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 thoughts on the Castlevania Dominus Collection, followed by a look at Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn, and brief critiques of two recent 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 discounts. Let's dive in!

Reviews & Mini-Views

Castlevania Dominus Collection ($24.99)

Konami's recent track record with classic game collections has been impressive, and the Castlevania franchise has benefited greatly. Castlevania Dominus Collection, the third in the series on modern platforms, focuses on the Nintendo DS trilogy. Developed by M2, this collection boasts not only excellent emulation but also surprising additions that make it arguably the most essential Castlevania compilation yet.

The Nintendo DS Castlevania titles offer a unique and varied experience. Dawn of Sorrow, a direct sequel to Aria of Sorrow, initially suffered from awkward touchscreen controls, thankfully addressed in this release. Portrait of Ruin cleverly integrates touchscreen elements into a bonus mode, highlighting its dual-character mechanic. Order of Ecclesia stands apart with increased difficulty and a design reminiscent of Simon's Quest. All three are excellent games, highly recommended.

This collection marks the end of Koji Igarashi's era of exploration-focused Castlevania games. While each title has a distinct identity, some questioned whether this variety reflected creative exploration or attempts to revitalize a potentially waning audience interest. Regardless, the games are undeniably well-crafted.

Interestingly, these aren't simple emulations but native ports, allowing M2 to enhance the experience. The frustrating touchscreen controls in Dawn of Sorrow are replaced with button presses, and the game displays the main screen, status screen, and map simultaneously. While retaining some DS elements, the games are fully playable with a controller, significantly improving Dawn of Sorrow and elevating it to a top-tier Castlevania title for many.

The collection is packed with options and extras. Players can select game regions, remap buttons, customize control schemes (including touch cursor mapping), and enjoy a charming credits sequence. A comprehensive gallery showcases artwork, manuals, and box art. A music player allows for custom playlists, a welcome addition given the superb soundtracks.

In-game, save states, rewind functionality, customizable screen layouts, background color choices, and adjustable audio levels are available. A detailed compendium provides information on equipment, enemies, and items. While additional screen layout options might have been appreciated, this is a minor quibble. This is a fantastic way to experience these three fantastic games at an incredible price.

But the surprises don't end there! The infamous arcade title, Haunted Castle, is included. This brutally difficult game, while possessing good music and an engaging intro, is notoriously unforgiving. However, the collection also includes a complete remake, Haunted Castle Revisited, by M2. This remake retains the spirit of the original but significantly improves the gameplay, effectively delivering a new, enjoyable Castlevania experience.

Castlevania Dominus Collection is a must-have for Castlevania fans. It offers a fantastic new game alongside expertly presented classic titles. The inclusion of the original Haunted Castle, despite its flaws, adds to the overall package. If you're a Castlevania enthusiast, this collection is a no-brainer. If not, well, we might need to question our friendship. And for those unfamiliar with the series, this is the perfect starting point. Konami and M2 have once again delivered an exceptional collection.

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 generally enjoyed Tengo Project's previous releases, this remake presented some unique challenges. The team's less direct involvement with the original 8-bit game, coupled with my personal reservations about the original's quality, led to initial hesitation.

After playing the game extensively, my opinion is nuanced. Compared to Tengo Project's other remakes, Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn feels slightly less polished. However, the improvements are substantial, including enhanced visuals, a refined weapon and item system, and distinct character differentiation. It's undoubtedly superior to the original, retaining its core spirit. Fans of the original will adore this remake.

For those who found the original merely decent, Reborn likely won't drastically change your opinion. Simultaneous access to both the chain and sword is a welcome improvement, and the sword's enhanced utility is a plus. The new inventory system adds depth. The presentation is excellent, masking its 8-bit origins. However, the game features some challenging difficulty spikes, making it potentially more difficult than the original. Despite its brevity, it's the definitive Shadow of the Ninja experience.

Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn is another solid effort from Tengo Project, representing a significant upgrade over its predecessor. Whether it's worth purchasing depends heavily on your feelings towards the original. Newcomers will find it enjoyable but not essential, showcasing a classic 8-bit design sensibility.

SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5

Pinball FX – The Princess Bride Pinball ($5.49)

Let's briefly review the Pinball FX DLC, celebrating the game's significant update that enhances Switch playability. Two new tables were released: The Princess Bride Pinball and Goat Simulator Pinball. The Princess Bride Pinball incorporates voice clips and video clips from the film, a welcome inclusion. Mechanically, it's a well-designed table, authentic to the source material, and satisfying to play.

Zen Studios hasn't always succeeded with licensed tables, often lacking music, voice acting, and accurate likenesses. The Princess Bride Pinball is a notable exception, offering a fun experience for both newcomers and veterans. While not groundbreaking, its familiar design choices contribute to its charm.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Pinball FX – Goat Simulator Pinball ($5.49)

Goat Simulator Pinball embraces its source material's absurdity. This unique table, only possible in a video game, incorporates silly goat-related events and ball effects. While initially confusing, it rewards persistence with humorous antics. It's a more challenging table, better suited for veteran players. Goat Simulator fans without pinball experience may find it initially difficult.

Goat Simulator Pinball is another strong DLC offering from Zen Studios, showcasing their willingness to experiment. Its challenging gameplay is rewarded with wacky moments. Fans of the Goat Simulator series who persevere will be entertained, but mastering the table requires more effort than others.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Select New Releases

Bakeru ($39.99)

As mentioned in yesterday's review, this 3D platformer from Good-Feel is a charming and breezy experience. Play as Bakeru, a tanuki on a mission to save Japan. Battle enemies, uncover hidden trivia, collect souvenirs, and enjoy the humorous elements. The Switch version's inconsistent framerate may deter some, but it's otherwise a pleasant game.

Holyhunt ($4.99)

This top-down arena twin-stick shooter is described as an 8-bit homage, though its style might not immediately evoke that era. It's a straightforward shoot-'em-up with boss battles.

Shashingo: Learn Japanese with Photography ($20.00)

While not strictly a game, this language-learning title uses photography to teach Japanese vocabulary. Its unique approach may appeal to visual learners.

Sales

(North American eShop, US Prices)

Today's sales include OrangePixel's selection of games, a rare discount on Alien Hominid, and a sale on Ufouria 2. Several THQ and Team 17 titles are ending their sales. Explore both lists for more deals.

Select New Sales (Images omitted for brevity, but maintain original image structure)

Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 4th (Images omitted for brevity, but maintain original image structure)

That's all for today! Join us tomorrow for more new releases, sales, and potentially a review. We're in the midst of a fantastic gaming season, so hold onto your wallets and enjoy the ride! Have a great Tuesday!