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Ace Attorney Investigations Collection

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Ace Attorney Investigations Collection
Item: Ace Attorney Investigations Collection
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Crime, Side View Perspective, Puzzle and Logic, Visual Novel, Mystery, Single Player

AvailableSep 6, 2024

PlatformXbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4

DeveloperCapcom

Overview

EUREKA! Miles Edgeworth moves beyond the courtroom and straight to the crime scene in Ace Attorney Investigations Collection with revamped graphics, new language options, bonus features, and more! Featuring two remastered titles - Ace Attorney Investigations: Miles Edgeworth and the Western debut of Ace Attorney Investigations 2: Prosecutor's Gambit - it's a perfect package.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection delivers stellar narrative depth and character growth, especially for Miles Edgeworth, whose evolution from rigid prosecutor to truth-seeker captivates. Interconnected cases and clever twists shine, with Prosecutor’s Gambit standing out for its mature storytelling and emotional punch. While the first game stumbles with uneven pacing and underdeveloped plots, the collection’s cohesive throughlines, humor, and layered mysteries cement it as a must-play spin-off, balancing innovation with series charm despite minor flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

89%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

11%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The Story of Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is widely praised for its narrative depth, character development, and unique perspective within the series. Critics highlight Miles Edgeworth’s evolution as a central focus, with GameCritics noting his expanded role as a prosecutor and investigator, while RPG Fan emphasizes his philosophical shift from rigid conviction to seeking truth. The interconnected cases and overarching story are frequently lauded, with Nintendojo praising the “ah-ha!” moments and Shacknews commending the expertly designed twists. The second game, Prosecutor’s Gambit, receives particular acclaim for its complex mysteries and emotional depth, as noted by TechRadar Gaming and RPG Site, which frame it as a standout entry. Additionally, the collection bridges gaps between main series entries, offering cohesive throughlines that enhance its impact, as highlighted by Nintendo Life and RPG Site. The blend of humor, intrigue, and character-driven storytelling—such as the dynamic duo of Edgeworth and Gumshoe (TheSixthAxis)—further cements its appeal. Despite these strengths, some critics point to flaws in the first game’s narrative structure. Eurogamer notes that certain cases suffer from underdeveloped plotlines involving smuggling and corruption, while Shacknews criticizes verbose sections and Eurogamer Germany highlights a lack of cohesion in the initial installment. GamingTrend calls Ace Attorney Investigations 1 one of the weaker titles in the series, and Impulsegamer critiques the first game’s padded final testimonies. Additionally, Multiplayer.it mentions structural issues stemming from multiple authors, which slightly undermine the first game’s narrative flow. Pacing concerns are also raised by XboxEra, and some reviewers, like GamingBolt, argue that the second game’s storytelling surpasses its predecessor in both writing and impact. These critiques, while notable, are often framed as minor drawbacks against the collection’s broader strengths. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the Story of Ace Attorney Investigations Collection being celebrated as a compelling addition to the series. While the first game faces some criticism for its uneven pacing and weaker cases, the second installment consistently earns praise for its mature storytelling, character development, and intricate plots. Critics like Nintendo Life and Impulsegamer emphasize that the collection’s value lies in its ability to deepen the Ace Attorney universe, offering fans a nuanced exploration of Edgeworth’s backstory and moral complexities. Even with its flaws, the narrative’s strengths—such as its engaging mysteries, emotional depth, and nostalgic references—secure its place as a fan-favorite spin-off. As GameCritics and RPG Fan note, the collection successfully balances innovation with the series’ signature charm, making it a worthwhile experience for both newcomers and longtime enthusiasts.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Praised for bold innovations like Mind Chess and Logic system, which elevate deduction and strategy, but criticized for Investigations 1's clunky controls, formulaic mechanics, and inconsistent puzzles; while the sequel shines with refined systems, the collection balances fresh ideas with familiar charm despite uneven execution.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

