Pokemon Moon

Pokemon Moon is a delightful addition to the franchise that brings something new to the franchise for players. Rather than repeat the same tired old theme, Pokemon Moon has made some changes to keep things fresh. The first is the new location. Pokemon Moon is changing things up with a visit to the Alola region, a tropical area much like Hawaii. In keeping with the tropical theme, they’ve also added in a new feature called, ‘The Island Challenge.’

In past games such as Pokemon X and Y, players have been tasked with visiting a series of gyms to complete the game. In Pokemon Moon, the Island Challenge is all about solving a series of challenges. These may be combat, but also could be a scavenger hunt or a non-combat related puzzle.

For example, one event involves learning luau style dance moves on top of a volcano, while another calls for finding four ingredients to make a traditional dish with. The dish can then be used to catch a pokemon. This really livens up the game and adds a lot more depth to the possibilities. Rather than trying to grind forward to the next gym, players spend more time enjoying and exploring the map.

Unpredictability

Pokemon Moon spices up gameplay through making it unpredictable when and where the next major event will happen. Since you never know where, when, or what the next event will be, it encourages players to level up a wide variety of Pokemon and quickly.

Rather than offer mega-evolutions for the pokemon, succeeding at these trials nets players a Z-Crystal, which is a sort of super-powered attack move. The use of these crystals are optional, for those who prefer a more challenging experience, but do come in handy for very difficult fights.

Beautiful, Unique Island

The Aloha region alone is worth talking about because of how well done this region is. The Aloha region features four big, beautiful islands to explore, all of them unique from each other. You may encounter a dusty old western style town, an exotic tourist trap, or a rugged and wild natural setting. Exploring the island has its own degree of pleasure as you unravel each unexpected surprise.

Lots of Storyline

The storyline for Pokemon Moon is a generous 30+ hours long, giving players plenty to do before the game comes to its close. That being said, while it does do a good job of helping players appreciate the journey rather than just the end goal, it’s not the best storyline in the world.

The story has some awkward dialogue, especially by Team Skull, an some highly predictable events. That being said, compared to many other Pokemon stories, this is one of the better ones.

Pros:

• Map encourages exploration more
• New Island Challenge makes for better gameplay

Cons:

• Some awkward dialogue

Pokemon Moon (3ds) will once again allow you to fight for the championship on the Island of Alola. Gorgeous beauties, eight hundred pocket monsters, and a simple story will entice fans of Japanese role-playing games. The game is designed in the style of a cartoon.

Get the Pokéball

The essence of the game:

• The player is new to battles. Just yesterday he became a Pokémon trainer
• Defeat four Kahuna, and you can compete for the championship in the Region
• Pokémon attack with different techniques, you must choose a force that neutralizes the blow and counterattack