Hello fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Roundup for September 2nd, 2024! While it might be a holiday in the States, it's business as usual here in Japan, meaning a fresh batch of reviews awaits. I've personally tackled Bakeru, Star Wars: Bounty Hunter, and Mika and the Witch’s Mountain, while our friend Mikhail provides his expert take on Peglin. Beyond the reviews, Mikhail shares some news, and we've got a massive rundown of deals from Nintendo's Blockbuster Sale. Let's dive in!
News
Guilty Gear Strive Arrives on Nintendo Switch in January 2025
Arc System Works is bringing the fighting action of Guilty Gear Strive to the Nintendo Switch on January 23rd! The Switch version will include 28 characters and boasts rollback netcode for online play. While cross-platform play is unfortunately absent, offline battles and online matches with other Switch players should be a treat. Having enjoyed the game on Steam Deck and PS5, I'm eager to check out the Switch version. Visit the official website for more details.
Reviews & Mini-Views
Bakeru ($39.99)
Let's be clear: Bakeru isn't Goemon/Mystical Ninja, despite sharing some surface-level similarities with the classic series. It's a distinct title, and approaching it with Goemon expectations would be unfair to both the game and yourself. Bakeru is its own entity. Developed by Good-Feel (known for their work on Wario, Yoshi, and Kirby titles), Bakeru is a charming, accessible 3D platformer.
The story follows Issun and Bakeru, a tanuki with shape-shifting abilities, as they journey across Japan, battling foes, collecting cash, and uncovering secrets. The game features over sixty levels, offering a consistently engaging, if not always memorable, experience. I particularly enjoyed the collectibles, which often reflect the unique aspects of each location, offering little insights into Japanese culture.
The boss battles are a standout element, showcasing Good-Feel's knack for creative and rewarding encounters. Bakeru takes creative risks, with some elements working better than others, but the successful ones are genuinely satisfying. Despite its flaws, the game's charm is undeniable. It's intensely likeable.
The Switch version's performance is the main drawback, with a fluctuating framerate that can dip noticeably during intense moments. While I'm not overly sensitive to inconsistent framerates, others might find it more bothersome. Despite improvements since the Japanese release, performance issues remain.
Bakeru is a delightful 3D platformer with polished gameplay and inventive elements. Its commitment to its unique style is infectious. While framerate issues detract slightly, and those expecting a Goemon clone will be disappointed, it's a highly recommended title for a fun summer's end.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Star Wars: Bounty Hunter ($19.99)
The prequel trilogy era spawned numerous Star Wars games, and Star Wars: Bounty Hunter focuses on Jango Fett, Boba Fett's father. This game details Jango's adventures before his appearance in Attack of the Clones, showcasing his skills as a bounty hunter and his role in the creation of the clone army.
The gameplay involves tackling levels with specific targets, while optional bounties add replayability. A variety of weapons and gadgets, including the jetpack, are available. While initially engaging, the repetitive gameplay and dated mechanics (typical of a 2002 game) become apparent. Targeting, cover mechanics, and level design are particularly problematic.
Aspyr's remaster improves visuals and performance, and the control scheme is enhanced. However, the frustrating save system remains unchanged. Despite its flaws, a nostalgic charm is present, making it appealing to those seeking a taste of early 2000s action games.
Star Wars: Bounty Hunter holds a certain nostalgic appeal, but its rough edges might not appeal to everyone. If you're looking for a retro action experience, this remaster is the best way to play it. Otherwise, it might be too clunky.
SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5
Mika and the Witch’s Mountain ($19.99)
Inspired by Ghibli films, Mika and the Witch’s Mountain puts you in the role of a rookie witch whose flying broom is broken. To earn money for repairs, you take on package delivery jobs, zipping around on your broom.
The gameplay is simple but enjoyable, enhanced by the vibrant world and interesting characters. However, the Switch version suffers from performance issues, with resolution and framerate dips. The game would likely benefit from more powerful hardware.
Mika and the Witch’s Mountain is a charming game with a fun core mechanic, but its repetitive nature and technical limitations might not appeal to everyone. If the concept sounds appealing, you'll likely enjoy it despite its flaws.
SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5
Peglin ($19.99)
Peglin, a pachinko-style roguelike, has reached its 1.0 release across multiple platforms, including Switch. The game involves aiming an orb at pegs to damage enemies and progress through zones. The strategy lies in utilizing critical and bomb pegs effectively.
The Switch port performs well, though aiming feels less smooth than on other platforms. Touch controls offer a solution. Load times are longer than on mobile. Despite these minor issues, the game is highly enjoyable. The addition of in-game achievements is a welcome feature.
The lack of cross-save functionality is a missed opportunity. However, the use of rumble, touchscreen, and button controls makes for a versatile experience.
Peglin is a fantastic game, especially for fans of pachinko and roguelike mechanics. The Switch version offers a solid experience despite some minor drawbacks. -Mikhail Madnani
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Sales
(North American eShop, US Prices)
Nintendo's Blockbuster Sale offers a huge selection of discounted games. I've highlighted some of the best deals below, but a more comprehensive list is available in a separate article.
Select New Sales (Images omitted for brevity, but the original image formatting is maintained)
(List of sales – too extensive to include here. The original list is preserved.)
That's all for today! Join us tomorrow for more reviews, new releases, sales, and news. Have a great Monday!
