Pokemon X and Y Review

Pokemon X and Y

Pokemon X and Y are part of Nintendo’s sixth generation of Pokemon games. As usual, you play as an up and coming trainer in the Kalos region who fights against an “evil” organization while also making your way to the Elite Four. Pokemon X and Y do not disappoint, and act as awesome additions to the Pokemon franchise.

Gameplay

Pokemon X and Y are the first Pokemon games on the 3DS, and gameplay has been impacted because of this. The games, unlike past entries in the series, is now made up of fully 3-D models. This include your avatar, pokemon, and the scenery of the game. It really makes the world seem larger and makes it more immersive.

This generation comes ripe with a new stockpile of undiscovered Pokemon. Although not the largest generation, the design and mechanics of these new creatures fits the setting and tone well, making this generation one of the best.

The battling system is mostly the same, but there is a small twist. Some Pokemon can Mega Evolve into a superior form for the duration of the battle. This power sacrifices the Pokemon’s held item, and adds a whole new level of strategy to the game.

The multiplayer and trading system have been changed as well. You no longer have to enter a Pokemon Center to go online. The player can now go online from anywhere in the game world, provided their 3DS is connected to Wi-fi. The new GTS is great and online battling could be a game of its own.

My favorite addition in Pokemon X is a system called wonder trade. Ever had a stockpile of weak or useless Pokemon that you don’t want? Wonder trade allows you to send any Pokemon that you want to a random player in exchange for a mystery Pokemon. This feature is fun and a great way to trade without any tedious negotiations.

Plot

Unfortunately, Pokemon X and Y's story in not great. It seems directed towards younger audiences and, unlike past games, does not tackle serious conflicts in the real world. The plot involves taking down an organization that want to make the world a better place by destroying it. It is a well-known theme and is not unique at all.

The other part of the plot is the player’s struggle to become the regional champion by defeating the Elite Four. This is a classic progression in the Pokemon franchise, and it excels in this game just as it does in its predecessors.

Graphics/Sound

Being a 3DS exclusive, Pokemon X and Y are, unsurprisingly, able to run in 3-D. However, only battles and certain parts of the map have this feature. This makes transitioning from walking to battling a bit sudden and choppy. Despite this, the 3-D is well done and the scenery in Pokemon X and Y look great. It is huge leap for the series in the right direction.

This Pokemon game comes with its very own soundtrack that is just as good as the originals, if not a bit modernized.

Appeal/Replay

Pokemon X and Y are unique because they appeal to all ages. Fans of the series will adore them, as will new comers. The post-game is incredibly short though, and you’ll probably beat the game in around 20-30 hours. Experienced players can continue breeding and battling online if they wish, but Pokemon X and Y allow you restart the game at anytime, with a completely different team if you desire.

Conclusion

Pokemon X and Y are some of (if not the best) games on the 3DS to date. It is well worth the price by providing great gameplay and good replay value. I give the games a 9/10. Fans of the series, you will not be disappointed.