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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 receives high praise for its engaging narrative and deep character development, especially highlighting Miles Edgeworth. Critics love the complex plots, humor, and themes of corruption, making it appealing to newcomers and fans alike. However, some note pacing issues and convoluted segments, particularly in the first game’s final testimonies. Despite these flaws, the collection is seen as a compelling experience, successfully blending mystery and character growth within the Ace Attorney series.

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 overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its engaging narrative and character development. Reviewers such as SomosXbox and GLHF highlight the complexity of characters, particularly Miles Edgeworth, whose detective role and sharp dialogue are central to the plot. Critics like God is a Geek and TierraGamer commend the overarching themes involving corrupt legal systems and interconnected cases, which create a gripping narrative experience. The humor and quirky character interactions, noted by Vooks and CGMagazine, add to the charm of the storytelling, making it accessible and enjoyable for both newcomers and long-time fans. The collection is recognized for its ability to weave intricate plots filled with twists, as seen in the praise from Checkpoint Gaming and Gaming Age, who emphasize the thrilling and enthralling experiences provided by the game. Despite the overall acclaim, some reviewers pointed out pacing issues and moments where the plot can become convoluted. XboxEra and Impulsegamer specifically mention that while the stories are enjoyable, certain segments, particularly the final testimonies in the first game, feel overly long and padded. Additionally, Nintendo Life notes that while the narrative is engaging, it can sometimes be hard to follow, especially for those unfamiliar with the franchise. These critiques suggest that while the storytelling is strong, it may not be without its flaws, particularly in terms of pacing and clarity. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection offers a compelling and engaging narrative experience, particularly through its well-developed protagonist, Miles Edgeworth. The collection's ability to intertwine various cases into a cohesive story has been widely praised, with many critics, including Movies Games and Tech and GameOver.gr, highlighting the depth of character development. While some pacing issues and plot complexities were noted, the majority of reviewers agree that the story is one of the highlights of the franchise, making it a worthwhile experience for players. The positive reception indicates that the game successfully balances humor, mystery, and character growth, solidifying its place in the Ace Attorney series.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection impresses with innovative gameplay and engaging mechanics, like crime scene exploration and the new 'Mind Chess' feature. Critics praise its fresh take on the franchise, blending point-and-click with logic puzzles. However, some find issues with clarity and complexity in certain elements, like the 'Deduce' ability and 'Mind Chess.' Despite these drawbacks, the collection revitalizes the series, appealing to both veterans and newcomers.

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 largely positive reception from critics, who appreciate the innovative mechanics and departure from traditional courtroom settings. Reviewers like SomosXbox and XboxEra highlight the new investigative elements, such as the exploration of crime scenes and the gathering of clues, which enhance the overall experience. The introduction of the 'Mind Chess' mechanic, praised by GLHF and God is a Geek, adds depth to interrogations and dialogue options, making the gameplay feel fresh and engaging. Critics also note the effective combination of point-and-click mechanics with logic-based puzzle-solving, as seen in the insights from Gaming Age and Impulsegamer, allowing players to feel more involved in the investigative process. However, not all feedback is entirely positive. Some critics point out issues with certain mechanics and the clarity of gameplay elements. For instance, Nintendo Life criticizes the 'Deduce' ability for being unclear, while others like GameOver.gr mention narrative and gameplay issues in the first game of the collection. There are also concerns regarding the complexity of the 'Mind Chess' mechanic, with some reviewers finding it convoluted and frustrating. Additionally, Gaming Age notes that some areas feel too open with little to do, which can detract from the immersive experience that the game aims to provide. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Ace Attorney Investigations Collection successfully revitalizes the franchise with its innovative gameplay mechanics and interactive elements, offering a fresh perspective on the series. Critics like CGMagazine and Digital Chumps emphasize the evolution from traditional gameplay, while others like GAMINGbible and GGRecon commend the more explorative nature of the investigations. Despite some criticisms regarding clarity and complexity, the collection is generally seen as a successful blend of investigation and visual novel elements, appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection has received widespread acclaim for its stunning remastered graphics, appealing to both nostalgic fans and newcomers with options for HD chibi and original pixel art. Critics praise the vibrant visuals and polished animations, though some note inconsistencies in character designs and a lack of extra graphical effects. Overall, the collection enhances the franchise's visual appeal, making it a must-have despite minor shortcomings.

