Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu!

Nov 16, 2018 8 years ago

Trailer 1 / 8

Type Base game 2018 Genres Adventure Role-playing (RPG) Companies Game Freak · Developer · Nintendo · Publisher · Digital Works Entertainment · Supporting Follow Log in to follow

Take your Pokémon journey to the Kanto region with your energetic partner, Pikachu, to become a top Pokémon Trainer as you battle other trainers. Use a throwing motion to catch Pokémon in the wild with either one Joy-Con controller or Poké Ball Plus accessory, which will light up, vibrate, and make sounds to bring your adventure to life. Share your adventure with family or friends in 2-player action on one system using a second Joy-Con or Poké Ball Plus (sold separately). You can even connect to the Pokémon GO app using a compatible smartphone to bring over Pokémon originally discovered in the Kanto region! Explore the diverse and vibrant region of Kanto! True-to-size wild Pokémon roam around in the game, so catch them like a real Pokémon Trainer by using motion, timing, and a well-placed Poké Ball. Go on a stroll with your favorite Pokémon in your Poké Ball Plus! Connect your game directly to Pokémon GO* to receive Kanto region Pokémon.

What it’s like

Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! reimagines the classic Kanto journey with a bright, modernized aesthetic that feels like a love letter to both newcomers and veterans. The experience is defined by its accessible, streamlined structure, replacing complex turn-based mechanics with intuitive motion-controlled throwing for captures and simplified battle systems. This design choice prioritizes flow and charm over tactical depth, creating a relaxed, kid-friendly atmosphere where the focus remains on exploration and collection. Visually, the game is a standout, blending crisp 3D environments with charming character models that capture the essence of the original anime. While the narrative follows a familiar path of gym battles and rivalries, it serves primarily as a vehicle for the core loop: wandering through vibrant towns, encountering true-to-size wild Pokémon, and building a roster. The inclusion of local co-op allows friends or family to share the adventure on a single screen, enhancing its appeal as a social, low-stress experience that emphasizes joy and discovery over rigorous challenge.

Strong in Polish / PerformanceVisuals / ArtAtmosphere / MoodAudio / MusicExploration / WorldGameplay / MechanicsPacingProgression / Replayability

Keep in mind The simplified battle mechanics and lack of traditional competitive depth may disappoint hardcore Pokémon fans seeking strategic complexity. Additionally, the game's linear structure and limited post-game content offer less long-term engagement compared to mainline entries.

AI-generated from catalog data, informed by reviews from nintendolife.com, metacritic.com, eurogamer.net, rpgamer.com.