Pokémon Sword and Shield Review: Aiming for the Future, Shielding the Classics?

Hello everyone, I'm your old friend, a seasoned Nintendo Switch player with over ten years of gaming experience. Today, let's talk about Pokémon Sword and Shield, a game that once sparked huge controversy but also achieved explosive sales. As the mainline sequel to the eighth generation of Pokémon, this game bears the responsibility of landing on the Nintendo Switch platform and opening a new chapter. So, did it fulfill its mission? And what are the highlights and lowlights worth discussing? Let's dive into a detailed analysis. Also, as a veteran Switch player, we will look forward to the Nintendo Switch 2 and see where the Pokémon series will go in the future.

1. Pokémon Sword and Shield: An Adventure in the Galar Region

The story of Pokémon Sword and Shield takes place in the Galar region, a region modeled after the United Kingdom. Players will play as a young trainer embarking on a journey to challenge Gyms and become the Champion. This game introduces new elements such as Dynamax and the Wild Area, injecting new vitality into the traditional Pokémon game mode.

1.1. Entering Galar: Classic Start, New Experience

The game still starts with the classic "Choose Your Pokémon" segment. The starter Pokémon are Grookey, Scorbunny, and Sobble, each with different attributes, cute and full of personality. After choosing your favorite Pokémon partner, players can embark on their adventure. The scenery design of the Galar region is full of British flavor, from the lush green meadows to the bustling towns, giving people a refreshing feeling.

1.2. Wild Area: A New Stage for Free Exploration

One of the biggest highlights of this game is the "Wild Area". This is an open-world area where players can freely explore and capture various Pokémon. The weather in the Wild Area changes in real time, and different weather conditions affect the types of Pokémon that appear. In addition, the Wild Area also has "Max Raid Battles", where players can team up with other players to challenge powerful Dynamax Pokémon. Considering the nintendo switch2 price factor, the graphical performance of the Wild Area is slightly lacking, and we hope that it can be better optimized on the Nintendo Switch 2.

1.3. Dynamax: A Clash of Power and Visuals

Dynamax is a brand-new battle mechanic in Pokémon Sword and Shield. Pokémon can Dynamax in specific locations and conditions, becoming gigantic in size and greatly increasing their abilities. Dynamax Pokémon's moves also turn into powerful Max Moves, with amazing power. Dynamax not only changes battle strategies but also brings a stronger visual impact to the battle. Considering the performance improvements of the future Nintendo Switch 2, the visual effects and smoothness of Dynamax may be greatly improved.

2. Pokémon Sword and Shield Game Review: Innovation and Regret Coexist

Next, we will conduct a detailed review of Pokémon Sword and Shield from multiple dimensions, including gameplay, graphics, sound effects, story, and handling.

2.1. Gameplay: Core Gameplay Solid, Innovative Elements Add Points

The core gameplay of Pokémon Sword and Shield is still collecting, training, and battling Pokémon. The number of Pokémon in the game is reduced compared to the previous game, but new Galar region Pokémon have been added, and their designs are very distinctive and in line with the local customs of the Galar region. The addition of the Wild Area brings more freedom and exploration to the game. The Dynamax mechanism adds more variables and strategy to the battle.

However, the game also has some shortcomings in some aspects. For example, the plot is slightly thin and lacks depth. The design of some maps is also relatively simple and not worth exploring. It is hoped that future Pokémon games, especially on the Nintendo Switch 2 platform, can be strengthened in terms of plot and map design.

2.2. Graphics: Average Performance on the Switch Platform, Looking Forward to Nintendo Switch 2

Limited by the capabilities of the Nintendo Switch, the graphical performance of Pokémon Sword and Shield can only be said to be average. The models of characters and Pokémon are relatively detailed, but the details and lighting effects of the scenes are relatively rough. The frame rate drop issue in the Wild Area also occurs from time to time. However, the game uses very bright colors, and the overall style is bright and lively, which still gives people a comfortable feeling. If the nintendo switch2 first look information is true, then the graphical performance of NS2 will inevitably be greatly improved, which also makes us look forward to the performance of future Pokémon games on NS2 even more.

2.3. Sound Effects: Classic Melodies, New Interpretations

The sound effects of Pokémon Sword and Shield still use classic Pokémon melodies and have been reinterpreted. The BGM is light and cheerful, appropriately setting off the atmosphere of the game. The battle sound effects are also full of power, making people excited.

2.4. Story: Slightly Thin, Lacking Depth

The story of Pokémon Sword and Shield mainly revolves around the crisis in the Galar region. Players need to work with rivals to stop the evil organization's conspiracy. However, the development of the plot is relatively bland, lacking climaxes and reversals. The characterization is also relatively simple, lacking depth. It is hoped that future Pokémon games can make breakthroughs in the plot and tell more exciting stories.

2.5. Handling: Easy to Learn, Smooth Operation

The handling of Pokémon Sword and Shield is very smooth. Players can control the character's movement through the joystick and interact with buttons. The UI design of the game is simple and clear, making it easy to get started. Even novice players can quickly become familiar with the game's operation.

2.6. Score: 7.5/10

Based on the above review, I give Pokémon Sword and Shield a score of 7.5.

