Hello discerning readers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Roundup for September 3rd, 2024. Today's feature includes several game reviews: in-depth analyses of Castlevania Dominus Collection and Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn, plus concise critiques of two recent Pinball FX DLC tables. Following the reviews, we'll explore the day's new releases, highlighting the unique and appealing 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 exceptional, and the Castlevania franchise has benefited greatly. Castlevania Dominus Collection, the third such compilation for modern platforms, focuses on the Nintendo DS trilogy. Developed by M2, it delivers the usual high quality, but this collection surpasses expectations, potentially becoming the most essential Castlevania compilation to date.
The Nintendo DS Castlevania games hold a unique place in franchise history. Each game boasts a distinct identity, resulting in a surprisingly diverse trio. Dawn of Sorrow, a direct sequel to Aria of Sorrow, initially suffered from clumsy touchscreen controls, thankfully mitigated in this release. Portrait of Ruin relegates touchscreen elements to a bonus mode, instead utilizing an intriguing dual-character mechanic. Order of Ecclesia significantly deviates, featuring increased difficulty and a design reminiscent of Simon's Quest. All three are excellent games.
This collection marks the culmination of Koji Igarashi's exploratory Castlevania era, an era that began with the revitalizing Symphony of the Night. While these games are excellent, there's a question of whether their distinct styles reflect Igarashi's creative exploration or a desperate attempt to recapture audience interest before the Lords of Shadow series. Regardless, the games are undeniably good.
Interestingly, these aren't emulated but are native ports. This allowed M2 to enhance Dawn of Sorrow by replacing frustrating touchscreen controls with button presses, and to simultaneously display the main screen, status screen, and map. While some DS elements remain, the games are fully playable with a controller, significantly improving Dawn of Sorrow and elevating it to a top-five Castlevania title for many.
The collection is packed with options and extras. Players can select game regions, customize button mapping, and choose between using the left stick for movement or the touch cursor. A charming credits sequence and a comprehensive gallery featuring art, manuals, and box art are included. A music player allows for custom playlists, and each game features a detailed compendium. The only minor drawback is a limited number of screen arrangement options. This is a fantastic way to experience three exceptional games at an incredible price.
But the surprises don't end there! The notoriously difficult arcade game, Haunted Castle, is also included. This is accompanied by numerous options, including the essential unlimited continues feature. However, the real highlight is Haunted Castle Revisited, a complete remake by M2 that transforms the original's brutal unfairness into a genuinely enjoyable experience. This is essentially a new Castlevania game, a very good one, hidden within this DS collection.
Castlevania Dominus Collection is a must-have for Castlevania fans. It includes a fantastic new game and superb versions of the three Nintendo DS titles. Even the inclusion of the original Haunted Castle adds to its value. If you're unfamiliar with Castlevania, this is an excellent starting point. Konami and M2 have delivered another outstanding collection.
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 of an 8-bit game presented some challenges. The original game isn't as strong as their other titles, and the team's limited involvement with the original source material raised concerns.
Initial impressions from last year's Tokyo Game Show were positive, but after completing the game, my feelings are more nuanced. Compared to Tengo Project's other work, Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn feels less polished. However, the improvements are significant, including enhanced visuals and a refined weapon/item system. The two playable characters are better differentiated, and the game is undeniably superior to the original while preserving its core essence. Fans of the original will adore this.
For those who found the original merely decent, Reborn offers a similar experience with enhancements. Simultaneous access to both the chain and sword is a welcome improvement, and the sword is more effective. The new inventory system adds depth. The presentation is excellent, masking its 8-bit origins. However, the game features some challenging difficulty spikes. It's a superior version of Shadow of the Ninja, but it remains fundamentally the same game.
Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn is another solid effort from Tengo Project, representing a significant improvement over its predecessor. Whether it's worth purchasing depends on your opinion of 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)
These brief Pinball FX DLC reviews celebrate the game's significant update. The Princess Bride Pinball incorporates voice clips and video clips from the movie, a welcome addition. The table's mechanics feel authentic and are satisfying to play. This is a well-executed licensed table, enjoyable for both newcomers and veterans.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Pinball FX – Goat Simulator Pinball ($5.49)
Goat Simulator Pinball embraces its source material's absurdity. It's a unique and challenging table, more suited to experienced pinball players. While initially confusing, it rewards persistence with humorous antics. Goat Simulator fans who can master the mechanics will find it worthwhile.
SwitchArcade Score: 4/5
Select New Releases
Bakeru ($39.99)
As mentioned in yesterday's review, this 3D platformer from Good-Feel is a charming and breezy experience. Players control a tanuki on a quest to save Japan. While the Switch version suffers from inconsistent framerate, it's still an enjoyable game.
Holyhunt ($4.99)
A top-down arena twin-stick shooter described as an 8-bit homage. It's a simple shoot-'em-up with boss battles.
Shashingo: Learn Japanese with Photography ($20.00)
A language-learning game where players take photos and learn Japanese vocabulary.
Sales
(North American eShop, US Prices)
Today's sales include OrangePixel's titles, a rare discount on Alien Hominid, and a sale on Ufouria 2. THQ and Team 17 titles are also ending their sales. Check the full lists below.
Select New Sales
(List of new sales)
(List of new sales)
Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 4th
(List of expiring sales)
That's all for today. We'll return tomorrow with more new releases, sales, and potentially news and reviews. Enjoy the abundance of great games! Have a wonderful Tuesday!
