TLDR Review: Pokémon Sword
Verdict
While "Pokémon Sword" brings some elements of innovation, like the Wild Area and Dynamaxing, it might disappoint those expecting a major evolution in the series. With its short storyline and exclusion of familiar Pokémon, it doesn't quite deliver the depth some fans desire. If you're looking for a more nostalgic yet fresh experience, the expansion packs or even "Pokémon Legends: Arceus" could offer a fuller dive into Pokémon adventures.
- Top pro:
- Gym challenges provide engaging, unique objectives beyond just battling, enhancing traditional gym experiences.
- Top con:
- The game is somewhat brief for a mainline Pokémon installment and lacks substantial post-game content.
Pros
- •Gym challenges provide engaging, unique objectives beyond just battling, enhancing traditional gym experiences.
- •Dynamaxing introduces a strategic layer to battles, upping intensity and adaptability.
- •Freedom to explore the Wild Area, loaded with hidden items and diverse Pokémon, breaks from the series' linear progression.
- •New Pokémon designs are charming, and new typings add depth to gameplay strategy.
- •Impressive animations and improved graphics, especially in towns, caves, and routes, enrich the visual experience.
- •The fantastic musical score, particularly gym tracks, adds to the game's excitement.
- •The multiplayer component, especially in raid battles, fosters engaging and rewarding experiences.
- •Simple yet profound game mechanics suit both new and seasoned trainers alike.
- •Pokémon visible in the wild before encounters make capturing more interactive.
- •The game is perfect for those easing back into gaming, offering cozy and approachable gameplay.
Cons
- •The game is somewhat brief for a mainline Pokémon installment and lacks substantial post-game content.
- •The story can feel unimaginative, with juvenile dialogue and excessive hand-holding.
- •The online functionality is subpar, making teamwork in Wild Area raids frustrating.
- •Excludes a significant number of Pokémon from past generations, disappointing long-time fans.
- •City and town designs are overly simplistic and linear, limiting exploration.
- •Catch rates for Gigantamaxed Pokémon are frustratingly low.
- •Insufficient innovation in gameplay leaves it feeling like a uninspired rehash of earlier titles.
- •The repetitive nature of certain gameplay elements, such as sending Pokémon on jobs, detracts from engagement.
- •Trading systems are cumbersome, complicating interactions with friends.
- •Reused animations and missing features from previous games can make the experience feel lacking.
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How we researched this
About this review: it summarizes the professional reviews and customer ratings ShopSavvy collected for this product, alongside prices from 2 retailers in ShopSavvy's price data, most recently seen May 8, 2025.
Where to Buy
| Retailer | Price | Last seen | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| $49.99 | May 8, 2025 may have changed | ||
| $49.99 | May 8, 2025 may have changed |
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