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 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 phenomenal Marvel vs. Capcom 2. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics encompasses this era, adding Capcom's superb Punisher beat 'em up for good measure. A truly fantastic collection of classic games.

This compilation shares many features with the Capcom Fighting Collection, including – unfortunately – a single save state for all seven games. This is inconvenient, especially with the inclusion of a beat 'em up requiring independent save progress. However, it otherwise delivers as expected: extensive visual filters, gameplay options, a wealth of artwork and a music player, and rollback online multiplayer. A notable addition is NAOMI hardware emulation, expertly implemented, 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 differences, and the Dreamcast Marvel vs. Capcom 2 boasts enjoyable extras ideal for solo play. Including Capcom's two Super NES Marvel titles, despite their imperfections, would have also been a welcome addition. However, the title accurately reflects its content: Arcade Classics.

Marvel and fighting game enthusiasts will celebrate this exceptional collection. The games are superb, meticulously preserved, and complemented by excellent extras and options. The single, shared save state is a significant drawback, but otherwise, it's a near-perfect 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 adore Yars’ Revenge. A WayForward Metroidvania Yars game featuring a young, bare-midriff hacker named Yar felt… odd. However, it's a good game. WayForward delivers solid visuals, sound, gameplay, and level design. Boss battles, typical of WayForward, are somewhat lengthy, but not game-breaking.

WayForward impressively bridges the gap between this game and the original single-screen shooter. Yars’ Revenge sequences are frequent, abilities evoke the original, and the lore is surprisingly well-integrated. While the connection feels tenuous, Atari's attempt to expand its classic library is understandable. The game, however, seems to cater to two largely disparate audiences, which may not have been the optimal approach.

Regardless of its conceptual coherence, Yars Rising is enjoyable. It may not challenge genre titans, but it's a satisfying Metroidvania for a weekend playthrough. Perhaps future installments will solidify its place.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland ($24.99)

My nostalgia for Rugrats is limited, though I watched it occasionally with my siblings. I knew the characters and theme song, but lacked deep attachment. Therefore, Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland was an unknown quantity. Comparisons to Bonk proved partially accurate, reflecting Tommy's physique.

The game immediately impressed with its crisp visuals, surpassing the show's quality. Control placement was initially awkward, but customizable. The Rugrats theme song played, Reptar coins were collectible, and simple puzzles and enemies were present. It's a platformer with exploration elements.

Switching to Chuckie revealed a familiar, high-arcing jump, reminiscent of Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA). Phil had a low jump, and Lil could float. Enemies could be picked up and thrown, and blocks could be stacked. It's a Super Mario Bros. 2-inspired platformer with non-linear levels and verticality. The game even includes sand-digging mechanics, perfectly suited to Phil.

While other platformers are referenced, the core gameplay is inspired by Super Mario Bros. 2, a rarely-adapted classic. Boss battles are engaging, and the visuals and soundtrack can be toggled between modern and 8-bit styles. A filter is also available. Multiplayer is supported. The only drawbacks are the slightly short length and simple design, and a minor control issue.

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

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5