Marvel vs. Capcom Collection Joins Arcade Classics in Latest Reviews

Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics ($49.99)

For 90s fans of Marvel, Capcom, and fighting games, Capcom's Marvel-based fighting series was a dream come true. Beginning with the excellent X-Men: Children of the Atom, the games consistently improved. The series expanded to encompass 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. This "Arcade Classics" collection encompasses this pivotal era, plus the bonus beat 'em up, Punisher. A truly impressive package.

This compilation, 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 limitation is frustrating in a fighting game collection, but even more so with the inclusion of a beat 'em up, where independent saving would be beneficial. Despite this, the collection offers desirable features: visual filters, gameplay adjustments, extensive art galleries, a music player, and rollback online multiplayer. New to this collection is NAOMI hardware emulation, expertly implemented, resulting in a fantastic presentation and gameplay experience for Marvel vs. Capcom 2.

While not a criticism, I wish the collection included some home console versions. The PlayStation EX versions of the tag-team games offer unique differences, and the Dreamcast version of Marvel vs. Capcom 2 boasts additional features making it a superior solo experience. The inclusion of Capcom's two Super NES Marvel titles, even if not their best, would have been a welcome addition. However, the title accurately reflects its content: these are truly arcade classics.

Marvel and fighting game enthusiasts will find much to celebrate in this collection. The games are outstanding, meticulously preserved, and accompanied by excellent extras and options. The single, shared save state is a significant drawback, but otherwise, the collection is nearly flawless. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics is another must-have compilation from Capcom, offering a superb experience on the Switch.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Yars Rising ($29.99)

Initially, I was skeptical. I love Yars’ Revenge, a 2600 favorite. The announcement of a Metroidvania Yars game featuring a young, bare-midriff hacker named Yar felt… odd. However, the game itself is surprisingly good. WayForward delivers a polished experience with excellent visuals, sound, gameplay, and level design. Boss battles, while a bit lengthy, don't detract significantly.

WayForward admirably attempts to bridge the gap between this new game and the original single-screen shooter. Yars’ Revenge-style sequences appear frequently, abilities evoke the original, and the lore is surprisingly well-integrated. Despite this effort, the connection feels strained. It seems to cater to two largely separate audiences, which might not have been the optimal approach compared to a completely original concept.

Regardless of its conceptual coherence, Yars Rising is enjoyable. While it may not challenge genre titans, it's a solid Metroidvania for a weekend playthrough. Perhaps future installments will solidify its place in the series.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland ($24.99)

My nostalgia for Rugrats is limited, though I recall watching it with my siblings. I knew the characters and theme song, but lacked deeper familiarity. Therefore, I approached Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland with open expectations. The game's crisp visuals immediately impressed, surpassing even my memories of the show. The initially awkward controls were easily adjusted via in-game options. The familiar Rugrats theme song provided an authentic touch. The gameplay features Reptar coin collection, simple puzzles, and enemies. A classic platformer with exploration elements.

The ability to switch characters revealed a surprising homage to Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA). Each character possesses unique jump characteristics, mirroring the original game's diverse playable characters. Enemies can be picked up and thrown, and blocks can be stacked to access higher areas. The levels are slightly non-linear with a significant vertical component, incorporating elements like sand digging, perfectly suited to Phil's character.

While there are other platforming influences, the core gameplay strongly resembles Super Mario Bros. 2. The boss battles are engaging. The game offers the option to switch between modern and 8-bit visuals and soundtracks, both equally enjoyable. A visual filter is also available. The creative and fun gameplay, inspired by a beloved classic, makes excellent use of its license. Multiplayer is supported! My only complaints are the somewhat short length and a minor control issue.

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland exceeded expectations. It's a high-quality platformer in the style of Super Mario Bros. 2, with added features that set it apart. The Rugrats license is well-integrated, although voice acting in cutscenes would have been a nice addition. While concise, it's a worthwhile experience for platformer fans and Rugrats enthusiasts.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5