SwitchArcade Round-Up: Reviews Featuring ‘Castlevania Dominus Collection’, Plus Today’s Releases and Sales

Hello fellow gamers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Roundup for September 3rd, 2024! Today's update brings a fresh batch of reviews, including in-depth analyses of Castlevania Dominus Collection and Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn, plus quick takes on some new Pinball FX DLC. We'll also explore the latest game releases, highlighting the charming Bakeru, and round things off with a look at the current sales and expiring deals. Let's dive in!

Reviews & Mini-Views

Castlevania Dominus Collection ($24.99)

Konami's recent track record with classic game collections has been exceptional, and the Castlevania Dominus Collection is no exception. This third installment focuses on the Nintendo DS trilogy, expertly handled by M2. But this collection offers more than just a simple port; it's arguably the most comprehensive Castlevania package to date.

The DS era of Castlevania was a turning point for the franchise. The trilogy boasts unique identities, creating a surprisingly diverse experience. Dawn of Sorrow, a direct sequel to Aria of Sorrow, initially suffered from clunky touchscreen controls, now elegantly addressed in this release. Portrait of Ruin cleverly integrates the touchscreen into a bonus mode, focusing on its innovative dual-character mechanic. Finally, Order of Ecclesia stands apart with its challenging gameplay and nostalgic nods to Simon's Quest. All three are excellent titles.

This collection marks the end of Koji Igarashi's era of exploration-focused Castlevania games. While each title possesses a distinct personality, it also reflects a potential fatigue with the formula. This release, however, isn't an emulation; it's a native port, allowing M2 to enhance gameplay significantly. The improved controls, particularly in Dawn of Sorrow, elevate the experience considerably. The addition of a third screen displaying the map simultaneously with the game screen and status screen is a brilliant touch.

The collection is brimming with options and extras. Players can select game regions, customize button mapping, and adjust control schemes. A delightful credits sequence and a comprehensive gallery featuring artwork, manuals, and box art add to the charm. A customizable music player allows you to enjoy the fantastic soundtrack. In-game options include save states, rewind functionality, screen layout customization, and an exhaustive compendium for each game. The only minor drawback is the limited screen arrangement options. This is a fantastic way to experience these three classic games at an incredible price.

And the surprises don't end there! The collection includes the notoriously difficult arcade game, Haunted Castle, alongside a complete remake, Haunted Castle Revisited. M2 has essentially created a new, enjoyable Castlevania game from the ground up, based on the original arcade title. This is a truly remarkable addition to an already impressive collection.

Castlevania Dominus Collection is a must-have for any Castlevania fan. It offers a completely new game and meticulously crafted versions of three classic DS titles. Even the inclusion of the original, notoriously difficult Haunted Castle adds to the overall value. If you're unfamiliar with Castlevania, this is a perfect entry point to experience the series' rich history. Konami and M2 have once again delivered a stellar collection.

SwitchArcade Score: 5/5

Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn ($19.99)

My experience with Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn has been a mixed bag. While Tengo Project's previous remakes have been exceptional, this one presents a different challenge. The original 8-bit game isn't as strong as their other projects, leading to some initial hesitation. However, after playing through the game, I've found myself somewhere in the middle.

The improvements are substantial, from the enhanced visuals to a refined weapon and item system. While there are no new characters, the existing ones are better differentiated. It's undeniably superior to the original, while retaining its core essence. Fans of the original will undoubtedly appreciate this remake.

However, if you found the original game merely decent, this remake might not significantly alter your opinion. The constant access to both the chain and sword is a welcome improvement, and the sword is more useful than in the original. The new inventory system adds depth. The presentation is excellent, disguising its 8-bit origins. The increased difficulty may be a necessary adjustment, given the game's shorter length. It's the best version of Shadow of the Ninja, but it remains essentially the same game at its core.

Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn is another solid effort from Tengo Project, representing a substantial improvement over its predecessor. Its appeal depends largely on your feelings toward the original game. Newcomers will find it an enjoyable but not essential action title.

SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5

Pinball FX – The Princess Bride Pinball ($5.49) and Pinball FX – Goat Simulator Pinball ($5.49)

These two Pinball FX DLC tables are reviewed briefly, celebrating the recent update to Pinball FX that significantly improves its Switch performance.

The Princess Bride Pinball is a well-executed licensed table, including voice clips and video clips from the film. It's a relatively straightforward, authentic adaptation of the movie, and is highly enjoyable.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Goat Simulator Pinball embraces its source material's absurdity. It's a unique, unconventional table that's more challenging than The Princess Bride, rewarding persistence with humorous antics. It's better suited to experienced pinball players.

SwitchArcade Score: 4/5