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MONSTER

Pokemon Sword / Shield Dual Pack

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Pokemon Sword / Shield Dual Pack
Item: Pokemon Sword / Shield Dual Pack
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2019

GenresAdventure, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableNov 15, 2019

PlatformNintendo Switch

DeveloperGame Freak

Overview

Become a Pokémon Trainer, embark on a new journey in the new Galar region, and unravel the mystery behind the Legendary Pokémon Zacian and Zamazenta! Explore the Wild Area, a vast expanse of land where the player can freely control the camera. And participate in Max Raid Battles in which players will face off against gigantic and super-strong Pokémon known as Dynamax Pokémon. Begin your adventure by choosing one of three new partner Pokémon: Grookey, Scorbunny, or Sobble and encounter new and familiar Pokémon as you catch, battle, and trade. Players can control the camera and explore the vast areas around them in the Wild Area. Team up with other players locally or online in the new multiplayer co-op Max Raid Battles. Trainers who possess the special item Dynamax Band can Dynamax their own Pokémon. Get ready for the next Pokémon adventure in the Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield games.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Pokémon Sword and Shield’s story is a safe, traditional effort that prioritizes nostalgia over innovation, offering charming but underdeveloped lore, formulaic pacing, and shallow characters, with its potential undermined by a rushed climax and lack of emotional resonance.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

92%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Pokémon Sword and Shield receives mixed praise, with several critics acknowledging its adherence to the series’ traditional structure and some unique elements. Nintendo Enthusiast highlights the game’s Arthurian legend-inspired narrative and UK cultural touches, which add a fresh layer to the "becoming the best" trope. IGN Japan notes the Galar region’s strong design and characters, while DualShockers appreciates the lovable cast like Hop and Professor Sonia, as well as the sports-themed battle system that fits the British setting. Critics like Gameplanet and Game Revolution also commend the game’s streamlined progression through gyms and its focus on exploration, with some praising the inclusion of Dynamaxing as a novel mechanic. The narrative’s simplicity is seen as a double-edged sword, offering accessibility while still providing a solid framework for adventure. However, the majority of critics criticize the story for being underdeveloped, formulaic, and lacking emotional depth. NintendoWorldReport and Multiplayer.it argue that the plot feels shallow, with weak antagonists like Team Yell and a lack of stakes compared to earlier entries. Gameplanet and Gamer.no describe the narrative as unengaging, with flat characters and a predictable structure that relies heavily on established Pokémon tropes. The climax is frequently criticized for being rushed or underwhelming, with Atomix and Twinfinite noting uneven pacing and a lack of dramatic tension. Even positive elements like the mysterious Zacian and Zamazenta are seen as underutilized, with JeuxActu and Meristation pointing out that the story’s potential is not fully realized. Many reviewers, including MGG and Gaming Age, lament the absence of meaningful character arcs or thematic depth, leaving the narrative feeling more like a backdrop for gameplay than a compelling experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Pokémon Sword and Shield’s story is a safe, traditional effort that prioritizes nostalgia over innovation. While it retains the series’ core charm and introduces some unique elements like the Galar region’s lore, it falls short of delivering the impactful storytelling seen in classics like Black and White or Sole e Luna. The narrative’s simplicity and reliance on familiar structures are both praised for accessibility and criticized for stagnation. Critics like Game Informer and GamesRadar+ acknowledge some engaging moments, but most agree that the story fails to elevate the game beyond its formulaic roots. Despite minor positives, the overwhelming sentiment is that Sword and Shield’s narrative lacks the depth, originality, and emotional resonance required to stand out in the franchise’s history.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Pokémon Sword/Shield Dual Pack impresses with bold innovations like the dynamic Wild Area and Dynamax battles, blending accessibility with fresh mechanics, but struggles with repetition, underdeveloped systems, and a lack of depth, leaving fans divided between its promising evolution and missed potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

