Hello discerning readers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Roundup for September 3rd, 2024. Today's edition features several game reviews: in-depth analyses of Castlevania Dominus Collection and Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn, along with concise critiques of two recently released Pinball FX DLC tables. Following the reviews, we'll explore the day's new releases, including the unique and captivating Bakeru, and conclude with a look at the latest sales and expiring discounts. Let's dive in!
Reviews & Mini-Views
Castlevania Dominus Collection ($24.99)
Konami's recent track record with classic game collections has been outstanding, and the Castlevania franchise has benefited immensely. Castlevania Dominus Collection, the third in the series for modern platforms, focuses on the Nintendo DS trilogy. Developed by M2, this collection delivers exceptional quality, offering more than initially apparent and potentially becoming the most essential Castlevania compilation to date.
The Nintendo DS Castlevania titles hold a unique place in franchise history, marked by both strengths and weaknesses. Positively, each game possesses a distinct identity, resulting in a surprisingly diverse collection. Dawn of Sorrow, a direct sequel to Aria of Sorrow, is enhanced in this release by improved controls that mitigate the original's cumbersome touchscreen elements. Portrait of Ruin cleverly relegates touchscreen mechanics to a bonus mode, focusing instead on its engaging dual-character gameplay. Order of Ecclesia stands apart with its significantly increased difficulty and design reminiscent of Simon's Quest. All three are excellent games, and highly recommended.
However, this trilogy also marked the end of Koji Igarashi's era of exploratory Castlevania games, an era that began with the revitalizing Symphony of the Night. While these games are individually strong, there's a question of whether their differences stemmed from Igarashi's creative exploration or a desperate search for a winning formula amidst a waning audience interest. Regardless, many players felt a sense of fatigue with this style of Castlevania at the time.
Interestingly, these aren't emulated versions but native ports, enabling M2 to implement improvements like replacing Dawn of Sorrow's touchscreen controls with more intuitive button presses. The presentation cleverly displays the main screen, status screen, and map simultaneously. While some DS elements remain, the games are fully playable with a controller, significantly improving Dawn of Sorrow and solidifying its place among the top Castlevania titles for many.
The collection boasts an extensive array of options and extras. Players can select game regions, customize button mappings, and choose between using the left stick for movement or cursor control. A charming credits sequence showcases the unsung heroes of the series. A comprehensive gallery features artwork, manual scans, and box art. A music player allows for custom playlist creation. In-game options include save states, rewind, customizable control schemes, screen layouts, background colors, and audio adjustments. Finally, a detailed compendium for each game provides information on equipment, enemies, items, and more. The only minor drawback is the limited screen arrangement options. The collection offers exceptional value and a superb way to experience these classic games.
But there's more! The notoriously difficult arcade game, Haunted Castle, is included. While its absence from the first collection was puzzling, it's now present with options such as unlimited continues, a necessity given the game's brutal difficulty. Despite its flaws, it boasts excellent music and a memorable opening sequence.
The final extra, a complete remake of Haunted Castle titled Haunted Castle Revisited, is a substantial addition. Similar to M2's Castlevania: The Adventure Rebirth, this remake retains the spirit of the original while significantly improving upon its gameplay. This is essentially a new Castlevania game, and a very good one at that.
Castlevania Dominus Collection is a must-have for Castlevania fans. It includes a fantastic new game alongside the three excellent Nintendo DS titles, all presented impeccably. The inclusion of the original Haunted Castle is a bonus. If you're unfamiliar with Castlevania, this collection, along with the others, is a great starting point. Konami and M2 have once again delivered a stellar product.
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 enjoyed Tengo Project's previous releases, this remake presented some unique challenges. The team's limited involvement with the original 8-bit game, and my personal less enthusiastic view of the original, made me initially hesitant.
However, after playing a preview at Tokyo Game Show and now having completed the game, my opinion is more nuanced. Compared to their other work, Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn feels less polished. Nevertheless, the improvements are significant, including enhanced visuals and a refined weapon and item system. While no new characters are introduced, the existing characters are better differentiated. It's undeniably superior to the original while retaining its core essence. Fans of the original will adore this remake.
For those who found the original merely decent, this remake won't dramatically alter that perception. The simultaneous access to both the chain and sword is a notable improvement, and the sword is more useful than in the original. The new inventory system adds welcome depth. The presentation is excellent, masking its 8-bit origins. However, the game features some challenging difficulty spikes, making it arguably harder than the original. Its shorter length might necessitate this increased difficulty. It's the best version of Shadow of the Ninja, but it's still Shadow of the Ninja.
Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn is another solid effort from Tengo Project, representing a substantial upgrade over its predecessor. Its appeal hinges on one's appreciation for the original game. Newcomers will find it an enjoyable but not essential action game, retaining a classic 8-bit feel.
SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5
Pinball FX – The Princess Bride Pinball ($5.49)
These brief Pinball FX DLC reviews celebrate the game's significant update, finally making it a truly enjoyable experience on the Switch. Two new tables were released: The Princess Bride Pinball and Goat Simulator Pinball. The Princess Bride Pinball uses actual voice clips and video clips from the film. Mechanically, it feels like a well-designed table, relatively easy to learn, faithful to the license, and satisfying to play.
Zen Studios doesn't always succeed with licensed tables, often omitting music, voices, and likenesses. The Princess Bride Pinball is a notable exception, offering a fun experience for both newcomers and veterans. While not the most innovative, its familiar design choices enhance its appeal.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Pinball FX – Goat Simulator Pinball ($5.49)
Goat Simulator Pinball fully embraces its license, resulting in a bizarre and unique table. Its playful chaos and goat-related antics are only possible in a video game. While initially confusing, persistence is rewarded with humorous moments. This table is more challenging and better suited for veteran pinball players. Goat Simulator fans without pinball experience might find it initially difficult.
Goat Simulator Pinball is another strong DLC offering from Zen Studios, showcasing their ability to create unconventional and entertaining tables. Its complexity requires dedication, but the rewards are worth the effort.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Select New Releases
Bakeru ($39.99)
As mentioned in yesterday's review, this charming 3D platformer from Good-Feel is a delightful experience. Playing as Bakeru, a tanuki on a mission to save Japan, players will battle enemies, discover hidden trivia, collect souvenirs, and enjoy humorous moments. However, the inconsistent framerate on the Switch might deter some players.
Holyhunt ($4.99)
This top-down arena twin-stick shooter is described as an 8-bit homage, though it doesn't strongly resemble games from that era. It offers simple yet engaging gameplay: shoot, dash, acquire new weapons, and defeat bosses.
Shashingo: Learn Japanese with Photography ($20.00)
While typically not reviewed here, this language-learning game stands out due to its creative approach. Players learn Japanese vocabulary by taking pictures of objects. Its value proposition might vary depending on individual learning styles.
Sales
(North American eShop, US Prices)
Today's sales include OrangePixel's selection of excellent pick-up-and-play titles, with Alien Hominid enjoying a rare discount, and Ufouria 2 also available at a reduced price. THQ and Team 17 titles are ending their sales. Explore both lists for further details.
Select New Sales
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Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 4th
(List of sales)
That's all for today. We'll return tomorrow with more new releases, sales, and possibly news and reviews. Enjoy the abundance of great games available! Have a wonderful Tuesday!
