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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

PlatformPC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

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 is widely praised for its compelling narrative and character development, particularly of Miles Edgeworth. Critics laud its intricate plots about corruption and master thieves, making it a standout in the series. However, some note pacing issues and convoluted moments, especially in the first game. Despite these flaws, the collection is celebrated for its engaging storytelling and character depth, earning a positive reception from both new and veteran fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

100%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story of the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its engaging narrative and character development. Reviewers like SomosXbox and God is a Geek highlighted the complexity of the characters, particularly Miles Edgeworth, whose investigative skills and sharp dialogue take center stage. Critics noted that the overarching plots involving corrupt legal systems and master thieves create a gripping experience, with TierraGamer calling it one of the best stories in the franchise. The interconnected cases and feel-good stories, as mentioned by XboxEra and But Why Tho?, contribute to a satisfying narrative experience that appeals to both newcomers and long-time fans. While the majority of reviews are favorable, some critics pointed out pacing issues and moments where the narrative can become convoluted. XboxEra mentioned pacing problems, while Impulsegamer criticized the final testimonies in the first game for being overly long and padded. Nintendo Life echoed this sentiment, noting that certain plot points can be hard to follow. Additionally, some reviewers, including GLHF and GamingBolt, suggested that the second game improves upon the storytelling aspect, indicating that the first entry may have some shortcomings in comparison. In summary, the consensus among critics is that the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection features a rich and engaging story that effectively showcases Miles Edgeworth's character development and investigative prowess. The narrative is filled with intriguing mysteries and clever writing, as noted by TheSixthAxis and VGC, making it a standout entry in the series. Despite some criticisms regarding pacing and clarity, the collection is celebrated for its well-crafted characters and interconnected plots, solidifying its place as a beloved title among fans of the franchise.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection impresses with innovative gameplay mechanics, shifting focus from courtroom battles to exploration and deduction, winning praise for features like 'Mind Chess' and engaging logic puzzles. Critics appreciate the fresh perspective, though some point out issues with clarity and certain mechanics. Overall, it's a compelling addition to the franchise, appealing to both fans and newcomers despite minor flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Ace Attorney Investigations Collection has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, who appreciate the innovative mechanics introduced in this installment. Reviewers such as SomosXbox and XboxEra highlight the departure from traditional courtroom settings, emphasizing the new investigative elements that allow players to explore crime scenes and gather clues. The introduction of mechanics like 'Mind Chess' has been particularly praised for adding depth to the gameplay, as noted by GLHF and God is a Geek, who commend its unique approach to interrogations and dialogue options. Critics like CGMagazine and VGC also appreciate the faster-paced gameplay and the clever integration of logic puzzles, which enhance the overall experience and provide a refreshing twist to the series' established formula. However, not all feedback is entirely positive. Some critics have pointed out issues with certain gameplay mechanics, particularly regarding clarity and execution. For instance, Nintendo Life mentions that the 'Deduce' ability can be unclear, while others like Gaming Age express concerns about areas feeling too open with little to engage players. Additionally, while 'Mind Chess' is generally well-received, some reviewers, such as Nintendo Life, criticize it for being convoluted and frustrating at times. There are also mentions of narrative and gameplay inconsistencies, particularly in the first game, as highlighted by GameOver.gr, suggesting that while the gameplay is innovative, it may not always hit the mark. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Ace Attorney Investigations Collection successfully evolves the series by introducing new gameplay mechanics that emphasize exploration and deduction over traditional courtroom battles. Critics like GamingBolt and GGRecon note that this shift offers a fresh perspective, allowing players to engage with the narrative in a more interactive manner. While there are some criticisms regarding clarity and certain mechanics, the majority of reviewers agree that the collection provides a compelling and enjoyable experience that expands on the beloved Ace Attorney franchise. The balance of positive innovation against some minor drawbacks suggests that the game is a worthwhile addition for both fans of the series and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection impresses with stunning HD graphics and flexible visual options, earning rave reviews for its modern yet nostalgic appeal. Critics celebrate the gorgeous art and detailed animations, though some note inconsistent side character animations and a lack of extra graphical flourishes. Overall, it’s a successful remaster that revitalizes the franchise for both newcomers and veterans, despite minor critiques.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is overwhelmingly positive, with numerous critics praising the enhancements made to the visuals. Reviewers like God is a Geek and Hooked Gamers highlighted the "gorgeous updated art" and "new HD artwork," emphasizing how these improvements make the game visually appealing and accessible to a broader audience. Critics also appreciated the flexibility offered by the collection, allowing players to choose between high-resolution chibi styles and nostalgic pixel art, as noted by SomosXbox and TierraGamer. This duality in visual presentation caters to various player preferences, enhancing the overall experience. The inclusion of detailed animations and a gallery of art and music was also lauded, with VGC calling it a "brilliant remaster" and But Why Tho? praising the "superb art design." Despite the largely favorable reception, some critiques did emerge regarding specific aspects of the graphics. While many reviewers noted the impressive remastering, a few pointed out that certain animations, particularly for side characters, lacked the same polish as the main cast. For instance, TheSixthAxis mentioned that some side characters' animations or facial expressions "may not look right," indicating inconsistency in quality. Additionally, Checkpoint Gaming remarked on the absence of "extra graphical flourishes or effects," suggesting that while the remaster is visually appealing, it could have benefited from more elaborate graphical enhancements. XboxEra also noted that some rearranged music tracks did not meet expectations, hinting at an area where the visual experience could have been further complemented. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection successfully modernizes the original visuals while preserving the charm of the series. The remastered graphics have been well-received, with many reviewers, including CGMagazine and Gaming Age, commending the clean HD visuals and the option to toggle between new and original graphics. The collection's emphasis on character design and detailed animations has resonated with players, making it a visually appealing experience. While there are minor criticisms regarding animation consistency and a lack of additional graphical effects, these do not significantly detract from the overall positive reception. Critics agree that the remastered visuals breathe new life into the beloved franchise, making it a worthwhile experience for both new players and long-time fans.