51%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

49%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Ace Attorney Investigations Collection receives widespread praise for its innovative mechanics and fresh approach to the series' formula. Critics highlight the introduction of unique systems like Mind Chess in Investigations 2, which adds strategic depth to interrogations and dialogue, as noted by GLHF and Noisy Pixel. The Logic system is frequently lauded for enhancing deduction processes, with MMORPG.com calling it a "significant innovation" that allows players to connect clues interactively. Additionally, the shift from courtroom battles to investigative exploration—such as point-and-click adventure elements, crime scene analysis, and the Little Thief mechanic—is seen as a refreshing evolution. Eurogamer Germany and Nintendo Life emphasize how these mechanics offer variety, while SpazioGames and Vandal note that the series retains its core appeal for fans despite minor changes. The blend of logic puzzles, evidence collection, and narrative-driven gameplay creates an engaging experience, with many critics praising its accessibility and creativity. However, several criticisms emerge regarding the first game's simplicity and technical shortcomings. TechRadar Gaming and Eurogamer Germany point out that Investigations 1 feels overly streamlined, with restricted movement and unclear evidence usage that limit player agency. Nintendo Life and WellPlayed criticize Mind Chess as convoluted or frustrating, while GameGrin and Shacknews note clunky controls (e.g., mouse mechanics) and pacing issues. Some reviewers, like Cubed3 and Gameliner, mention pixel-hunting segments or inconsistent puzzle design that disrupt immersion. Additionally, the first game’s reliance on formulaic investigation mechanics is seen as less polished compared to its sequel, with IGN Italia and VGC acknowledging challenges in hint clarity. While Investigations 2 improves upon these aspects, critics like Nintendo Life and Noisy Pixel suggest that the overall structure still leans heavily on established systems without major overhauls. The consensus among reviewers is that Ace Attorney Investigations Collection successfully balances innovation with familiarity, offering a compelling evolution of the series’ gameplay. While the first game’s simplicity and technical quirks draw criticism, the second game’s refined mechanics—particularly Mind Chess and improved investigation systems—are widely praised for adding depth and variety (as noted by GLHF, Noisy Pixel, and MMORPG.com). Critics like SpazioGames and Vandal acknowledge that the collection retains the series’ signature rhythm while introducing fresh elements, though some inconsistencies remain. Overall, the games are seen as a worthwhile addition to the franchise, with many highlighting their accessibility, creative puzzle-solving, and unique take on investigative storytelling. Despite minor flaws, the collection is celebrated for expanding the Ace Attorney universe in meaningful ways.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Critics praised Ace Attorney Investigations Collection for blending nostalgic pixel art with modern HD visuals, offering a toggle that delights fans. While some criticized new chibi styles and minor technical issues, the collection's polished charm and faithful upgrades secured its status as a standout release.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