41%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

59%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Pokémon Sword/Shield Dual Pack receives praise for its innovative mechanics and accessibility improvements, which modernize the series while retaining core elements. Critics like IGN highlight the Wild Area as a standout feature, offering dynamic exploration with weather effects, diverse encounters, and a shift from traditional linear progression. The introduction of Dynamax/Gigamax battles adds variety, with Gamer.nl noting their strategic depth despite occasional limitations. Quality-of-life upgrades such as faster travel (Rotom Bike, Corviknight Taxi), easier team management, and streamlined competitive features are widely appreciated, making the game more approachable for newcomers while retaining depth for veterans. IGN Italia and GamesRadar+ also commend the balance between traditional Pokémon mechanics and fresh elements like Max Raid Battles, which introduce cooperative multiplayer dynamics. The Gyms’ creative challenges, as noted by DualShockers, further enhance engagement, showcasing a blend of puzzle-solving and battle variety. However, several critics point to significant drawbacks that undermine the experience. Repetition and underdeveloped systems are frequent complaints: Daily Star and Press Start Australia criticize the Wild Area’s later-stage monotony, while GamePro Germany and SpazioGames note the lack of meaningful challenges beyond combat. The linear structure of the main story and limited exploration outside the Wild Area draw criticism from Jeuxvideo.com and Eurogamer Italy, who argue that the game prioritizes accessibility over depth. Issues like the underutilized Poké Camping feature, predictable Dynamax mechanics, and repetitive Max Raid Battles (highlighted by Press Start Australia and GameCritics) further detract from the experience. Additionally, Nintenderos and The Games Machine mention the game’s low difficulty and lack of post-game challenges, suggesting a focus on ease over strategic complexity. Overall, critics agree that Sword/Shield represents a mixed evolution for the Pokémon series. While innovations like the Wild Area and Dynamax battles are celebrated for their creativity and accessibility (as noted by IGN and GamesRadar+), many feel these elements lack the depth or polish to fully justify their potential. The game’s emphasis on streamlined mechanics and reduced grinding appeals to casual players, but long-time fans may find it lacking in challenge and originality. MGG and Atomix acknowledge the balance between accessibility and strategic depth, yet most reviewers, including Critical Hit and RPG Site, conclude that the title feels like a partial experiment—promising but incomplete, with room for growth in future entries. Despite its flaws, the game’s improvements and fresh mechanics ensure it remains a notable chapter in the franchise’s history.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Praise for vibrant, UK-inspired visuals and creative environments clashes with criticism of outdated tech, repetitive design, and jarring polish issues, leaving a mixed legacy for Pokémon Sword/Shield.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

25%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

70%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Pokémon Sword/Shield Dual Pack received praise for their artistic direction and regional inspiration, with many critics highlighting its vibrant environments and creative elements. IGN noted that the game features the "best visuals in a Pokémon RPG," emphasizing improved presentation over previous entries, while Gameblog.fr and We Got This Covered celebrated the Galar region’s "charming, colorful caricature of the UK" and dynamic weather effects. The Wild Area’s diverse biomes, such as the Victorian-inspired cities and snowy landscapes, were praised for their creativity, with Eurogamer Italy highlighting the "vivid detail" of the UK-inspired environments. Additionally, some critics appreciated specific animations, like the lively camping sequences and Dynamax battles, which added visual flair despite broader technical limitations. The art style’s cohesion and attention to cultural motifs, such as the integration of Pokémon into their surroundings, were frequently cited as strengths. However, the visuals faced significant criticism for technical shortcomings and a lack of polish compared to modern standards. Multiple reviewers, including New Game Network and Games.cz, criticized the "low-poly" models, repetitive town designs, and outdated textures that evoked older 3DS-era games. The Wild Area, while ambitious, was frequently described as visually inconsistent, with issues like texture pop-in, low-resolution details, and performance drops (LevelUp, Atomix). Critics like M3 and Game Revolution noted the game lagged behind other Switch titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, citing flat textures, awkward character animations, and limited draw distances. Additionally, the art style’s contrast between cartoony Pokémon and semi-realistic environments (Gameplanet) and the underdeveloped feel of many regions (Switch Player) were seen as jarring flaws that detracted from immersion. Overall, the consensus among critics was mixed, with praise for the game’s artistic vision and regional creativity but significant frustration over technical limitations and a lack of modern polish. While IGN and Eurogamer Italy acknowledged improvements in visual design, they also highlighted issues like "pop-in," "stiff animations," and "incomplete animations for certain moves." Conversely, outlets like Gamer.no and Gamer.nl praised the Galar region’s vibrant, cohesive aesthetics, though many agreed that the Wild Area’s technical flaws undermined its potential. The game’s visuals were seen as a step forward for the series but fell short of expectations for a console release, with critics like Game Revolution and M3 emphasizing that it "lacks the polish" of other Switch titles. Despite these criticisms, the art direction and regional themes provided a memorable visual identity, even if they couldn’t fully overcome the technical compromises.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics praised Pokémon Sword/Shield's energetic, nostalgic soundtrack blending regional flair (bagpipes, Scottish accents) and Toby Fox's whimsical tracks, but slammed repetitive battle themes, lack of innovation, and forgettable moments, with voice acting and dynamic intensity also falling short.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

