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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

TL;DR: The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection receives rave reviews for its gripping narrative and character depth, especially with Miles Edgeworth in the spotlight. Critics celebrate its intricate plots and thematic richness, though some note pacing issues and narrative coherence problems. Despite these minor critiques, it's hailed as a standout franchise entry, offering an engaging experience for both newcomers and long-time 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 overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising the engaging narrative and character development. Critics like SomosXbox and GLHF highlight the complexity of the characters, particularly Miles Edgeworth, who takes center stage in a detective role. The collection is noted for its intricate plot twists and mysteries, with critics such as God is a Geek and TierraGamer emphasizing the overarching themes of corruption and personal growth that grip players from start to finish. The interconnectedness of the cases and the blend of humor and serious moments, as noted by Gaming Age and Checkpoint Gaming, contribute to a rich storytelling experience that resonates with both newcomers and long-time fans alike. However, some criticisms have been noted regarding pacing and narrative coherence. XboxEra points out pacing issues that detract from the overall storytelling experience, while Nintendo Life mentions that the plot can be difficult to follow at times. Impulsegamer echoes this sentiment by highlighting that certain segments, particularly the final testimonies in the first game, feel overly long and padded. Despite these critiques, they do not overshadow the general appreciation for the narrative's depth and character arcs, especially in the second game, which many reviewers, including GamingBolt and VGC, agree is stronger than the first. In summary, the consensus among critics is that the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection offers a compelling and well-crafted narrative that excels in character development and interconnected storytelling. While there are minor pacing and coherence issues noted by some, the majority of reviewers, including CGMagazine and GameOver.gr, regard the collection as one of the standout entries in the franchise. The engaging plots, memorable characters, and the unique perspective of Miles Edgeworth make this collection a highly recommended experience for fans of the series and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection impresses with innovative gameplay, shifting from courtroom drama to immersive crime scene exploration and engaging mechanics like 'Mind Chess' and the Logic system. Critics praise these fresh elements for enhancing interactivity and narrative depth. However, some find 'Mind Chess' overly complex and note pacing issues and aimlessness in certain areas. Overall, while not without flaws, the game successfully revitalizes the series, offering a compelling experience that fans of the franchise will likely enjoy.

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 garnered a largely positive reception among critics, who appreciate the innovative mechanics and fresh take on the traditional formula. Reviewers like SomosXbox and XboxEra commend the introduction of new gameplay elements, such as the exploration of crime scenes and the gathering of clues, which deviate from the courtroom-centric gameplay of previous titles. The inclusion of the 'Mind Chess' mechanic, highlighted by GLHF and God is a Geek, adds depth to the interrogation process, enhancing the overall experience. Critics also note that the Logic system, mentioned by VGC and Impulsegamer, encourages players to engage in critical thinking and deduction, making the gameplay feel more interactive and immersive. However, the game is not without its criticisms. Some reviewers, like Nintendo Life and GameOver.gr, point out that certain mechanics, particularly 'Mind Chess,' can be convoluted or frustrating, detracting from the overall enjoyment. Additionally, there are mentions of pacing issues and pixel-hunting elements, as noted by Cubed3, which can lead to a less fluid gameplay experience. Critics such as Gaming Age also express concern that some areas feel too open and lack sufficient interaction, leaving players with a sense of aimlessness at times. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Ace Attorney Investigations Collection successfully revitalizes the series by introducing engaging new mechanics while maintaining its core investigative elements. Many reviewers, including CGMagazine and GamingBolt, appreciate the shift from courtroom battles to a more explorative gameplay style, which allows for a richer narrative experience. While there are some criticisms regarding specific mechanics and pacing, the majority of reviewers agree that the game offers a refreshing and enjoyable experience, making it a worthy addition to the Ace Attorney franchise.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection impresses with its remastered HD visuals, offering both nostalgic 16-bit art and modern chibi styles. Critics rave about the clean graphics, animations, and extensive gallery features, making it visually appealing for both new and returning players. However, some noted minor flaws in character animations and a lack of extra graphical effects. Overall, it's a successful remaster that honors the original charm while significantly enhancing the visual experience.

