Marvel vs. Capcom Collection & More Headline SwitchArcade Review Round-Up

Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics ($49.99)

A nostalgic trip back to the 90s for fighting game and Marvel/Capcom fans! This collection features a stellar lineup of classic arcade titles, starting with the acclaimed X-Men: Children of the Atom and culminating in the iconic Marvel vs. Capcom 2. The progression showcases the series' evolution, from its humble beginnings to its over-the-top, action-packed peak. The inclusion of Capcom's Punisher beat 'em up adds a welcome bonus.

This compilation shares a similar structure to the Capcom Fighting Collection, including visual filters, gameplay options, and a wealth of art and music. Rollback netcode ensures smooth online multiplayer. The standout improvement is the NAOMI hardware emulation, resulting in a fantastic presentation of Marvel vs. Capcom 2. However, the single shared save state across all seven games remains a frustrating limitation, particularly impacting the beat 'em up experience.

While the focus remains on the arcade versions, the absence of console releases (like the enhanced PlayStation EX versions or the feature-rich Dreamcast version of MvC2) is a missed opportunity. Similarly, the omission of Capcom's Super NES Marvel titles, despite their imperfections, feels like a slight oversight. Nevertheless, the "Arcade Classics" moniker is accurately applied here.

Overall, this collection is a must-have for fans of Marvel, Capcom, and fighting games. The games are exceptional, the presentation is polished, and the extras are plentiful. Despite the single save state drawback, Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics provides a fantastic retro gaming experience on the Switch.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Yars Rising ($29.99)

A Metroidvania take on the classic Yars' Revenge? Initially, the concept seemed jarring. However, WayForward delivers a surprisingly solid title. The game boasts impressive visuals and audio, smooth gameplay, and well-designed level layouts. While the boss battles might overstay their welcome, this doesn't significantly detract from the overall experience.

WayForward cleverly integrates elements of the original Yars' Revenge, incorporating similar gameplay sequences and abilities within the Metroidvania framework. The connection to the expanded lore, while a stretch, is a commendable attempt. However, the game feels somewhat divided between two distinct audiences with limited overlap, raising questions about its overall design choices.

Despite the conceptual debate, Yars Rising is undeniably enjoyable. It might not redefine the Metroidvania genre, but it offers a satisfying experience for a weekend gaming session. Future installments could potentially solidify the connection between the original and this new iteration.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland ($24.99)

A surprisingly creative platformer inspired by Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA)! While lacking strong personal nostalgia for the Rugrats franchise, the game's quality shines through. The visuals are crisp, exceeding expectations, and the customizable controls address potential issues. The gameplay mechanics, reminiscent of Super Mario Bros. 2, are surprisingly well-executed, featuring character-specific abilities and puzzle elements.

The game cleverly incorporates the Rugrats theme and characters, with Reptar coins and familiar elements woven into the gameplay. The inclusion of both modern and 8-bit visual styles and soundtracks adds replay value. The boss battles are engaging, and the ability to play in multiplayer mode enhances the experience. The only significant drawbacks are the slightly short length and the absence of voice acting in cutscenes.

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland is a delightful surprise, exceeding expectations with its creative gameplay and charming presentation. It's a solid platformer that effectively utilizes the Rugrats license, offering a fun and enjoyable experience for both platformer fans and Rugrats enthusiasts.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5