Pokémon Legends: Arceus - US Version

Game is super fun. It starts off slow, with walls of text to get through at the start as it sets up the setting and story and only one area to play around in. After you unlock some stuff and open up all the areas and features though, this game is easily my favorite Pokemon game.The battles are quick and satisfying, not needing to load into some little battle screen. You just toss out your pokemon and FIGHT right then and there. You can also run around the battle field too while the pokemon fight each other, so you can easily flee a nasty encounter if you need to. Also the pokemon can just straight up attack YOU now, so better learn how to dodge roll like it's DarkSouls.Catching is quicker too, as you can sneak up on Pokemon and huck a ball at them. Getting a back strike ups your chance of catching them outright without even needing to battle them, letting you fill out that pokedex faster. Also the Pokedex is actually fun to fill out now as you have all these little sub objectives for each Pokemon to fill out it's entry, like catch multiple of them, or catch them at night, or observe them doing something specific, etc.The alpha Pokemon are a fun addition, letting you fight and capture some super sized Pokemon that will usually tower over you and most of your other Pokemon. I'm rather fond of my nine foot tall Lucario.Game feels faster and fresher than any Pokemon game yet, feels like it has way more to do too and you can evolve all Pokemon you catch that can evolve without worrying about trading and stuff as items allow you to evolve them.There isn't much to multiplayer unlike previous games, this is mostly focused on single player. Also the graphics are ugly in some areas, and that's putting it kindly. If those two things don't bother you, and you enjoy Pokemon, then you'll likely love this game as much as I did.

Let's nip one issue in the bud. This game, along with others of its kind, suffer from the limitations of the system it is on. The clearest example is the slow FPS of objects in the far distance, which funny enough is intentionally programmed into these games to prevent further quality degradation during playthrough.It's not really this game's fault, and the developers did wonderful work around it. If you can live with that visual you're in for a treat.The gameplay flow is absolutely wonderful. It does what main-series Pokémon can not: Make catching and collecting fun. The problem with main-series games is it holds on to traditional RPG mechanics too tightly in an era where they've the option to upgrade and improve. Legends Arceus does this with eliminating "You've Caught XYZ! Now look at it's Pokédex Entry, again!" and applying lock-on targeting and real-time action with the catching. Pokémon attack and run away, making it a skill to smack with a Pokéball.Included with each dex entry is a long list of tasks, not all of which are required to progress but for those who enjoy total completion it adds some variety.Shiny hunting is an enjoyment compared to previous entries and the future entry of Scarlet and Violet. Every shiny is accompanied with both a visual and auditory notification so you know it is there.Story wise, the game dives into lore about the Pokémon universe. This does not mean you need to know it to enjoy the story, but it helps they released Brilliant Diamond/Shining Pearl to give you an idea of what this region is. You do end up caring about the characters you meet, as opposed to a game like Sword/Shield which fails in the story department.Boss fights are also a tricky and fun experience, and you'll find yourself with plenty of challenges along the way.I consider this to be the best Pokémon game they've made thus far. Scarlet/Violet do continue with improved storytelling and better open-world design. But, Legends Arceus is very polished in design and concept.

I have 530 hours invested in this game and I can say with confidence this is one of the better pokemon games made in a long time. The gameplay is fun, decent story, challenging battles, and great for shiny hunting if you like to collect special pokemon at the end of the game. Highly recommend it for both new and old pokemon fans

Pokémon Legends: Arceus is an exhilarating adventure that takes the Pokémon franchise to new heights. Set in a beautifully crafted open-world environment, this game offers a refreshing departure from traditional Pokémon gameplay.Embark on a thrilling journey as you explore the vast landscapes of the Hisui region, encountering wild Pokémon in their natural habitats. The dynamic day-and-night cycle and the immersive graphics contribute to an engaging and visually stunning experience.The introduction of the capture system, where you observe and throw Poké Balls in real-time, adds an exciting layer of strategy. It feels like a genuine evolution of the classic Pokémon formula, making the process of catching Pokémon more immersive and dynamic.The storyline, set in the past, provides a unique perspective on the origins of the Pokémon world, adding depth to the lore. The addition of new Pokémon forms and the mythical Pokémon Arceus introduces fresh excitement for long-time fans.While the game retains the core Pokémon charm, the departure from the traditional turn-based battles may take some getting used to. However, the change feels like a bold and successful experiment, offering a truly captivating experience for both veterans and newcomers alike.In summary, Pokémon Legends: Arceus is a delightful and innovative addition to the Pokémon universe. It successfully blends nostalgia with new gameplay elements, creating an immersive and enjoyable adventure for trainers of all ages. Get ready to embark on a journey like no other in the vast and enchanting world of Pokémon Legends: Arceus!

Fabulous game, very absorbing. Great balance of story line vs freeplay. Highly recommend!