Castlevania Dominus Collection Arrives on Switch!

Hello fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Roundup for September 3rd, 2024! Today's article brings you several game reviews, starting with in-depth analyses of Castlevania Dominus Collection and Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn, followed by quick takes on the latest Pinball FX DLC tables. We'll then explore the day's new releases, including the charming Bakeru, and wrap up with the latest sales and expiring deals. Let's dive in!

Reviews & Mini-Views

Castlevania Dominus Collection ($24.99)

Konami's recent track record with classic game collections has been exceptional, and the Castlevania Dominus Collection is no exception. This third installment focuses on the Nintendo DS trilogy, expertly handled by M2. This collection might just be the most comprehensive Castlevania compilation yet, offering more than initially apparent.

The Nintendo DS Castlevania games hold a unique place in the franchise's history. Each title boasts a distinct identity, resulting in a surprisingly diverse set of experiences. Dawn of Sorrow, a direct sequel to Aria of Sorrow, features improved touchscreen controls in this version. Portrait of Ruin cleverly integrates the touchscreen into a bonus mode, emphasizing its dual-character gameplay. Order of Ecclesia stands out with its increased difficulty and design reminiscent of Simon's Quest. All are excellent games, highly recommended.

These games mark the end of Koji Igarashi's era of exploratory Castlevania titles. While each game is distinct, questions linger about the intent behind this variety. Was it creative exploration, or an attempt to revitalize a potentially waning interest? Regardless, the collection presents these titles in a remarkably enhanced form.

These aren't simple emulations; they're native ports. This allows M2 to enhance gameplay, replacing frustrating touchscreen elements in Dawn of Sorrow with button controls. The addition of a map as a third screen alongside the main and status screens is a significant upgrade. While some DS elements remain, the games adapt well to controller use, significantly improving Dawn of Sorrow and placing it among the top Castlevania titles.

The collection is brimming with options and extras. Players can choose game regions, customize button mappings, and adjust control schemes. A charming credits sequence and a gallery featuring art, manuals, and box art are included. A music player with playlist creation adds another layer of enjoyment. In-game options include save states, rewind, customizable screen layouts, background color choices, and audio adjustments. A comprehensive compendium details equipment, enemies, and items. The only minor drawback is the limited screen arrangement options. This is a superb way to experience these classic games, offering incredible value for the price.

But the surprises don't end there! The notoriously difficult arcade game, Haunted Castle, is also included. This is accompanied by a complete remake, Haunted Castle Revisited. M2 has essentially created a new, improved Castlevania game, a remarkable addition to this already substantial collection.

Castlevania Dominus Collection is a must-have for Castlevania fans. It includes a fantastic new game and presents the three Nintendo DS titles in optimal form. Even the inclusion of the original Haunted Castle adds to the overall package. If you are unfamiliar with Castlevania, this is a great starting point. This collection showcases the best of Konami and M2’s collaborative efforts.

SwitchArcade Score: 5/5

Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn ($19.99)

My experience with Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn has been a mixed bag. While I've enjoyed Tengo Project's previous releases, this remake presented some unique challenges. The team's limited involvement with the original 8-bit game and my personal reservations about the original's quality made me hesitant.

However, after playing the game extensively, my opinion has softened. While less well-rounded than their other titles, the improvements are significant. The presentation is excellent, the weapon and item system is refined, and the playable characters are more distinct. It's undeniably superior to the original while retaining its essence. Fans of the original will undoubtedly love this.

For those who found the original merely decent, Reborn offers a similar experience with enhancements. The simultaneous use of the chain and sword is a major improvement, and the new inventory system adds depth. The presentation is top-notch, masking its 8-bit origins. The increased difficulty might be a point of contention for some. While it's the best version of Shadow of the Ninja, it remains fundamentally Shadow of the Ninja.

Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn is another solid effort from Tengo Project. Its appeal depends heavily on one's feelings towards the original game. Newcomers will find an enjoyable, though not essential, action game with a distinct 8-bit aesthetic.

SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5

Pinball FX – The Princess Bride Pinball ($5.49)

A quick look at the latest Pinball FX DLC, enhanced by the recent game update. The Princess Bride Pinball utilizes voice clips and video clips from the movie, setting a high bar for licensed tables. The gameplay is well-designed and feels authentic to the source material. It's a satisfying table for both newcomers and experienced players.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Pinball FX – Goat Simulator Pinball ($5.49)

Goat Simulator Pinball is a uniquely bizarre table, leveraging the absurdity of its license. While initially confusing, it becomes rewarding with persistence. This table is better suited for veteran players, as Goat Simulator fans unfamiliar with pinball might find it challenging.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Select New Releases

Bakeru ($39.99)

A charming 3D platformer from Good-Feel, featuring a tanuki on a mission to save Japan. While the framerate is inconsistent on Switch, the game's charm and gameplay make it a worthwhile experience.

Holyhunt ($4.99)

A top-down arena twin-stick shooter reminiscent of 8-bit classics. Shoot, dash, collect new weapons, and battle bosses.

Shashingo: Learn Japanese with Photography ($20.00)

A language-learning game where players take pictures and learn the Japanese names for objects.

Sales

(North American eShop, US Prices)

Several notable sales are underway, including OrangePixel titles and rare discounts on Alien Hominid. Check the full lists for more details.

Select New Sales and Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 4th (Images included as before).

That's all for today! Join us tomorrow for more new releases, sales, and potentially more reviews. Enjoy the abundance of great games!