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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 is largely praised for its gripping narrative and character development, especially of Miles Edgeworth. Critics celebrate its complex plots and clever writing, though some note pacing issues and moments of narrative confusion. Overall, it offers a compelling expansion of the Ace Attorney universe, appealing to both new players and series veterans despite minor drawbacks.

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 the game's engaging narrative and character development. Reviewers like SomosXbox and GLHF highlight the complexity of the characters, particularly Miles Edgeworth, who takes center stage as a detective. Critics such as God is a Geek and TierraGamer commend the overarching plots that delve into themes of corruption and personal growth, making the narrative gripping from start to finish. The interconnectedness of the cases and the balance of humor and seriousness were also noted as strengths, with But Why Tho? and CGMagazine emphasizing the engaging nature of the episodes and the clever writing that keeps players invested. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics pointed out pacing issues and narrative coherence as potential drawbacks. XboxEra specifically 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 while the story is engaging, it can become difficult to follow at times. These critiques suggest that while the storytelling is rich and layered, it may not always maintain a smooth flow, which could detract from the overall experience for some players. In summary, the consensus among critics is that the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection offers a compelling and well-crafted narrative that successfully expands upon the lore of Miles Edgeworth and the Ace Attorney universe. The majority of reviewers, including GameCritics and Cubed3, found the character development and intricate plots to be standout features, contributing to a satisfying storytelling experience. While there are some critiques regarding pacing and clarity, the overall impression is that the collection delivers a strong narrative that appeals to both newcomers and long-time fans of the series.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection impresses with innovative mechanics and a shift from traditional courtroom gameplay, enhancing exploration and clue gathering. Critics praise the new "Mind Chess" feature for adding depth, though some find it convoluted. While pacing issues and illogical puzzles frustrate some players, the overall sentiment leans positive, marking a necessary evolution in the series that revitalizes the investigative experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

64%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Ace Attorney Investigations Collection has been generally well-received, with critics praising the introduction of innovative mechanics and a shift from the traditional courtroom setting. Reviewers like SomosXbox and XboxEra highlight the new investigative elements, such as exploring crime scenes and gathering clues, which enhance the overall experience. The inclusion of the "Mind Chess" mechanic, noted by critics like GLHF and God is a Geek, adds depth to the gameplay, providing players with new ways to engage in interrogations and logic puzzles. Additionally, the game’s point-and-click style, as mentioned by VGC and Impulsegamer, is seen as a clever evolution of previous titles, allowing for more interactive exploration and critical thinking. However, not all feedback is positive, as several critics point out issues that detract from the overall experience. For instance, Nintendo Life criticizes the "Mind Chess" mechanic for being convoluted and annoying, while Cubed3 mentions pacing issues and pixel-hunting segments that can frustrate players. Some reviewers, such as Gaming Age and Movies Games and Tech, note that certain puzzles may require illogical leaps, which can disrupt the flow of gameplay. Additionally, a few critics express concerns about the clarity of new gameplay elements, such as the "Deduce" ability, which can leave players feeling confused. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Ace Attorney Investigations Collection successfully introduces new gameplay mechanics that enhance the investigative experience, moving away from the dialogue-heavy nature of previous entries. Critics like GAMINGbible and GGRecon emphasize that the more explorative gameplay is a necessary evolution for the series, allowing players to gather evidence in a more interactive manner. While there are some criticisms regarding specific mechanics and pacing, the majority of reviews reflect a positive sentiment towards the game's innovative approach, suggesting that it offers a refreshing take on the beloved franchise.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection shines with impressive remastered visuals, modernizing the beloved series while preserving its charm. Critics praise the HD graphics, versatile art styles, and added features, though some highlight inconsistent animations and a lack of extra visual effects. Overall, it's a successful visual upgrade that appeals to both new and returning fans, despite minor flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

