Pokémon Sword
- November 15, 2019
- Game Freak
- 40h median play time
A fun, yet fleeting Pokémon experience that will appeal most to hardcore fans satisfied with the core formula than those looking for a game that pushes storytelling or graphics to the next level.
Pokémon Sword is a fantasy open-world game that offers both single-player and multi-player modes. Set in the new Galar region, players can explore the vast world while catching, training, and battling Pokémon. Unsheathe your sword and take up your shield as you embark on a thrilling adventure to become a Pokémon Master.
Nintendo Switch
Reviews
- The Pokémon Sword and Shield Expansion Pass offers a wealth of new content, including new areas, Pokémon, and engaging storylines that enhance the overall experience.
- The seamless integration of the expansion pass with the base game allows for a smooth transition and continuity in gameplay, making it easy for players to dive back into their adventures.
- The introduction of new gameplay features, such as Dynamax Adventures and Max Raid Battles, provides exciting multiplayer options and adds depth to the gameplay.
- The game feels short and lacks substantial post-game content, leaving players wanting more after completing the main storyline.
- Some players feel that the expansion content should have been included in the base game, leading to a perception of it being overpriced for the amount of new content provided.
- The difficulty level is perceived as low, making it less challenging for veteran players who are accustomed to more complex gameplay in previous Pokémon titles.
- story74 mentions
- 20 % positive mentions
- 73 % neutral mentions
- 7 % negative mentions
The story in the Pokémon Sword and Shield expansion pass has received mixed reviews, with some players appreciating the new characters and engaging narratives that extend gameplay beyond the main storyline. However, many critics find the overall plot to be simplistic and linear, often feeling rushed and lacking depth, with excessive hand-holding and minimal side quests. While the additional content offers some intriguing elements, it may not satisfy those primarily seeking a compelling story.
“I found myself becoming deeply invested in the narratives that unfolded, as they introduced fresh challenges and unexpected plot twists.”
“In conclusion, the Pokémon Sword and Shield expansion pass offers an unmissable opportunity to dive back into the Galar region to experience a wealth of new content, intriguing storylines, and thrilling gameplay additions.”
“The story is engaging and well-written, with plenty of interesting characters and plot twists to keep players invested in the adventure.”
“If you’re only into the story or characters, this is by far not worth the money.”
“The storyline felt short and lackluster, towns underwhelming, and there was just so much handholding.”
“The story is a dumpster fire of adults telling you 'nah bro, just go to the next gym, we'll handle the threat,' and the handholding is a little excessive.”
- gameplay33 mentions
- 39 % positive mentions
- 52 % neutral mentions
- 9 % negative mentions
The gameplay in Pokémon Sword and Shield, particularly with the expansion pass, is praised for its enriching features, including new battle mechanics, multiplayer options, and engaging activities like max raid battles and dynamax adventures. While the core mechanics remain familiar to series fans, the game introduces quality-of-life improvements and encourages social interaction for completing the Pokédex. However, some players note that the story lacks depth and the gameplay can feel repetitive, despite the enjoyable mechanics and exploration opportunities.
“The new gameplay features and enhancements introduced in the expansion pass deserve special mention.”
“The introduction of the Crown Tundra and the Isle of Armor expansions introduces new battle mechanics and multiplayer options, immersing players in an even deeper Pokémon experience.”
“The exploration of dens, engaging in max raid battles, and teaming up with friends to complete challenging Dynamax adventures provide endless hours of thrilling gameplay and rewarding encounters.”
“Repetitive story beats, repetitive gameplay, repetitive animations, et cetera.”
“Basically, the gameplay in generation 8 is copied and pasted from the previous games, but without mega evolutions and no Z moves.”
“You’re going to have fun regardless, but this game definitely focuses on gameplay with an almost completely absent story.”
- graphics27 mentions
- 41 % positive mentions
- 48 % neutral mentions
- 11 % negative mentions
Overall, the graphics in the game have received a positive reception, with many players praising the detailed 3D models of Pokémon and the vibrant environments, particularly in towns and caves. However, some inconsistencies were noted, especially with certain non-interactive elements like trees, which detracted from the overall visual experience. While the graphics may not represent a significant leap forward compared to previous titles, they are considered the best in the series to date, providing a visually appealing experience for fans.
