What was originally going to be called Pocket Monsters, Pokemon (obviously the shortened form of Pocket Monsters) became one of Nintendo's biggest hits in America, and the best game as of yet for the Game Boy. In Pokemon your object is to (well, I'm sure you've seen some commercials by now) catch all 150! The catch is, there are only 140 in each version (red and blue), so to get them all, you must trade with someone with the other version. While this RPG mostly appeals to the younger age group, some older players are picking up on this also.
Normal viewers of reviews at this site will know that this is the part where the plot usually goes. However, I can't say there is that much plot, except mainly to catch them all. You will have to go from city to city, fighting all the gym leaders, and eventually to find the Elite Four. On your way you will experience encounters with Team Rocket (no Jessie or James) and your rival from Pallet Town, Gary. Just remember, you don't fight; your Pokemon do!
+ Lots of hours of gameplay. Unique battle system in which the Pokemon you catch fight instead of you. Capability to trade Pokemon with another person with the game. Pokemon have a variety of abilities and different forms. Pokemon don't just stay the same throughout the game; they evolve!
- Maybe too complicated for some players (catching, managing, and leveling up pokemon). No character development. If you don't know any Pokemon players (or don't have a Game Link), then you can't get all 150. Cannot give a new nickname to traded Pokemon.
| Category | Points (1-5) |
|---|---|
| Graphics | 3.5 |
| Sound & Music | 3.0 |
| Play Control | 3.5 |
| Challenge | 4.75 |
| Theme & Fun | 4.75 |
| Replay Value | 3.5 |
| Overall | 4.25 |
What do I say? If you have one of the three portable Game Boys (Original, Pocket, or Color) and a friend who is buying the opposite version, then buy it. (The game looks cool on a Super Game Boy, but because of the lack of a Game Link, you can't trade.)
