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MONSTER

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection
Item: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2022

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Platformer, Side View Perspective, Fighting, Top-Down Perspective, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableAug 30, 2022

PlatformPlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperDigital Eclipse

Overview

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection contains thirteen previously released video games from the Arcade, Nintendo Entertainment System, Super NES, Sega Genesis, and the Game Boy. This collection is a great place for gamers to experience these popular titles on Steam.

Elsewhere

8.5

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection delights fans with nostalgic gameplay and consistent storytelling as the Turtles battle the Foot Clan. However, critics point out its formulaic, predictable narratives and lack of depth, leaving those seeking richer storytelling underwhelmed. Overall, it’s a nostalgic trip for fans, but not a narrative triumph.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

14%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

86%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the story of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection highlight some positive aspects that resonate with fans of the franchise. Critics like MeuPlayStation commend the collection for maintaining a consistent narrative across the games, where the Turtles battle the Foot Clan to save New York and their friends. This consistency in storytelling appeals to players who appreciate the nostalgia and familiarity of the Turtles' adventures. Additionally, Pocket Tactics notes the variety of stories within the collection, emphasizing recognizable characters and unique gameplay elements, such as skateboarding scenarios, which add an engaging twist to the overall experience. However, the reviews also point out several shortcomings in the narrative aspect of the collection. Finger Guns critiques the story as formulaic, suggesting that it revolves around predictable patterns typical of Saturday morning cartoons, with the Turtles facing familiar villains like Shredder and Krang. This sentiment is echoed by SECTOR.sk, which mentions that while the collection showcases a variety of games from 1989 to 1994, it does not focus heavily on narrative depth. Furthermore, IGN's multiple reviews across different platforms consistently lack detailed narrative analysis, indicating a missed opportunity to delve deeper into the stories that underpin the gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection offers a nostalgic journey through the Turtles' universe with recognizable characters and gameplay styles, it falls short in delivering a compelling narrative experience. Critics like MeuPlayStation and Pocket Tactics appreciate the consistency and variety in storytelling, but others, such as Finger Guns and SECTOR.sk, highlight the formulaic nature and lack of depth in the plots. This mixed reception indicates that while the collection may satisfy fans of the franchise, those seeking rich and engaging narratives may find the storytelling lacking.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection is a nostalgic treasure trove for fans, packed with classic titles and modern enhancements like save states and multiplayer options. Critics praise its fun arcade experiences, but the collection suffers from inconsistent quality—especially with awkward controls and repetitiveness in certain NES and Game Boy games. While it offers a worthwhile trip down memory lane, the uneven gameplay and limitations keep it from achieving universal acclaim. Best for those who can overlook flaws for a dose of nostalgia and cooperative fun.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

82%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

15%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection has garnered a mix of positive feedback from various critics, particularly regarding the nostalgic value and variety of titles included in the collection. Many reviewers, such as Push Square and Cubed3, praised the inclusion of classic games and the enhancements that modernize the experience, including features like save states, rewind functions, and multiplayer options. Critics like The Mako Reactor and Nintenderos highlighted the enjoyment found in the arcade titles and the cooperative gameplay, which adds to the fun factor. Overall, the collection is seen as a celebration of the franchise's history, with many games still holding up well and providing engaging experiences for both new players and long-time fans. However, not all feedback is positive, as several critics pointed out significant drawbacks in the gameplay. COGconnected and Metro GameCentral noted issues with repetitiveness and difficulty balance, particularly in the original NES title, which was criticized for awkward controls and unfair challenges. GameSpew echoed this sentiment by describing the gameplay as shallow and frustrating, especially in the NES and Game Boy versions. Critics like MeuPlayStation and Daily Star mentioned that many games follow a linear and repetitive formula, leading to a lack of engagement. This inconsistency in quality across the collection is further emphasized by reviewers such as Multiplayer.it, who noted that while some titles are enjoyable, others suffer from age and limitations. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane with a solid selection of games, the execution is marred by inconsistencies in gameplay quality and design. Many reviewers, including Game Rant and Destructoid, acknowledged the fun in classic beat 'em ups but also recognized the limitations of some titles, particularly those from the NES and Game Boy eras. The collection's appeal lies in its ability to evoke nostalgia and provide a variety of gameplay experiences, but the mixed quality and dated mechanics in certain games prevent it from being universally acclaimed. Ultimately, it seems that the collection is best appreciated by those willing to overlook its flaws for the sake of nostalgia and cooperative play.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

"Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection" impresses with nostalgic visuals and customizable filters, drawing praise for its retro aesthetic. However, critics highlight issues with pixelation and aging graphics, noting that many titles remain unchanged and lack modern enhancements, resulting in a mixed reception that struggles between nostalgia and contemporary standards.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

39%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection" have garnered a mix of praise from various critics, particularly for their nostalgic appeal and faithful emulation of the original titles. Many reviewers, such as Pure Nintendo and Gfinity, commend the collection for its vibrant presentation and the inclusion of various visual filters that enhance the retro experience, including options to mimic CRT displays. Critics like Digitally Downloaded and Checkpoint Gaming highlight the polished presentation of the collection, which includes attention to detail in menus, box art, and gameplay visuals. The ability to toggle screen sizes and apply filters is also noted as a positive feature, allowing players to customize their experience to better fit modern displays. However, several critics point out significant drawbacks regarding the graphics, particularly in how they have aged over time. NME and MeuPlayStation express concerns about the pixelated graphics, which they feel have not held up well by modern standards, leading to a blurry appearance on contemporary displays. Gameblog.fr mentions that many titles in the collection have not been restored and are identical to their original versions, which can be disappointing for players expecting modern enhancements. Critics like GameSpew and GameSkinny note that while some arcade versions still look appealing, the home ports, especially those from the NES and Game Boy, suffer from visual downgrades and limitations that are glaringly apparent. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a divided sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection." While there is appreciation for the nostalgic presentation and the effort to maintain the original aesthetic, many reviewers, including The Enemy and Vandal, acknowledge that the graphics have not significantly improved and often reflect the limitations of their respective consoles. The collection's varied graphical quality, as highlighted by critics like Multiplayer.it and TheXboxHub, suggests that while some titles shine, others do not hold up as well, leading to a mixed reception that balances nostalgia with the realities of modern gaming expectations.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection impresses with nostalgic sound design and catchy music, earning praise for its vintage cassette tape presentation and engaging tracks. However, critics cite audio inconsistencies, repetitive Game Boy music, and online sound issues as drawbacks. Overall, it’s a beloved tribute to the TMNT audio legacy, despite some technical flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

42%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection have garnered predominantly positive feedback from critics, highlighting the nostalgic and iconic elements that resonate with fans of the franchise. Reviewers like Areajugones and Checkpoint Gaming emphasize the iconic nature of the sound design, which contributes significantly to the overall gaming experience. Atomix and Gameblog.fr praise the inclusion of complete soundtracks presented as cassette tapes, adding a unique vintage flair. Critics such as COGconnected and GamersRD celebrate the engaging and catchy music, describing it as "bouncy" and "nostalgic," with memorable tracks that evoke fond memories of the original games. The ability to access full soundtracks and music tests is also recognized as a valuable feature, enhancing the collection's appeal. However, not all opinions are favorable, as some critics point out notable drawbacks. Finger Guns raises concerns about audio volume inconsistencies, indicating that the lack of multiple audio options leads to an uneven listening experience across different games. Similarly, Press Start Australia critiques the repetitive nature of the 8-bit music in the Game Boy titles, suggesting that it detracts from the overall enjoyment. TheGamer also mentions the annoyance of looping tracks in the Turtle's Lair, which can hinder immersion. Additionally, IGN's reviews across multiple platforms highlight audio issues during online play, indicating that sound design may not be consistently reliable. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the music and sound design of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection evoke strong feelings of nostalgia and are largely well-executed, there are some technical issues that mar the experience. Critics like MondoXbox and Pure Xbox commend the remastered soundtracks and the nostalgic value they bring, while others like WellPlayed and Shacknews note the presence of sound quality issues in specific titles. Despite these criticisms, the collection is generally celebrated for its dedication to preserving the beloved audio elements of the TMNT franchise, making it a worthwhile experience for fans.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection features mixed reviews on voice acting. While Turtles in Time shines with praised performances, other entries like Hyperstone Heist suffer from poor quality, reminiscent of amateur recordings. Critics highlight a lack of thorough analysis from major outlets, leading to an inconsistent auditory experience. Overall, standout moments exist, but the voice acting fails to deliver uniformly, leaving players divided.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