76%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

24%

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 predominantly positive, with many critics praising the remastered visuals for their quality and appeal. Reviewers such as God is a Geek and Hooked Gamers highlighted the impressive updated art and animations, noting that the collection successfully modernizes the visual experience while retaining the charm of the original. Critics like But Why Tho? and CGMagazine emphasized the clean HD visuals and the option to switch between remastered and original pixel art, which caters to a diverse audience with varying preferences. The inclusion of detailed character designs, cute chibi avatars, and a gallery featuring concept art and music further enhances the visual appeal, making it a comprehensive package for fans of the series. However, not all feedback was entirely positive. Some critics pointed out certain inconsistencies and issues with the animations. For instance, Nintendo Life mentioned that while the chibi versions of characters add a dynamic feel, some animations struggle and appear less polished. Similarly, TheSixthAxis noted that while the core cast looks great in the updated style, some side characters exhibit awkward animations or facial expressions. Additionally, Checkpoint Gaming remarked on the lack of extra graphical flourishes or effects, suggesting that while the visuals are solid, they could have benefited from additional enhancements to elevate the overall experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection delivers a visually impressive remaster that successfully bridges nostalgia with modern aesthetics. The majority of reviewers, including those from SomosXbox and VGC, expressed satisfaction with the quality of the graphics, the variety of visual styles available, and the overall artistic direction. While there are minor criticisms regarding animation quality and the absence of certain graphical effects, these do not significantly detract from the collection's success in revitalizing the beloved series for both new and returning players. Overall, the remastered visuals have been well-received, marking a successful update to the franchise.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics rave about the sound design and music in Ace Attorney Investigations Collection, praising the improved quality and engaging soundtrack that enhances gameplay. Highlights include a perfect blend of original and remixed tracks, boosting the investigative atmosphere. However, some note that certain rearrangements feel cluttered and the voice acting is limited. Overall, the audio elements receive strong acclaim, marking them as a standout feature of the collection.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the sound design and music of Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is overwhelmingly positive among critics. Many reviewers praised the improved sound quality and the engaging soundtrack, which enhances the investigative atmosphere of the game. SomosXbox highlighted how the soundtrack adds to the overall experience of solving crimes as Miles Edgeworth. Critics like CGMagazine and TheSixthAxis lauded the incredible soundtrack, noting how it perfectly complements the gameplay, especially during intense moments such as Rebuttals. The inclusion of both original tracks and remixes was a consistent point of appreciation, with Gaming Age and Movies Games and Tech emphasizing the dramatic and suspenseful nature of the remastered music, which adds depth to the game's atmosphere. However, there were some criticisms regarding the sound design and music. XboxEra pointed out that while the original score is recommended, the rearranged tracks sound busier and negatively impact the overall audio mixing. This sentiment was echoed by a few other critics who felt certain remixes did not capture the essence of the originals as effectively. Additionally, while many reviewers appreciated the extras like galleries and music selection features, some felt that the limited voice acting and soundbites, as mentioned by Push Square, could have been expanded to enhance the auditory experience further. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Ace Attorney Investigations Collection features a strong sound design and music that significantly enriches the gameplay experience. The majority of reviewers, including TierraGamer and Vooks, emphasized the successful blend of classic and updated music arrangements, alongside the remarkable localization efforts that keep the spirit of the franchise alive. While there are some critiques regarding specific rearrangements and the limited voice acting, the overall reception leans heavily towards praise, indicating that the audio elements of the game are a standout aspect of the collection.

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, praised for its quality-of-life improvements and smooth performance. However, the Nintendo Switch version struggles with frame rate drops and animation issues, leading to mixed reviews. While the remaster captures the charm of the originals, platform optimization is crucial, as the Switch's technical flaws detract from the experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

45%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In analyzing the technical performance of the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection across different gaming platforms, a generally positive sentiment emerges, particularly for the Xbox One and PC. XboxEra notes the convenience of the save system, highlighting the ability to save almost anywhere without encountering major technical issues. On PC, reviewers from GLHF and God is a Geek commend the quality-of-life improvements, such as the ability to skip text, which enhances gameplay pacing. Additionally, Hooked Gamers praises the collection for its impressive preservation of the original titles' charm, noting that it has aged well despite being nearly 14 years old. Siliconera adds to this by describing the port as visually appealing and well-optimized for modern consoles, further emphasizing the solid localization efforts. However, the Nintendo Switch version presents a more mixed picture. While Movies Games and Tech report that the game runs smoothly on modern hardware, other critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Pure Nintendo point out performance issues such as frame rate drops and stuttering animations. Specifically, Pure Nintendo mentions bizarre framerate drops that detract from the overall experience, while Nintendo Life notes grammar errors and some animations struggling to maintain fluidity. This inconsistency in performance raises concerns about the technical execution on the Switch compared to other platforms. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while the Xbox One and PC versions of Ace Attorney Investigations Collection deliver a solid technical performance with minimal issues, the Nintendo Switch version suffers from notable performance hiccups. Critics like Cubed3 affirm that the remaster enhances the original games, indicating a generally favorable reception, yet the Switch's performance issues cannot be overlooked. The mixed reviews for the Switch highlight the importance of platform optimization, suggesting that while the collection offers a nostalgic and engaging experience, the technical performance varies significantly based on the chosen platform.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The "Ace Attorney Investigations Collection" garners positive reviews for its rich content, offering 50-60 hours of gameplay across ten cases, and features like chapter select and galleries that enhance replay value. Critics celebrate it as a franchise tribute, though concerns arise about limited achievement unlocks in Story Mode and relatively quick completions. Despite these drawbacks, the collection remains appealing for fans and newcomers alike, blending engaging gameplay with emotional storytelling. Overall, it's a solid choice for those seeking replayability in a beloved series.