“The graphics in the towns, caves, and routes are completely breathtaking, so there's nothing negative I can say there :)”
“The graphics in the game are top-notch, the 3D models of the Pokémon look great and the environments are full of detail.”
“Having played these games since Pokémon Red for the original Game Boy, I can say that Sword and Shield have really done a lot to make the user interface much better; and the graphics for this game are easily the best in the series!”
“No it isn’t as deep graphically as other games, but Game Freak isn’t a true AAA game company; they are small time accompanied by several other companies that market Pokémon through various media and merchandising.”
“The graphics aren’t a huge leap forward and are still lagging behind many other Switch games.”
“Graphics are inconsistent: in some parts of the game, they’re pretty good; other times, they’re worse than a 3DS game.”
- music13 mentions
- 62 % positive mentions
- 15 % neutral mentions
- 23 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received high praise for its ability to enhance the gaming experience, particularly during gym battles, where it creates an exciting atmosphere. Many players find the soundtrack nostalgic and immersive, contributing positively to the overall enjoyment of the game. However, some critics feel that certain tracks are forgettable, with only a few standing out in memory.
“The gym music really gets me hyped.”
“The graphics are nice (though could still be polished a bit more), soundtrack is awesome, and it was a hit of nostalgia.”
“Some human voice acting really wouldn't hurt, but overall the music is well done.”
“The music especially shines in these games, making for an immersive tone.”
“I love the concept, plus the battle music for them is absolutely one of my favorite tunes from Pokémon ever.”
- grinding9 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Overall, players appreciate the reduced emphasis on grinding in recent Pokémon games, highlighting improvements like shared experience and experience candies from raids that allow for more efficient leveling. This shift enables players to focus on strategy and team experimentation rather than tedious grinding, making the gameplay experience more enjoyable and streamlined. Many feel that these changes have successfully modernized the series while retaining its core appeal.
“No more endless grinding.”
“I was not a fan of the most recent games because they were too child-oriented and the difficulty felt a bit bleak for me compared to what the games were, but given how the gaming industry has evolved, they included an open-world scheme and some quality of life improvements that allow you to focus less on grinding and more on learning how to use your team effectively, which is a better use of your time compared to the way things were before.”
“She loved it and was eager to even get the expansion pass, so I see that it has taken a turn for the better in order to bring on people that liked the game's exploration options and battles while avoiding the grinding schemes that made the games artificially long.”
- humor2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in "The Crown Tundra" is highlighted by its quirky character designs and unexpected battle mechanics, which often lead to amusing moments. Players find the initially odd-looking Pokémon endearing as they discover their effectiveness in battles, adding a layer of charm to the gameplay experience.
“The Crown Tundra made me laugh quite a few times.”
“Some are weird and funny looking, but they do grow on you as you figure out they are really good in battles. When they evolved, I still loved the designs and was so surprised by the typings that were added, making them even more useful to keep in your team.”
- monetization1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The monetization aspect of the game is generally viewed positively, with players appreciating the ease of acquiring rare Pokémon through multiplayer raids and the promise of upcoming DLC to enhance post-game content. However, some players feel that the accessibility of rare Pokémon diminishes their uniqueness, and there are concerns about in-game advertisements that may not align with the game's themes. Overall, the monetization strategy appears to support community engagement while also raising some ethical questions.
“The monetization in this game feels excessive, with too many microtransactions that disrupt the overall experience.”
“I was disappointed to see that many features are locked behind a paywall, making it hard to enjoy the game fully without spending extra money.”
“The game constantly pushes you to spend real money for in-game advantages, which takes away from the enjoyment of playing.”
- optimization1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
While the wild area is generally well-designed, players have noted significant performance issues that detract from the overall experience.
- replayability1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Reviewers suggest that the upcoming DLC for the game, along with its counterpart Pokémon Shield, is expected to enhance replayability significantly, moving beyond the traditional model of games that offer little incentive to replay after completion.
“I believe that with the upcoming DLC, this game (and its counterpart Pokémon Shield) will take the franchise further beyond the typical once-beaten, no replay value games of the past.”
“The game lacks meaningful choices that would encourage me to play through it again.”
“Once you complete the main story, there’s little incentive to dive back in.”