10%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

80%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection has garnered a mix of opinions, with some reviewers highlighting its strengths. Dexerto stands out by praising the voice acting in Turtles in Time, suggesting that it resonates positively with players and enhances the overall experience. Additionally, Destructoid acknowledges the "ahead-of-its-time" voice work in the same game, indicating that it was a notable aspect of the collection. The inclusion of English voice acting along with text options in multiple languages, as mentioned by Nintenderos, also reflects an effort to cater to a diverse audience, which is a commendable aspect of the game's presentation. On the flip side, several critiques point to shortcomings in the voice acting across the collection. COGconnected's comparison of the voice work in Hyperstone Heist to recordings made with a Talkboy suggests a lack of clarity and quality, which could detract from the gaming experience. Furthermore, TheXboxHub's mention of "basic" voice acting in the first arcade game without elaboration indicates a missed opportunity to provide a more engaging auditory experience. Many reviews, including those from IGN across multiple platforms, fail to provide in-depth analysis or specific critiques of the voice acting, which leaves a gap in understanding the overall quality and impact of the voice performances. Overall, the consensus among critics appears to be mixed, with some highlighting moments of excellence, particularly in Turtles in Time, while others express disappointment or a lack of detail regarding the voice acting throughout the collection. The absence of a comprehensive evaluation from several reviewers, such as IGN and TheXboxHub, suggests that while there are standout performances, the voice acting as a whole may not consistently meet expectations. The varied responses indicate that while the collection has its high points, the overall execution of voice acting remains a point of contention, leaving players with a somewhat uneven auditory experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection impresses with smooth performance and emulation quality, especially on PS5 and Xbox Series X, earning praise for nostalgia and enhancements. However, online issues plague the PS5 and Nintendo Switch versions, with critics citing connectivity troubles and bugs. While the collection delivers a nostalgic blast, its online functionality needs serious improvement across all platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

44%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

46%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

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

The technical performance of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection has garnered a mix of praise across various platforms, with the PlayStation 5 (PS5) receiving particularly favorable comments. Critics like Gfinity and Hardcore Gamer highlighted the smooth performance and quality-of-life improvements, such as save states and enhanced emulation quality. The collection's nostalgic appeal is further underscored by Vandal, who described the emulation as perfect, with intuitive menu navigation. On the Xbox Series X, MondoXbox noted impeccable technical performance, while VGC mentioned the absence of major issues, emphasizing the stability and enhancements in emulation. The Nintendo Switch version, while facing some criticisms, also received positive remarks from Pocket Tactics, which reported a smooth experience both in handheld and docked modes, and from Nintenderos, who noted that all titles were well emulated. However, there are notable negatives across all platforms that critics have pointed out. On the PS5, while many reviewers praised the overall performance, issues such as online connectivity problems were highlighted by Finger Guns and Gaming Nexus, with IGN criticizing the online component for being barely functional at launch. For the Xbox Series X, Pure Xbox reported sprite flickering and slowdowns, while Generación Xbox mentioned that the collection retained original glitches that might detract from the experience for some players. The Nintendo Switch version faced significant criticism regarding its online mode, with Pure Nintendo labeling it as one of the worst online experiences, and Nintendo Insider noting sound stuttering and choppy connections. Shacknews also pointed out bugs with enhancements and inconsistent options, indicating that the Switch version may not be as polished as its counterparts. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection offers a commendable technical performance across platforms, particularly with its emulation quality and added features. However, the online components, especially on the PS5 and Nintendo Switch, have been a source of frustration, with multiple reviewers echoing concerns about connectivity issues and performance inconsistencies. While the PS5 and Xbox Series X versions generally fared better in terms of technical stability, the Nintendo Switch's performance appears to be more variable, leading to a mixed reception. Ultimately, while the collection succeeds in delivering a nostalgic experience with modern enhancements, the online functionality remains a critical area needing improvement, as noted by critics like IGN and Pure Nintendo.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection is a nostalgic hit with fans, praised for its diverse titles, multiplayer options, and rich bonus content that boost replayability. Critics celebrate its charm, though some note limited appeal for casual players due to shorter game lengths and lack of new content. Overall, it’s a must-have for franchise enthusiasts, but may leave newcomers wanting more depth.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

