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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 a narrative triumph, celebrated for its rich character development and engaging mysteries, particularly highlighting Miles Edgeworth's sharp wit and investigative prowess. Critics laud the blend of humor and serious themes, creating a compelling story that captivates players. However, some note pacing issues and confusing plot elements, especially in the first game, which can hinder the experience. Despite these flaws, the collection is hailed as one of the franchise's finest, offering a fresh take on detective work that enhances its storytelling legacy.

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 surrounding 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 GLHF highlight the complexity of the characters, particularly Miles Edgeworth, whose investigative skills and sharp dialogue take center stage. The interconnected cases and overarching plots, as pointed out by God is a Geek and TierraGamer, create a compelling narrative that keeps players invested from start to finish. Critics also appreciate the balance of humor and serious themes, with Gaming Age mentioning the effective mix of lighthearted moments and darker undertones, further enriching the storytelling experience. However, some reviewers noted pacing issues and potential confusion within the narrative structure. XboxEra pointed out that while the stories are feel-good, they suffer from pacing problems that can detract from the overall experience. Additionally, Nintendo Life mentioned that the plot can be hard to follow at times, particularly in the first game, which may leave some players feeling lost. Impulsegamer echoed this sentiment by criticizing the final testimonies in the first game as overly long and padded, suggesting that the storytelling could benefit from tighter editing. Despite these criticisms, the consensus among critics is that the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection offers one of the best narratives in the franchise, with many reviewers affirming its quality. The collection's focus on character development, particularly of Miles Edgeworth, and the engaging mysteries presented throughout the games have resonated well with players. Critics like GameOver.gr and Push Square emphasize the successful shift towards detective work outside the courtroom, which provides a refreshing perspective within the series. Overall, the collection is celebrated for its well-crafted storytelling, making it a worthy addition to the Ace Attorney legacy.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection has been praised for its innovative gameplay and fresh mechanics, particularly the engaging 'Mind Chess' feature and interactive crime scene exploration. Critics appreciate the blend of classic series elements with new approaches, enhancing immersion. However, some issues arise, such as convoluted mechanics and illogical puzzles that may frustrate players. Overall, it’s viewed as a worthwhile evolution for fans, revitalizing the series while shifting focus from courtroom drama to investigation.

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 the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection has garnered a largely positive reception among critics, who appreciate its innovative mechanics and departure from traditional courtroom settings. Reviewers such as SomosXbox and XboxEra highlight the introduction of new gameplay elements, including the 'Mind Chess' mechanic, which adds depth to interrogations and puzzles. Critics like God is a Geek and Hooked Gamers commend the engaging logic mechanics and the hands-on investigation process, emphasizing the interactive exploration of crime scenes and the gathering of evidence. The overall sentiment suggests that the gameplay successfully blends familiar elements from the series with fresh approaches, allowing for a more immersive experience, as noted by CGMagazine and Digital Chumps. However, not all feedback is entirely positive. Some critics express concerns regarding certain gameplay aspects, particularly with mechanics like 'Mind Chess,' which Nintendo Life describes as convoluted and at times annoying. Additionally, GameOver.gr mentions narrative and gameplay issues in the first game, while Gaming Age points out that some areas can feel too open with little to do, potentially detracting from the overall experience. Critics like Movies Games and Tech also note that some puzzles may require illogical leaps, which could frustrate players looking for a more straightforward experience. These critiques suggest that while the gameplay innovations are commendable, they are not without their flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection successfully revitalizes the series with its new gameplay mechanics and exploration-focused approach. While there are criticisms regarding certain mechanics and puzzle design, the majority of reviewers appreciate the fresh perspective offered by the gameplay, particularly the shift towards investigation and deduction rather than courtroom drama. Critics like GGRecon and GamingBolt encapsulate this sentiment by acknowledging the refreshing change in gameplay that allows players to engage more interactively with the narrative. The collection is seen as a worthwhile evolution for fans of the series, blending classic elements with innovative features that enhance the overall experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection receives high praise for its stunning remastered graphics and flexible art style options, catering to both new players and nostalgic fans. Critics appreciate the beautiful HD visuals and detailed animations, though some note minor issues with animations and music tracks. Overall, it's celebrated as a successful modernization that retains the charm of the originals.

