter ($19.99)
The prequel trilogy era saw a surge in Star Wars merchandise, including a surprising number of video games. While the films themselves were divisive, they undeniably expanded the franchise's narrative possibilities. This game focuses on Jango Fett, Boba Fett's father, filling in his backstory.
The game follows Jango as he undertakes various bounty hunting missions, ultimately leading to his fateful encounter with Count Dooku. Players will utilize a variety of weapons and gadgets, including the iconic jetpack, to complete missions and take on optional targets. While initially engaging, the repetitive gameplay and dated mechanics (a common issue for early 2000s games) become apparent over time. Issues with targeting, cover mechanics, and level design were present even upon its initial release.
Aspyr's remaster improves the visuals and performance, but the core gameplay remains largely unchanged. The save system is still problematic, requiring restarts from lengthy stages. However, the inclusion of a Boba Fett skin is a nice touch. If you're inclined to play this game, this version is the best option.
Star Wars: Bounty Hunter holds a certain nostalgic appeal, capturing the essence of early 2000s gaming. This version is recommended for those seeking a retro experience, but those expecting modern polish might find it lacking.
SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5
Mika and the Witch’s Mountain ($19.99)
Following the negative reception of several Nausicaa video games, Hayao Miyazaki's influence on Ghibli's video game output is apparent. Mika and the Witch’s Mountain clearly draws inspiration from Ghibli's aesthetic.
Players take on the role of a young witch who must repair her broken broom and undertake delivery jobs to earn money. The vibrant world and charming characters are highlights. However, the Switch version suffers from occasional performance issues, including resolution and framerate drops. The game likely performs better on more powerful hardware. Those who can overlook technical shortcomings will likely enjoy the core gameplay.
Mika and the Witch’s Mountain is a charming game with a dedicated core mechanic that can become repetitive. Performance issues detract from the experience on Switch. If the premise appeals to you, you'll likely enjoy the game.
SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5
Peglin ($19.99)
This pachinko roguelike has been highly anticipated. The Switch version marks the game's 1.0 release, incorporating significant updates and improvements. The core gameplay involves aiming an orb at pegs on the board to damage enemies and progress through zones.
The game offers strategic depth, requiring players to utilize critical and bomb pegs effectively. The learning curve is steep, but the gameplay loop becomes addictive once mastered. The Switch port performs well, although aiming feels less smooth than on other platforms. Touch controls are a viable alternative. Load times are longer than on mobile and Steam.
The Switch version includes a built-in achievement system, a welcome addition given the lack of system-wide achievements on the platform. The absence of cross-save functionality is a missed opportunity.
Despite minor issues with load times and aiming, Peglin is a fantastic addition to the Switch library. The developers' inclusion of rumble, touchscreen, and button controls enhances the experience.
Peglin is highly recommended for fans of pachinko and roguelike games. - Mikhail Madnani
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Sales
(North American eShop, US Prices)
A massive list of sales is underway! I've compiled a separate article highlighting some of the best deals. Check it out for more details!
(Images of sales are included here, exactly as in the original input)
That's all for today! We'll return tomorrow with more reviews, new releases, sales, and news. Have a great Monday!
