Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu!

Visible wild Pokemon improves exploration. Simplified catch mechanics lack strategic depth.

Beautiful reimagining of a classic with accessible gameplay and plenty of postgame content, though motion controls are flawed.

A streamlined, accessible reimagining of Pokemon Yellow that retains the classic town-to-town, gym-badge formula and charming anime-inspired presentation, with familiar tunes and battle music that hit nostalgic notes. The shift to Pokemon Go-style catching that removes wild battles feels like an oxymoron, and the game is a bit too easy and somewhat overpriced. A solid, enjoyable entry point for newcomers and lapsed fans.

BYB: buy — warm welcoming experience; classic Pokémon.

Introduces good new features and makes Pokemon more accessible than ever. Relies too heavily on nostalgia and doesn't take enough risks to challenge veterans.