66%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The majority of reviewers praised the sound design and music of Pokémon Sword/Shield as a standout element, highlighting its energetic, nostalgic, and immersive qualities. Critics like 3DJuegos and CGMagazine emphasized the soundtrack’s creativity, noting contributions from Toby Fox (of Undertale) and the inclusion of upbeat battle themes that enhance the game’s lively atmosphere. DualShockers and MGG specifically lauded the gym battle music for its exhilarating energy and motivational tone, while Meristation and Multiplayer.it appreciated the blend of traditional Pokémon motifs with regional elements like bagpipes and Scottish accents, adding depth to the Galar region’s identity. The soundtrack was also praised for its emotional resonance, with IGN Spain calling it “epic” and XGN noting how Toby Fox’s whimsical tracks enriched key moments. Many critics, including Critical Hit and Gameblog.fr, acknowledged the music’s ability to elevate gameplay, creating a sense of immersion that complements the game’s open-world exploration. However, several reviewers criticized aspects of the sound design and music, particularly its lack of innovation and repetitive nature. Gameblog.fr called the battle themes “boring” and “poorly inspired remakes,” while IGN noted that gym battle tracks lacked the tension and memorability of earlier games. New Game Network described the music as “forgettable,” with only a few standout tracks, and Vandal pointed out that the absence of voice acting diminished emotional impact. Some critics, like Game Revolution and Nintenderos, highlighted the reliance on 8-bit Pokémon cries and the lack of character dialogue as missed opportunities. Additionally, Switch Player and SpazioGames noted that the electronic music occasionally felt mismatched with gameplay, failing to match the dynamic intensity seen in other franchises like Zelda. These critiques suggest that while the soundtrack was generally well-received, it struggled to meet expectations for originality and emotional depth. Overall, the consensus among critics leans positive, with most acknowledging the soundtrack’s strengths in energy, nostalgia, and thematic cohesion. While 3DJuegos, IGN Spain, and MGG celebrated its ability to blend classic and modern elements effectively, others like Gameblog.fr and IGN felt it fell short of the series’ previous musical highs. The lack of voice acting and repetitive battle tracks were recurring criticisms, but many reviewers, including DualShockers and Worth Playing, still considered the music a strong point that enhanced the game’s atmosphere. Despite mixed opinions on innovation, the soundtrack’s ability to evoke nostalgia and support gameplay remained its most consistent strength, reflecting both the series’ enduring appeal and the challenges of evolving its audio identity in a modern context.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Critics eviscerate Pokémon Sword / Shield for its glaring absence of voice acting, calling it a jarring, outdated relic that undermines immersion amid HD visuals. While rare vocalizations for Pikachu, Eevee, and Meowth offer fleeting novelty, the silence around human characters and repetitive text boxes are slammed as "embarrassing" and "missed opportunities," with outlets like IGN Spain and Gameplanet decrying a failure to modernize a franchise long defined by audio-driven storytelling.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

