SwitchArcade Round-Up: Reviews Featuring ‘Bakeru’ & ‘Peglin’, Plus Highlights From Nintendo’s Blockbuster Sale

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 – three from me and one from our friend Mikhail. I'll be covering Bakeru, Star Wars: Bounty Hunter, and Mika and the Witch’s Mountain, while Mikhail tackles Peglin, a game he knows better than anyone at TouchArcade. We'll also have some 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! Expect 28 characters and rollback netcode for online play. While crossplay isn't included, it'll be great for offline and Switch-to-Switch battles. I love this game on Steam Deck and PS5, and I'm definitely looking forward to the Switch version. Find the official website for more details.

Reviews & Mini-Views

Bakeru ($39.99)

Let's get one thing straight: Bakeru is not Goemon/Mystical Ninja. While developed by some of the same team, the similarities are superficial. Comparing it directly to Goemon is unfair to both games. Bakeru is its own entity. With that said, Bakeru hails from Good-Feel, a studio known for charming, accessible platformers in the Wario, Yoshi, and Kirby universes. And that's exactly what Bakeru is.

The game follows Issun and his tanuki companion, Bakeru, as they journey across Japan, battling foes, collecting cash, and uncovering secrets. Over sixty levels await, offering a consistently engaging, if not always memorable, experience. The collectibles are particularly noteworthy, reflecting the unique aspects of each region, offering little-known facts about Japan, even for long-term residents.

The boss battles are a highlight, showcasing Good-Feel's talent for creative and rewarding encounters. Bakeru takes some bold creative risks for a 3D platformer, with varying degrees of success. However, the successes far outweigh any shortcomings. I found myself charmed by the game despite its flaws. It's incredibly endearing.

The only significant drawback is the Switch's performance. While it can reach 60fps, the framerate often dips, especially during intense moments. Personally, inconsistent framerates don't bother me, but those sensitive to it should be aware. Despite improvements since the Japanese release, performance issues remain.

Bakeru is a delightful 3D platformer with polished design and inventive gameplay. Its charm is infectious. While performance issues and the lack of Goemon comparisons hold it back slightly, it's a highly recommended title to cap off your summer.

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Star Wars: Bounty Hunter ($19.99)

The prequel trilogy era spawned a plethora of Star Wars merchandise, including numerous video games. While the movies weren't universally praised, they undeniably expanded the Star Wars universe. Remember Boba Fett? Well, this game features his father, Jango Fett! Star Wars: Bounty Hunter delves into Jango's backstory before Attack of the Clones.

The game follows Jango as he hunts down a Dark Jedi for Count Dooku, taking on optional bounties along the way. The gameplay, while initially engaging with its weaponry and jetpack, becomes repetitive. The game's age shows, with issues like clunky targeting and poorly designed levels. Even at the time of its release, it was considered merely average.

Aspyr's remaster improves visuals and performance, and the controls are better than the original. However, the saving system remains frustrating, potentially requiring restarts of long levels. The inclusion of a Boba Fett skin is a nice touch. If you're interested in playing, this version is the best option.

Star Wars: Bounty Hunter possesses a nostalgic charm, typical of early 2000s games. It's recommended for those seeking a retro gaming experience. Otherwise, its rough edges might be too much.

SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5

Mika and the Witch’s Mountain ($19.99)

Following negative reception of Nausicaa-based games, Hayao Miyazaki reportedly banned further adaptations of his works. Mika and the Witch’s Mountain clearly draws inspiration from Ghibli films.

Players take on the role of a rookie witch whose broom breaks after being thrown off a mountain. To earn money for repairs, she delivers packages around town. The gameplay is simple but enjoyable, enhanced by the vibrant world and characters. The Switch struggles with performance at times, impacting resolution and framerate. Better hardware would likely improve the experience.

Mika and the Witch’s Mountain is a charming game, but its core mechanic can become repetitive. Performance issues are present. However, if the concept appeals to you, you'll likely enjoy it.

SwitchArcade Score: 3.5/5

Peglin ($19.99)

I previously reviewed Peglin's early access version. Now, with the 1.0 release, it's a more complete experience. This pachinko roguelike is a great game for a specific type of player. The goal is to strategically aim an orb at pegs to damage enemies and progress through zones.

The game features upgrades, shops, and challenging battles. While initially difficult, the gameplay becomes addictive. The Switch port performs well, though aiming isn't as smooth as on other platforms. Touch controls are a good alternative. Load times are longer than on mobile and Steam.

The Switch version lacks achievements, but Peglin includes its own tracking system. Cross-save functionality is absent, but future updates are planned. The only issues are load times and aiming smoothness.

Even in early access, Peglin was fantastic. While balance issues remain, it's essential for fans of pachinko roguelikes. The Switch version makes good use of hardware features, offering rumble, touchscreen, and button controls. A physical release would be welcome. -Mikhail Madnani

SwitchArcade Score: 4.5/5

Sales

(North American eShop, US Prices)

This is just a small selection of the many games on sale. Look for a separate article highlighting the best deals.

Select New Sales

Sales Ending Tomorrow, September 3rd

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