The new Pokémon game is here, and it's getting some very split reviews. Pokémon Masters brings the franchise somewhere fans probably haven't been before: into full-on gacha territory. Yes, Pokémon GO gives you the option to buy PokéCoins to stock up on items. Pokémon Duel lets you buy currency to get more figures, and Pokémon Shuffle lets you buy more energy so you don't have to wait to play. Where Masters takes it a step too far is that it splits the paid currency from that earned in-game.
On day one, the developers introduced a special event that gives you a guaranteed rare character but is only accessible via the paid currency. Fans, including myself, aren't happy that in-app purchases are so heavily favored. Yet we've covered that already, in a piece you should read if you're passionate about Pokémon. This time, I want to highlight where the game excels.
Trainers Get The Screentime They Deserve
Where there are Pokémon there are trainers, and yet the games have often favored the critters over their masters. Gym Leaders and Elite Four members are given cool designs, only to be bystanders to the player characters' awesomeness. Even the cartoon only gave non-Misty and Brock trainers an episode or two before Ash inevitably left them behind. Masters finally puts the spotlight on trainers by giving them voice acting and even little side stories so their personalities can shine. It's a treat to see characters that are usually relegated to text boxes actually have a chance to emote.
There's No Energy System
Really this is true of most mobile games these days, but many players are praising Pokémon Masters for not gating gameplay time behind energy or some similar resource. You can play as often as you like for as long as you'd like.
Production Values Are Top-Notch
Mobile games are getting better as phones get better, but it's still surprising when one delivers genuinely good graphics. Special attack animations are fun and colorful, and the Pokémon emote alongside their masters. The art style is reminiscent of the main Pokémon series with its own slight twist. Everyone has voice acting, even the random NPC trainers. The music is also solid, consisting mostly of new takes on classic themes. Everything comes together to present a breezy, charming take that fits right in with the rest of the Pokémon franchise.
Every Generation Gets A Chance
When Pokémon games go to more casual venues, like mobile gaming, we tend to see a heavy focus on the original 151. Thankfully, Masters isn't afraid to include Pokémon besides Pikachu and Charizard. The old favorites are there, but so are Pokémon from all over the Pokédex. Even the controversial 5th gen gets plenty of love.
To learn more about what makes Pokémon Masters a treat in spite of its awful mictrotransactions, read our full review of the game.