Hello gaming enthusiasts, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Round-Up for August 29th, 2024! Today's roundup features a substantial lineup of new game releases, forming the core of our discussion, as is customary on Thursdays. We'll also explore a noteworthy selection of sales. Unfortunately, Nintendo Directs aren't a daily occurrence, but let's dive into the games!

Featured New Releases

Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club ($49.99)

The Famicom Detective Club franchise returns after a long hiatus with a new installment. This latest case stays true to the original games' style, both its strengths and weaknesses. A fresh mystery unfolds, presented in a manner reminiscent of the recent Switch remakes. Can you crack the latest serial murder case? My review is forthcoming.

Gundam Breaker 4 ($59.99)

Mikhail's comprehensive review provides an in-depth look at this title, so I'll direct you there for a detailed gameplay analysis and performance assessment on the Switch. In short, you build and battle Gunpla. While the Switch version naturally lags behind others in performance, it's still a satisfying experience. Read Mikhail's insightful review – it's excellent!

Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn ($19.99)

Tengo Project continues its impressive streak of remakes and re-imaginings. Following successful revivals of 16-bit classics like Wild Guns Reloaded and The Ninja Saviors, they now tackle an 8-bit title. This iteration differs significantly from its source material. However, fans of classic-style action-platformers will find much to appreciate. My review will be published early next week.

Valfaris: Mecha Therion ($19.99)

This Valfaris sequel offers a departure from its predecessor's gameplay. Instead of the original's style, it's a 2.5D side-scrolling shooter. While the genre shift may surprise some, it's a solid title. Embrace the change, and you'll discover much to enjoy. A review is on its way.

Nour: Play With Your Food ($9.99)

I'll admit, I'm unsure of this game's mechanics. The food imagery is stunning, but the gameplay remains a mystery. Photography? Secret-finding? Perhaps Mikhail will investigate further. It seems right up his alley.

Monster Jam Showdown ($49.99)

If you're a monster truck enthusiast, this game might appeal to you. It features local and online multiplayer, numerous game modes, and generally received a mixed reception on other platforms. However, monster truck game options are limited, so it might be worth considering.

WitchSpring R ($39.99)

I believe this is a remake of the original WitchSpring, though I could be mistaken. WitchSpring was always a mobile alternative to the Atelier series. At its original price point, it was a decent option. However, its current price nears that of a true Atelier game, making it less appealing. Still, it appears to be the most polished WitchSpring title yet.

Depths of Sanity ($19.99)

An underwater exploration game with a fantastical horror theme. You investigate the disappearance of your crew within a vast, interconnected underwater world. Combat is involved. It's well-regarded on other platforms and likely to find a dedicated following on Switch.

Voltaire: The Vegan Vampire ($19.99)

Voltaire, a vegan vampire, rebels against his bloodthirsty father. This leads to farming and combat as he defends his lifestyle. While I'm somewhat fatigued by this genre, those with more enthusiasm for farming simulations might enjoy this.

Marble Abduction! Patti Hattu ($11.79)

A marble roller game with seventy stages and eighty marbles to collect, featuring secret collectibles and challenges. The core gameplay loop of fast-paced marble rolling remains intact.

Leo: The Firefighter Cat ($24.99)

A firefighting game geared towards a younger audience, featuring twenty missions and kid-friendly aesthetics.

Gori: Cuddly Carnage ($21.99)

A grotesque action game starring a hoverboarding cat who dispatches enemies with glee. While the core gameplay is decent, the Switch version suffers from technical issues affecting the overall experience.

Arcade Archives Finalizer Super Transformation ($7.99)

A 1985 Konami vertical shooter featuring a transforming robot protagonist. It's a charming title with a classic feel, falling between Xevious and Tiger Heli in style.

EGGCONSOLE Xanadu Scenario II PC-8801mkIISR ($6.49)

An early video game expansion pack introducing a new underworld to explore. Gameplay is similar to the first game, but with increased difficulty. Notable for featuring the debut work of legendary composer Yuzo Koshiro.

The Backrooms: Survival ($10.99)

A blend of horror, survival, and roguelite elements. Supports up to ten online players, ideal for the multiplayer experience. Solo play caters to a more niche audience due to its repetitive nature.

Can of Wormholes ($19.99)

A clever puzzle game where you, a sentient tin can, must deal with worms. Features one hundred hand-crafted puzzles with consistently fresh mechanics.

Ninja I & II ($9.99)

Two NES-style microgames featuring ninja-themed challenges. Supports local multiplayer or CPU competition.

Dice Make 10! ($3.99)

A fun puzzle game with two modes: falling blocks and tile placement. The goal is to create rows or columns where dice faces sum to multiples of ten.

Sales

(North American eShop, US Prices)

The 30th anniversary of The King of Fighters is celebrated with a sale on all Arcade Archives titles in the series. Many Pixel Game Maker Series games are also at their lowest prices. Several noteworthy indie titles are also on sale.

Select New Sales

Sales Ending Tomorrow, August 30th

That concludes today's roundup. We'll return tomorrow with the remaining new releases, sales, and news. Reviews may also be included. Due to a significant typhoon, there's a possibility tomorrow's article might be delayed. Thank you for reading!