94%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Pokémon Sword / Shield Dual Pack receives largely negative feedback from critics, though a few nuanced observations highlight minor positives. While most reviewers criticize the absence of voice acting entirely or its limited implementation, some note that certain Pokémon, like Pikachu, Eevee, and Meowth, do have vocalizations, offering a faint glimmer of audio engagement (Multiplayer.it). Additionally, Worth Playing acknowledges that other audio elements, such as music and sound design, remain strong despite the lack of voice acting. However, these positives are overshadowed by the broader consensus that the game’s reliance on text-based dialogue feels outdated, particularly in contrast to modern RPGs that prioritize vocal delivery for immersion. Critics like IGN Spain and The Sydney Morning Herald emphasize that retaining this retro mechanic clashes with the game’s otherwise contemporary features, such as HD visuals. The negatives surrounding voice acting are overwhelmingly unanimous, with critics across the board condemning its absence as a significant oversight. Multiple reviewers, including Gameplanet, Game Revolution, and RPG Site, describe it as a “missed opportunity” to enhance storytelling and immersion, particularly in cutscenes and gym battles where characters’ mouths move without sound (LevelUp). The lack of voice acting for human characters is especially criticized, with Multiplayer.it and Nintendo Enthusiast calling it “outdated” and “jarring,” respectively. Critics like God is a Geek and Switch Player argue that vocal dialogue could have elevated the narrative, while IGN Spain and Vandal highlight how this omission contrasts sharply with the Pokémon anime’s established audio-driven storytelling. The repetitive use of text boxes and silent character interactions further detracts from the experience, as noted by Press Start Australia and New Game Network, who describe it as “embarrassing” and “awkward.” The overall consensus among critics is that the lack of voice acting in Pokémon Sword / Shield is a major flaw that undermines its potential. Nearly every review—spanning outlets like GamesRadar+, COGconnected, and Vandal—agrees that this omission feels outdated and detracts from immersion, particularly when compared to other RPGs or even the Pokémon anime. While some acknowledge minor positives, such as limited voice work for specific Pokémon, these are overshadowed by the broader critique of a series failing to modernize its presentation. The repeated criticism of “jarring” silences and “missed opportunities” underscores a shared frustration that voice acting could have elevated the game’s storytelling and emotional depth. Ultimately, the lack of vocal delivery is seen as a significant drawback, reflecting a disconnect between Sword / Shield’s technical advancements and its adherence to retro mechanics.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Pokémon Sword/Shield Dual Pack delivers smooth local gameplay and stable online raids but stumbles with severe framerate drops, glitchy multiplayer, and undercooked open-world design, leaving a technically inconsistent experience that frustrates fans despite its ambitious vision.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

13%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

77%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Pokémon Sword/Shield Dual Pack on the Nintendo Switch received a mixed reception, with several critics highlighting its strengths despite notable flaws. Many reviewers praised the game’s smooth gameplay in local mode and consistent 30fps frame rate, as noted by Meristation and MGG, who emphasized minimal lag and fluid animations during extended play sessions. IGN Japan commended the seamless online connectivity for raids and trades, while GamePro Germany reported no technical issues, crashes, or bugs throughout their playthrough. Additionally, New Game Network and We Got This Covered acknowledged the game’s overall polish, with the latter calling it “look[s] and plays great” despite minor graphical quirks like anti-aliasing. These positives suggest that, for many players, the core experience remained stable and enjoyable, particularly in offline scenarios. However, the technical shortcomings were widely criticized, especially regarding online performance and optimization. Multiple reviewers, including RPG Site, Daily Star, and Game Revolution, highlighted significant framerate drops in the Wild Area during online play, leading to lag and disrupted immersion. Issues such as stuttering transitions (Easy Allies), poor texture quality (DualShockers), and unstable connections for Raid Battles (CGMagazine) were frequently mentioned. The Y-Comm system faced particular scrutiny, with Cheat Code Central and NintendoWorldReport noting delays and technical glitches that hindered multiplayer interactions. Additionally, graphical flaws like clipping (JeuxActu), aliasing (Jeuxvideo.com), and outdated animations (Gamer.nl) were recurrent complaints. Critics also pointed to underdeveloped open-world elements, such as limited content in the Wild Area (Multiplayer.it) and poor draw distances (Nintenderos), which detracted from the game’s ambitious design. These issues collectively painted a picture of a technically inconsistent experience, particularly for players relying on online features. The overall consensus among critics was that Pokémon Sword/Shield suffered from significant technical flaws, especially in online multiplayer and optimization, but retained enough stability to remain playable. While some praised its smooth local performance (IGN Japan, GamePro Germany), the majority of reviews emphasized persistent issues like framerate drops, texture problems, and animation glitches. The game’s reliance on the Nintendo Switch’s hardware limitations was a recurring theme, with Atomix and Vandal noting that these constraints contributed to its technical shortcomings. Despite these challenges, many critics acknowledged the game’s potential for improvement, as seen in DualShockers’ mention of “potential for future updates.” Ultimately, while Sword/Shield showcased ambition, its technical performance left a mixed legacy, with players often balancing frustration over flaws against the enjoyment of its core gameplay.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Pokémon Sword/Shield delivers strong replayability through dynamic Wild Area, raids, and post-game content, but its short story, repetitive mechanics, and underdeveloped endgame limit long-term appeal, dividing players between casual fans and critics seeking deeper depth.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

