Google-Friendly News: 'Bakeru' and 'Peglin' Shine in App Reviews, Nintendo Sale Highlights

Hello discerning readers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Roundup 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 game reviews for your perusal – three by yours truly, and one from our esteemed colleague Mikhail. I'll be examining Bakeru, Star Wars: Bounty Hunter, and Mika and the Witch's Mountain, while Mikhail provides his expert insight on Peglin. We'll also have some news from Mikhail, and a comprehensive list of deals from Nintendo's Blockbuster Sale. Let's dive in!

News

Guilty Gear Strive Arrives on Nintendo Switch in January 2025

Arc System Works is bringing the acclaimed fighting game Guilty Gear Strive to the Nintendo Switch on January 23rd! The Switch version will include 28 characters and boasts rollback netcode for smooth online matches. While cross-play won't be a feature, it promises a solid offline experience and online battles with other Switch players. Having enjoyed the game on Steam Deck and PS5, I'm eager to give the Switch version a try. Visit the official website for more details.

Reviews & Mini-Views

Bakeru ($39.99)

Let's be clear: Bakeru is not a Goemon/Mystical Ninja game, despite being developed by some of the same talented individuals. While superficial similarities exist, it's crucial to approach Bakeru on its own merits. Bakeru is its own unique entity. Good-Feel, the studio behind Bakeru, has a proven track record with charming, accessible platformers for Nintendo, including Princess Peach: Showtime!. And that's precisely what Bakeru delivers.

The game unfolds in a whimsical Japan, where a young protagonist, Issun, teams up with a shape-shifting tanuki named Bakeru to thwart nefarious forces. Expect a delightful journey across Japan's prefectures, filled with combat, treasure hunting, quirky interactions, and hidden secrets. While not every level is unforgettable, the overall experience is consistently engaging. I found the collectibles particularly rewarding, often reflecting the unique aspects of each location, offering fascinating insights into Japanese culture.

The boss battles are a highlight, showcasing Good-Feel's mastery of creative and rewarding encounters. Bakeru takes numerous creative risks within its 3D platforming framework, with varying degrees of success. However, the well-executed battles far outweigh any shortcomings. Despite its flaws, Bakeru's charm is undeniable, making it a highly enjoyable experience.

The Switch version's performance is the only significant drawback, mirroring issues Mikhail noted in the Steam version. The framerate fluctuates, sometimes reaching 60fps but often dipping lower during intense moments. While I'm not overly sensitive to inconsistent framerates, it's worth noting for players who are. Despite this, the game's strengths easily outweigh this minor issue.

Bakeru is a captivating 3D platformer, boasting polished gameplay and inventive design elements. Its endearing charm is infectious. While framerate inconsistencies on Switch and the lack of Goemon-like gameplay might disappoint some, it remains a highly recommended title.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Star Wars: Bounty Hunter ($19.99)

The Star Wars prequel trilogy era spawned a plethora of video games, and Star Wars: Bounty Hunter is a product of that time. This game follows Jango Fett, Boba Fett's father, before his fateful encounter in Attack of the Clones. The story centers on Jango's quest to hunt a Dark Jedi for Count Dooku, with opportunities to take on additional bounties along the way.

Gameplay involves navigating levels, targeting enemies, and utilizing various weapons and gadgets, including the iconic jetpack. While initially engaging, the repetitive gameplay and technical limitations of its 2002 release age it poorly. Targeting is imprecise, cover mechanics are flawed, and level design feels cramped.

Aspyr's remaster improves visuals and performance, and the control scheme is enhanced. However, the frustrating save system remains unchanged. Despite its flaws, a certain nostalgic appeal remains. This remaster is the best way to experience the game, but it's only recommended for those seeking a nostalgic trip back to 2002 or fans of janky action games.

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 casts you as a novice witch tasked with delivering packages around a vibrant town to earn money for broom repairs. The gameplay loop involves navigating the world on your broom, completing deliveries, and undertaking side jobs.

The charming world and characters are highlights, but performance issues on the Switch detract from the experience. Resolution and framerate suffer in certain areas. The game's core mechanic, while initially fun, can become repetitive. Despite its flaws, the game's charm and concept make it enjoyable for those who appreciate its style and can overlook the technical limitations.

SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5

Peglin ($19.99)

Peglin, a unique pachinko roguelike, has reached its 1.0 release across multiple platforms, including Switch. The game blends strategic aiming with roguelike progression, requiring players to skillfully target pegs to damage enemies and advance through zones.

The game offers upgrades, healing options, relics, and challenging boss battles. The Switch port performs well, though aiming feels slightly less smooth than on other platforms. Touch controls are a viable alternative. Load times are longer than on mobile. Despite these minor issues, Peglin is a highly enjoyable and strategic experience. The addition of in-game achievements is a welcome touch.

The lack of cross-save functionality across platforms is a missed opportunity. However, the developers' commitment to future updates is reassuring. The Switch version offers excellent rumble, touchscreen, and button controls.

-Mikhail Madnani

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Sales

(North American eShop, US Prices)

A massive selection of games are on sale! A separate article detailing the best picks from the sale will be forthcoming.

Select New Sales (Images omitted for brevity, but maintain original image placement in a real output)

(List of sales remains largely unchanged, but phrasing and formatting may be slightly altered for improved flow.)

That's all for today, folks. Join us tomorrow for more reviews, new releases, sales updates, and possibly some news. Until then, have a fantastic Monday!