Pokémon Scarlet

Pokémon Scarlet shows promise, but it’s a mixed bag. The open-world design is refreshing, yet it suffers from performance hiccups and repetitive elements. At $59.99, it’s a hard sell at launch, especially when considering past entries in the series are more polished. You might want to wait for patches or price drops.

The shift to an open-world setting is the biggest evolution for Pokémon, allowing for a more exploratory gameplay feel compared to linear titles like Pokémon Sword and Shield. However, performance on the Switch 2 isn’t where it should be; expect noticeable frame rate drops in battles and crowded areas. Aesthetic-wise, it retains the colorful charm fans love but lacks the polish seen in earlier games. The choice between two professors offers distinct narrative routes, keeping things fresh, but the grind-heavy gameplay can wear thin. Compared to recent RPGs, like Genshin Impact, it falls short in terms of world interaction and engagement. Still, the potential is there for a great experience with future updates.

You’ll roam a vast open world, catching Pokémon, battling trainers, and completing quests. The game introduces a new mechanic called 'Terastal Phenomenon' that changes Pokémon types temporarily. Engage in multiplayer activities or join friends for cooperative play, but be prepared for some grindy moments.