After more than a decade since their original releases on the Nintendo DS, Ace Attorney Investigations: Miles Edgeworth and Prosecutor’s Gambit have returned, bundled together in the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection. This collection provides a fresh opportunity to experience these games, especially for fans who missed out on the second title, which was never released outside Japan.
A new angle on the series
Unlike the courtroom-heavy drama of the main Ace Attorney series, these games focus more on crime scene investigation and logic-based puzzles. In both titles, Miles Edgeworth steps into a detective’s role, exploring various locations, gathering evidence, and solving cases. Players piece together clues, press suspects for information, and search for flaws in their stories to uncover the truth. This shift offers a refreshing twist while staying true to the series’ core mechanics.
That said, the abundance of text-heavy dialogue remains. Long-time fans will feel right at home, but those looking for quicker, more action-driven gameplay may find the pacing slow. If you’re familiar with the series’ storytelling style and are prepared for its deliberate pace, the game delivers an engaging experience.
Setting the stage and raising the bar
The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection includes two games, each offering a distinct experience. The first game, Miles Edgeworth, sets the stage with its focus on crime scene investigation and logic-based gameplay, introducing a new way to approach cases outside the courtroom. However, the second game, Prosecutor’s Gambit, elevates the experience with sharper writing, more engaging cases, and a cast of lively characters. Its stronger narrative and character dynamics make it the more enjoyable of the two, offering a deeper and more satisfying continuation of the formula.
Something extra
The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection introduces a couple of noteworthy features aimed at enhancing the player’s experience. The ability to switch between the original pixel art and newly updated HD sprites allows players to customize the visual style according to their preferences. Fans who enjoy the retro aesthetic can stick to the original look, while those seeking a more polished appearance will appreciate the HD update. Additionally, the collection includes a gallery of design art and character sketches, offering behind-the-scenes insights into character development.
Crucially, the gameplay remains largely untouched, preserving the original experience. Purists will be pleased that the collection stays faithful to the original releases, with minimal alterations. This careful balance between modernization and respect for the classics makes the collection appealing both for nostalgic players and newcomers curious about the evolution of the series. The HD upgrades and extra content are subtle, but they enrich the experience without overshadowing the core gameplay that made these titles beloved.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is a solid re-release of two harder-to-get titles. It’s perfect for fans who missed out on the originals. The extra freedom you get during the investigations combined with the classic gameplay from the mainline Ace Attorney games offers a nice change of pace from courtroom drama.
