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TLDR Review: Let's Go, Pikachu!

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: March 10th, 2026

Pros

•Combines nostalgic Pokémon Yellow gameplay with modern Pokémon GO mechanics, creating a fresh yet familiar experience.
•Simplified catching system using motion controls or button mode makes it accessible for newcomers and casual players.
•Charming companion Pikachu rides on the player’s shoulder and can participate actively in battles with exclusive moves.
•Bright, colorful chibtyle graphics with smooth, expressive Pokémon animations enhance immersion.
•Faithful storyline set in the classic Kanto region featuring the original 151 Pokémon plus Alolan forms.
•Cp mode allows a second player to jump in anytime without requiring extra controllers, making multiplayer easy and fun.
•Optional Poké Ball Plus accessory enriches catching gameplay and offers reaorld interaction by storing a Pokémon.
•Bluetooth integration with Pokémon GO lets players transfer Pokémon from the mobile app, bridging experiences.
•The iame economy and simplified item system reduce grinding and keep gameplay smooth and enjoyable.
•Great introduction to the Pokémon series for beginners, kids, or Pokémon GO fans looking for a console experience.

Cons

•Motion controls for catching can be imprecise and sometimes frustrating when Pokémon move erratically.
•Limited to the original 151 Pokémon (plus Alolan forms), which might feel restrictive to longtime fans craving a broader roster.
•Simplified mechanics remove traditional features like breeding, abilities, and held items, potentially disappointing series veterans.
•The game overall is easier with a low challenge level, which might not satisfy players seeking a hardcore experience.
•The map interface can be awkward to navigate and gets lost among menu items.
•Second player’s avatar lacks customization and can occasionally get lost ofcreen.
•Connecting to Pokémon GO can be tricky depending on phone Bluetooth capabilities, causing occasional frustration.
•The "friendly" rival character reduces the intensity of traditional competitive rivalries, which might feel less engaging for some.

Bottom Line

*Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu!* offers a delightful and accessible Pokémon adventure that blends the charm of the original Kanto journey with the casual catching mechanics of Pokémon GO. It’s a perfect pick for newcomers, nostalgic fans looking for a fresh spin, or families wanting laid-back co-op fun. However, if you’re a seasoned Pokémon trainer craving a deeper, more challenging RPG experience with a full Pokédex and traditional features like breeding and abilities, this might feel a bit watered down. For those players, considering the mainline Pokémon Sword or Shield on Nintendo Switch could be a better fit. But if you want a joyful, colorful, and easy-to-pick-up Pokémon game that shines with its simplicity and social features, this one’s a solid choice.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$32.40 at eCrater

How we researched this

About this review: We pulled together findings from professional reviews and hundreds of user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from 78 retailers to give you the short version.