Three Retro Games Reinvigorated: SwitchArcade Reviews

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

For 90s fans of Marvel, Capcom, and fighting games, Capcom's Marvel-based fighting games were a dream. Beginning with the excellent X-Men: Children of the Atom, the series consistently improved, expanding to the wider Marvel Universe with Marvel Super Heroes, then the groundbreaking Marvel/Street Fighter crossovers, culminating in the iconic Marvel vs. Capcom and the wildly successful Marvel vs. Capcom 2. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics encompasses this era, adding Capcom's Punisher beat 'em up as a bonus. A truly fantastic collection of classic titles.

This collection shares many features with the Capcom Fighting Collection, including a single shared save state across all seven games. This is inconvenient, especially with the inclusion of Punisher, which would benefit from independent saves. However, the collection shines with its extensive options (visual filters, gameplay adjustments), extras (artwork, music player), and rollback online multiplayer. The inclusion of NAOMI hardware emulation is noteworthy, resulting in a superb Marvel vs. Capcom 2 experience.

While not a criticism, the absence of home console versions is noticeable. The PlayStation EX versions of the tag-team games offer unique features, and the Dreamcast version of Marvel vs. Capcom 2 boasts additional content. The omission of Capcom's Super NES Marvel titles, while understandable given the collection's focus, might have been a welcome addition for some. However, the title accurately reflects its content: arcade classics.

Marvel and fighting game enthusiasts will find this collection a worthwhile purchase. The games are exceptional, meticulously preserved, and complemented by a robust selection of extras and options. The single save state is a significant drawback, but otherwise, this is a near-perfect compilation. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics is a must-have for Switch owners.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Yars Rising ($29.99)

Initial skepticism regarding this Metroidvania-style Yars game was understandable. The concept of a young, bare-midriff hacker named Yar in a Yars' Revenge Metroidvania felt jarring. However, WayForward delivers a solid game with excellent visuals, sound, and level design. Boss battles, while lengthy, don't detract significantly.

WayForward cleverly integrates Yars' Revenge elements, including gameplay sequences and abilities, within the broader narrative. While the connection to the original game feels somewhat forced, it's a commendable attempt to bridge the gap between classic and modern gaming. The game arguably caters to two distinct audiences with limited overlap, raising questions about its overall design choices.

Despite conceptual concerns, Yars Rising is an enjoyable Metroidvania. It may not redefine the genre, but it provides a satisfying experience for a weekend playthrough. Future installments could potentially solidify the connection between the original and this new iteration.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland ($24.99)

Without strong personal nostalgia for Rugrats, expectations for Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland were modest. The game's crisp visuals and customizable controls were immediately impressive. The inclusion of the Rugrats theme song and Reptar coins adds to the thematic consistency. The core gameplay is a solid platformer with exploration elements.

The game's unique feature is its clear homage to Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA). Each character possesses distinct jumping abilities, mirroring the original's diverse character mechanics. The ability to pick up and throw enemies, along with the inclusion of puzzle elements involving block stacking, further reinforces this connection. The game also includes optional 8-bit visuals and soundtracks, adding replayability.

While inspired by Super Mario Bros. 2, the game maintains its own identity. The boss battles are engaging, and the inclusion of multiplayer enhances the experience. The only significant drawbacks are the game's brevity and the lack of voice acting in cutscenes.

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland surpasses expectations. It's a well-executed platformer, successfully blending Super Mario Bros. 2's mechanics with unique elements. The Rugrats license is effectively integrated. While short, it's a fun and worthwhile experience for platformer fans and Rugrats enthusiasts alike.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5