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 overwhelmingly positive. Critics praised the remastered visuals for their high-resolution artwork, which is suitable for modern screens. For instance, SomosXbox highlighted the option to choose between an HD chibi style and a nostalgic 16-bit pixel art style, catering to various player preferences. God is a Geek commended the impressive animations and the gallery feature that includes art and music, while Hooked Gamers noted that the new HD artwork makes the game visually appealing and accessible to a broader audience. Many critics, such as CGMagazine and Impulsegamer, appreciated the clean HD visuals and the refined art style, which enhances the overall visual experience. The inclusion of detailed character animations and the ability to switch between original and updated graphics were also frequently mentioned as significant strengths. Despite the general acclaim, some criticisms emerged regarding specific aspects of the graphics and visual design. For example, Checkpoint Gaming pointed out that while the remastered visuals are impressive, they lack some extra graphical flourishes or effects that could enhance the experience further. Additionally, TheSixthAxis noted that while the core cast looks great in the updated style, some side characters exhibit animations or facial expressions that may not appear as polished. Nintendo Life mentioned that while the chibi versions of characters add dynamism, some animations struggle or hang, indicating that not all visual elements were executed flawlessly. These critiques suggest that while the remaster is largely successful, there are areas where the visuals could have been improved. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection delivers a visually appealing experience that successfully modernizes the original graphics while maintaining the charm of the series. The majority of reviewers, including Gaming Age and GGRecon, highlighted the significant improvement in visuals with the remastered HD graphics, while still providing options for players who prefer the nostalgic pixelated sprites. This dual approach has been well received, as it allows for a customizable experience that caters to both new players and long-time fans. The collection is seen as a brilliant remaster that not only enhances the aesthetic but also respects the original art style, making it a valuable addition to the franchise.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics widely praise the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection for its immersive sound design and atmospheric music, enhancing the gameplay experience as Miles Edgeworth. Highlights include a stellar soundtrack and detailed sound effects, though some reviewers prefer the original tracks over rearrangements, citing issues with audio mixing. Limited voice acting received mixed feedback, but overall, the collection's sound quality and robust track selection solidify its appeal in the Ace Attorney series.

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 sound design and music of the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection have received a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting the game's immersive auditory experience. Reviewers like SomosXbox praised the improved sound quality and atmospheric soundtrack, which enhances the investigative experience of playing as Miles Edgeworth. Similarly, CGMagazine and Movies Games and Tech lauded the incredible soundtrack, noting how both classic and updated arrangements complement the gameplay effectively. Critics across various platforms, including Impulsegamer and Vooks, appreciated the inclusion of a complete soundtrack and orchestral versions, which add depth to the overall experience. Moreover, the attention to detail in sound effects, particularly during intense moments, was emphasized by TheSixthAxis, who noted how the music enhances gameplay during critical scenes like Rebuttals. However, not all feedback was entirely positive. XboxEra pointed out a preference for the original score over the rearranged tracks, suggesting that the latter sounded busier and negatively impacted the audio mixing. This sentiment hints at a divide among critics regarding the quality of the rearrangements, with some feeling that they detracted from the overall experience. Additionally, while many praised the soundtrack, a few critics mentioned limitations in voice acting, as noted by Push Square, which could affect the overall immersion for some players. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that the sound design and music in Ace Attorney Investigations Collection are commendable, with many praising the soundtrack's ability to enhance the game's atmosphere and gameplay. While there are some critiques regarding the rearranged tracks and limited voice acting, the majority of reviewers, such as GLHF and Gaming Age, agree that the music significantly contributes to the game's charm and depth. The collection's attention to sound quality, coupled with a robust selection of tracks, solidifies its standing as a noteworthy entry in the Ace Attorney series.

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, lauded for features like save flexibility and text skipping, though minor gameplay logic issues exist. The Nintendo Switch version offers mixed reviews, praised for smooth performance but criticized for frame rate drops and animation hiccups. Overall, it's a well-received remaster with room for improvement, showcasing its lasting charm despite age.

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.

