Capcom Classics and Retro Games Reviewed in SwitchArcade Roundup

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

For 90s fans of Marvel, Capcom, and fighting games, Capcom's Marvel-based fighting games 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 phenomenal Marvel vs. Capcom 2. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics encompasses this era, adding Capcom's classic Punisher beat 'em up for good measure. A truly fantastic collection of games.

This compilation shares many features with the Capcom Fighting Collection, including, unfortunately, the single shared save state across all seven games. This is particularly frustrating with the beat 'em up, where independent saving would be beneficial. However, the collection excels in other areas: extensive visual filter and gameplay options, a wealth of art and a music player, and rollback online multiplayer. A notable addition is NAOMI hardware emulation, resulting in a superb Marvel vs. Capcom 2 experience.

While not a criticism, the absence of home console versions is noticeable. The PlayStation EX versions of the tag-team games offer unique elements, and the Dreamcast Marvel vs. Capcom 2 boasts extra features. Including Capcom's Super NES Marvel titles, despite their imperfections, would have been a welcome addition. However, the "Arcade Classics" title is accurately applied here.

Marvel and fighting game enthusiasts will appreciate this superb collection. The games are exceptional, meticulously preserved, and complemented by excellent extras and options. The single 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, bare-midriff hacker named Yar in a Yars' Revenge Metroidvania felt incongruous. However, WayForward delivers a solid game. The visuals and audio are excellent, gameplay is smooth, and level design is competent. Boss battles, typical of WayForward titles, tend to be overly lengthy, but not critically so.

WayForward successfully bridges the gap between the original single-screen shooter and this new iteration. Yars' Revenge-style sequences are frequent, abilities reflect the original, and the lore is surprisingly well-integrated. The connection feels strained, but Atari's attempts to revitalize its classic library are understandable. The game's appeal might be limited due to its attempt to cater to two distinct audiences with little overlap.

Despite conceptual concerns, Yars Rising is enjoyable. It may not surpass genre titans, but it provides a satisfying Metroidvania experience for a weekend playthrough. Future installments could potentially solidify its place.

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 initially awkward controls (adjustable thankfully) were immediately apparent. The familiar Rugrats theme song and Reptar coins added authenticity. The core gameplay is a classic platformer with exploration elements.

The game's surprising similarity to Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA) became clear upon character switching. Each character (Tommy, Chuckie, Phil, Lil) possesses unique jump heights and abilities, mirroring the original's diverse gameplay mechanics. Enemies can be picked up and thrown, blocks can be stacked, and sand digging mechanics are included.

The game's homage to other platformers is evident, but its core inspiration is undeniably Super Mario Bros. 2. The boss battles are engaging, and the option to switch between modern and 8-bit visuals and soundtracks adds replay value. Multiplayer is also supported. The only drawbacks are its brevity and simplicity.

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 integrated, although voice acting in cutscenes would have been a welcome addition. Despite its short length, it's a worthwhile experience for platformer and Rugrats fans.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5