Home News SwitchArcade Review Round-Up: ‘Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection’, ‘Yars Rising’, & ‘Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland’

SwitchArcade Review Round-Up: ‘Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection’, ‘Yars Rising’, & ‘Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland’

by Camila Feb 10,2025

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

For 90s fans of Marvel, Capcom, and fighting games, Capcom's Marvel-themed 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, culminating in the iconic Marvel vs. Capcom and the spectacular Marvel vs. Capcom 2. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics compiles these classics, plus Capcom's Punisher beat 'em up, offering a fantastic retro gaming experience.

This collection, similar to the Capcom Fighting Collection, boasts numerous features and extras. However, it unfortunately shares a single save state across all seven games, a drawback particularly noticeable with the Punisher beat 'em up. Despite this, the collection offers extensive visual filters, gameplay options, a wealth of artwork, a music player, and rollback online multiplayer. The inclusion of NAOMI hardware emulation ensures Marvel vs. Capcom 2 runs exceptionally well.

While the focus on arcade versions is appreciated, the omission of certain home console versions is a missed opportunity. The PlayStation EX versions of the tag-team games offer unique elements, and the Dreamcast version of Marvel vs. Capcom 2 includes enjoyable extras. The absence of Capcom's Super NES Marvel titles is also notable. However, the collection's title accurately reflects its content.

This collection is a must-have for Marvel and fighting game enthusiasts. The games are exceptional, meticulously presented, and complemented by a strong selection of extras and options. The single save state is a significant drawback, but overall, Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics is a superb compilation, particularly enjoyable on the Switch.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Yars Rising ($29.99)

Initial skepticism regarding this Metroidvania-style Yars' Revenge was understandable. The concept of a young hacker, code-named Yar, in a Metroidvania setting seemed incongruous with the original 2600 classic. However, WayForward delivers a solid game with impressive visuals, sound, gameplay, and level design. While boss battles occasionally overextend, this doesn't detract significantly from the overall experience.

WayForward successfully integrates elements of the original Yars' Revenge, incorporating similar gameplay sequences and abilities within the expanded lore. Despite the conceptual leap, the connection to the original game is reasonably well-executed. The game, however, seems to cater to two distinct audiences with limited overlap, raising questions about its overall design choices.

Regardless of conceptual concerns, Yars Rising is an enjoyable Metroidvania. While it may not surpass the genre's best, it provides a satisfying gaming experience for a weekend playthrough. The potential for future installments could further solidify its place within the Yars franchise.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland ($24.99)

Despite limited personal nostalgia for Rugrats, this platformer exceeded expectations. The game features crisp visuals, customizable controls, and the iconic Rugrats theme song. Gameplay incorporates elements of exploration, puzzles, and combat, following a classic platformer formula.

The game's unique aspect is its clear inspiration from Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA). Characters possess distinct jump heights and abilities reminiscent of the original, including the ability to pick up and throw enemies. Levels incorporate verticality and unique mechanics, such as sand digging. The inclusion of both modern and 8-bit visual styles and soundtracks adds further depth.

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland is a creative and enjoyable platformer, successfully utilizing the Rugrats license. While slightly short and lacking voice acting in cutscenes, its gameplay and homage to Super Mario Bros. 2 make it a worthwhile experience for platformer fans and Rugrats enthusiasts alike. The multiplayer mode adds further replay value.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

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