Hello fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Roundup for September 3rd, 2024! Today's article features several game reviews, starting with in-depth analyses of Castlevania Dominus Collection and Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn. We'll also offer quick takes on a couple of recent Pinball FX DLC tables. Following the reviews, we'll explore the day's new releases, including the charming Bakeru, and wrap things up with a look at 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 impressive, and the Castlevania franchise has benefited greatly. Castlevania Dominus Collection, the third in the series on modern platforms, focuses on the Nintendo DS trilogy. M2's development expertise shines through, resulting in an excellent collection that might just be the most essential Castlevania compilation yet.
The Nintendo DS Castlevania games offer a unique and varied experience. Dawn of Sorrow, a direct sequel to Aria of Sorrow, initially suffered from cumbersome touchscreen controls, thankfully mitigated in this release. Portrait of Ruin cleverly incorporates the touchscreen into a bonus mode, highlighting its dual-character mechanic. Order of Ecclesia stands out with increased difficulty and a design reminiscent of Simon's Quest. All three are excellent games, highly recommended.
This collection marks the end of the era of exploratory Castlevania games helmed by Koji Igarashi, whose work revitalized the series with Symphony of the Night. While the distinct identities of these DS titles might reflect Igarashi's creative exploration, they could also be viewed as attempts to recapture audience interest. Interestingly, these aren't emulations but native ports, allowing M2 to enhance the gameplay experience. The improved controls, particularly in Dawn of Sorrow, significantly enhance the game, potentially placing it among the top five Castlevania titles.
The collection boasts a wealth of options and extras. Players can select game regions, customize button mapping, and adjust control schemes. A delightful credits sequence highlights the unsung heroes of the series. A comprehensive gallery features art, manuals, and box art. The superb soundtrack is accessible, allowing for custom playlist creation. In-game features include save states, rewind functionality, customizable screen layouts, background color choices, and detailed compendiums for each game. The only minor drawback is the limited screen arrangement options. The value offered is phenomenal.
But the surprises don't end there! The inclusion of the notoriously difficult arcade game, Haunted Castle, is a welcome addition. This brutally unfair title, despite its flaws, features excellent music and an impressive opening sequence. However, the real highlight is the inclusion of Haunted Castle Revisited, a complete remake by M2. This new Castlevania game, a significant addition tucked away within the collection's extras, is exceptionally well-made.
Castlevania Dominus Collection is a must-have for any Castlevania fan. The inclusion of a fantastic new game, along with the well-presented Nintendo DS titles and the original Haunted Castle, makes this an exceptional value. If you're unfamiliar with Castlevania, this is a great starting point. Another triumph from 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 enjoyed Tengo Project's previous work, this 8-bit remake presented some challenges. The improvements are significant, including enhanced visuals, a refined weapon system, and differentiated playable characters. It's undoubtedly superior to the original, capturing its essence. Fans of the original will adore this.
However, if you found the original merely decent, Reborn won't drastically alter your opinion. The simultaneous access to both the chain and sword is a welcome improvement, as is the new inventory system. The presentation is top-notch, masking its 8-bit origins. The increased difficulty, while potentially necessary given the game's length, might prove challenging. It's the best version of Shadow of the Ninja, but it remains Shadow of the Ninja.
Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn is another solid effort from Tengo Project, though perhaps less well-rounded than their previous releases. Its appeal depends heavily on your feelings towards the original. Newcomers will find it an enjoyable but not essential action game.
SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5
Pinball FX – The Princess Bride Pinball ($5.49)
Two quick reviews of the latest Pinball FX DLC, celebrating the game's improved Switch performance. The Princess Bride Pinball stands out with its authentic use of voice clips and video from the movie. Mechanically sound, it's a satisfying and enjoyable table 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 unique and chaotic table. While initially bewildering, its silly antics reward persistence. More suited for experienced pinball players, it's a challenging yet rewarding experience for Goat Simulator fans who can master its mechanics.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Select New Releases
Bakeru ($39.99)
A delightful 3D platformer from Good-Feel, featuring a tanuki on a mission to save Japan. Charming and breezy, it offers engaging gameplay, though the inconsistent framerate might be a concern for some.
Holyhunt ($4.99)
A top-down arena shooter described as an 8-bit homage. Simple yet potentially fun, it offers straightforward twin-stick shooting action.
Shashingo: Learn Japanese with Photography ($20.00)
A language-learning game where players take pictures and learn Japanese vocabulary. Its effectiveness will vary depending on individual learning styles.
Sales
(North American eShop, US Prices)
Several notable sales are ongoing, including OrangePixel's titles and a rare discount on Alien Hominid. Check out the full lists for more deals.
Select New Sales
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Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 4th
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That's all for today! Join us tomorrow for more new releases, sales, and potentially a new review. Enjoy the abundance of great games! Thanks for reading!