24%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection is largely positive, with many critics highlighting the nostalgic appeal and variety of content as significant strengths. Reviewers such as VGC and We Got This Covered emphasize that the collection is particularly appealing to fans of the franchise, offering numerous titles and bonus content that enhance replayability. The inclusion of online multiplayer and local co-op options, as noted by Game Rant and SpazioGames, further adds to the replay value, allowing players to engage with friends and family. Critics like IGN and Hardcore Gamer also point out the wealth of additional materials, including strategy guides and behind-the-scenes content, which enrich the overall experience and encourage players to revisit the games. On the flip side, some reviewers express concerns regarding the limited replay value for casual players and the dated nature of certain titles in the collection. Multiplayer.it and Metro GameCentral note that many of the games can be completed quickly, with some lasting only an hour or two, which may deter players seeking longer gameplay experiences. MeuPlayStation mentions the lack of significant new content to attract a broader audience, while GameSkinny highlights the sameness in gameplay across several titles, particularly the NES and Game Boy versions, which may not resonate well with modern gamers. These critiques suggest that while the collection is rich in nostalgia, it may not offer enough depth for those unfamiliar with the franchise. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection provides substantial replay value, particularly for dedicated fans of the series. While some reviewers like Multiplayer.it and WellPlayed point out limitations in replayability and the quick completion times of certain games, the majority, including Vandal and Digitally Downloaded, recognize the collection's diverse offerings and nostalgic charm as key factors that enhance its replayability. The combination of multiplayer options, bonus content, and the ability to relive classic moments solidifies the collection's appeal, making it a worthwhile experience for both veterans and newcomers to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment surrounding Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its nostalgic value and comprehensive content. Reviewers such as IGN and Hardcore Gamer highlight the collection's quality emulation, extensive bonus materials, and the care taken by Digital Eclipse in preserving the franchise's legacy. Critics like Cubed3 and GameSpew commend the collection for its fan service, with additional features like online multiplayer and configuration options being particularly well-received. Many reviewers, including Daily Star and SpazioGames, agree that the collection serves as a love letter to TMNT enthusiasts, making it a must-have for fans of the series. However, the collection is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers, such as MeuPlayStation and COGconnected, point out that while the nostalgia factor is strong, some of the included games have not aged well and may lack the engaging gameplay that modern audiences expect. GameSkinny and Metro GameCentral echo this sentiment, suggesting that the collection may be more appealing to dedicated fans rather than newcomers. Additionally, some critics, including PlayStation Universe and Checkpoint Gaming, note that the price point may not justify the experience for everyone, particularly if they are not already invested in the TMNT franchise. Despite these critiques, the overall consensus among critics is that Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection is a well-crafted homage to the beloved franchise, making it a valuable addition for fans. With many reviewers, including MGG Spain and The Mako Reactor, calling it a definitive collection, the game is celebrated for its historical significance and the effort put into enhancing the classic titles. The collection is widely regarded as a successful blend of nostalgia and modern accessibility, making it a recommended purchase for both longtime fans and those interested in retro gaming.

TL;DR

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection earns high praise for its nostalgia, quality emulation, and fan service, making it a must-have for TMNT enthusiasts. Critics celebrate its extensive features, though some games feel outdated for modern players, and the price may be steep for newcomers. Overall, it's a well-crafted homage that balances nostalgia with modern accessibility, solidifying its place as a definitive collection for fans and retro gamers alike.

MONSTER

Reviews

121 reviews found

100

GameGrin

Xbox Series X

Aug 30, 2022

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

The review highly recommends Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection as a must-play title for retro game lovers or turtle fans, calling it the best game compilation.

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The Mako Reactor

Nintendo Switch

Aug 28, 2022

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

The reviewer praises the collection as one of their favorite retro collections of all time and recommends it. The only downside mentioned is that some of the games may not have aged well for newer players.

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Atomix

PlayStation 5

Aug 29, 2022

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

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection is praised for its rich and immersive experience, strong emphasis on historical preservation, and extensive content, making it one of the best collections released in a successful year for such packages.

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Nintendo Insider

Nintendo Switch

Oct 3, 2022

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

The review praises Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection as a nostalgic compilation that celebrates the games and the franchise at its peak.

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MondoXbox

Xbox Series X

Aug 29, 2022

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

Overall, the collection is deemed a must-have for fans, offering a comprehensive and high-quality experience of classic TMNT games.

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Gaming Nexus

PlayStation 5

Aug 31, 2022

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

The review praises the game as a stunning package and recommends it to fans of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles games.

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ZTGD

PlayStation 5

Aug 28, 2022

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

The review states that the Cowabunga Collection is a must-own and praises the quality of life updates added by the developers.

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Gfinity

PlayStation 5

Sep 2, 2022

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

The review gives a positive overall verdict, stating that the game is brimming with incredible games to play and oozing with reverence and love for the franchise.

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GamingTrend

PlayStation 5

Aug 28, 2022

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

The review praises Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection as a painstakingly crafted love letter to a by-gone era of gaming, and states that it is a collection well worth the asking price.

IGN Adria

PlayStation 5

Sep 9, 2022

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

TMNT: The Cowabunga Collection is a retro release that surpasses expectations. It offers high-quality emulation, numerous options for each game, and a wealth of bonus content. It is a must-have for fans of the original games or those looking to experience them for the first time.

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