An homage to Darkstalkers more than anything, Capcom Fighter Collection is well packaged, presented and executed. There's not a lot of title diversity, but a few make their first overdue appearance outside of Japan and arcades.
Dungeon Chess is a solid and affordable chess experience, one nicely paired with the Dungeons and Dragons brand. Still, graphic jitters and missing options make it a wait-and-see title, at present.
In contrast, those with a need for speed or a want for a Switch version of Truck Simulator…this is not for you. I would suspect several who buy this version sans advance knowledge will be done with it fifteen minutes in. Test: if strategic winching to escape a hopeless mud ditch isn't for you, than Spintires: Mudrunners American Wilds is a ‘pass.'
Combined, Madden 23 – especially with Free Form Passing – is certainly different from Madden 22, but not necessarily all that better. It still struggles in being accessible to most, with the bar for control schemes and required knowledge of American football far too high. On-screen help is still minimal, AI generated assistance limited, and fun factor almost non-existent. It's obvious the Madden series made a sharp turn toward competitive gaming and Ultimate Team a few years back, with zero regrets.
While seasoned veterans of the Ace Combat series may have a much different perspective on its seventh iteration, I was unfortunately left disappointed by lots of glitz and limited glamour.
Perhaps younger gamers will be less turned off by these flaws, also those craving for some portable, co-op experiences online/offline to collectively embody their favorite Marvel heroes. Still – and unless you're an exceptional diehard, it's hard to recommend Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3…and coming from a Marvel diehard, no less.
For NFL diehards, there remains hundreds of gaming hours at your disposal in Madden 21. These same diehards – much like players of EA's NHL and Sony's The Show – will be left with the impression they've played this game before, however.
More of a rehashed Madden 23, Madden 24's new additions do little to move the chains. Old hiccups return, new ones introduced, and it remains a title best suited for hardcore players.
Blue Rider is fun, flashy but also flawed. It's nice to see a legitimate shoot-em-up on the PS4, one made by people who appreciate the genre. The graphical palette is beautiful, and rarely this nice for this genre. Audio is a throwback, and in the best of ways. Too few levels and no true continues make Blue Rider a likely tough sell except for score chasers.
Megaquarium for the Switch is an enjoyable theme park builder suitable for entry level and experts of the genre. Those with aquarium experience will find a lot to love here. It is, however, best suited for dock mode only.
NHL 23 is NHL 22 with but some presentation polish and international women's teams. It stands as the most obvious current example on next gen of why some sport titles may be better served updated versus re-released when so little new. NHL superfans will no doubt purchase without a thought due to roster updates. Casual ones should consider staying put or at a reduced price. The accompanying review score is a reflection of this reality, as ratings take into account changes – or lack thereof – from NHL 22.
Lego Jurassic World is a perfect port of the 2015 title with all DLC included. It does not, however, offer anything new either in the Lego game space and/or from the original. For Jurassic Park movie buffs (and/or those with little ones who are), however, this is a solid experience if this the first foray into the title. Otherwise, take a pass.
Darksiders II Deathinitive Edition is a struggling port of a below average game. While it is better than its predecessor in some ways, the game's wonky camera and generic visuals make for an often-frustrating experience. Only Darksiders loyalists will want to jump on this Switch port clearly showing its age.
Pro Putt by Topgolf is a fun albeit limited version of miniature golf. Physics are good, mini games party-friendly, and it very easy to pick up and play. Still, a simple presentation and lack of variety hamper overall experience.
Tennis World Tour 2 is sadly yet another modern tennis game that falls short. Despite bringing Big Ant over from AO Tennis 2, the game ends up burdened by poor execution and gameplay. Even at a budget price, consider holding off until future patches potentially address these also expand the legends roster.
Easy on the eyes and ears and fun to play, WWE 2K Battlegrounds is a simplified title that mainly works. Its horrific paywall system, however, immediately kills much of its good will.
A wonderfully unique experience housed in an average game, The Eternal Cylinder tells a strong tale but executes it in a pedestrian way. Play it for the story, not the gameplay.
If you're a Darksiders diehard, consider picking up Daksiders Genesis on a different platform. It's near unplayable on the Switch, but has the seeming makings of a better outcome, elsewhere.
Well intended but average in execution, Red Wings: Aces of the Sky is a noble also flawed attempt at an arcade WW1 flight shooter. Despite occasionally beautiful visuals and audio, execution is sorely lacking.
R-Type Final 2 is sadly the classic example of form over substance. On paper, it provides fans of the beloved R-Type series what they would want in a modern sequel. In reality, it is simply an unenjoyable, below average title with little allure to wade through it.