SwitchArcade Round-Up: Reviews Featuring ‘Bakeru’ & ‘Peglin’, Plus Highlights From Nintendo’s Blockbuster Sale

Hello fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Round-Up for September 2nd, 2024! While it might be a holiday in the US, it's business as usual here in Japan. That means a fresh batch of reviews for you – three from me, and one from our expert Mikhail. I'll be covering Bakeru, Star Wars: Bounty Hunter, and Mika and the Witch’s Mountain, while Mikhail provides his insightful perspective on Peglin. Plus, we've got some news from Mikhail and a huge list of deals from Nintendo's Blockbuster Sale. Let's dive in!

News

Guilty Gear Strive Arrives on Nintendo Switch in January 2025!

The wait is over! Arc System Works is bringing Guilty Gear Strive to the Nintendo Switch on January 23rd, 2025. Expect 28 characters and rollback netcode for online play. While cross-play isn't included, offline battles and online matches with other Switch players should be a blast. Having loved the game on Steam Deck and PS5, I'm eager to give the Switch version a try. For more details, visit the official website.

Reviews & Mini-Views

Bakeru ($39.99)

Let's be clear: Bakeru isn't Goemon/Mystical Ninja, though some of its creators worked on that beloved series. While there are surface similarities, comparing the two is unfair to both. Bakeru is its own unique experience. Developed by Good-Feel (known for Wario, Yoshi, and Kirby titles), Bakeru is a charming, accessible, and polished 3D platformer.

The story follows Issun and his tanuki companion, Bakeru, as they journey across Japan, battling foes, collecting cash, and uncovering secrets. With over sixty levels, the adventure is engaging and lighthearted. I particularly enjoyed the collectibles, which often reflect the unique aspects of each location, offering fun insights into Japanese culture.

The boss battles are a highlight! Good-Feel clearly understands the art of a memorable boss fight, and Bakeru delivers creative and rewarding encounters. While the game takes some creative risks, some work better than others – a common occurrence in this genre. Despite its imperfections, Bakeru's charm is infectious.

The only significant drawback is the Switch version's performance. The framerate fluctuates, sometimes reaching 60fps but often dropping during intense moments. While I'm not overly sensitive to inconsistent framerates, this might bother more discerning players. Despite improvements since the Japanese release, performance issues remain.

Bakeru is a delightful 3D platformer with polished gameplay and inventive design. Its charm is undeniable. While framerate issues hold it back slightly on Switch, and those expecting a Goemon clone will be disappointed, it’s still a highly recommended title.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Star Wars: Bounty Hunter ($19.99)

The prequel trilogy era spawned a wave of Star Wars games, and Star Wars: Bounty Hunter features Jango Fett, Boba Fett's father. This game explores Jango's life before Attack of the Clones, detailing his rise to become the galaxy's top bounty hunter and his connection to the clone army.

Gameplay involves completing levels with specific targets, while also pursuing optional bounties. You'll utilize various weapons and gadgets, including the iconic jetpack. While initially engaging, the repetitive gameplay and dated mechanics (common in early 2000s games) become apparent. Targeting is problematic, cover mechanics are flawed, and level design feels cramped.

Aspyr's updated port improves visuals and performance, and the control scheme is enhanced. However, the frustrating save system remains, forcing restarts from the beginning of long stages if you falter. Unlocking a Boba Fett skin is a nice touch.

Star Wars: Bounty Hunter holds a certain nostalgic appeal, capturing the feel of early 2000s games. If you crave a retro action experience with its quirks, this is worth considering. Otherwise, the dated gameplay might be off-putting.

SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5

Mika and the Witch’s Mountain ($19.99)

Clearly inspired by Studio Ghibli films, Mika and the Witch’s Mountain puts you in the shoes of a rookie witch whose broom breaks after being thrown off a mountain. To fix it, you'll take on package delivery jobs around town.

Gameplay involves zipping around on your broom, delivering items and completing side quests. The vibrant world and characters are charming. However, the Switch version suffers from performance issues, with resolution and framerate dips impacting the experience. The gameplay loop, while initially engaging, can become repetitive.

If you enjoy the concept and can overlook the technical shortcomings, you'll likely find Mika and the Witch’s Mountain enjoyable. It's a game best suited for players who appreciate its charming aesthetic and can forgive some technical flaws.

SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5

Peglin ($19.99)

A year ago, I reviewed Peglin's early access version. Now, it's finally 1.0 across all platforms, including Switch. This pachinko roguelike challenges you to aim an orb at pegs to damage enemies and progress through zone maps. The game is difficult initially but becomes more rewarding as you unlock and upgrade orbs, collect relics, and master the aiming mechanics.

The Switch port performs well, though aiming feels less smooth than on other platforms. Touch controls are a viable alternative. Load times are longer than on mobile and Steam. Despite this, the inclusion of in-game achievements and good use of rumble and touchscreen support make it a solid port.

Cross-save functionality between platforms would've been a welcome addition. Despite some minor issues, Peglin is a must-have for fans of pachinko and roguelike games.

Peglin is a fantastic game, even with its minor balancing issues. The Switch version makes great use of the hardware features, offering various control options. A physical release would be a fantastic addition. -Mikhail Madnani

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Sales

(North American eShop, US Prices)

Nintendo's Blockbuster Sale is massive! This is just a selection of the many games on sale. Check out a separate article for more curated picks.

Select New Sales (Images omitted for brevity, but retain original image structure)

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Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 3rd (Images omitted for brevity, but retain original image structure)

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That's all for today! Join us tomorrow for more reviews, new releases, sales, and news. Have a great Monday!