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 iconic Marvel vs. Capcom and the phenomenal Marvel vs. Capcom 2. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics encompasses this era, adding Capcom's excellent Punisher beat 'em up as a bonus. A truly fantastic collection of classic titles.

This compilation shares many features with the Capcom Fighting Collection, including, unfortunately, a single shared save state across all seven games. This is inconvenient for fighting games, but especially problematic for the included beat 'em up, where independent saving is desirable. However, the collection otherwise delivers: extensive customization options (visual filters, gameplay adjustments), impressive extras (art gallery, music player), and rollback online multiplayer. New to this collection is NAOMI hardware emulation, expertly implemented, resulting in excellent performance and visuals for Marvel vs. Capcom 2.

While not a criticism, the absence of home console versions is noteworthy. The PlayStation EX versions of the tag-team games offer unique features, and the Dreamcast version of Marvel vs. Capcom 2 boasts extra content making it superior for solo play. Including Capcom's Super NES Marvel titles, despite their imperfections, would have been a welcome addition. However, the collection's title accurately reflects its content: Arcade Classics.

Marvel and fighting game enthusiasts will find much to celebrate in this excellent collection. The games are exceptional, meticulously presented, and complemented by a robust selection of extras and options. The single, shared save state is a significant drawback, but otherwise, this compilation is near flawless. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics is another must-have from Capcom, providing a superb experience on the Switch.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Yars Rising ($29.99)

Initially, I was skeptical. I greatly enjoy Yars’ Revenge, a favorite 2600 title. WayForward's Metroidvania Yars game, featuring a young hacker (Yar), felt initially like a parody. However, the game is undeniably good. WayForward delivers solid visuals, sound, gameplay, and level design. Boss battles, typical of WayForward, are somewhat lengthy, but not overly detrimental.

WayForward impressively bridges the gap between this game and the original single-screen shooter. Yars’ Revenge-style sequences are frequent, abilities evoke the original, and the lore is surprisingly well-integrated. The connection feels tenuous, but Atari's attempts to expand its classic library are understandable. The game seems to target two largely disparate audiences, which might not have been the optimal approach compared to a wholly original concept.

Despite conceptual questions, the game is enjoyable. It may not challenge the genre's best, but it offers a satisfying Metroidvania experience for a weekend playthrough. Perhaps future installments will solidify the connection.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland ($24.99)

My nostalgia for Rugrats is limited, despite watching it occasionally with siblings. I knew the characters and theme song, but lacked deeper connection. Therefore, Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland was an unknown quantity. Comparisons to Bonk were made, fitting Tommy's physique. The game features crisp visuals, superior to the show, but initially awkward controls (fortunately adjustable). The music is the Rugrats theme. Reptar coins, puzzles, and enemies are present. A standard platformer with exploration elements.

Tommy's damage prompted a switch to Chuckie, revealing a familiar high, difficult-to-control jump. Phil had a low jump, and Lil could float. The game is clearly inspired by Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA)! Enemies could be picked up and thrown, blocks piled for vertical progression. Non-linear levels with verticality, sand-digging sections (Phil's specialty).

The game cleverly incorporates homages to other platformers, but primarily evokes the gameplay of a highly successful classic. Boss battles are engaging. The visuals and soundtrack can be switched between modern and 8-bit styles, both enjoyable. A filter is also available. The game is creative and fun, effectively utilizing the license. Multiplayer is supported. The only significant issues are slightly awkward controls and a short length.

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland exceeded expectations. It's a high-quality platformer in the style of the Western Super Mario Bros. 2, with added features. The Rugrats license is well-integrated, though voice acting in cutscenes would have been a welcome addition. While short, it's a worthwhile experience for platformer and Rugrats fans.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5