64%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The reviewers generally acknowledge that Pokémon Sword/Shield offers notable replayability through its dynamic Wild Area, which features ever-changing encounters, raids, and exploration opportunities. Critics like GamesRadar+ highlight the game’s emphasis on discovery and new content, while Meristation praises the "endless content" of the open-world Area Silvestre, including Incursions and Poké Campamento. Features such as Dynamax Raids, Max Raid Battles, and post-game activities like the Battle Tower and Pokédex completion are frequently cited as incentives for multiple playthroughs. USgamer and We Got This Covered note that the game’s streamlined mechanics and online multiplayer elements encourage continued engagement, with some reviewers expressing a desire to "keep playing and catch all Pokémon." The competitive scene, including Hyper Training and team customization, also adds depth for dedicated players, as highlighted by God is a Geek and Attack of the Fanboy. However, many critics point out significant limitations in the game’s replay value. InsideGamer.nl and Daily Star criticize the short main story (around 25–30 hours) and minimal post-game content, arguing that repetitive late-game mechanics—such as Max Raid Battles and camping—diminish long-term appeal. Multiplayer.it and SpazioGames note that while competitive features and breeding systems provide some engagement, the endgame lacks "substantial replay value" compared to previous entries. The Wild Area’s limited size and variety are also frequently mentioned, with Gamer.nl and Eurogamer Italy pointing out its repetitive nature despite dynamic challenges. Additionally, NintendoWorldReport and GameCritics highlight that the lack of meaningful differences between versions and underdeveloped post-game content reduces incentives for revisiting the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed but leans toward moderate replayability. While the Wild Area, raids, and Pokémon collection mechanics provide enough variety to satisfy dedicated fans—especially those drawn to exploration and competitive play—many reviewers feel the game falls short in delivering a robust endgame. IGN and Critical Hit praise the game’s "strong replayability" due to dynamic encounters and post-game activities, but others like Game Revolution and IGN Japan note that missing Pokémon and repetitive systems limit long-term engagement. The divide reflects differing expectations: some see the game as a solid entry for casual players, while others feel it lacks the depth of earlier Pokémon titles. Ultimately, the replay value hinges on individual preferences, with the core mechanics offering enough incentive for enthusiasts but failing to fully satisfy those seeking more substantial post-story content.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

