Pokémon Pokopia

Developer: Omega Force
Publisher: Nintendo
Platforms: Switch 2
Release Date: Available Now
Price: $69.99 – Available Here

Overview

Pokemon…in a cozy life sim. Yeah, folks, we are here now, and it’s a good place to be. Pokémon Pokopia brings together the popular genre with the largest franchise on Earth to create something special. Think Dragon Quest: Builders, mix in Animal Crossing and even Viva Pinata, and you have the elements of what makes this spin-off tick. Does it all come together to create an equally addictive experience, or is this one weighed down by its own concept? Let’s find out.

Story

There are so many little tidbits to this story, but the center of it is absolutely Ditto’s tale to tell. Players take control of the transforming Pokémon Ditto, who morphs into their former trainer and discovers a mess of a land with a giant Tangrowth living alone on the property. After some prodding and sharing of tools, Ditto begins to discover Pokémon, and as more show up, the land begins to be reborn. Now Ditto must find out more about this past while the world expands, while also learning about the mysterious Professor and other species that join your village over time.

Narrative isn’t really a focal point of Pokopia, but it does a great job of capturing its own sense of individuality from the series with its unique plot. Ditto is pretty charming, and I found a lot of the dialogue to always be warm and soft, despite some of the cheesey notions one would expect. Does it measure up to the Mystery Dungeon franchise in terms of story? Well, not quite, but Pokopia surely is not far behind in terms of quality due to its strong writing.

Gameplay

This is where the magic happens. It all revolves around Ditto. Players have the ability to transform, sort of. Ditto can obtain powers from visiting Pokémon. For example, after transforming into a Squirtle, Ditto will don the shell and be able to use water gun to water grass and fauna. Scyther can lend the ability to grow scythes and chop through wood. Bulbasaur can utilize leafage and grow grass. You get the idea. While that is fine in itself, it’s the way you get these Pokémon that gives this title its legs. 

Players have to recruit, or “lure” Pokémon into their area. To do this, they have to get Ditto to learn abilities that are gained by speaking to the same species you brought in to make the land attractive. For instance, Hitmonchan wants a bench beside a punching bag. Get that through the shop or by crafting, and he will eventually appear. Once he is friendly enough (which is usually instant), he teaches you Rock Smash. This ability can be used to carve out caves or smash obstacles that block the way – which can also lure more Pokémon. This gameplay loop is what makes the gameplay so addictive and rewarding. Attract Pokémon, use their abilities, and get more Pokémon.

Eventually, tasks start becoming less in quantity to gain friends, and it becomes more about design and expansion, with new buildings and fauna that can be obtained. This works a lot like Animal Crossing for this portion, so your own creativity and favor for the mechanics will lead to what can be a never-ending loop that is really special to partake in. Sometimes I would get a bit intimidated by having too much to do, but the game really waits for you, as there is never a massive sense of urgency. I hate using the term “cozy” game, but this is the ultimate cozy title as it really is a relaxing adventure with endless possibilities. 

Audio

I was kind of worried that the soundtrack here would be a bit generic, as early trailers never really showcased that element. Thankfully, the music is lovely throughout, with light remixes from the main games, mixed with simple, calming tones to build to. There is no voice acting, but lots of Pokémon cries, so if your a purest for that, you will be content enough. I do think we are ready to see a little voice acting in a Pokémon title, though, as it surely would have added a nice layer over the top of what really is a perfect experience. 

Visuals

The visuals here are fantastic, but nothing too out of the ordinary. The Pokémon look great, and their animations are done to perfection. The world itself kind of has that 3D block look, but it works for Pokopia just fine, as the decorative elements are standard fare, making this design feel new, even though it can be a bit over-used in other titles. There is something really invigorating about getting to make a nearly perfect replica of Pallet Town and see Pokémon roam free in that world you build, which really shows the quality and time the team put into this adventure. 

Overall

Pokémon Pokopia is more than a spin-off; it’s the start of a brand new IP for Pokémon. The game is relaxing and fun to play, allowing players to let their own creativity run wild in an adventure that feels fresh and rewarding. Pokopia has managed to take something from several properties and turn it into its own thing without seeming like a cheap imitation, and for a namesake as beloved as Pokémon to be attached, it’s easy to understand why this title is sure to have so much appeal to anyone looking for a new break from reality. A true “cozy” gem that is ready to take all of your time is here, and this time, some old friends are happy to greet you upon entry.

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