Castlevania Collection Remastered for Switch, Reviews

Hello discerning readers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Roundup for September 3rd, 2024. Today's feature includes several game reviews: an in-depth analysis of the Castlevania Dominus Collection, a look at Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn, and concise critiques of two recent Pinball FX DLC tables. Following this, we'll explore the day's new releases, including the unique and captivating Bakeru, and then delve into the latest sales and expiring discounts. Let's begin!

Reviews & Mini-Views

Castlevania Dominus Collection ($24.99)

Konami's recent track record with classic game collections has been exceptional, and the Castlevania franchise has benefited greatly. Castlevania Dominus Collection, the third in the series on modern platforms, focuses on the Nintendo DS trilogy. M2's development expertise shines through, resulting in an outstanding collection that might be the most essential Castlevania compilation yet.

The Nintendo DS Castlevania games possess unique identities, forming a surprisingly diverse set. Dawn of Sorrow, a direct sequel to Aria of Sorrow, initially suffered from awkward touchscreen controls, thankfully mitigated in this release. Portrait of Ruin relegates touchscreen elements to a bonus mode, focusing instead on its dual-character mechanic. Order of Ecclesia stands apart with increased difficulty and a design reminiscent of Simon's Quest. All three are excellent games.

This collection marks the end of Koji Igarashi's era of exploratory Castlevania games, a period that began with the revitalizing Symphony of the Night. While these games are distinct, questions remain about their individual design choices. Were they a testament to IGA's creative exploration, or a response to a waning audience? Regardless, many felt the series was stagnating at the time.

Interestingly, these aren't emulated but are native ports, allowing M2 to enhance the experience. Annoying touchscreen controls in Dawn of Sorrow are replaced with button inputs, and a three-screen layout (main screen, status, and map) is implemented. This significantly improves Dawn of Sorrow, placing it among my top five Castlevania titles.

The collection boasts extensive options and extras. Players can select game regions, customize button mappings, and choose between stick-based movement and touch cursor control. A charming credits sequence highlights unsung heroes, and a gallery features art, manuals, and box art. A music player allows for custom playlists, and each game includes a comprehensive compendium. While additional screen layout options would be welcome, this is a minor quibble.

But the surprises don't end there! The notoriously difficult arcade game, Haunted Castle, is included. M2 has also created a complete remake, Haunted Castle Revisited. This isn't just a simple port; it's a substantial overhaul that retains the spirit of the original while significantly improving the gameplay. It's a fantastic addition to this already impressive package.

Castlevania Dominus Collection is a must-have for Castlevania fans. It includes a superb remake of Haunted Castle and three excellent Nintendo DS titles presented flawlessly. If you're unfamiliar with Castlevania, this collection is a great starting point. Another triumph from Konami and M2.

SwitchArcade Score: 5/5

Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn ($19.99)

My experience with Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn has been mixed. While Tengo Project's previous remakes have been exceptional, this 8-bit update presents some challenges. The original game isn't as strong as their other titles, and the team's involvement was limited.

Initial impressions from last year's Tokyo Game Show were positive, but after a full playthrough, my assessment is more nuanced. It's less well-rounded than their other work, though improvements are evident in the presentation and refined weapon/item system. While no new characters are added, existing ones are differentiated. It's superior to the original but retains its core characteristics. Fans of the original will adore this.

However, if you found the original merely decent, this remake won't drastically alter your opinion. The simultaneous access to the chain and sword is a significant upgrade, and the sword is more useful. The new inventory system adds depth. The presentation is excellent, masking its 8-bit origins. The difficulty is notably increased, perhaps necessary given its shorter length. It's the best version of Shadow of the Ninja, but it's still Shadow of the Ninja.

Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn is another solid effort from Tengo Project, representing a substantial improvement over the original. Its appeal depends on your opinion of the original game. Newcomers will find an enjoyable action game, albeit one with a distinct 8-bit feel.

SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5

Pinball FX – The Princess Bride Pinball ($5.49)

Two quick reviews of Pinball FX DLC, celebrating the game's improved Switch performance. The Princess Bride Pinball features voice clips and video clips from the movie, a welcome inclusion. The table's design is well-executed and feels authentic to the source material. It's relatively easy to learn but offers satisfying gameplay.

Zen Studios sometimes misses the mark with licensed tables, but The Princess Bride Pinball is a success. It's not the most innovative, but its straightforward design is fitting. A fun table for both newcomers and veterans.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Pinball FX – Goat Simulator Pinball ($5.49)

Goat Simulator Pinball embraces its source material's absurdity. It's a unique table with quirky goat-related events and ball effects. While initially confusing, it's rewarding once mastered. This table is more suited to experienced pinball players. Goat Simulator fans might find it challenging initially.

Goat Simulator Pinball is another strong DLC offering from Zen Studios. It's complex but offers hilarious moments. Dedicated Goat Simulator fans will enjoy it, but it requires more effort to learn than other tables.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Select New Releases

Bakeru ($39.99)

As reviewed yesterday, this 3D platformer from Good-Feel is a charming and breezy experience. Play as Bakeru, a tanuki saving Japan from an evil overlord. Fight enemies, discover hidden trivia, collect souvenirs, and enjoy the humor. The Switch version suffers from inconsistent framerates.

Holyhunt ($4.99)

A top-down arena twin-stick shooter described as an 8-bit homage. It's a simple shoot-'em-up with boss battles.

Shashingo: Learn Japanese with Photography ($20.00)

A language-learning game where players take photos and learn Japanese vocabulary.

Sales

(North American eShop, US Prices)

Several notable sales are underway, including OrangePixel's titles and a rare discount on Alien Hominid. THQ and Team 17 titles are also on sale. Consult the full lists for details.

Select New Sales

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Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 4th

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That concludes today's roundup. Join us tomorrow for more new releases, sales, and potentially more reviews. Enjoy the abundance of great games! Thanks for reading!