SwitchArcade Review Round-Up: ‘Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection’, ‘Yars Rising’, & ‘Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland’

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

For 90s kids who loved Marvel, Capcom, and fighting games, the Marvel vs. Capcom series was a dream come true. Starting with the excellent X-Men: Children of the Atom, the series evolved, expanding into the wider Marvel universe with Marvel Super Heroes, culminating in the iconic Marvel vs. Capcom 2. This collection, Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics, encompasses these classic titles, along with the bonus addition of Capcom's beloved beat 'em up, The Punisher. A fantastic lineup of gaming gold.

This collection shares similar features with the Capcom Fighting Collection, including visual filters and gameplay options, an impressive art gallery, a music player, and rollback online multiplayer. However, it unfortunately inherits the single save state limitation across all seven games. This is particularly frustrating for The Punisher, where independent save points would be beneficial. Despite this drawback, the collection delivers a wealth of options and extras. A notable improvement is the NAOMI hardware emulation, resulting in a superb presentation and gameplay experience for Marvel vs. Capcom 2.

While the collection focuses on arcade versions, I wish some home console versions were included. The PlayStation EX versions of the tag-team games offer unique differences, and the Dreamcast version of Marvel vs. Capcom 2 boasts additional content. Including Capcom's Super NES Marvel titles, even if not their best, would have been a welcome addition. However, the collection's title accurately reflects its content, unlike some other compilations.

Marvel and fighting game fans will find much to enjoy in this meticulously curated collection. The games are exceptional, enhanced by a comprehensive array of extras and options. The single shared save state is a significant drawback, but overall, the Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics is a must-have compilation, especially enjoyable on the Switch.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Yars Rising ($29.99)

Initially, I was skeptical. I love Yars' Revenge, a 2600 classic. The idea of a Metroidvania Yars game starring a young hacker named Yar felt… odd. However, WayForward delivers a surprisingly solid game. The visuals and audio are excellent, the gameplay is smooth, and the level design is well-executed. As is typical with WayForward, boss battles can be a bit drawn out, but it’s not a major issue.

WayForward cleverly incorporates elements from the original Yars' Revenge, including gameplay sequences and abilities that resonate with the source material. The connection to the expanded lore is surprisingly well-handled, despite the significant shift in genre. While the concept might feel like a stretch, Atari's attempts to revitalize its classic library are understandable. The game, however, seems to cater to two distinct audiences with little overlap, raising questions about its overall direction.

Regardless of the conceptual debate, Yars Rising is an enjoyable Metroidvania experience. It might not challenge the genre's best, but it offers a fun weekend-long adventure. Perhaps future installments will solidify the connection between the original and this new iteration.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland ($24.99)

My nostalgia for Rugrats is limited, but I’m familiar with the show. Approaching Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland, I had low expectations. The game surprised me with its crisp visuals, exceeding the quality of the original show. The initially awkward controls are thankfully adjustable. The game features Reptar coins, simple puzzles, and enemies, following a classic platformer formula.

The game's unique twist lies in its homage to Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA). Each character – Tommy, Chuckie, Phil, and Lil – possesses unique jump heights and abilities, mirroring the diverse gameplay of Super Mario Bros. 2. Enemies can be picked up and thrown, and blocks can be stacked for platforming. The levels are slightly non-linear and emphasize verticality, with creative elements like sand-digging sections.

The game also allows switching between modern and 8-bit visuals and soundtracks, offering stylistic variety. The boss battles are surprisingly engaging. My only complaints are the somewhat short length and the lack of voice acting in the cutscenes.

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland is a surprisingly high-quality platformer, creatively blending the Rugrats license with the gameplay of Super Mario Bros. 2. While brief, it's a fun and enjoyable experience for platformer fans and Rugrats enthusiasts alike. The multiplayer mode adds further replayability.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5