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 graphics and visual design of the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection have garnered widespread acclaim from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers praised the remastered collection for its high-resolution artwork, which is well-suited for modern displays. Critics like SomosXbox and God is a Geek highlighted the impressive updated art and animations, noting that the collection successfully appeals to both nostalgic fans and newcomers by offering a choice between HD chibi styles and original pixel art. The vibrant and detailed visuals were frequently mentioned, with publications such as CGMagazine and Impulsegamer emphasizing the clean HD graphics and the polished look that enhances the overall visual experience. The inclusion of additional content, such as concept art galleries and character viewers, further enriches the collection, making it a comprehensive package for fans. Despite the overall positive sentiment, some critics pointed out a few shortcomings in the graphics and visual design. For instance, Checkpoint Gaming mentioned that while the remastered visuals were appealing, they lacked some extra graphical flourishes or effects that could have enhanced the experience further. Additionally, Nintendo Life noted that while the chibi character designs were dynamic and cute, some animations struggled and appeared less polished. TheSixthAxis also observed that while the core cast looked great in the updated style, certain side characters had animations or facial expressions that did not meet the same standard, suggesting inconsistencies in the remastering process. In summary, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the graphics and visual design of the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection. Most reviewers appreciated the high-quality remastering and the option to toggle between different art styles, as noted by critics like GameCritics and GGRecon. The collection's ability to cater to diverse visual preferences, combined with its charming animations and detailed character renderings, has been well-received. While minor criticisms exist regarding some inconsistencies and a lack of additional graphical effects, the majority of critics agree that the remastered visuals significantly enhance the overall experience, making it a worthy addition to the franchise.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics rave about the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection for its stellar sound design and enhanced soundtrack, which enrich the gameplay experience. While the remastered music adds depth, some long-time fans feel certain new arrangements fall short compared to the originals. Overall, the collection delivers a captivating audio experience that elevates the series' spirit, despite a few mixed reviews on specific tracks.

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 overall sentiment regarding the sound design and music of the 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 the soundtrack's ability to enrich the experience of solving crimes as Miles Edgeworth, while CGMagazine referred to the soundtrack as "incredible," noting how the classic and updated arrangements perfectly complement the gameplay. Critics like Movies Games and Tech and Impulsegamer also appreciated the dramatic and suspenseful remastered music, with orchestral versions adding depth to the overall atmosphere. Additionally, the inclusion of a music player and bonus content such as character profiles and galleries was seen as a fun extra that enhances the player's experience, as noted by GLHF on Sports Illustrated. Despite the overall acclaim, there were some criticisms regarding specific aspects of the music. XboxEra pointed out that the rearranged music tracks, while ambitious, sounded busier and affected the overall audio mixing negatively compared to the original score. This sentiment was echoed by a few other critics who preferred the original compositions over the new arrangements, suggesting that some changes did not resonate as well with long-time fans. While most reviewers appreciated the variety of soundtracks and the inclusion of both original and remixed tracks, there were hints that not all alterations were universally welcomed. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection features a strong sound design and music component that significantly enhances the gameplay experience. The majority of reviewers, including Vooks and COGconnected, celebrated the soundtrack's ability to maintain the spirit of the series while introducing new elements. Though there were some reservations regarding specific rearrangements, the overall impression is that the collection successfully delivers a rich audio experience that complements its engaging narrative and gameplay, making it a worthy addition to the franchise.

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 with solid performance, convenient features, and great visuals. However, the Nintendo Switch version struggles with frame rate drops, lag, and other performance issues, leading to a less enjoyable experience. Critics praise the collection's nostalgic value but highlight significant technical inconsistencies on Switch.