The technical performance of the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection varies across platforms, but there are notable positives for each. On Xbox One, XboxEra praised the game for its convenient save feature, allowing players to save almost anywhere and at any time without encountering any major technical issues. On PC, reviewers like GLHF and God is a Geek highlighted quality-of-life improvements such as the ability to skip text, which enhances pacing. Additionally, Hooked Gamers noted that the game holds up remarkably well despite its age, and Siliconera described the PC version as a fantastic port that looks and plays beautifully, further emphasizing the solid localization and the option to switch to original sprites. For the Nintendo Switch, Movies Games and Tech reported that the collection plays smoothly on modern hardware, while But Why Tho? acknowledged that the games run incredibly well overall, despite minor lagging in the first game when docked. However, the technical performance on each platform is not without its issues. On Nintendo Switch, Checkpoint Gaming pointed out occasional performance problems, including frame rate drops and stuttering animations, which detracted from the overall experience. Pure Nintendo echoed these concerns, mentioning bizarre framerate drops that were unexpected. Nintendo Life also noted that while the game had more grammar errors than usual, there were issues with animations struggling and hanging, though they did not delve deeply into technical performance specifics. On PC, while most reviews were positive, God is a Geek did mention that the game's logic could be questionable at times, hinting at some underlying issues that might not be strictly technical but could affect gameplay experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a generally positive reception for the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection, with technical performance being notably strong on Xbox One and PC. The Nintendo Switch version received mixed feedback, with some reviewers praising its performance while others raised concerns about frame rate and animation issues. Critics like Cubed3 underscored the remaster's ability to smooth out rough edges on PS4, indicating that the collection is well-received across platforms but may require some optimization on the Switch to fully meet player expectations. Despite the discrepancies, the collection's ability to reach a wider audience and maintain its charm after nearly 14 years is a testament to its enduring appeal.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is a hit, boasting 50-60 hours of gameplay with ten cases, unlockable content, and features like chapter selection and artwork galleries that enhance replay value. Critics praise its engaging extras and customization options. However, some worry that quick completion times and the passive 'Story Mode' could limit replayability for certain players. Despite minor drawbacks, the collection is deemed a must-have for fans and newcomers alike, delivering a rich, interactive experience in the beloved franchise.

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, with many critics highlighting the various features that enhance the experience. Critics like SomosXbox and VGC emphasized the extensive gameplay, noting that the collection offers up to ten different cases, providing around 50-60 hours of content. The ability to select specific chapters and access a gallery of artwork was widely appreciated, as it allows players to revisit their favorite moments or explore the game at their own pace. Additionally, features such as unlockable content, including character profiles and orchestrated music, were praised by critics like CGMagazine and Gaming Age, making the collection feel like a celebration of the franchise. The inclusion of achievements and optional customization options further adds to the replay value, as noted by GameCritics and GGRecon. However, some critics pointed out potential drawbacks that may affect the replay value for certain players. For instance, Pure Nintendo mentioned that while the game includes bonus materials, the relatively quick completion time of the games could limit the overall replayability. Additionally, the 'Story Mode' feature, highlighted by XboxEra and Vooks, allows the game to play itself but restricts players from unlocking achievements, which may deter completionists and those seeking a more interactive experience. Critics like TheSixthAxis also noted that while the Story Mode offers a more guided narrative experience, it might not appeal to those looking for the traditional puzzle-solving elements of the series. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection offers a commendable level of replay value, particularly for fans of the franchise and newcomers alike. The combination of extensive content, unlockable extras, and the ability to revisit specific cases enhances the overall experience. While there are some concerns regarding the potential limitations of the Story Mode and the quick completion times, the majority of reviewers, including TierraGamer and GamingBolt, agree that the collection provides enough engaging content to warrant multiple playthroughs. Overall, the collection stands as a worthy addition to the Ace Attorney series, appealing to a broad audience while maintaining its charm and narrative depth.

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 numerous critics praising its engaging storytelling, innovative gameplay mechanics, and enhanced visuals. Critics like GLHF on Sports Illustrated and God is a Geek highlight the collection as the best way to experience these titles, emphasizing the charm and quality of the remastered games. The inclusion of quality-of-life improvements and production goodies, as noted by XboxEra, further enhances the experience for both newcomers and long-time fans. Reviewers consistently commend the character of Miles Edgeworth, the compelling narratives, and the overall enjoyable gameplay, making it a standout entry in the franchise. Despite the strong praise, some critics pointed out notable drawbacks. Issues with pacing and story logic were mentioned by several reviewers, including Checkpoint Gaming and God is a Geek, indicating that while the collection is enjoyable, it is not without its flaws. Critics like Nintendo Life acknowledged shortcomings in the first game of the collection, suggesting that while Investigations 2 shines, the first installment may not meet the same standards. Additionally, some critics, such as GamingBolt, noted the limited number of games included in the collection, which might disappoint those expecting a more extensive offering. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is a highly recommended experience for fans of the series and newcomers alike. The majority of reviewers, including those from CGMagazine and Gaming Age, view it as a love letter to fans, celebrating its engaging narratives and enhanced gameplay. While there are some minor issues, the collection's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, leading to an overall verdict that is very good. Critics agree that this compilation successfully revitalizes the beloved titles, making it a must-play for anyone interested in the Ace Attorney franchise.

TL;DR

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is a standout compilation praised for its engaging storytelling, innovative gameplay, and enhanced visuals, making it a must-play for fans and newcomers alike. While some critics noted issues with pacing and the limited game selection, the collection's charm and quality far outweigh its flaws. Overall, it’s a love letter to the franchise, delivering a highly recommended experience that revitalizes beloved titles.

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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