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 predominantly positive among critics. Many reviewers praised the remastered collection for its high-resolution artwork, which is well-suited for modern screens. Critics like God is a Geek highlighted the "gorgeous updated art with impressive animations," while Hooked Gamers noted that the new HD artwork makes the game visually appealing and accessible to a broader audience. The option to switch between chibi-style and nostalgic pixel art, as mentioned by SomosXbox and Gaming Age, caters to different visual preferences, allowing players to choose their ideal aesthetic. The inclusion of detailed animations and character designs, as noted by critics such as CGMagazine and Impulsegamer, further enhances the visual experience, making it a treat for both new and returning players. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics pointed out minor drawbacks. For instance, Checkpoint Gaming mentioned that while the remastered visuals are impressive, they lack extra graphical flourishes or effects that could elevate the overall presentation. Nintendo Life noted that while the chibi versions of characters add a dynamic feel, some animations struggle and can appear awkward. Additionally, XboxEra expressed that although the pixelated sprites are well-done, some rearranged music tracks do not meet the same standard, suggesting that not all aspects of the remaster are flawless. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection boasts a remarkable visual design that successfully modernizes the original games while offering nostalgic options for long-time fans. The majority of reviewers, including VGC and Pure Nintendo, commended the collection for its beautiful remastered graphics and the flexibility it provides players in choosing their preferred art style. While there are some criticisms regarding specific animations and the absence of additional graphical effects, these do not significantly detract from the overall positive reception. The collection is widely regarded as a successful blend of old and new, appealing to both veterans of the series and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection scores high for its sound design and music, with critics praising the improved audio quality and compelling soundtrack that enhances gameplay. The mix of original and re-arranged tracks is celebrated for adding dramatic tension, despite some concerns about audio mixing and limited voice acting. Overall, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting that the audio elements significantly enrich the game's atmosphere and player experience.

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, with numerous critics praising the enhancements made to the audio experience. Critics like SomosXbox and CGMagazine highlight the improved sound quality and the incredible soundtrack that complements the gameplay beautifully. The incorporation of both original tracks and new arrangements has been particularly well-received, with critics such as TierraGamer and Movies Games and Tech noting that the music adds dramatic tension and enhances the investigative atmosphere. The inclusion of fun extras like music selection and galleries, as mentioned by GLHF on Sports Illustrated, further enriches the overall experience, allowing players to engage more deeply with the game's audio landscape. However, not all feedback is entirely favorable. XboxEra points out that while the original score is commendable, the rearranged music tracks can sound busier and detract from the audio mixing, which may impact the overall immersion for some players. Additionally, while many critics appreciate the remastered music, there are mentions of limited voice acting, as noted by Push Square, which could leave some players wanting more in terms of character engagement through sound. Despite these criticisms, they are relatively minor in the grand scheme of the overall experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection significantly enhance the gameplay experience, with many praising the blend of classic and updated arrangements. Critics like Impulsegamer and Vooks commend the faithful recreation of soundtracks and the quality of localization, while others appreciate the whimsical and dramatic elements brought forth by the music. Overall, the collection has been well-received, with the majority of reviewers agreeing that the audio elements contribute positively to the game's atmosphere and enjoyment.

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 strong performance and convenient features, but the Nintendo Switch version suffers from notable technical issues like frame rate drops and stuttering animations. Critics recommend choosing carefully based on platform for the best gameplay experience.

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 platform showcasing its strengths. On the Xbox One, XboxEra commended the game for its convenient save system, allowing players to save almost anywhere and at any time, which enhances the overall user experience. The PC version has received positive feedback for its quality-of-life improvements, such as the ability to skip through text, which has been noted by GLHF on Sports Illustrated. Additionally, God is a Geek highlighted that despite some questionable logic in the game, there were no major technical issues reported. Hooked Gamers praised the game for holding up well after nearly 14 years, while Siliconera described it as a fantastic port that looks and plays beautifully on modern consoles, further emphasizing its solid localization. However, the Nintendo Switch version has drawn more mixed reviews regarding its technical performance. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming reported occasional performance issues, including frame rate drops and stuttering animations, which detract from the experience. But Why Tho? mentioned minor lagging in the first game while docked, and Pure Nintendo pointed out bizarre framerate drops that seemed unwarranted. Nintendo Life noted more grammar errors than usual and mentioned that some animations struggled, although they did not delve deeply into the technical performance. This indicates that while the Switch version has its merits, it is marred by more noticeable performance issues compared to its counterparts. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that the Xbox One and PC versions of Ace Attorney Investigations Collection perform admirably, with minimal to no technical issues reported. Critics like XboxEra and Siliconera highlight the strengths of the game on these platforms, while the Nintendo Switch version appears to be a mixed bag, with several reviewers noting performance hiccups that could affect gameplay. This disparity in technical performance across platforms indicates that while the collection is a welcome addition to the franchise, players may want to consider their platform of choice carefully to ensure the best experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection boasts strong replay value, offering 50-60 hours of gameplay across 10 cases, enhanced by unlockable content and customizable chapter selections. Critics praise its depth and engagement for fans, though some note quick completion times and limited achievements in 'Story Mode' may hinder long-term replayability. Overall, it's a solid pick for both veterans and newcomers, despite a few drawbacks.

