Introducing Blockbuster Nintendo Sale Highlights & Reviews of 'Bakeru' and 'Peglin'

Hello, readers! 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, starting this week with three from me and one from Mikhail. I'll be covering Bakeru, Star Wars: Bounty Hunter, and Mika and the Witch’s Mountain, while Mikhail offers his expert take on Peglin. Plus, we've got 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

Arc System Works is bringing Guilty Gear Strive to the Nintendo Switch on January 23rd! This version will include 28 characters and boast rollback netcode for online play. While crossplay isn't included, it's still great news for offline and Switch-to-Switch battles. Having loved it on Steam Deck and PS5, I'm definitely eager to give the Switch version a try. Find the official website for more details.

Reviews & Mini-Views

Bakeru ($39.99)

Let's get one thing straight: Bakeru isn't Goemon/Mystical Ninja. While developed by some of the same team, the similarities are largely superficial. Comparing the two is unfair to both. Bakeru is its own unique creation. With that said, let's discuss this charming platformer. Bakeru comes from Good-Feel, a studio known for its polished and enjoyable platformers in the Wario, Yoshi, and Kirby universes (and recently, Princess Peach: Showtime!). And Bakeru fits right into that mold.

The game unfolds in a whimsical Japan, where a young protagonist named Issun finds an unlikely ally in Bakeru, a shape-shifting tanuki. Bakeru's abilities, including his mastery of a taiko drum, are key to your adventure. You'll traverse Japan, battling enemies, collecting cash, interacting with (yes, really) poop, and uncovering secrets across more than sixty levels. The experience is lighthearted and engaging, although not every level is unforgettable. I particularly appreciated the collectibles, which often reflect the unique aspects of each region, offering interesting insights into Japanese culture.

The boss battles are a highlight! Good-Feel clearly understands the importance of a well-designed boss fight, and these are creative and rewarding encounters. The game takes some creative risks for a 3D platformer, and while some work better than others, the successes far outweigh any shortcomings. I found myself genuinely enjoying Bakeru despite its flaws, its likable nature making it hard not to love.

One area of concern is the Switch's performance. While the framerate can reach 60fps, it frequently dips when the action gets intense (a point Mikhail also noted in his Steam review). Personally, I'm not overly sensitive to framerate inconsistencies, so it didn't detract significantly from my enjoyment. However, if you're more sensitive to this, be aware that performance issues remain despite improvements since the Japanese release.

Bakeru is a delightful 3D platformer with polished design and fun gameplay elements. Its commitment to its unique style is infectious. While some framerate issues and the lack of Goemon comparisons hold it back slightly, it's a highly recommended title for a fun end-of-summer adventure.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Star Wars: Bounty Hunter ($19.99)

The Star Wars prequel trilogy spawned a wave of merchandise, including numerous video games. Star Wars: Bounty Hunter focuses on Jango Fett, Boba Fett's father. This game explores Jango's life before Attack of the Clones, detailing his rise as a bounty hunter and his involvement with Count Dooku.

The gameplay involves completing levels with specific targets, while optional targets offer extra challenges. You'll utilize a variety of weapons and gadgets, including the iconic jetpack. While initially engaging, the repetitive gameplay and dated mechanics (a common issue with early 2000s games) can become tiresome. Targeting is clunky, cover mechanics are weak, and level design feels cramped. Even at its release, it was a mediocre game at best.

Aspyr's porting work has improved the visuals and performance, offering a better experience than the original. However, the frustrating save system remains unchanged, potentially leading to repeated playthroughs of lengthy levels. The addition of a Boba Fett skin is a nice touch. If you're interested in playing this game, this is the best version available.

Star Wars: Bounty Hunter possesses a certain nostalgic charm, characteristic of its era. If you enjoy experiencing games from the PS2/GameCube/Xbox generation, its rough edges and earnest approach might appeal to you. Otherwise, its dated mechanics might prove too frustrating.

SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5

Mika and the Witch’s Mountain ($19.99)

Following negative experiences with Nausicaa video game adaptations, Hayao Miyazaki reportedly banned further games based on his works. Mika and the Witch’s Mountain, however, draws clear inspiration from Ghibli's style and aesthetic.

You play as a rookie witch whose teacher throws her off a mountain, breaking her broom. To repair it, you take up package delivery jobs in a nearby town. The gameplay involves flying around on your broom, delivering items, and undertaking side jobs. The vibrant world and charming characters enhance the experience. However, the Switch version suffers from performance issues, with occasional drops in resolution and framerate. A more powerful platform would likely improve the experience.

Mika and the Witch’s Mountain is clearly inspired by Ghibli, but its repetitive core mechanic can wear thin. The Switch's performance limitations are noticeable. However, if the concept appeals to you, you'll likely find it enjoyable despite its flaws.

SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5

Peglin ($19.99)

Peglin, a pachinko roguelike, has been significantly improved since its early access release. The Switch version represents the game's 1.0 release, offering a more complete experience. The gameplay involves aiming an orb at pegs to damage enemies and progress through zone maps. The game is challenging initially but becomes more engaging as you unlock new orbs, upgrades, and relics. The strategic aiming and board manipulation add depth to the gameplay.

The Switch port performs well, although aiming isn't as smooth as on other platforms. Touch controls are a viable alternative. Load times are longer than on mobile and Steam. While not game-breaking, these issues are worth noting. The inclusion of in-game achievements is a positive addition. Cross-save functionality would have been a welcome feature.

Despite minor issues with load times and aiming, Peglin on Switch is a strong port. The developers' use of Switch features, including rumble, touchscreen support, and button controls, is excellent.

Even in its early access, Peglin was fantastic. While some balance issues remain, it's a must-have for Switch owners who enjoy the combination of pachinko and roguelike mechanics. A physical release would be a welcome addition. -Mikhail Madnani

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Sales

(North American eShop, US Prices)

This is just a selection of the many games on sale. Check out a separate article for a curated list of the best deals.

Select New Sales

(List of sales, images omitted for brevity)

(List of sales, images omitted for brevity)

(List of sales, images omitted for brevity)

(List of sales, images omitted for brevity)

(List of sales, images omitted for brevity)

(List of sales, images omitted for brevity)

That's all for today. We'll be back tomorrow with more reviews, new releases, sales, and news! Have a great Monday!