A Blast from the Past
Like many Pokémon fans, I've been playing since I was a kid. But for most people, their love for the series fizzles out as they grow older. Not for me. Pokémon is a part of my life, with plushies, art, and clothes scattered all over my house. And let's not forget about the countless games.
Unexpected Surprise
So when the announcement for Detective Pikachu Returns dropped, I couldn't contain my excitement. It came out of nowhere, four years after the film's success, and seven years after the release of the first game.
A Detective Tale with a Twist
What sets Detective Pikachu Returns apart from its predecessor is the way Pikachu enlists the help of his fellow Pokémon to crack the case. It's a clever way to showcase the unique abilities of each Pokémon, and there are dozens of them to discover throughout the game.
Stiff Human Interactions
While the Pokémon shine, the human characters fall flat. The interactions feel stiff and the animations lack fluidity, giving the game an unfinished vibe.
A Slow Paced Adventure
If you're looking for fast-paced action, Detective Pikachu Returns might not be your cup of tea. The gameplay is slow, with lots of reading and long cutscenes. I wish there was more freedom to explore and speed up the case-solving process, but unfortunately, it's a guided experience.
Missing the Mark
The stealth sections and quick-time events feel out of place and detract from the detective theme. Additionally, the side quests mostly consist of simple fetch quests that don't offer much reward.
A Story-Driven Experience
If you're a fan of Pokémon games, you probably don't play them for the story. But Detective Pikachu is all about the story. While it's decent, the characters are forgettable, and the emotional impact falls short of expectations. However, the lighthearted animation and narrative will likely appeal to younger children.
A Game for Younger Players
With its simplicity and charm, Detective Pikachu Returns will find its audience among younger children, particularly those in primary school. Older players might prefer the depth and complexity of the mainline Pokémon series.
Release Date and Rating
Mark your calendars for October 6, 2023, when Detective Pikachu Returns exclusively launches on the Nintendo Switch. I give it a score of 3 out of 5.
Written by Georgina Young on behalf of GLHF.
