Best Switch Games 2024: Mario, Metroid, Pokémon, Zelda & More

Pokémon Legends: Arceus takes the Pokémon franchise to new heights with its semi open-world concept, smooth game mechanics, intricate storyline, and emphasis on completing the Pokédex and exploring the region rather than focusing solely on gym battles.

Each area of the Hisui region offers its own expansive open-world environment, ranging from picturesque hills and verdant fields to murky swamps and volcanic islands, providing a diverse landscape for players to explore. While the graphics could benefit from additional refinement, with occasional pixelation and some textures and Pokémon appearing less polished, they do not detract from the overall experience.

This game presents a refreshing take on the Pokémon narrative, offering a mix of adventure and challenging battles that captivate players. In comparison to the latest main series installment, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, Pokémon Legends: Arceus shines with its innovative approach and polished gameplay.

While Pokémon Scarlet and Violet feature a truly open world with multiple storylines and traditional gameplay, the game is plagued by bugs and a sense of being unfinished. Despite the enjoyable gameplay of the Gen 9 series, a more thorough development process could have elevated it to one of the best Pokémon titles to date.