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 fighting games were a dream. Starting 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 popular Marvel vs. Capcom 2. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics encompasses this era, adding Capcom's classic Punisher beat 'em up as a bonus. A truly fantastic collection of great games.

This collection shares similarities with the Capcom Fighting Collection, including – unfortunately – a single shared save state across all seven games. This is particularly frustrating with the beat 'em up, where independent saving would be beneficial. However, it otherwise delivers a strong package. It boasts numerous options (visual filters, gameplay adjustments), excellent extras (extensive art gallery, music player), and rollback online multiplayer. A notable addition is NAOMI hardware emulation, resulting in a superb Marvel vs. Capcom 2 experience.

While not a criticism, I wish some home console versions were included. The PlayStation EX versions of the tag-team games offer unique features, and the Dreamcast version of Marvel vs. Capcom 2 boasts additional content. Including Capcom's Super NES Marvel titles, despite their imperfections, would have been a nice touch. However, the "Arcade Classics" title accurately reflects the content.

Marvel and fighting game enthusiasts will appreciate this exceptional collection. The games are outstanding, meticulously preserved, and complemented by a comprehensive set 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 love Yars’ Revenge. WayForward's Metroidvania-style Yars game, featuring a young hacker code-named Yar, seemed incongruous. However, it's a good game. WayForward's expertise shines through – excellent visuals, sound, gameplay, and level design. Boss battles, while lengthy, don't ruin the experience.

WayForward impressively bridges the gap between the original single-screen shooter and this new iteration. Yars’ Revenge-style sequences are frequent, abilities evoke the original, and the lore is surprisingly well-integrated. It's still a significant departure, but Atari likely had limited options. It feels like a game straddling two distinct audiences with minimal overlap, which may not have been the optimal approach.

Despite conceptual questions, the game is enjoyable. While it doesn't surpass genre titans, it provides a satisfying Metroidvania experience for a weekend playthrough. Perhaps future installments will solidify this direction.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland ($24.99)

My nostalgia for Rugrats is limited, though I recall watching it with siblings. I approached Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland with open expectations. Comparisons to Bonk proved partially accurate, reflecting Tommy's physique. The game surprised me with crisp visuals, surpassing the show's animation. Control customization addressed initial awkwardness. The Rugrats theme song and Reptar coins maintained thematic consistency. The gameplay is a solid platformer with exploration elements.

Tommy's ability to swap with other characters (Chuckie, Phil, Lil) revealed a surprising mechanic. Chuckie's high jump, Phil's low jump, and Lil's float ability are reminiscent of Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA). The ability to pick up and throw enemies and stack blocks further reinforces this influence. The non-linear levels and verticality are engaging. The game also features sand-digging segments, perfectly suited to Phil's character.

While other platformers are referenced, the core gameplay is strongly inspired by Super Mario Bros. 2. The boss battles are enjoyable, and the option to switch between modern and 8-bit visuals and soundtracks adds replayability. A filter option is also available. The only significant drawbacks are its brevity and simplicity.

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

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5