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, with many critics highlighting various features that enhance the experience. Critics like SomosXbox and VGC emphasize the extensive gameplay, noting that players can engage with up to 10 different cases, providing a substantial 50-60 hours of content. The inclusion of unlockable content such as artwork, character profiles, and music selections, as mentioned by GLHF and CGMagazine, adds layers of engagement for both newcomers and returning fans. Additionally, the ability to select specific chapters or episodes, as pointed out by GameCritics and GamingBolt, allows players to revisit favorite moments, further enhancing replayability. However, some critics have raised concerns about the limitations of replay value. For instance, Pure Nintendo mentions that the games can be completed relatively quickly, which may affect long-term replayability. Additionally, while the 'Story Mode' option is praised for allowing players to focus on the narrative, it also restricts the unlocking of achievements, as noted by XboxEra and Vooks. This mode might appeal to casual players but could deter those looking for a more comprehensive experience. Critics like Movies Games and Tech also mention that while there are achievements and unlockable content, the specifics of replay value are not deeply discussed, indicating a potential area for improvement. The overall consensus among critics is that the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection offers a solid replay value, particularly for fans of the franchise and visual novel enthusiasts. The combination of extensive gameplay, unlockable content, and customization options creates an inviting environment for exploration. Critics like TierraGamer and GGRecon highlight the interconnected cases and engaging mechanics as key factors that keep players returning. While some limitations exist, particularly with the 'Story Mode' and the speed of completion, the collection still stands as a worthy addition to the series, appealing to both veterans and new 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 surrounding the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is largely positive, with many critics praising the collection for its engaging storytelling, improved visuals, and innovative gameplay mechanics. Reviewers like SomosXbox and Hooked Gamers highlight the fresh experience brought by Miles Edgeworth as the protagonist, while GLHF emphasizes that this collection is the best way to experience the games, particularly noting the second title as one of the best in the series. Critics also appreciate the quality-of-life changes and production enhancements, with XboxEra mentioning that these improvements make the collection enjoyable for both newcomers and long-time fans. The remastered visuals and additional features, such as the Story Mode and Gallery content, received commendation from several reviewers, including TheSixthAxis, who noted the coherent narrative and great character work. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks. Checkpoint Gaming and GameOver.gr noted pacing issues and performance problems that detracted from the overall experience. Additionally, while the collection is celebrated for its remastering, some critics like GAMINGbible mentioned that the limited number of games included and gameplay similarities could be seen as drawbacks. Nintendo Life also pointed out shortcomings in the first game, suggesting that while the collection shines, it isn't without its flaws. These criticisms, however, seem to be minor compared to the overall enjoyment expressed by most reviewers. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is a must-play for fans of the franchise and a solid entry point for newcomers. Reviewers such as Gaming Age and Digital Chumps highlight the engaging stories and brilliant visuals, while Impulsegamer describes it as the definitive way to experience the spin-offs. Overall, the collection is viewed as a love letter to fans, successfully capturing the essence of the original games while providing a fresh and polished experience. The majority of critics agree that despite some minor issues, the collection's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, making it a highly recommended title in the Ace Attorney series.

TL;DR

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is a critically acclaimed must-play, celebrated for its engaging storytelling, improved visuals, and fresh gameplay with Miles Edgeworth at the helm. While some minor issues like pacing and performance are noted, the collection's quality-of-life enhancements and remastered content make it a standout for both newcomers and veterans. Overall, it's a love letter to fans, delivering a polished experience that outweighs its flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

106 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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