72%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The majority of critics praised the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection for its vibrant and adaptable visual design, emphasizing the thoughtful balance between nostalgia and modernization. Many highlighted the optional toggle between original pixel art and HD remastered visuals, which catered to diverse player preferences. For instance, PlayStation LifeStyle commended the "charming HD chibi visuals" and improved animations, while Cubed3 noted that the remastered visuals maintained the charm of original sprites while enhancing backgrounds and portraits. Nintendo Life celebrated the dynamic, cute character designs and unique animations, such as Miles waggling his finger or Franziska cracking her whip, which added depth to the experience. Similarly, MMORPG.com praised the detailed character models, like visible wrinkles on Gumshoe, and the immersive, "dynamic" world created by the HD upgrades. The ability to switch between styles was a standout feature, with GamingBolt and SomosXbox noting that it allowed players to enjoy both retro aesthetics and modernized clarity. However, some critics pointed out specific drawbacks. GamingTrend criticized the new hand-drawn chibi art as "looking wrong" despite its accuracy in non-confrontational scenes, while Nintendojo noted that modernized graphics lacked the "authentic pixelation" of the original, disappointing purists. Technical issues also arose: Nintenduo mentioned graphical limitations and occasional frame-rate drops during investigations, and Nintendo Insider criticized the original graphics' poor scaling on the Nintendo Switch. Additionally, Checkpoint Gaming observed a lack of extra graphical flourishes, while Nintendo Life noted that some animations "struggled and hung." Worth Playing pointed out a minor downgrade in background quality when using the original pixel art style, and GameGrin mentioned minor issues like less detailed shadows. These critiques, though varied, reflected a few isolated frustrations rather than overarching flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with most acknowledging the collection’s successful modernization while respecting its roots. The visual upgrades were seen as a significant improvement, with IGN Italia calling them "preeminent" and Siliconera praising the "beautiful" visuals on modern consoles. While some fans preferred the original pixel art—as noted by GamingTrend and Nintendojo—the majority appreciated the flexibility to choose between styles, as highlighted by GamersRD and Volk. Even critics who pointed out technical or aesthetic shortcomings, like Nintendo Insider or GameGrin, acknowledged the broader value of the remaster. The collection’s ability to blend nostalgic charm with polished, expressive visuals solidified its appeal, making it a standout release for both longtime fans and newcomers.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection’s sound design and music dominate praise for their immersive, atmospheric depth, with critics lauding 100+ tracks, orchestral arrangements, and nostalgic yet modern flair. While some noted minor issues like busy remixes or compressed audio, the overwhelming consensus celebrates its emotional resonance, interactive features, and faithful preservation of the series’ iconic auditory identity—making the soundtrack a standout pillar of the experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The majority of reviewers praised the sound design and music of Ace Attorney Investigations Collection, highlighting its immersive and atmospheric qualities. Critics like SomosXbox noted that the improved sound quality and music enhance the investigative experience, while TheXboxHub emphasized the inclusion of 100+ tracks and five new arrangements, showcasing the soundtrack’s breadth. GameGrin celebrated specific elements such as Eddie Fender’s energetic theme and orchestral arrangements for pre-order buyers, praising the Music Collection feature for its flexibility. Meristation and CGMagazine highlighted the variety of suspenseful tracks and the option to toggle between remastered and original versions, which effectively complemented the game’s tone. Nintendojo and Nintenduo praised the "catchy music" and nostalgic yet modern orchestral elements, while Impulsegamer appreciated faithful soundtracks with additional concert excerpts. These reviews collectively underscore the soundtrack’s role in enriching gameplay and maintaining the series’ signature auditory identity. While most critiques were positive, some reviewers pointed to minor drawbacks. XboxEra criticized the rearranged tracks for sounding "busier" and disrupting audio mixing, arguing that the original score felt more cohesive. Multiplayer.it and Shacknews noted a lack of detailed analysis on sound effects or musical innovation, despite acknowledging the remaster’s quality. Push Square mentioned limited voice acting with repetitive soundbites like “Objection!,” though this was more about dialogue than music. Additionally, PS4 reviewers like SpazioGames and Vandal noted that while the remastered soundtrack retained nostalgic value, some audio compression from older ports persisted. These critiques, however, were relatively minor compared to the widespread acclaim for the collection’s musical offerings. The overall consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with nearly all agreeing that the sound design and music significantly elevated the experience. SomosXbox, GameGrin, Meristation, and CGMagazine emphasized how the soundtrack balanced suspense, nostalgia, and innovation, while Impulsegamer and Vooks highlighted its faithful recreation of classic elements alongside new compositions. Even critics with reservations, like XboxEra, acknowledged the original score’s enduring quality. The collection’s ability to preserve the series’ iconic audio identity while expanding it with orchestral arrangements and interactive features—such as customizable music players—was widely celebrated. As Vandal noted, the 106-track library and 23 orchestral arrangements solidified the soundtrack as a key component of the game’s appeal, reflecting a strong collective appreciation for its craftsmanship and emotional impact.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection shines technically across platforms with smooth performance, stability, and polish, though PC quirks, Switch frame-rate hiccups, and PS4 text glitches linger as minor blemishes—yet none derail its nostalgic, accessible charm.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