66%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

34%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall reception of Pokémon Sword and Shield highlights its strengths in innovation, charm, and accessibility. Many critics praised its modernized mechanics, such as Dynamax/Gigamax battles and the Wild Area, which introduced fresh gameplay elements while retaining the series’ core appeal. GameSpew lauded its "strong visuals, sound design, and new mechanics," while IGN Japan noted a "significant evolution" balancing nostalgia with accessibility improvements. GamesRadar+ called it a "memorable Pokémon adventure" that successfully modernized the franchise for a new generation, and CGMagazine recommended it to both fans and newcomers. The game’s artistic direction, including vibrant visuals and musical scores, was frequently highlighted as a standout feature, with Jeuxvideo.com noting its "artistic strengths" and We Got This Covered hailing it as "the best entry in the series." These positives underscored its appeal as a nostalgic yet forward-thinking experience for long-time enthusiasts. However, critics consistently pointed to shortcomings that limited its potential. A recurring theme was the game’s lack of innovation, with Gameplanet calling it a "safe, unambitious step forward" and Game Revolution criticizing its failure to "push the series forward meaningfully." Technical flaws, repetitive gameplay, and underdeveloped content were also major critiques. Daily Star noted "technical flaws, repetitive gameplay, and underwhelming conclusion," while InsideGamer.nl described it as a "mixed bag" with "lack of depth in story and endgame content." The simplified narrative and reduced Pokémon roster (e.g., absence of the National Dex) drew criticism from Vandal and M3, who felt it prioritized accessibility over depth. Additionally, the game’s linear structure and uneven difficulty, as highlighted by TheGamer and GameCritics, left some players wanting more complexity. These issues created a sense of missed potential despite its surface-level successes. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics was largely positive, with many acknowledging Sword and Shield as a solid, if imperfect, entry in the series. While it fell short of revolutionary status, it was praised for bridging tradition and modernization. Critics like EGM and Meristation called it "among the best 3D entries," emphasizing its innovations and accessibility, while Game Informer noted it as a "strong first attempt" for the console transition. The game’s ability to cater to both newcomers and veterans—through features like the Wild Area and Dynamax battles—was widely appreciated, even if some felt it lacked the depth of earlier titles. Though mixed reviews dominated, the majority agreed that Sword and Shield represented a worthwhile experience for fans, setting a foundation for future Pokémon games while acknowledging its flaws as a transitional title. As We Got This Covered put it, it was "not only a worthy start" but also a testament to the series’ enduring charm despite its imperfections.

TL;DR

Pokémon Sword and Shield balances innovation with shortcomings: praised for modernized mechanics, vibrant art, and accessibility, but criticized for repetitive gameplay, technical flaws, and a simplified narrative that prioritizes ease over depth, leaving it as a flawed yet worthwhile bridge between tradition and evolution.

MONSTER

Reviews

92 reviews found

100

We Got This Covered

Nintendo Switch

Nov 27, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review is overwhelmingly positive, calling Pokémon Sword and Shield "not only a worthy start for the series on mainline consoles but quite possibly the best entry in the series." It emphasizes joy, adventure, and nostalgia.

100

Digitally Downloaded

Nintendo Switch

Nov 19, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review is overwhelmingly positive, calling Pokémon Sword & Shield the author's favorite since the original Blue. It praises the return to basics, streamlined mechanics, and nostalgic appeal, despite some criticisms of specific features like the camp and curry system.

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Pure Nintendo

Nintendo Switch

Nov 25, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game balances content for long-time fans and newcomers, offering a fun, visually appealing experience with universal appeal despite some unfulfilled potential.

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Cheat Code Central

Nintendo Switch

Nov 19, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is fun but not perfect, blending new features like Dynamaxing and the Wild Area with traditional Pokémon gameplay. It feels like a transitional entry in the series, balancing innovation with familiarity.

IGN

Nintendo Switch

Nov 13, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review is overwhelmingly positive, calling Sword and Shield the best Pokemon games the author has played. It praises their improvements in gameplay, accessibility, and design while acknowledging minor flaws, ultimately positioning them as a standout entry in the series.

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GamePro Germany

Nintendo Switch

Nov 13, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is praised as a significant step forward, blending nostalgic elements with new challenges. It combines the charm of older games with modern mechanics like Dynamax battles and improved multiplayer, earning positive feedback overall.

Gaming Age

Nintendo Switch

Dec 6, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A solid entry in the franchise with new features that appeal to both newcomers and long-time fans, though the lackluster story is a notable downside.

Critical Hit

Nintendo Switch

Nov 20, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A strong entry in the Pokémon series that balances tradition with innovations like Dynamax battles and the Wild Area. It is praised as a potential 'finest hour' for the franchise despite minor flaws.

USgamer

Nintendo Switch

Nov 20, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer concludes with a 4.5/5 rating, expressing enjoyment of the game despite controversies like the truncated National Dex. They highlight its potential as a new era for the series and commend its innovations.

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GamesRadar+

Nintendo Switch

Nov 13, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A memorable Pokémon adventure that successfully modernizes the series for a new generation. While it has technical flaws and some design choices that may polarize players, it is praised as a strong start to the next core Pokémon era.

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