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 stellar 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 wildly successful Marvel vs. Capcom 2. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics encompasses this era, adding Capcom's excellent Punisher beat 'em up for good measure. A truly fantastic collection.

This compilation shares many features with the Capcom Fighting Collection, including – unfortunately – a single shared save state across all seven games. This is particularly frustrating with the beat 'em up, where independent saves would be preferable. However, it otherwise delivers as expected: visual filters, gameplay options, extensive art galleries, a music player, and rollback online multiplayer. A notable addition is NAOMI hardware emulation, 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 elements, and the Dreamcast Marvel vs. Capcom 2 boasts enjoyable extras beneficial for solo play. Including Capcom's two Super NES Marvel titles, despite their flaws, would have been a welcome addition. However, the title accurately reflects its content: Arcade Classics.

Marvel and fighting game enthusiasts will delight in this exceptional collection. The games are superb, meticulously preserved, and complemented by a robust selection of 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 another must-have from Capcom, particularly enjoyable on the Switch.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Yars Rising ($29.99)

Initially skeptical, given my fondness for Yars' Revenge and WayForward's Metroidvania take on the concept, featuring a young hacker codenamed Yar, I approached this with caution. However, it's a genuinely good game. WayForward delivers solid visuals, sound, gameplay, and map design. Boss battles, typical of WayForward titles, are somewhat protracted, but not a major issue.

WayForward admirably attempts to bridge the gap between the original single-screen shooter and this new iteration. Yars' Revenge-style sequences are frequent, abilities evoke the original, and the lore is surprisingly well-integrated. The connection feels somewhat forced, but Atari's attempts to revitalize its classic library are understandable. The game seems to cater to two largely disparate audiences, which might not have been the optimal approach.

Despite the conceptual debate, Yars Rising is enjoyable. It may not surpass genre titans, but it provides a satisfying Metroidvania experience for a weekend playthrough. Perhaps future installments will solidify its identity.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland ($24.99)

While lacking strong personal nostalgia for Rugrats, I approached this with an open mind. The game's crisp visuals immediately impressed, surpassing the show's quality. Initially awkward controls are thankfully adjustable. The Rugrats theme song and Reptar coins are present, setting the tone for this platformer with explorative levels, puzzles, and enemies.

The gameplay, however, revealed a surprising influence: Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA). Character-specific jumps (high, low, floating) and the ability to pick up and throw enemies are clear homages. The inclusion of sand-digging mechanics, perfectly suited to Phil, further enhances the game's unique charm.

The game also features modern and 8-bit visual/soundtrack options and a filter. The only drawbacks are its brevity and simplicity. The boss battles, however, are engaging.

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland exceeded expectations. It's a high-quality platformer inspired by Super Mario Bros. 2, with additional elements. The Rugrats license is well-integrated, although voice acting in cutscenes would have been a welcome addition. While short, it's a worthwhile experience for platformer and Rugrats fans. Multiplayer is also a plus.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5