Detective Pikachu Returns
- October 6, 2023
- Creatures Inc.
Detective Pikachu Returns takes some steps back compared to its 3DS predecessor – most notably in its presentation – but retains its charming writing, beautiful worldbuilding and loveable cast of both humans and Pokémon alike.
"Detective Pikachu Returns" is a single-player Mystery Adventure game, offering around 10 hours of playtime. Join Tim Goodman and his coffee-loving, tough-talking Pikachu partner as they investigate a series of mysteries in Ryme City, where Pokémon and people live together in harmony. Solve cases and uncover secrets with the help of various Pokémon in this cinematic adventure game.
Nintendo Switch
Reviews
- The game features a charming story and lovable characters, making it enjoyable for fans of the franchise.
- Great for younger players, with simple controls and a relaxing gameplay experience.
- Many players appreciated the nostalgic feel reminiscent of old-school graphic adventure games.
- The gameplay is often criticized for being too simplistic and lacking challenge, especially for older players.
- Some players found the graphics and presentation to be disappointing compared to the previous installment.
- There are complaints about excessive dialogue and cutscenes, leading to a feeling of boredom during gameplay.
- story5 mentions
- 60 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 40 % negative mentions
The story of the game is engaging, particularly for fans of the first Detective Pikachu, as it delves deeper into the quest to find Tim's dad and features a variety of Pokémon from different regions. While newcomers can easily follow the narrative, some players find the post-main story exploration limited due to the lack of open-world mechanics, leading to mixed feelings about the overall storytelling experience.
“I love the first one; I'm so happy he's back, and we get more into the story to find Tim's dad.”
“However, it features lots of great Pokémon from Hoenn, Kalos, and Galar, to name a few, and an interesting storyline.”
“I haven't played the first Detective Pikachu game, but if you've watched the film, it's easy to pick up the storyline.”
“Only criticism I'd make is it's not that easy once you've completed the main story arc to go back and visit all the areas - as there aren't any significant wide-open-world mechanics (not like Arceus or Pokémon Scarlet/Violet) - nonetheless you can go back and replay individual levels from a selection menu.”
“Lame story”
- graphics4 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 75 % negative mentions
The graphics have received mixed reviews, with some players appreciating the nostalgic charm reminiscent of old-school graphic adventure games, while others criticize them as rough and subpar compared to modern titles. Despite the attractive and adorable designs noted by some, the overall visual quality has been described as lacking, contributing to a mechanically dull experience.
“Attractive and adorable graphics, along with good quality sound and voices, make meeting new Pokémon quite fun. It's neat to control different Pokémon.”
“It's quite reminiscent of old-school graphic adventure games as opposed to modern Pokémon games.”
“Bosses consist of mashing the button 'A', and the graphics are terrible.”
“Mechanically boring, so much backtracking, rough-looking graphics.”
- gameplay4 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 75 % negative mentions
The gameplay of Detective Pikachu Returns is characterized by straightforward investigation mechanics that some players find simplistic and frustrating, particularly due to limited exploration options and a lack of variety. While players can replay individual levels, the absence of expansive open-world elements and the need for backtracking detract from the overall experience, making it feel more suited for a younger audience.
“Detective Pikachu Returns is more adventures with the charming electric mouse from the original, but the straightforward investigation mechanics can be incredibly engaging and enjoyable for fans of the genre.”
“Only criticism I'd make is it's not that easy once you've completed the main story arc to go back and visit all the areas, as there aren't any significant wide-open-world mechanics (not like Arceus or Pokémon Scarlet/Violet). Nonetheless, you can go back and replay individual levels from a selection menu.”
“Too simplistic for anyone other than a youngster; investigation areas are small, and there's not enough gameplay variety.”
“Detective Pikachu Returns is more adventures with the charming electric mouse from the original, but the straightforward investigation mechanics can be incredibly frustrating in a game that wouldn't look out of place on the Wii U.”
- humor1 mentions
- 200 % positive mentions
- -100 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is characterized by its gentle and charming approach, particularly through well-crafted cutscenes and writing that highlight the quirky personality of Detective Pikachu. This makes it an engaging experience for younger players, blending adventure and mystery with lighthearted moments.
“The cutscenes and writing have moments of humor and charm, especially revolving around its star, Detective Pikachu.”
“This game serves as a well-made, gentle adventure and mystery primer for younger players, filled with delightful humor.”
Critic Reviews
Detective Pikachu Returns Switch Review
Detective Pikachu Returns takes some steps back compared to its 3DS predecessor – most notably in its presentation – but retains its charming writing, beautiful worldbuilding and loveable cast of both humans and Pokémon alike.
72%Detective Pikachu Returns review
Detective Pikachu Returns is a relaxing time in a universe full of characters you know and love, and it’ll make you laugh, but it won't be for everyone.
70%Detective Pikachu Returns Review
Detective Pikachu Returns is more adventures with the charming electric mouse from the original, but the straightforward investigation mechanics can be incredibly frustrating in a game that wouldn't look out of place on the Wii U.
60%
