Marvel vs Capcom Collection, Yars Rising, Rugrats Enter Spotlight in SwitchArcade

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 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 wildly successful Marvel vs. Capcom 2. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics compiles these titles, plus Capcom's Punisher beat 'em up, offering a fantastic retro gaming experience.

This collection, seemingly handled by the same team behind the Capcom Fighting Collection, shares similar features, unfortunately including a single shared save state across all seven games. This is inconvenient, especially with the Punisher beat 'em up, which necessitates independent save points. However, the collection boasts numerous options, including visual filters and gameplay adjustments, along with extensive art and a music player, and rollback online multiplayer. New NAOMI hardware emulation ensures Marvel vs. Capcom 2 looks and plays exceptionally well.

While not a criticism, the absence of home console versions is notable. The PlayStation EX versions of the tag-team games offer unique features, and the Dreamcast version of Marvel vs. Capcom 2 includes enjoyable extras. The omission of Capcom's Super NES Marvel titles is also slightly disappointing. However, the collection's title accurately reflects its focus on arcade classics.

Marvel and fighting game enthusiasts will appreciate this exceptional compilation. The games are superb, meticulously preserved, and complemented by a robust selection of extras and options. The single shared save state is a significant drawback, but otherwise, this collection is highly recommended. 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, starring a young hacker named Yar, was understandable. However, WayForward delivers a solid title with impressive visuals, sound, gameplay, and map design. Boss battles, while occasionally lengthy, don't detract significantly.

WayForward successfully integrates elements of the original Yars’ Revenge, incorporating similar gameplay sequences and abilities within the expanded lore. While the connection to the original single-screen shooter remains somewhat tenuous, it's a commendable attempt to bridge the gap between classic and modern gaming. The game's appeal might be divided between two distinct audiences with minimal overlap.

Despite conceptual questions, Yars Rising is an enjoyable Metroidvania experience. While not genre-defining, it provides a satisfying weekend gaming experience. Future installments could potentially solidify its connection to the original.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland ($24.99)

Without strong nostalgic ties to Rugrats, expectations for Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland were moderate. The game's crisp visuals and customizable controls immediately impressed. The inclusion of Reptar coins, simple puzzles, and enemies established a standard platformer experience. The game's unique homage to Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA) is a pleasant surprise, incorporating character-specific abilities and gameplay mechanics.

The game features character-specific jumps (high, low, and floating), enemy-lifting mechanics, and block-stacking puzzles, reminiscent of Super Mario Bros. 2. The stages offer non-linear exploration and verticality, with sand-digging mechanics highlighting character strengths. Players can switch between modern and 8-bit visuals and soundtracks. Multiplayer functionality adds further value. The only drawbacks are its brevity and relatively simple gameplay.

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland exceeds expectations, offering a quality platformer experience inspired by Super Mario Bros. 2. The Rugrats license is well-integrated, although voice acting in cutscenes would have been a welcome addition. While short and straightforward, it's a worthwhile game for platformer and Rugrats fans.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5