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 fans of Marvel, Capcom, and fighting games, Capcom's Marvel-based fighters were a dream. Beginning with the superb X-Men: Children of the Atom, the series consistently improved, expanding into the wider Marvel universe with Marvel Super Heroes, then the groundbreaking Marvel/Street Fighter crossovers, culminating in the spectacular Marvel vs. Capcom and the iconic Marvel vs. Capcom 2. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics encompasses this era, adding Capcom's excellent Punisher beat 'em up for good measure. A truly outstanding collection.

This compilation shares many features with the Capcom Fighting Collection, including, unfortunately, a single shared save state across all seven games. This limitation is frustrating, especially with the inclusion of a beat 'em up requiring independent save points. However, the collection shines in other areas: extensive customization options (visual filters, gameplay adjustments), impressive extras (artwork, music player), and rollback online multiplayer. The inclusion of NAOMI hardware emulation is a welcome addition, resulting in a fantastic presentation and gameplay experience for Marvel vs. Capcom 2.

While not a criticism, I wish the collection included some home console versions. The PlayStation EX versions of the tag-team games offer unique features, and the Dreamcast version of Marvel vs. Capcom 2 boasts additional content ideal for solo play. The omission of Capcom's Super NES Marvel titles is also a minor disappointment. However, the title accurately reflects its content, focusing solely on arcade classics.

Marvel and fighting game enthusiasts will appreciate this exceptional collection. The games are outstanding, meticulously preserved, and complemented by a wealth 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 WayForward Metroidvania Yars game featuring a young hacker code-named Yar felt… odd. However, Yars Rising is a genuinely good game. WayForward delivers excellent visuals, sound, gameplay, and level design. Boss battles, while occasionally lengthy, don't detract significantly from the experience.

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. While the connection to the original might feel tenuous, it's a commendable attempt to revitalize a classic. The game, however, seems to cater to two distinct audiences with minimal overlap, which might have been better served by a wholly original concept.

Despite conceptual questions, Yars Rising is enjoyable. It might not redefine the genre, but it provides a satisfying Metroidvania experience for a weekend playthrough. Perhaps future installments will further solidify the connection to the original.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland ($24.99)

My nostalgia for Rugrats is limited, but I recognize the characters and theme song. Approaching Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland without strong preconceptions, I was pleasantly surprised. The visuals are crisp, exceeding my expectations. While initial control placement felt awkward, adjustable controls alleviate this issue. The game features Reptar coin collection, simple puzzles, and enemies. The core gameplay is a solid platformer with exploration elements.

Switching characters reveals a Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA) influence. Characters possess distinct jump heights and abilities, mirroring the original game's mechanics. Enemies can be picked up and thrown, and blocks can be manipulated to solve puzzles. The levels are somewhat non-linear, emphasizing vertical exploration.

While incorporating elements from other platformers, the core gameplay is reminiscent of Super Mario Bros. 2. The boss battles are engaging. The game offers selectable modern and 8-bit visuals and soundtracks, both equally enjoyable. Multiplayer is also supported. My only criticisms are the slightly short length and the lack of voice acting in cutscenes.

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland is a surprisingly excellent platformer, capturing the spirit of Super Mario Bros. 2 while adding unique elements. The Rugrats license is well-integrated. While brief, it's a worthwhile experience for platformer and Rugrats fans.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5