• Advantages:

  • Solid core gameplay, innovative elements such as Dynamax and the Wild Area add points.
  • The design of the Galar region Pokémon is distinctive.
  • The sound effects are classic and pleasant.
  • Smooth handling.

• Disadvantages:

  • The plot is slightly thin and lacks depth.
  • The graphical performance is average, with frame rate issues in the Wild Area.
  • The design of some maps is simple and not worth exploring.

Reference Scores:

• IGN: 9.3/10 (https://www.ign.com/articles/pokemon-sword-and-shield-review)
• Metacritic: 80/100 (https://www.metacritic.com/game/switch/pokemon-sword)

I think Pokémon Sword and Shield is a game with both advantages and disadvantages. It has made some innovations on the basis of inheriting the classics, bringing a new experience to players. However, the game still has some shortcomings in terms of plot and graphics, which need to be improved.

3. Pokémon Sword and Shield Guide: Beginner's Guide, Advanced Skills

Next, I will share some Pokémon Sword and Shield guides to help you better experience the game.

3.1. Beginner's Guide

• Choose Your Pokémon: The starter Pokémon each have their own characteristics, choose according to your preference.
• Catch Pokémon: Wild Pokémon can be encountered in grass, water, etc. Use Poké Balls to catch them.
• Train Pokémon: By battling and using items, you can increase the Pokémon's level and abilities.
• Challenge Gyms: Defeat Gym Leaders to earn badges and unlock new areas.
• Participate in Max Raid Battles: Team up with other players to challenge powerful Dynamax Pokémon.

3.2. Advanced Skills and Strategies

• Type Matchups: Mastering Pokémon type matchups can make battles more effective.
• Move Combinations: Combining Pokémon's moves reasonably can bring out stronger combat power.
• Individual Values (IVs) and Effort Values (EVs): IVs and EVs are important factors affecting Pokémon's abilities. By breeding and training, you can increase the Pokémon's IVs and EVs.
• Abilities: Pokémon's abilities can affect battle. Choosing the right ability can better leverage the Pokémon's strengths.
• Items: Using various items can enhance Pokémon's abilities or change the course of battle.

3.3. Walkthroughs for Specific Levels or Challenges

• Champion Cup: The Champion Cup challenge is more difficult. It is recommended to use Pokémon with type matchups and combine moves reasonably.
• Master Ball Tier Ranked Battles: Master Ball Tier Ranked Battles require a certain level of strength and strategy. It is recommended to build a strong team and adjust it according to the opponent's team.

3.4. Best Equipment, Move Combinations, etc.

• Adamant Nature Pokémon: Suitable for carrying a Choice Band to increase physical attack power.
• Timid Nature Pokémon: Suitable for carrying a Choice Scarf to increase speed.
• Move Combinations: Choose the right moves based on the Pokémon's type and ability. For example, Fire-type Pokémon are suitable for learning Flamethrower and Fire Blast.

3.5. Speedrunning Tips and Hidden Element Guide

• Skip Cutscenes: Press the B button during dialogue to skip cutscenes.
• Utilize Wild Area Pokémon: High-level Pokémon can be caught in the Wild Area, which can help players improve their strength faster.
• Find Hidden Items: Valuable items are hidden in various corners of the map.

4. Pokémon Sword and Shield Recommendation and Future Prospects: Aiming for Nintendo Switch 2

Overall, Pokémon Sword and Shield is a Pokémon game worth playing. It retains classic elements and adds some innovations, bringing a new experience to players. Although the game has some shortcomings, its merits outweigh its defects. If you like the Pokémon series or want to experience a relaxing and enjoyable adventure game, then Pokémon Sword and Shield is definitely worth a try.

4.1. Game Recommendation

• Suitable for: Pokémon series fans, players who like adventure games.
• Purchase Suggestion: If your budget is sufficient, it is recommended to buy both versions of Pokémon Sword and Shield to experience more Pokémon and stories.
• Value for Money: Considering the game's content and length, the value for money of Pokémon Sword and Shield is still relatively high.

4.2. Prospects for Pokémon Games in the Nintendo Switch 2 Era

With the upcoming arrival of the Nintendo Switch 2, we are full of expectations for future Pokémon games. nintendo switch2 compatibility is said to be backwards compatible with Switch games, which is undoubtedly good news. We can expect the Nintendo Switch 2 to bring more powerful performance, more exquisite graphics, and a richer gaming experience. For example, we can expect future Pokémon games to achieve a true open world on the Nintendo Switch 2, allowing players to freely explore various regions and interact with Pokémon more deeply. We can also expect future Pokémon games to make breakthroughs in the plot, tell more exciting stories, and create more three-dimensional characters. In addition, with the continuous development of technology, we can also expect future Pokémon games to add more innovative elements, such as AR, VR, and other technologies, to bring players a more immersive gaming experience.

All in all, I am full of expectations for future Pokémon games. I believe that with the blessing of the Nintendo Switch 2, the Pokémon series will usher in a more glorious future.

I hope my review and guide can be helpful to you. If you have any questions, please leave a message in the comment area, and I will try my best to answer them. Thank you for reading, and see you next time!