🎮 Marvel vs. Capcom Revival, Yars Ascends, Rugrats Play!

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

For 90s fans of Marvel, Capcom, and fighting games, Capcom's Marvel-based fighters 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 spectacular 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 games.

This compilation shares similarities with the Capcom Fighting Collection, including a single shared save state across all seven games. While inconvenient for fighting games, it's particularly frustrating with the beat 'em up, hindering independent progress saving. However, other aspects are excellent: visual filters, gameplay options, extensive art galleries, a music player, and rollback online multiplayer. The collection notably features NAOMI hardware emulation, resulting in a superb Marvel vs. Capcom 2 experience.

While not a criticism, the absence of home console versions is noteworthy. The PlayStation EX versions of the tag-team games offer unique elements, and the Dreamcast Marvel vs. Capcom 2 boasts additional features appealing to solo players. Including Capcom's Super NES Marvel titles, despite their imperfections, would have enhanced the collection. However, the title accurately reflects its content: Arcade Classics.

Marvel and fighting game enthusiasts will appreciate this exceptional collection. The games are outstanding, meticulously preserved, and complemented by a robust selection of extras and options. The single shared 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 hacker, code-named Yar, in a Yars' Revenge Metroidvania felt incongruous. However, WayForward delivers a solid game. The visuals and audio are impressive, gameplay is smooth, and level design is competent. While WayForward's tendency towards lengthy boss battles is present, it doesn't detract significantly.

WayForward cleverly integrates elements from the original Yars' Revenge. Regular Yars' Revenge-style sequences, abilities reminiscent of the original, and a surprisingly well-integrated lore connection are commendable. The connection to the original feels somewhat strained, but Atari's attempts to revitalize its classic library are understandable. The game seems to cater to two largely disparate audiences, which might not have been the optimal approach.

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

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland ($24.99)

Lacking significant Rugrats nostalgia, expectations for Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland were moderate. The game's crisp visuals and customizable controls were immediately apparent. The Rugrats theme song and Reptar coin collectibles were familiar touchstones. The core gameplay is a platformer with exploration, a tried and tested formula.

The game's unique aspect is its inspiration from Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA). Character-specific abilities, such as Chuckie's high jump, Phil's low jump, and Lil's floating ability, mirror the original. Enemy manipulation and puzzle elements further enhance the similarity. The game also includes optional 8-bit visuals and soundtracks.

While referencing other platformers, the core gameplay is heavily inspired by Super Mario Bros. 2. The boss battles are engaging. The only drawbacks are its brevity and simplicity. The absence of voice acting in cutscenes is also a minor disappointment.

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland surpasses expectations. It's a high-quality platformer reminiscent of Super Mario Bros. 2, enhanced by additional features. The Rugrats license is effectively utilized. While short and simple, it's enjoyable for platformer and Rugrats fans alike. The inclusion of multiplayer is a welcome addition.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5