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 have received acclaim for enhancing the investigative atmosphere and gameplay. Critics praised the soundtrack's dramatic flair and the effective blend of original and remixed tracks. Features like music galleries added to the experience, though a few noted that some rearranged tracks felt busier. Overall, the soundtrack is highlighted as a standout feature, solidifying the collection's quality despite minor critiques.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

87%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection have garnered widespread acclaim from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers highlighted the improved sound quality and the overall enhancement of the investigative atmosphere through the soundtrack. For instance, SomosXbox praised the music for enriching the experience of solving crimes as Miles Edgeworth, while CGMagazine lauded the incredible soundtrack that perfectly complements the gameplay with both classic and updated arrangements. Critics like Movies Games and Tech and TheSixthAxis emphasized the dramatic and suspenseful nature of the remastered music, which effectively heightens the emotional stakes during key gameplay moments, particularly during intense sequences like Rebuttals. Additionally, features such as music selection galleries and unlockable content were noted by GLHF on Sports Illustrated and But Why Tho?, further enriching the overall experience for players. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, some critics expressed reservations regarding specific aspects of the sound design and music. XboxEra pointed out that while the original score is commendable, the rearranged tracks can sound busier and detract from the overall audio mixing. This sentiment reflects a concern that not all changes made to the music were universally embraced. However, it is worth noting that this critique appears to be in the minority, with most reviewers focusing on the strengths of the soundtrack rather than its shortcomings. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music in the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is a significant highlight of the game. The majority of reviews emphasize the effectiveness of the soundtrack in enhancing the gameplay experience, with many praising the blend of original and remixed tracks. Critics such as Vooks and Impulsegamer noted the successful preservation of the series' spirit through the music, while Gaming Age and COGconnected appreciated the inclusion of features like a music player and art galleries. Ultimately, the sound design and music contribute positively to the game's atmosphere, with only a few critiques regarding specific rearrangements, solidifying the collection as a well-rounded auditory experience.

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

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection shines on Xbox One and PC, offering smooth gameplay, quality-of-life improvements, and solid visuals. In contrast, the Nintendo Switch version suffers from frustrating performance issues, including frame rate drops and stuttering animations, leading to a less polished experience. Players should choose their platform wisely to maximize enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

