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 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 spectacular Marvel vs. Capcom 2. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics encompasses this era, adding Capcom's Punisher beat 'em up for good measure. A truly fantastic collection of classic titles.

This compilation shares similarities with the Capcom Fighting Collection, including the unfortunately singular save state across all seven games. This is particularly frustrating with the beat 'em up, where individual progress saving would be beneficial. However, the collection otherwise delivers as expected: extensive customization options (visual filters, gameplay adjustments), impressive extras (artwork, music player), and rollback online multiplayer. The addition of NAOMI hardware emulation is noteworthy, resulting in a superb Marvel vs. Capcom 2 experience.

While not a criticism, the absence of home console versions is noticeable. The PlayStation EX versions of the tag-team games offer unique features, and the Dreamcast Marvel vs. Capcom 2 boasts additional content. Including Capcom's Super NES Marvel titles, even if less celebrated, would have enhanced the collection. However, the title accurately reflects its arcade-focused content.

Marvel and fighting game enthusiasts will find this collection a worthwhile purchase. The games are exceptional, meticulously preserved, and complemented by a robust selection of extras and options. The single save state is a significant drawback, but otherwise, this is a near-perfect compilation. 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' Revenge was understandable. The concept of a young, bare-midriff hacker named Yar felt incongruous with the original. However, WayForward delivers a solid game. The visuals and audio are impressive, gameplay is smooth, and level design is competent. Boss battles, a common WayForward weakness, are slightly overextended but not game-breaking.

WayForward successfully integrates elements from the original Yars' Revenge. Yars' Revenge-style sequences appear frequently, abilities reflect the original game, and the lore is reasonably well-integrated. While the connection to the original feels somewhat tenuous, Atari's attempts to revitalize its classic library are understandable. The game's appeal might be limited by its attempt to cater to two distinct audiences with minimal overlap.

Despite conceptual concerns, Yars Rising is enjoyable. While it may not surpass genre titans, it provides a satisfying Metroidvania experience for a weekend playthrough. Future installments might solidify its identity.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland ($24.99)

Lacking significant Rugrats nostalgia, expectations for Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland were moderate. Comparisons to Bonk proved partially accurate, reflecting Tommy's physique. The game features crisp visuals exceeding the show's quality, albeit with initially awkward controls (adjustable via options). The inclusion of the Rugrats theme song and Reptar coins maintains thematic consistency. The core gameplay is a platformer with explorative elements.

Tommy's ability to swap with other characters (Chuckie, Phil, Lil) reveals a Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA) influence. The characters' unique jump heights and abilities, along with the inclusion of pick-up-and-throw mechanics and vertical level design, clearly draw inspiration from this classic. The game also features sand-digging segments, highlighting Phil's expertise.

The game incorporates homages to other platformers but primarily evokes the gameplay of Super Mario Bros. 2. Boss battles are engaging, and the option to switch between modern and 8-bit visuals adds replay value. Multiplayer functionality is a welcome addition. The only drawbacks are the slightly short length and the absence of voice acting in cutscenes.

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland surpasses expectations. It's a high-quality platformer reminiscent of Super Mario Bros. 2, with added elements. The Rugrats license is effectively integrated. While short, it's a worthwhile experience for platformer and Rugrats fans alike.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5