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 different gaming platforms, with each exhibiting unique strengths. On the Xbox One, XboxEra highlights the convenience of the save system, allowing players to save anywhere and at any time, which is a significant quality-of-life improvement. For PC users, GLHF emphasizes the ability to skip through text, enhancing the pacing of the game, while God is a Geek appreciates the overall gameplay experience despite noting some questionable logic. Hooked Gamers praises the collection for its ability to hold up well after nearly 14 years, and Siliconera describes it as a fantastic port that looks and plays beautifully on modern hardware, showcasing solid localization and the option to switch to original sprites. Conversely, the Nintendo Switch version presents a mixed bag of performance issues. While Movies Games and Tech assert that the game plays smoothly on modern hardware, other critics like Checkpoint Gaming report occasional performance issues, including frame rate drops and stuttering animations. But Why Tho? also notes minor lagging in the first game while docked, and Pure Nintendo mentions bizarre framerate drops that detract from the overall experience. Nintendo Life points out grammar errors and some animations that struggle, though they do not delve deeply into technical performance specifics. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while the Xbox One and PC versions of Ace Attorney Investigations Collection generally deliver a solid technical performance with minimal issues, the Nintendo Switch version faces more significant challenges. Critics like Movies Games and Tech and XboxEra appreciate the smooth experience on their respective platforms, while those reviewing the Switch version highlight various performance shortcomings. The mixed feedback indicates that while the collection is a welcome return of a beloved series, its technical execution is less consistent on the Switch, which may affect player enjoyment.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is praised for its extensive replay value, offering up to 60 hours of gameplay with features like Chapter Select and unlockable content that engage both new and returning fans. However, concerns arise over quick completion times and the limitations of 'Story Mode,' which may dampen long-term replay prospects. Overall, it's a solid addition to the franchise, balancing accessibility with rich content.

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, such as SomosXbox and VGC, highlight the extensive gameplay offered by the collection, with up to 10 different cases that can provide 50-60 hours of content. The inclusion of features like Chapter Select and a gallery of unlockable content, including artwork, music, and achievements, enhances the replayability, making it appealing for both newcomers and returning fans. Critics from CGMagazine and Gaming Age emphasize the celebratory nature of the remaster, noting that the additional content encourages emotional engagement and interaction with the game, which is a significant draw for players. However, there are some concerns that temper the overall enthusiasm for replay value. Critics like Pure Nintendo point out that while the collection includes bonus materials, the games can be completed relatively quickly, potentially diminishing long-term replayability. Additionally, the implementation of a 'Story Mode,' as noted by XboxEra and Vooks, allows players to experience the narrative without engaging in puzzles, but this mode also limits the ability to unlock achievements, which some players may find unsatisfying. This duality in gameplay options may leave some critics feeling that the replay value is not as robust as it could be, especially for those seeking a more challenging experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection offers a solid replay value due to its extensive content and additional features. While there are concerns regarding the potential for quick completion and the limitations imposed by 'Story Mode,' the overall impression is that the collection is a worthy addition to the franchise. Critics like TierraGamer and GGRecon appreciate the interconnected cases and the ability to revisit specific chapters, reinforcing the idea that the collection caters well to fans of the series. Ultimately, the game strikes a balance between accessibility for newcomers and engaging content for longtime fans, making it a recommended experience for a wide audience.

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 and Hooked Gamers highlight the collection as the best way to experience the games, emphasizing the strong narratives and character development, particularly with Miles Edgeworth as the protagonist. The collection is noted for its quality-of-life improvements, which enhance the overall gameplay experience, making it accessible for both newcomers and long-time fans. Several reviews, such as those from CGMagazine and Movies Games and Tech, commend the game for its digestible narrative and the charm it retains from the original titles, ensuring that it resonates well with the audience. However, the collection is not without its flaws. Critics have pointed out pacing issues and some inconsistencies in game logic, as noted by God is a Geek and Checkpoint Gaming. While the majority of reviews acknowledge these shortcomings, they often state that they do not significantly detract from the overall experience. Some critics, like Nintendo Life, mention specific issues with the first game in the collection, while others highlight the limited number of titles included as a drawback. Despite these criticisms, the consensus remains that the collection is still a worthwhile experience for fans of the franchise. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is a highly recommended bundle that successfully brings the beloved spin-off titles to a new audience. With its engaging gameplay and rich storytelling, it appeals to both fans and newcomers alike, as emphasized by critics such as Impulsegamer and Gaming Age. While minor issues exist, they do not overshadow the collection's strengths, making it a must-play for anyone interested in the Ace Attorney franchise. The collection is seen as a love letter to fans, ensuring that the legacy of Miles Edgeworth and his adventures continues to thrive in modern gaming.

TL;DR

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is a must-play for fans and newcomers, praised for its engaging storytelling, innovative gameplay, and improved visuals. Critics highlight its strong narratives and character development, particularly with Miles Edgeworth. While there are some pacing issues and limited titles, these flaws don't overshadow its strengths. Overall, it's a highly recommended bundle that revives the beloved spin-off, ensuring Edgeworth's legacy thrives in modern gaming.

MONSTER

Reviews

107 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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