42%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Ace Attorney Investigations Collection receives generally positive feedback across platforms, though with nuanced variations. On Xbox One, XboxEra highlights seamless gameplay and convenient save mechanics, noting no major issues. For PC, multiple critics praise stability and smooth performance, with GameGrin and GLHF emphasizing quality-of-life improvements like text-skipping and mouse control adjustments. The Nintendo Switch version is lauded for its overall polish, with But Why Tho? and Movies Games and Tech noting "smooth" playability despite minor hiccups. On PS4, Cubed3 commends the remaster’s refinement, while PlayStation LifeStyle acknowledges minor text and audio issues that don’t detract from the experience. The Steam Deck also fares well, with Worth Playing and ZTGD reporting stable 60fps performance and no technical flaws during extended play. These positives underscore the collection’s adaptability to modern hardware. However, platform-specific challenges emerge in several reviews. On PC, Eurogamer and GameGrin point to movement constraints, unintuitive mouse controls, and sprite-switching menu placement as persistent quirks. The Nintendo Switch version faces more frequent criticism, with Checkpoint Gaming noting frame-rate drops and stuttering animations, while Eurogamer Germany highlights spelling errors and rigid conversation systems. Pure Nintendo criticizes "bizarre" framerate issues, and Nintendojo mentions typos and gameplay quirks like the Mind Chess mechanic. On PS4, GamersRD notes text localization problems in Spanish, and PlayStation LifeStyle acknowledges minor audio balancing flaws. While these issues are generally minor, they reflect the challenges of adapting older titles to newer systems without significant overhauls. Overall, critics agree that Ace Attorney Investigations Collection maintains a solid technical foundation across platforms, with most issues being cosmetic or usability-related rather than game-breaking. PC and Switch versions receive mixed but largely favorable reviews, with PC’s quirks balanced by its flexibility and Switch’s portability offsetting some performance inconsistencies. The PS4/PS5 remasters are praised for smoothing out original flaws, while the Xbox One version remains a minor footnote in the broader praise. Despite platform-specific hiccups, the collection is widely regarded as technically sound, with many reviewers emphasizing its accessibility and nostalgic appeal without significant technical barriers to enjoyment.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection offers massive replay value via Chapter Select, Story Mode, and expansive art galleries, with 50–100+ hours of content for fans. Remastered visuals, hidden narratives, and accessibility tweaks boost longevity, but weaker early cases, locked achievements, and a rigid structure limit depth for some. A fan-service-heavy triumph, it’s a must-play for series devotees despite minor flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

54%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection receives widespread praise for its robust replay value, driven by features like Chapter Select, Story Mode, and expansive art galleries. Critics highlight that players can revisit specific cases or explore unlockable content such as concept art, music tracks, and character profiles, which significantly enhance longevity. For instance, SomosXbox emphasizes the 50–60 hours of gameplay and a complete gallery, while IGN France notes around 100 hours of content due to complex narratives and hidden elements. GameGrin and MMORPG.com praise the remastered visuals and storytelling, with the latter calling it “a worthy entry in the series of remasters.” Additionally, features like Story Mode (which allows passive gameplay) and quality-of-life improvements (e.g., flexible save options) cater to both casual and dedicated fans. Critics like Nintendo Life and Nintenduo also highlight the collection’s accessibility through cinematic modes and unlockable extras, making it appealing for revisiting. However, some critics point out limitations that could dampen replayability. TechRadar Gaming notes that the first game’s weaker cases may discourage players from replaying, while Gameliner argues that the remaster offers little new content beyond what was in the originals. Pure Nintendo and Vooks mention that the games can be completed quickly, reducing long-term appeal for some. Additionally, Story Mode is criticized for locking achievements (as noted by XboxEra and Shacknews), which may frustrate completionists. While features like Chapter Select allow skipping tedious sections, others like GamingTrend and Push Square suggest that the structured case format might not fully satisfy players seeking deeper engagement beyond the core narrative. These critiques highlight a divide between those who value the extras and those who prioritize gameplay depth. Overall, the consensus leans positive, with most critics agreeing that the collection’s replay value is strong due to its diverse features and fan-service content. While some argue that the core gameplay may lack innovation for returning players, the inclusion of galleries, achievements, and customizable modes (like Story Mode) ensures broad appeal. Critics like VGC and GGRecon emphasize the high replayability from multiple cases and optional customization, while others, such as GamingBolt and TheSixthAxis, acknowledge its convenience for revisiting specific parts. Despite minor criticisms about content repetition or limited new material, the collection is widely seen as a worthwhile experience for fans of the series and newcomers alike, with its blend of nostalgia and modern enhancements making it a compelling choice for multiple playthroughs.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

