PGC NEWS

The Ace Attorney series, renowned for its courtroom drama and compelling narratives, took a detour into the investigative realm with the Miles Edgeworth spin-off titles. This collection, Ace Attorney Investigations Collection, brings both games to modern platforms, offering a fresh look at these often-overlooked entries. This review delves into the updated features and assesses whether Miles Edgeworth’s return lives up to the legacy of the main series.

The introduction captures the essence of the Ace Attorney series and its shift towards the investigative genre with the Miles Edgeworth spin-offs. It sets the stage for the review by posing the question of whether this collection successfully revitalizes these games for a modern audience. The review continues by analyzing both the strengths and weaknesses of the collection, offering a balanced perspective on its overall value.

A Polished Presentation for a New Generation

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection immediately impresses with its updated visuals and audio. Unlike some retro collections that simply port old graphics, Capcom has meticulously remastered both Ace Attorney Investigations: Miles Edgeworth and its sequel, Ace Attorney Investigations 2: Prosecutor’s Path, to meet modern standards.

Originally released on the Nintendo DS with its limited resolution, these games now boast crisp visuals, even on 4K displays. This visual upgrade significantly enhances the overall experience, allowing players to appreciate the character designs and environments in greater detail.

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection – Miles Edgeworth Investigating

The enhanced audio quality further elevates the experience. The remastered soundtrack breathes new life into the game’s iconic music, making the often-lengthy dialogue sequences more engaging.

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection – Updated Graphics

For those nostalgic for the original pixelated look, the collection offers a toggle to switch between the updated graphics and the classic DS aesthetic. This thoughtful inclusion caters to both newcomers and long-time fans of the series.

The gameplay retains the core mechanics of the original DS releases, focusing on investigation rather than courtroom battles. Players control Miles Edgeworth, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and piecing together the truth behind each case. This shift in focus offers a refreshing change of pace from the traditional Ace Attorney formula.

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection – Gameplay Mechanics

The collection’s biggest draw is the inclusion of Ace Attorney Investigations 2: Prosecutor’s Path, previously exclusive to Japan. This addition provides a substantial amount of new content for international players, further enriching the overall package.

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection – Investigating a Crime Scene

A Few Glaring Shortcomings

While the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection offers a compelling experience, it’s not without its flaws. The first game, in particular, suffers from a somewhat disjointed narrative and less impactful plot twists compared to its courtroom-focused counterparts.

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection – Logic Chess Gameplay

The inclusion of familiar faces from the main Ace Attorney games feels forced at times, serving more as cameos than integral parts of the story.

The second game introduces the “Logic Chess” mechanic, where Edgeworth engages in mental duels with witnesses. While this mechanic adds a unique layer to the gameplay, it can feel somewhat jarring and disconnected from the core investigative elements.

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection – Miles Edgeworth in Court

Conclusion

The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection successfully brings these previously overlooked spin-offs to a wider audience. The updated presentation and inclusion of the previously Japan-exclusive sequel are significant improvements. However, the first game’s narrative shortcomings and the divisive “Logic Chess” mechanic prevent the collection from reaching its full potential. Despite these flaws, the collection offers a worthwhile experience for fans of the Ace Attorney series and those seeking a unique take on the investigative genre. Are you ready to join Miles Edgeworth in his pursuit of justice?