Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu!
IGDB
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About Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu!
Game Freak released Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! for the Nintendo Switch on November 16, 2018. This title serves as a remake of the classic Game Boy adventure but modernizes the experience with motion controls and co-op play. You step into the Kanto region with Pikachu as your mandatory partner instead of choosing from a roster. The game blends traditional role-playing elements with simplified mechanics designed to feel more accessible. It targets both longtime fans who grew up with the original and new players curious about the franchise. Players explore cities, catch creatures, and battle gym leaders using either a single Joy-Con or the dedicated Poké Ball Plus accessory.
Gameplay
You navigate Kanto by walking your character around towns and grassy areas where wild Pokémon appear in real-time. Battles remain turn-based but feel faster since you skip complex menus. The core loop involves throwing virtual Poké Balls using motion gestures with a Joy-Con or the special controller to capture creatures. Catching requires timing and physical movement rather than menu selection. You can play solo or invite a second player to join locally on the same console using another controller. The game also links with the Pokémon GO mobile app to transfer specific regional monsters. Exploring feels less about grinding levels and more about scanning fields for encounters while managing your team of six.
What Players Think
The PlayPile community gives this title a solid 75.8 out of 100 based on 154 ratings from IGDB. Average playtime sits around 22 hours for main story completion, with many users reporting 30-plus hours when chasing all Kanto species. Completion rates show 68 percent of players finish the main campaign while 42 percent achieve 100 percent game completion including post-game content. Community mood leans heavily toward nostalgic and family-friendly, with parents often citing it as a great way to introduce kids to RPGs. Critics note the simplified mechanics make it less punishing than previous entries. Some users express frustration over the lack of ability to choose your starter Pokémon beyond Pikachu or Eevee.
PlayPile's Take
This game works best for families looking for an entry point into the franchise without steep learning curves. The price point remains reasonable for a full Nintendo Switch experience with two-player support included. You get 42 achievements to track if you aim for completion. The motion controls add a fun physical element that changes how you interact with battles and captures. However, hardcore RPG fans might find the simplified systems lack depth compared to mainline entries. If you want a polished adventure that respects your time while offering genuine nostalgia, this title delivers. Just know you are locked into Pikachu unless you start a new file for Eevee.
Game Modes
Single player, Co-operative
IGDB Rating
75.8
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Lavender Town Awaits You in Pokémon: Let’s Go!
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