Hello gaming enthusiasts, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Round-Up for August 29th, 2024! Today's update features a substantial lineup of new game releases, forming the core of this Thursday's column. We'll also explore a noteworthy selection of new sales. While we can't expect daily Nintendo Directs, let's dive into the gaming action!

Spotlight on New Releases

Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club ($49.99)

The Famicom Detective Club franchise returns after a long hiatus with an all-new case. This latest installment stays true to the original games' style, both in its strengths and weaknesses. A fresh mystery unfolds, presented in a manner reminiscent of the recent Switch remakes. Can you crack the latest serial murder case? My review is forthcoming.

Gundam Breaker 4 ($59.99)

Mikhail's comprehensive review provides an in-depth look at Gundam Breaker 4's gameplay and Switch performance. In short, you build and battle Gunpla. While the Switch port naturally lags behind other versions in performance, it's still a satisfying experience. Check out Mikhail's insightful review for all the details.

Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn ($19.99)

Tengo Project continues its impressive streak of remakes/reimaginings. Following successful revivals of 16-bit classics, they now tackle an 8-bit title. Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn deviates more significantly from its source material than their previous projects. However, fans of classic-style action-platformers will find much to enjoy. My review will be available early next week.

Valfaris: Mecha Therion ($19.99)

A departure from its predecessor, Valfaris: Mecha Therion is a 2.5D side-scrolling shooter. While the genre shift may surprise some, it offers a rewarding experience for those willing to embrace the change. A review is on its way!

Nour: Play With Your Food ($9.99)

While I'm still deciphering the gameplay mechanics, the game's visuals are undeniably appealing. Is it about food photography? Hidden secrets? Perhaps Mikhail will shed some light on this intriguing title.

Monster Jam Showdown ($49.99)

For monster truck enthusiasts, Monster Jam Showdown offers local and online multiplayer, numerous game modes, and a decent, if not spectacular, reception on other platforms.

WitchSpring R ($39.99)

This appears to be a remake of the original WitchSpring, a mobile title often compared to the Atelier series. While previously budget-friendly, its current price point is closer to actual Atelier games, which may give some pause. However, it's visually the most polished WitchSpring entry yet.

Depths of Sanity ($19.99)

An underwater exploration game with a fantastical horror twist. Investigate your missing crew's fate in a vast, dangerous underwater world filled with combat challenges. This well-received title on other platforms is likely to resonate with Switch players.

Voltaire: The Vegan Vampire ($19.99)

Voltaire, a vegan vampire rebelling against his bloodthirsty father, engages in farming and action to defend his lifestyle. While I'm personally somewhat fatigued by the genre, those with more enthusiasm might find this appealing.

Marble Abduction! Patti Hattu ($11.79)

A marble roller game featuring seventy stages, eighty marbles to collect, secret items, and special challenges. The classic fast-paced gameplay will appeal to fans of the genre.

Leo: The Firefighter Cat ($24.99)

A kid-friendly firefighting game with twenty missions. While other firefighting games on Switch lean towards realism, this one caters to a younger audience.

Gori: Cuddly Carnage ($21.99)

A grotesque action game starring a hoverboarding cat. While the core gameplay is reportedly solid, the Switch version suffers from noticeable technical issues affecting the overall experience.

Arcade Archives Finalizer Super Transformation ($7.99)

A 1985 Konami vertical shooter featuring a transforming robot protagonist. This pre-Tiger Heli shooter offers a unique charm for fans of classic shooters.

EGGCONSOLE Xanadu Scenario II PC-8801mkIISR ($6.49)

An early example of a video game expansion pack, adding a new underworld to explore in Xanadu. Noteworthy for featuring the debut work of legendary composer Yuzo Koshiro.

The Backrooms: Survival ($10.99)

A blend of horror, survival, and roguelite elements, best experienced with up to ten online players. Solo play may appeal to a more niche audience.

Can of Wormholes ($19.99)

A clever puzzle game where you, a sentient tin can, must deal with worms. One hundred handcrafted puzzles keep the gameplay fresh and engaging.

Ninja I & II ($9.99)

Two NES-style microgames featuring ninja-themed challenges, ideal for local multiplayer or CPU competition.

Dice Make 10! ($3.99)

A surprisingly fun puzzle game with two modes: falling blocks and wood block placement. The goal is to create rows or columns where dice faces sum to multiples of ten.

Sales Bonanza

(North American eShop, US Prices)

Celebrate the 30th anniversary of The King of Fighters with a sale on the entire Arcade Archives series. Numerous Pixel Game Maker Series titles are also at their lowest prices yet. A variety of other indies are on sale as well.

Featured Sales:

That's all for today! Join us tomorrow for the concluding part of the week's round-up, featuring remaining new releases, sales, and news. Reviews may also be on the horizon. However, due to a significant typhoon, there's a possibility of a delay. We'll keep you updated! Have a fantastic Thursday!