Hello fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Roundup for September 3rd, 2024! Today's article brings you a fresh batch of reviews, starting with in-depth looks at Castlevania Dominus Collection and Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn, followed by quick takes on some new Pinball FX DLC tables. We'll then explore the day's new releases, including the charming Bakeru, and wrap things up with the latest sales and expiring deals. Let's dive in!

Reviews & Mini-Views

Castlevania Dominus Collection ($24.99)

Konami's recent track record with classic game collections has been undeniably impressive, and the Castlevania franchise has been a major beneficiary. Castlevania Dominus Collection, the third in the series on modern platforms, focuses on the Nintendo DS trilogy. Developed by M2, this collection delivers exceptional quality and surpasses expectations, potentially becoming the most essential Castlevania compilation yet.

The Nintendo DS Castlevania titles hold a unique place in franchise history, a blend of highs and lows. Positively, the trilogy boasts distinct identities, forming a surprisingly diverse set. Dawn of Sorrow, a direct sequel to Aria of Sorrow, cleverly mitigates its original frustrating touchscreen elements. Portrait of Ruin cleverly integrates touchscreen controls into a bonus mode, while Order of Ecclesia shakes things up with increased difficulty and a design reminiscent of Simon's Quest. All three are excellent games, highly recommended.

However, this collection also marks the end of the era of exploratory Castlevania games helmed by Koji Igarashi, whose work revitalized the series with Symphony of the Night. The diminishing returns and Konami's shift towards MercurySteam's Lords of Shadow series are now clear in retrospect. Were the distinct game designs a testament to IGA's creative exploration, or a desperate attempt to recapture audience interest? The answer remains elusive. Many felt fatigued by the formula at the time, a sentiment I share despite enthusiastically playing each title upon release. Sometimes, you don't appreciate something until it's gone.

Interestingly, these aren't simple emulations but native ports, enabling M2 to enhance the experience. The annoying touchscreen controls in Dawn of Sorrow are replaced with intuitive button presses, and the presentation includes the main screen, status screen, and map simultaneously. While some DS-era elements remain, the docked mode controller support significantly improves gameplay, particularly in Dawn of Sorrow, which I now consider a top-five Castlevania title.

The collection is brimming with options and extras. Region selection, button remapping, and customizable control schemes are all included. There's a delightful credits sequence highlighting unsung heroes, and a gallery showcasing artwork, manuals, and box art. A comprehensive music player allows for custom playlists. In-game options include save states, rewind functionality, screen layout customization, background color choices, audio adjustments, and an exhaustive compendium for each game. My only minor quibble is the limited screen arrangement options. This is a fantastic way to experience these games, offering incredible value for the price.

But the surprises don't end there! The notoriously difficult arcade game, Haunted Castle, is included. While its omission from the first collection was puzzling, it's here, complete with the much-needed unlimited continues option. The game itself is brutally unfair, despite its great music and stylish opening sequence. Or is it?

The final extra, a complete remake of Haunted Castle titled Haunted Castle Revisited, is a remarkable addition. Similar to M2's Castlevania: The Adventure Rebirth, this remake reimagines the original into a genuinely enjoyable game. It's a brand-new Castlevania experience tucked away within a DS collection!

Castlevania Dominus Collection is a must-have for any Castlevania fan. It includes a fantastic new game and polished versions of the three Nintendo DS titles. Even the inclusion of the original Haunted Castle adds to its appeal. If you're not a Castlevania fan, well, we can't be friends. And if you're unfamiliar with the series, grab all three collections and prepare for an unforgettable experience. Another stellar collaboration between Konami and M2.

SwitchArcade Score: 5/5

Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn ($19.99)

My experience with Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn has been a mixed bag. I've generally enjoyed Tengo Project's previous releases, particularly their definitive versions of Wild Guns and The Ninja Warriors. While Pocky & Rocky had some minor flaws, it was still enjoyable. Shadow of the Ninja, however, felt different. The team's involvement with the original was limited, and it's an 8-bit game update rather than a 16-bit one. I also find the original less compelling than their other titles. Therefore, I approached this remake with some hesitation.

My initial hands-on at Tokyo Game Show last year was positive, rekindling my excitement. After completing the game multiple times, my feelings are nuanced. Compared to Tengo Project's other work, Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn feels less polished. The improvements are significant, from the enhanced presentation to the refined weapon and item system. While no new characters are introduced, the existing ones are more distinct. It's undeniably superior to the original while preserving its essence. Fans of the original will adore this.

However, if you, like me, found the original merely decent, this remake won't dramatically alter your perception. The simultaneous access to both the chain and sword is a welcome improvement, with the sword being more effective. The new inventory system adds depth. The presentation is excellent, masking its 8-bit origins. The difficulty spikes are noticeable, and it's overall more challenging than the original. This might be necessary, considering its shorter length. It's the best Shadow of the Ninja experience, but it's still Shadow of the Ninja.

Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn is another solid effort from Tengo Project, arguably the most significant improvement over its predecessor. Whether it's worth purchasing depends on your feelings towards the original, as the core gameplay remains largely unchanged. Newcomers will find an enjoyable but not essential action game with a distinct 8-bit aesthetic.

SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5

Pinball FX – The Princess Bride Pinball ($5.49)

A quick look at the latest Pinball FX DLC, celebrating the significant update that enhances Switch playability. Two new tables were released: The Princess Bride Pinball and Goat Simulator Pinball. The Princess Bride Pinball uses actual voice clips and video clips from the movie, a welcome addition. The mechanics feel authentic and satisfying. It's a well-designed table, relatively straightforward to learn, and enjoyable for both casual and experienced players.

Zen Studios doesn't always nail licensed tables, often lacking music, voice acting, and likeness. The Princess Bride Pinball is a notable exception, a must-have for fans of the movie who enjoy pinball. While not the most innovative, its classic design is fitting.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Pinball FX – Goat Simulator Pinball ($5.49)

Goat Simulator Pinball fully embraces its source material, resulting in a unique and quirky table. The goat-related antics add unexpected elements, making it a more challenging but rewarding experience for veteran players. Goat Simulator fans new to pinball might find it initially daunting.

Goat Simulator Pinball is another strong DLC offering from Zen Studios. Its unconventional design is a refreshing change of pace. It's more challenging to master, but the wacky gameplay is worth the effort for dedicated players and fans of the franchise.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Select New Releases

Bakeru ($39.99)

As mentioned in yesterday's review, this charming 3D platformer from Good-Feel is a delightful experience. Play as Bakeru, a tanuki on a mission to save Japan. Explore, battle enemies, uncover hidden trivia, and collect souvenirs. While the framerate is inconsistent on Switch, it's still a fun game.

Holyhunt ($4.99)

A top-down arena twin-stick shooter described as an 8-bit homage. It's a simple shoot-'em-up with boss battles.

Shashingo: Learn Japanese with Photography ($20.00)

A language-learning game where you take pictures and learn Japanese vocabulary.

Sales

(North American eShop, US Prices)

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

Select New Sales

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Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 4th

(List of Sales)

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