40%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection varies across platforms, with each offering unique strengths. On Xbox One, XboxEra highlights the convenience of being able to save almost anywhere and at any time, which enhances the overall user experience. Meanwhile, the PC version receives praise for its quality-of-life improvements, such as the ability to skip through text, which accelerates gameplay. Critics like Hooked Gamers and Siliconera commend the PC port for its visual fidelity and smooth performance, noting that it holds up remarkably well despite being nearly 14 years old. The collection is described as a fantastic port that looks and plays beautifully, with Siliconera specifically appreciating the solid localization and the option to switch to original sprites. However, the Nintendo Switch version faces more criticism regarding its technical performance. While Movies Games and Tech report that the collection plays smoothly on modern hardware, other reviewers like Checkpoint Gaming and Pure Nintendo point out significant issues such as frame rate drops, stuttering animations, and bizarre performance hiccups that detract from the experience. Nintendo Life also mentions grammar errors and some animations struggling, indicating that the technical execution on this platform is less polished than on others. The minor lagging noted by But Why Tho. adds to the concerns regarding performance on the Switch. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while the Xbox One and PC versions of Ace Attorney Investigations Collection deliver a solid and enjoyable experience with minimal technical issues, the Nintendo Switch version struggles with performance inconsistencies. Critics like GLHF and Hooked Gamers highlight the strengths of the PC version, while the Nintendo Switch reviews reveal a mixed bag of performance issues that could impact player enjoyment. This disparity indicates that players may want to consider their platform of choice carefully, as the technical performance can significantly influence their overall experience with the game.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection has strong replay value with up to 60 hours of gameplay, chapter select, art, and music unlocks praised by critics. However, some note that quick completion times and the auto-play 'Story Mode' may limit replay incentives. Overall, it's a solid pick for fans and newcomers alike, offering rich content and engaging mechanics.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay 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 replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is predominantly positive among critics. Many reviewers, such as SomosXbox and VGC, highlight the extensive gameplay offered by the collection, with up to 10 different cases providing around 50-60 hours of content. The inclusion of features like chapter select, galleries, and achievements adds layers of engagement, allowing players to revisit specific moments and unlock additional content. Critics like CGMagazine and Gaming Age appreciate the collection for its unlockable art and orchestrated music, which not only enhance the experience but also cater to both returning fans and newcomers. The interconnected cases and engaging gameplay mechanics, as noted by TierraGamer, further contribute to the collection's replay value, especially for those who are fans of visual novels. However, there are some criticisms regarding the replay value that should be noted. A few reviewers, including Pure Nintendo and Vooks, mention that while the game includes various extras, the relatively quick completion time of the games could diminish the overall replay value. Additionally, the 'Story Mode' feature, which allows the game to play itself, has been pointed out by critics like XboxEra and TheSixthAxis as a double-edged sword; while it provides a more narrative-focused experience, it limits the unlocking of achievements, which some players may find discouraging. This suggests that while there are many features to enhance replayability, the core gameplay experience may not encourage repeated playthroughs for all players. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection offers a solid replay value, particularly for fans of the franchise. While there are some concerns about the potential quickness of completion and the limitations imposed by the Story Mode, the overall features such as chapter select, galleries, and unlockable content are seen as significant positives that contribute to the collection's appeal. Critics like GamingBolt and GGRecon emphasize the convenience of revisiting cases and the enjoyment of the additional content, making it a worthy addition for both newcomers and seasoned players alike.

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 overall sentiment regarding the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its engaging storytelling, innovative gameplay mechanics, and enhanced visuals. Critics like GLHF on Sports Illustrated and Hooked Gamers highlighted the collection as the best way to experience the games, emphasizing the charm retained from the originals while benefiting from quality-of-life improvements. The characters, particularly Miles Edgeworth, are frequently noted for their depth and appeal, with GameOver.gr and Gaming Age both expressing admiration for Edgeworth's role and the engaging narratives presented in the collection. Reviewers also appreciate the additional features, such as the Story Mode and Gallery content, which add value to the overall experience, making it a must-play for both newcomers and long-time fans of the franchise. Despite the many accolades, some critics pointed out notable flaws that detract from the overall experience. Issues with pacing were mentioned by XboxEra and Checkpoint Gaming, indicating that while the gameplay is enjoyable, certain segments may feel drawn out or uneven. Additionally, some reviewers, including God is a Geek and Nintendo Life, noted that the first game in the collection has shortcomings compared to the second, which is often hailed as one of the best in the series. These criticisms suggest that while the collection is a strong offering, it is not without its imperfections, particularly in terms of narrative flow and gameplay consistency. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is a significant and worthwhile addition to the series, particularly for fans. Most reviewers, such as CGMagazine and Impulsegamer, recommend the collection highly, citing its engaging gameplay and memorable characters as key strengths. The collection is viewed as a love letter to the franchise, with many expressing hope for future installments. The positive reception is underscored by the fact that the majority of critics found it to be an excellent way to experience the spin-off titles, making it a definitive choice for those interested in the Ace Attorney universe.

TL;DR

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is a hit, celebrated for its engaging storytelling, innovative gameplay, and visual upgrades. Critics praise Miles Edgeworth's character depth and the added features, making it a must-play for fans and newcomers alike. However, some flaws in pacing and narrative flow, especially in the first game, are noted. Overall, it's a strong addition to the franchise, with many hopeful for future installments.

MONSTER

Reviews

108 reviews found

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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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.

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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Vooks

Nintendo Switch

Sep 3, 2024

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

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is highly recommended, with a wonderfully bizarre narrative, fun gameplay as a prosecutor, and a lot of love and care put into the extras. Occasionally, the right answer may not be obvious, but the overall experience is positive.

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GLHF on Sports Illustrated

Sep 3, 2024

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

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is praised for being the best way to play the games, enhancing the experience significantly while maintaining the charm of the originals. The second game is highlighted as one of the best in the series.

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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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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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TheSixthAxis

Nintendo Switch

Sep 3, 2024

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

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is praised for its coherent narrative, great character work, enjoyable gameplay mechanics, remastered visuals, incredible soundtrack, and additional features like Story Mode and Gallery content. It offers a satisfying experience for fans of the Ace Attorney series.

Gaming Age

Nintendo Switch

Oct 8, 2024

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

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is a love letter to fans, providing a fantastic remastering of the games with engaging gameplay, iconic soundtrack, and replay value, making it a must-play for Ace Attorney enthusiasts.

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God is a Geek

Sep 3, 2024

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

A wonderful bundle of two of the best Ace Attorney games with a fantastic protagonist, great characters, new visuals, and bonus features, despite some issues with Story Mode and game logic.

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