Marvel vs. Capcom, Yars Rising, Rugrats Games Join SwitchArcade Round-Up

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 wildly successful Marvel vs. Capcom 2. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics encompasses this era, bonus points for including Capcom's Punisher beat 'em up. A truly fantastic collection of classic titles.

This compilation shares similarities with the Capcom Fighting Collection, including features and extras—unfortunately, this also means a single shared save state across all seven games. While frustrating for fighting games, it's especially problematic with the beat 'em up, where independent saving would be preferable. However, other aspects are excellent: visual filters, gameplay options, extensive art galleries, a music player, and rollback online multiplayer. The addition of NAOMI hardware emulation is noteworthy, resulting in a superb Marvel vs. Capcom 2 experience.

While not a criticism, I wish some home console versions were included. The PlayStation EX versions of the tag-team games offer distinct differences, and the Dreamcast version of Marvel vs. Capcom 2 boasts fun extras ideal for solo play. Including Capcom's two Super NES Marvel games, despite their flaws, would have been a nice touch. However, the title accurately reflects its content: Arcade Classics.

Marvel and fighting game enthusiasts will relish this exceptional collection. The games are outstanding, meticulously presented, and complemented by a robust selection of extras and options. The single shared save state is a significant drawback, but otherwise, this is a nearly flawless compilation. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics is a must-have for Switch owners.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Yars Rising ($29.99)

Initially, I was skeptical. I adore Yars’ Revenge, a 2600 favorite. A Metroidvania Yars game featuring a young hacker (Yar) felt…odd. The concept seemed questionable. However, the game itself is surprisingly good. WayForward delivers a polished experience with excellent visuals, sound, and level design. Boss battles, while lengthy, aren't a major issue.

WayForward cleverly integrates elements from the original Yars’ Revenge. The gameplay frequently incorporates Yars’ Revenge-style sequences, abilities reflect the original, and the lore is surprisingly well-integrated. The connection to the original feels somewhat forced, but Atari's attempts to revitalize its classic library are understandable. The game seems to cater to two distinct, largely non-overlapping audiences, which might not have been the optimal approach.

Despite conceptual questions, Yars Rising is enjoyable. It might not challenge genre leaders, but it's a solid Metroidvania for a weekend gaming session. Perhaps future installments will better bridge the gap between the original and this iteration.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland ($24.99)

My nostalgia for Rugrats is limited, despite watching it with siblings. I know the characters and theme song, but little else. Therefore, Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland was a surprise. Comparisons to Bonk were made, and while Tommy's physique fits the description, the game is different. The crisp visuals, initially awkward controls (adjustable thankfully), and Rugrats theme music were immediately noticeable. Reptar coins, puzzles, and enemies create a familiar platformer experience.

The game's unique element is its clear inspiration from Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA). Chuckie's high jump, Phil's low jump, and Lil's floating ability are direct homages. Enemies can be picked up and thrown, blocks stacked, and sand dug—all reminiscent of Super Mario Bros. 2. The non-linear levels and verticality are also notable.

The game features homages to other platformers but is primarily inspired by Super Mario Bros. 2. The boss battles are engaging, and the option to switch between modern and 8-bit visuals and soundtracks is a welcome addition. The only significant drawbacks are its brevity and simplicity.

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland exceeds expectations. It's a high-quality platformer in the style of Super Mario Bros. 2, with added elements. The Rugrats license is well-integrated, although voice acting in cutscenes would have been a nice addition. While short, it's a worthwhile experience for platformer and Rugrats fans. Multiplayer is also a plus.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5