Arcade Treasures Unearthed: New Releases Spark Nostalgia

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 compilation shares similarities with the Capcom Fighting Collection, including its unfortunately limited single save state across all seven games. This is especially frustrating with the inclusion of a beat 'em up, requiring independent save points. However, the collection boasts numerous positive features: customizable visual filters, gameplay options, extensive art galleries, a music player, and rollback online multiplayer. A notable addition is the NAOMI hardware emulation, resulting in excellent performance and visuals, particularly for Marvel vs. Capcom 2.

While not a criticism, the absence of home console versions is noteworthy. The PlayStation EX versions of the tag-team games offer unique differences, and the Dreamcast version of Marvel vs. Capcom 2 includes fun extras. The omission of Capcom's Super NES Marvel titles, despite their imperfections, would have been a welcome addition. However, the title accurately reflects its content, focusing solely on arcade classics.

Marvel and fighting game enthusiasts will appreciate this superb collection. The games are exceptional, meticulously preserved, and complemented by a strong selection of extras and options. The single shared save state is a significant drawback, but otherwise, this compilation is a must-have, providing a great gaming experience on the Switch.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Yars Rising ($29.99)

Initial skepticism regarding this Metroidvania-style Yars' Revenge was understandable. The concept of a young hacker, code-named Yar, in a Metroidvania setting felt jarring compared to the original 2600 classic. However, WayForward delivers a solid game with excellent visuals, sound, gameplay, and level design. Boss battles, a common WayForward weakness, are slightly drawn out but not game-breaking.

WayForward successfully integrates elements of the original Yars' Revenge, incorporating similar gameplay sequences and abilities within the expanded lore. While the connection to the original feels somewhat tenuous, Atari's attempts to revitalize its classic library are commendable. The game's design, however, appears to cater to two distinct audiences with limited overlap, raising questions about its overall direction.

Despite conceptual concerns, Yars Rising is enjoyable. While not genre-defining, it provides a satisfying Metroidvania experience for a weekend playthrough. Future iterations could potentially solidify the connection between the original and this new interpretation.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland ($24.99)

Lacking strong personal nostalgia for Rugrats, expectations for Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland were low. The game's crisp visuals and initially awkward controls (easily adjustable) were immediately noticeable. The familiar Rugrats theme song and Reptar coin collectibles added to the authentic feel. The core gameplay is a solid platformer with exploration elements.

The game's unique twist lies in its homage to Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA). Character-specific abilities, such as high jumps (Chuckie), low jumps (Phil), and floating (Lil), directly mirror the original game's mechanics. Enemies can be picked up and thrown, and puzzles involve stacking blocks, reminiscent of the classic title. The game also features sand-digging mechanics, perfectly suited to Phil's character.

The game offers both modern and 8-bit visual and audio styles, each with its own charm. A visual filter is also available. The boss battles are engaging and well-designed. The only drawbacks are the game's brevity and simplicity.

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland surpasses expectations, offering a high-quality platformer inspired by Super Mario Bros. 2. The Rugrats license is effectively integrated, though voice acting in cutscenes would have been a welcome addition. While short and straightforward, it's a worthwhile experience for platformer and Rugrats fans alike. The inclusion of multiplayer enhances the overall appeal.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5