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 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 excellent Punisher beat 'em up for good measure. A truly fantastic collection.

This compilation shares many features with the Capcom Fighting Collection, including – unfortunately – a single shared save state across all seven games. This is frustrating, especially with the beat 'em up, where independent saving would be beneficial. However, it retains desirable features: visual filters, gameplay customization, extensive art and music sections, and rollback online multiplayer. New to this collection is NAOMI hardware emulation, expertly implemented, resulting in excellent visuals and gameplay for Marvel vs. Capcom 2.

While not a criticism, I wish home console versions were included. The PlayStation EX versions of the tag-team games offer unique elements, and the Dreamcast Marvel vs. Capcom 2 boasts fun extras ideal for solo play. Including Capcom's two Super NES Marvel titles, despite their flaws, would have been a nice addition. However, the title accurately reflects its content: Arcade Classics.

Marvel and fighting game enthusiasts will appreciate this excellent collection. The games are exceptional, meticulously preserved, and complemented by a robust set of extras and options. The single shared save state is a significant drawback, but otherwise, this is a near-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, a 2600 favorite. WayForward's Metroidvania Yars game, featuring a young hacker code-named Yar, seemed incongruous. However, it's a good game. WayForward delivers solid visuals, sound, gameplay, and level design. Boss battles are slightly protracted, but not a major issue.

WayForward cleverly integrates elements from the original Yars’ Revenge. Yars’ Revenge-style sequences are frequent, abilities evoke the original, and the lore is surprisingly well-integrated. While the connection to the original feels tenuous, Atari's attempts to expand its classic library are understandable. The game seems to cater to two largely disparate audiences, which might not be the optimal approach.

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

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland ($24.99)

My nostalgia for Rugrats is limited, though I watched it occasionally with siblings. I knew the characters and theme song, but lacked deep familiarity. Therefore, Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland was an unknown quantity. Comparisons to Bonk proved inaccurate, but the game surprised me. The visuals are crisp, exceeding the show's quality. Control customization is a welcome feature. The music is the Rugrats theme. Reptar coins, puzzles, and enemies are standard fare. It's a solid platformer with exploration elements.

The ability to switch characters (Tommy, Chuckie, Phil, Lil) reveals a surprising mechanic: the characters' jumps are inspired by Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA)! Enemies can be picked up and thrown, and blocks can be stacked. The levels are slightly non-linear and vertically oriented. Digging mechanics are also present. This homage is cleverly executed.

The game also features modern and 8-bit visual and soundtrack options, both enjoyable. A filter is also available. The boss battles are engaging. My only complaints are its brevity and simplicity. Multiplayer is supported.

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland surpasses expectations. It's a high-quality platformer in the style of Super Mario Bros. 2, enhanced by extra elements. The Rugrats license is well-integrated, though voice acting in cutscenes would have been a nice addition. While short, it's a worthwhile experience for platformer and Rugrats fans.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5