Hello fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Roundup for September 3rd, 2024! Today's update brings you several game reviews, starting with an in-depth look at the Castlevania Dominus Collection, followed by a review of Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn, and brief critiques of two new Pinball FX DLC tables. We'll then explore the day's new releases, including the charming Bakeru, and finally, dive into the latest sales and expiring deals. Let's get started!
Reviews & Mini-Views
Castlevania Dominus Collection ($24.99)
Konami's recent track record with classic game collections has been impressive, and the Castlevania Dominus Collection continues this trend. This third installment focuses on the Nintendo DS trilogy, expertly handled by M2. It's more than just a compilation; it's arguably the most comprehensive Castlevania collection to date.
The DS era of Castlevania is significant, showcasing both strengths and weaknesses. Positively, the trilogy offers unique identities and surprising variety. Dawn of Sorrow, a direct sequel to Aria of Sorrow, initially suffered from clumsy touchscreen controls, now thankfully addressed in this release. Portrait of Ruin cleverly integrates dual characters, while Order of Ecclesia significantly raises the difficulty and harkens back to Simon's Quest. All three are solid titles.
However, this marked the end of Koji Igarashi's era of exploratory Castlevania games. While distinct, the games also reflect a possible creative fatigue or a search for a new formula. The collection surprisingly features native ports, not emulations, allowing M2 to implement improvements such as replacing Dawn of Sorrow's touchscreen elements with button controls and adding a map display alongside the main and status screens. This significantly enhances Dawn of Sorrow, elevating it to a top-tier Castlevania title for many.
The collection boasts extensive options and extras. Players can select game regions, customize button mappings, and choose control schemes. A delightful credits sequence and a gallery featuring art, manuals, and box art are included. A music player allows custom playlist creation. In-game, save states, rewind, customizable screen layouts, background color options, and audio adjustments are available. A comprehensive compendium details equipment, enemies, and items. The only minor drawback is the limited screen arrangement options.
But the surprises don't end there! The infamous arcade game, Haunted Castle, is included. This brutally difficult title is accompanied by a complete remake, Haunted Castle Revisited, by M2. This substantial remake essentially creates a new, improved Castlevania game, a hidden gem within this DS collection.
Castlevania Dominus Collection is a must-have for Castlevania fans. The inclusion of a fantastic remake and the enhanced presentation of the DS titles make it an exceptional value. If you're unfamiliar with Castlevania, this is an excellent starting point. Konami and M2 have delivered another stellar collection.
SwitchArcade Score: 5/5
Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn ($19.99)
My experience with Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn has been mixed. While Tengo Project's previous remakes have been excellent, this 8-bit update presents unique challenges. The improvements are undeniable, from enhanced visuals to a refined item system. While lacking new characters, existing characters are better differentiated. It surpasses the original, retaining its core spirit. Fans of the original will adore this.
However, if you found the original merely decent, Reborn won't significantly alter your opinion. The simultaneous access to both the chain and sword is a significant upgrade, and the sword is more useful. The new inventory system adds depth. The presentation is superb, masking its 8-bit origins. However, some difficulty spikes and overall increased challenge might be a factor.
Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn is another solid effort from Tengo Project, but its appeal depends heavily on your feelings toward the original. Newcomers will find an enjoyable but not essential action game.
SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5
Pinball FX – The Princess Bride Pinball ($5.49)
This Pinball FX DLC table, based on The Princess Bride, successfully incorporates voice clips and video clips from the film. Mechanically, it feels authentic and satisfying. While not the most innovative, its straightforward design and faithfulness to the source material make it enjoyable for both newcomers and veterans.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Pinball FX – Goat Simulator Pinball ($5.49)
Goat Simulator Pinball embraces its quirky license, resulting in a bizarre yet engaging table. Its unusual mechanics and humorous elements reward persistence. While challenging for newcomers, veteran players will appreciate its unique gameplay.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Select New Releases
Bakeru ($39.99)
A charming 3D platformer where you play as a tanuki saving Japan. Despite inconsistent framerate on Switch, its breezy gameplay and charming visuals make it enjoyable.
Holyhunt ($4.99)
A top-down twin-stick shooter reminiscent of 8-bit classics. Simple but potentially fun.
Shashingo: Learn Japanese with Photography ($20.00)
A language-learning game using photography. Its effectiveness depends on individual learning styles.
Sales
Several noteworthy sales are ongoing, including discounts on OrangePixel titles, Alien Hominid, and Ufouria 2. Check the eShop for complete details.
That's all for today! Join us tomorrow for more news, reviews, and sales. Enjoy the abundance of great games!
