Hello discerning readers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Roundup for September 2nd, 2024. While it appears to be a holiday in the US, it's business as usual here in Japan – Monday, to be precise. This means a bounty of gaming goodness awaits, beginning with our customary week-opening review extravaganza. Three penned by yours truly, and one insightful contribution from our esteemed colleague, Mikhail. I'll be examining Bakeru, Star Wars: Bounty Hunter, and Mika and the Witch’s Mountain. Mikhail, ever the expert, once again delves into the intricacies of Peglin. Beyond the reviews, Mikhail offers some noteworthy news, and we'll also explore the vast offerings of Nintendo's Blockbuster Sale. Let's dive in!
News
Guilty Gear Strive Arrives on Nintendo Switch in January 2025
Arc System Works has delivered! Guilty Gear Strive is coming to the Nintendo Switch on January 23rd, boasting 28 characters and crucial rollback netcode for seamless online battles. While cross-play is unfortunately absent, the prospect of offline play and engaging with fellow Switch owners is certainly appealing. Having thoroughly enjoyed the game on Steam Deck and PS5, I eagerly anticipate this iteration. For more details, visit the official website.
Reviews & Mini-Views
Bakeru ($39.99)
Let's clarify from the outset: Bakeru is not Goemon/Mystical Ninja. While developed by some of the same talented individuals behind that beloved series, the similarities are largely superficial. Bakeru is its own unique entity. Approaching it with Goemon expectations is a disservice to both the game and your own enjoyment. Bakeru stands on its own merits.
Bakeru, brought to us by Good-Feel (creators of Princess Peach: Showtime! and known for their work on Wario, Yoshi, and Kirby titles), is a charming, accessible, and polished 3D platformer. The story unfolds in Japan, where a young protagonist, Issun, enlists the help of a shape-shifting tanuki named Bakeru to combat emerging threats. Players will traverse various prefectures, battling enemies, collecting currency, interacting with unexpected characters, and uncovering hidden secrets. The over sixty levels, while not all instantly memorable, provide a consistently engaging experience. The game's collectibles, often reflecting the unique characteristics of each location, are particularly noteworthy, offering intriguing insights into Japanese culture.
The boss battles are a highlight, reminiscent of Good-Feel's knack for creating memorable encounters. These creative showpieces reward skillful play. Bakeru takes creative risks within its 3D platforming framework, with some experiments proving more successful than others. However, the successes are genuinely satisfying, and the less successful attempts are easily forgiven. Despite its flaws, Bakeru possesses an undeniable charm that makes it intensely likeable.
One drawback is the inconsistent frame rate on the Switch, an issue Mikhail touched upon in his Steam version review. While the frame rate occasionally reaches 60fps, it frequently dips during intense moments. Personally, I'm not overly sensitive to frame rate inconsistencies, but those who are should be aware of this persistent issue, despite improvements since the Japanese release.
Bakeru is a delightful 3D platformer with a polished design and inventive gameplay elements. Its commitment to its unique style is infectious. While frame rate issues prevent it from reaching its full potential on Switch, and those expecting a Goemon clone will be disappointed, Bakeru is a highly recommended title for a fun-filled adventure.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Star Wars: Bounty Hunter ($19.99)
The prequel trilogy era spawned a wave of Star Wars merchandise, including a surprising number of video games. While the films themselves were divisive, they undeniably expanded the narrative possibilities of the Star Wars universe. This game focuses on Jango Fett, Boba Fett's father, and his adventures before his untimely demise in Attack of the Clones.
The game follows Jango Fett as he undertakes various bounty hunting missions, ultimately leading to his involvement with Count Dooku. Players utilize a variety of weapons and gadgets, including the iconic jetpack, to complete objectives. While initially engaging, the repetitive gameplay and dated mechanics (typical of early 2000s games) become apparent. Targeting is problematic, cover mechanics are less than ideal, and level design, while aiming for openness, feels cramped and poorly guided. Even at its release, it was a mediocre game at best.
Aspyr's remaster improves visuals and performance, and the control scheme is significantly better. However, the archaic save system remains, potentially leading to frustrating restarts. The inclusion of a Boba Fett skin is a nice touch. If you're inclined to experience this game, this version is the superior choice.
Star Wars: Bounty Hunter possesses a certain nostalgic charm, reflecting the distinct characteristics of early 2000s gaming. It's recommended primarily for those seeking a nostalgic trip back to that era. Otherwise, its dated mechanics might prove too cumbersome.
SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5
Mika and the Witch’s Mountain ($19.99)
Following the less-than-stellar video game adaptations of Nausicaa, Hayao Miyazaki's influence is evident in the absence of subsequent Ghibli-based games. Mika and the Witch’s Mountain, developed by Chibig and Nukefist, draws clear inspiration from the Ghibli aesthetic.
Players assume the role of a young witch who, after a mishap, must earn money by delivering packages to repair her broken broom. The vibrant world and charming characters enhance the experience. However, the Switch's performance struggles are noticeable, impacting resolution and frame rate. The game would likely benefit from more powerful hardware. Despite this, players tolerant of technical imperfections will likely enjoy the core gameplay loop.
Mika and the Witch’s Mountain openly embraces its Ghibli-inspired design. Its core mechanic, while enjoyable, can become repetitive. Performance issues on the Switch are a notable drawback. Overall, if the concept appeals, the game delivers a satisfactory experience.
SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5
Peglin ($19.99)
Approximately a year ago, I reviewed Peglin's early access version on iOS. Now, in its 1.0 release across multiple platforms, including the Switch, it's a more complete and refined experience. This pachinko roguelike is a compelling title for a specific type of gamer.
The objective is to strategically aim an orb to hit specific pegs, damaging enemies and progressing through zones. The gameplay involves careful aiming to utilize critical pegs and bombs, with a mechanic to refresh the board. While initially complex, the mechanics become intuitive, and the game's soundtrack is highly memorable.
The Switch port performs well, though aiming feels less smooth than on other platforms. Touch controls mitigate this. Load times are longer than on mobile and Steam. The lack of Switch achievements is offset by the game's internal achievement system. Cross-save functionality across platforms is absent, but this is understandable for a smaller developer.
Despite some minor balance issues, Peglin is a must-have on Switch for fans of the pachinko roguelike genre. The developers have effectively utilized the Switch's features, offering rumble, touchscreen, and button controls.
-Mikhail Madnani
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Sales
(North American eShop, US Prices)
A massive selection of games are on sale! A separate article detailing the best deals is forthcoming.
(A selection of sales is listed here, but the full list is too extensive to include completely.)
That concludes today's roundup. Join us tomorrow for more reviews, new releases, sales updates, and potentially more news. Until then, happy gaming!