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 largely positive among critics. Many reviewers highlight the extensive content available, such as the ten different cases that provide around 50-60 hours of gameplay, as noted by SomosXbox. The inclusion of features like chapter select, galleries of artwork, character profiles, and music selections adds significant replay value, particularly for fans of the series. Critics like GLHF and CGMagazine emphasize that the remastered collection feels like a celebration of the franchise, with unlockable extras that enhance the experience. Additionally, the ability to engage with the narrative through various modes, including a Story Mode for a more guided experience, is praised by critics like TheSixthAxis and GameCritics. However, there are some concerns regarding the replay value that critics have pointed out. While features such as the Story Mode offer a unique way to experience the game, they also limit the ability to unlock achievements, as mentioned by XboxEra and Vooks. This aspect may deter some players from fully engaging with the game multiple times. Furthermore, Pure Nintendo raises a valid point that the games can be completed relatively quickly, which could potentially diminish the overall replay value for those who are looking for a more extended gameplay experience. Critics like Movies Games and Tech also note that while the collection encourages replayability, specific details regarding replay value are not deeply discussed, leaving some ambiguity. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the "Ace Attorney Investigations Collection" offers a solid replay value, particularly for fans of the franchise. The combination of engaging gameplay, unlockable content, and the ability to revisit specific cases or chapters makes it appealing for both newcomers and returning players. Critics like Gaming Age and GGRecon highlight the emotional engagement and interaction that the game fosters, suggesting that while there are some limitations, the collection successfully caters to its audience. Despite some concerns about the speed of completion and the restrictions of certain modes, the general sentiment leans towards a favorable view of the game's replayability.

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. Reviewers like GLHF and God is a Geek highlight the collection as the best way to experience these titles, emphasizing the charm retained from the originals. Critics such as Hooked Gamers and TierraGamer appreciate the mix of strong narratives and engaging gameplay, making it a worthwhile experience for both new players and long-time fans. The collection is also noted for its quality-of-life improvements and additional features, such as the Story Mode and Gallery content, which enhance the overall experience, as pointed out by TheSixthAxis and Vooks. However, some critiques do emerge, primarily concerning pacing issues and minor gameplay flaws. Critics like XboxEra mention that while the pacing may falter at times, it does not significantly detract from the enjoyment of the games. Checkpoint Gaming and Nintendo Life also note some shortcomings in the first game of the collection, suggesting that while the second game shines, the first could have benefited from more polish. Additionally, a few critics, such as GAMINGbible, mention the limited number of games included in the collection as a drawback, which could leave some fans wanting more content. Despite these minor criticisms, the consensus among critics is that the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is a must-play for fans of the franchise and an excellent entry point for newcomers. Reviewers like Gaming Age and GameSpew emphasize that the remastered visuals and engaging stories make it a compelling package. Overall, the collection is celebrated for its ability to capture the essence of the Ace Attorney series while providing a fresh experience through the lens of Miles Edgeworth, making it a highly recommended title across various platforms.

TL;DR

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection receives rave reviews for its captivating storytelling, innovative gameplay, and improved visuals, making it a must-play for both newcomers and series veterans. Critics praise its charm and quality-of-life enhancements, though some point out pacing issues and minor flaws, particularly in the first game. Overall, it's celebrated as the ultimate way to experience these titles, offering a fresh take on the beloved franchise.

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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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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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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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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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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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.

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.

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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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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