Hello fellow readers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Roundup for September 2nd, 2024! While it might be a holiday in the US, it's business as usual here in Japan. That means a fresh batch of game reviews for you – three from me and one from our friend Mikhail. I'll be covering Bakeru, Star Wars: Bounty Hunter, and Mika and the Witch's Mountain, while Mikhail shares his expert insights on Peglin. Plus, Mikhail has some news to share, and we've got a huge list of deals from Nintendo's Blockbuster Sale. Let's dive in!
News
Guilty Gear Strive Arrives on Nintendo Switch in January 2025
Arc System Works is bringing Guilty Gear Strive to the Nintendo Switch on January 23rd! This version will include 28 characters and boasts rollback netcode for online play. While cross-play isn't included, it should still offer a great offline experience and online battles with other Switch players. Having loved the game on Steam Deck and PS5, I'm definitely eager to try the Switch version. Check out the official website for more details.
Reviews & Mini-Views
Bakeru ($39.99)
Let's be clear: Bakeru is not Goemon/Mystical Ninja. While developed by some of the same team, the similarities are mostly superficial. Going in expecting a Goemon clone will do a disservice to both Bakeru and your expectations. Bakeru is its own unique experience. Good-Feel, the developer, has a history of creating charming, accessible platformers for Nintendo, including Princess Peach: Showtime!. And that's exactly what Bakeru is.
The game follows Issun, a young adventurer aided by a shape-shifting tanuki named Bakeru. You'll journey through Japan, battling enemies, collecting cash, engaging in quirky conversations, and uncovering hidden secrets. The over sixty levels offer a lighthearted, enjoyable experience. I particularly appreciated the collectibles, often reflecting the unique aspects of each region. Even a long-time Japan resident like myself discovered new things!
The boss battles are a highlight! Here, comparisons to Goemon (or other Good-Feel games) are more apt. The team clearly understands how to craft engaging boss encounters, and these are consistently fun and rewarding. Bakeru takes creative risks with its 3D platforming formula, and while some experiments are more successful than others, the overall effect is positive. I enjoyed the inventive battles, and the less successful ones didn't detract significantly from my overall enjoyment. The game’s charm is infectious.
The main drawback is the Switch's performance. As Mikhail mentioned in his Steam review, the framerate fluctuates, sometimes reaching 60fps but often dipping lower during intense moments. While I'm not overly sensitive to framerate inconsistencies, others might find it more bothersome. Despite improvements since the Japanese release, performance issues remain.
Bakeru is a delightful 3D platformer with polished design and innovative gameplay elements. Its charm is infectious. While framerate issues on Switch hold it back slightly, and those expecting a Goemon clone will be disappointed, it's a highly recommended title to end your summer with.
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Star Wars: Bounty Hunter ($19.99)
The prequel trilogy era saw a surge of Star Wars games, and Star Wars: Bounty Hunter is a product of that time. It tells the story of Jango Fett, Boba Fett's father, before his appearance in Attack of the Clones. The game casts you as Jango, tasked with hunting a Dark Jedi for Count Dooku, with opportunities to take on additional bounties along the way.
The gameplay involves tackling levels with specific targets, while optional targets add replayability. You have access to a variety of weapons and gadgets, including the iconic jetpack. While initially engaging, the repetitive gameplay and technical limitations (common for 2002 games) become apparent. Targeting is clunky, cover mechanics are flawed, and level design often feels cramped. Even at its release, it was a middling game at best.
Aspyr's port improves the visuals and performance, but the core gameplay remains unchanged. The save system is still unforgiving, requiring restarts from the beginning of lengthy levels if you fail. However, the addition of a Boba Fett skin is a nice touch. If you're going to play this game, this updated version is the best option.
Star Wars: Bounty Hunter holds a certain nostalgic charm, reflecting the rough-edged style of early 2000s games. Its appeal lies mainly in that nostalgic factor. If you're craving a time-travel experience to 2002, this janky yet earnest action game might be for you. Otherwise, it might be too much "Jank-o Fett."
SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5
Mika and the Witch's Mountain ($19.99)
This game clearly draws inspiration from Studio Ghibli films. You play as a rookie witch whose flying broom is broken after a tumble down a mountain. To repair it, you'll take on package delivery jobs in a nearby town. The gameplay involves zipping around on your broom, delivering items, and completing side quests. The vibrant world and charming characters are strong points.
Unfortunately, the Switch struggles with the game's performance at times, impacting resolution and framerate. It likely runs better on more powerful hardware. However, those who can overlook some technical flaws will likely enjoy the experience.
Mika and the Witch's Mountain embraces its Ghibli-inspired aesthetic and core gameplay loop. However, the repetitive nature of the delivery mechanic can become tiresome, and performance issues on Switch detract from the experience. If the concept appeals to you, you'll probably find it enjoyable despite its flaws.
SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5
Peglin ($19.99)
Peglin, a pachinko-inspired roguelike, is a game I previously reviewed in early access. Now in its 1.0 version, it has seen significant improvements. The core gameplay involves aiming an orb at pegs to damage enemies and progress through zone maps. The game features events, bosses, shops, and challenging battles.
As you advance, you can upgrade orbs, heal, and collect relics. Strategic peg targeting is crucial for utilizing critical or bomb pegs. The game’s complexity initially seems daunting, but it becomes intuitive with time.
The Switch port performs well, though aiming feels less smooth than on other platforms. Touch controls mitigate this issue. Load times are longer than on mobile and Steam. While not disastrous, it's worth considering if you own multiple platforms. The addition of internal achievements (since the Switch lacks system-wide achievements) is a nice touch. Cross-save functionality would be a welcome addition in future updates.
Despite some balance issues and minor performance concerns, Peglin is a must-have for Switch owners who appreciate the blend of pachinko and roguelike mechanics. The developers' use of Switch features, including rumble, touchscreen, and button controls, is commendable.
-Mikhail Madnani
SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5
Sales
(North American eShop, US Prices)
This is just a small selection of the many games on sale. Check out a separate article for more detailed recommendations.
(Images of sales are included here, same as original)
That's it for today! We'll be back tomorrow with more reviews, new releases, sales, and news. Have a great Monday!