91%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection receives widespread acclaim for its fresh approach to the series’ formula, with many critics highlighting its engaging storytelling, improved visuals, and innovative gameplay mechanics. Reviewers like SomosXbox and GAMINGbible praise the shift to Miles Edgeworth as the protagonist, noting his unique style and the collection’s “engaging storytelling” and “innovative gameplay.” The remastered graphics, enhanced accessibility, and features like Prosecutor’s Gambit are frequently lauded, with GameGrin calling the official translation of Investigations 2 a standout highlight. Critics such as IGN Italia and TheSixthAxis emphasize the collection’s coherent narrative, strong character work, and nostalgic appeal, while VGC and Worth Playing commend its role in completing the series’ remasters for Western audiences. The blend of humor, logic, and visual upgrades makes it a “must-play” for fans, as noted by WellPlayed and CGMagazine. However, several critics point to notable flaws that temper the experience. Eurogamer criticizes the games for repetitive mechanics, weak cases, and frustrating elements like “mind chess,” while TechRadar Gaming notes the first game’s simplicity and pacing issues. GameCritics and XboxEra mention limited innovation compared to expectations, with some reviews highlighting minor drawbacks such as localization errors (Nintendojo) or sparse additions (GamersRD). The second game, Investigations 2, is often praised as a high point, but the first entry faces criticism for being “less memorable” (Nintendo Insider) and lacking the depth of the main series. While these issues don’t detract from the overall enjoyment for many, they reflect a consensus that the collection isn’t without its imperfections. Despite these critiques, the majority of critics agree that the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is a strong, worthwhile addition to the franchise. IGN France and RPG Site argue it’s more than a spin-off, with high-quality writing and character development that resonates with fans. Even Eurogamer, which called the collection “flawed,” acknowledges Capcom’s efforts to modernize the games. The consensus leans heavily toward positivity, with outlets like Vooks and GGRecon celebrating its “love and care” in remastering and storytelling. While not perfect, the collection is widely recommended for series fans, with many emphasizing its value as a nostalgic yet fresh experience that bridges gaps in the Ace Attorney universe. As Nintendo Life and MMORPG.com note, it’s a “must-have” for longtime players, even if it may not appeal to newcomers.

TL;DR

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection earns praise for fresh storytelling, remastered visuals, and inventive gameplay, but repetitive mechanics and uneven entries temper its appeal—still a must-play for fans despite flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

108 reviews found

GameGrin

Sep 3, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The collection is deemed excellent, with the official translation of Ace Attorney Investigations 2: Prosecutor’s Gambit as a standout highlight. While minor complaints about controls and the Gallery exist, the review concludes that the collection is worth the price and delivers a satisfying experience for fans.

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Digital Chumps

PlayStation 4

Sep 11, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is praised for bringing a new style of gameplay, featuring two great games with traditional difficulty, and enhancing the series' gameplay experience.

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ZTGD

Sep 3, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review is overwhelmingly positive, praising the remaster's improvements, story, and accessibility for new and returning players, though it notes room for further enhancements like VO support.

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Hooked Gamers

Sep 26, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is highly praised for its gameplay innovations, engaging story, and updated visuals, making it a worthwhile experience for both new and returning players.

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Impulsegamer

Nintendo Switch

Sep 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is praised as the definitive way to experience the spin-offs, offering a faithful re-release bundle with quality of life additions that can be enjoyed even without prior experience of the mainline games.

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PlayStation LifeStyle

PlayStation 4

Sep 3, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review is overwhelmingly positive, praising the collection for its storytelling, character development, and innovations while expressing hope for future Ace Attorney releases. It’s recommended for fans but may not appeal to newcomers due to its slower pace.

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GGRecon

PlayStation 4

Sep 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Miles Edgeworth Collection is praised as a stellar product with some of the series' best writing, varied gameplay, and unique set pieces, making it one of the best ways to experience these games.

Nintendo Insider

Nintendo Switch

Sep 6, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that the collection is worth playing, especially for the sequel, which is hailed as one of the best in the series. The first game is seen as a necessary but less memorable precursor, while the presentation and remastering efforts are praised as exceptional.

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RPG Site

Sep 3, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The collection is celebrated as a must-have for fans, offering expanded storytelling and modernized presentation. It successfully bridges gaps in the Ace Attorney universe while retaining the series' core charm, despite minor flaws in the Investigations games when played alone.

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CGMagazine

Nintendo Switch

Sep 3, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Highly recommended for fans of the Phoenix Wright series and newcomers alike, offering a digestible way to experience the soul of the franchise.

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