New Pokémon Game Lets You Build and Care for Pokémon Instead of Battling

A new Pokémon game called Pokopia is coming out. It's different because you don't battle Pokémon. Instead, you build homes and gardens for them to live in and help them. It's a calm game about taking care of Pokémon.
By Newsroom | Video Games, Nintendo |

A new life simulation game, Pokémon Pokopia, is set to redefine the popular franchise. Developed by The Pokémon Company, Koei Tecmo, and Game Freak, this title steers away from the customary combat mechanics. Instead, it focuses on building a world where players coexist with Pokémon, engaging in activities like gardening, crafting, and forming relationships. The game presents a departure from the established RPG format, aiming to offer a relaxing and creative sandbox experience.

A World Without Trainers

Pokémon Pokopia presents a world devoid of human trainers and the traditional Pokémon capture system. This fundamental shift means player interaction with Pokémon is based on encounters and cooperation rather than battles and commands.

  • The game begins with a Ditto waking up after a long period of rest.

  • Upon encountering Kanto Starters, players discover a derelict Pokémon Center, hinting at a past civilization.

  • Rather than teaching moves through combat, Pokémon teach players actions based on their unique "Specialty." For instance, Charmander might demonstrate how to ask a Pokémon to follow and perform a task.

  • Squirtle, for example, can teach a water gun move that hydrates dry grass, which in turn attracts more Pokémon to the player's island.

Building and Nurturing Habitats

The core gameplay loop involves creating and improving habitats to encourage Pokémon to move in and unlock new areas. This process is designed to be rewarding and engaging.

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  • Players can use a crafting bench to build furniture and decorations for their homes.

  • Decorating and improving islands plays a role in unlocking new Pokémon.

  • The complexity of creating new habitats increases as players progress further into the game.

The Mystery of the Missing Humans

While the focus is on Pokémon coexistence, Pokémon Pokopia does include an underlying mystery regarding the disappearance of humans.

  • Players have the option to explore this mystery or concentrate solely on island decoration and habitat building.

  • The absence of humans and trainers is a deliberate design choice to emphasize the Pokémon-centric world.

Collaborative Play and Sharing

Pokémon Pokopia incorporates multiplayer features that allow players to interact and share their creations.

  • Players can visit other players' islands and interact with the Pokémon present.

  • It is possible to invite Pokémon from a host's game to visit a player's own save file.

  • This feature may assist players in encountering rare Pokémon.

Expert Analysis

Critics suggest Pokémon Pokopia aims to blend familiar Pokémon elements with established life simulation mechanics.

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"Pokopia uses conventions from the core Pokémon series to make its spin on classic life simulation game mechanics like building and nurturing relationships feel distinct." - The Verge

This approach suggests a game that is both accessible to Pokémon fans and offers a fresh experience for players familiar with life simulation genres. The elimination of battles and the focus on creative expression are seen as key differentiators.

Conclusion

Pokémon Pokopia represents a significant pivot for the Pokémon franchise. By removing battles and human trainers, the game prioritizes a sandbox experience centered on peaceful coexistence, habitat creation, and social interaction among Pokémon. The inclusion of an overarching mystery adds a layer of depth, though it remains optional for players focused on the creative aspects of the game. The game's blend of life simulation with distinct Pokémon-themed mechanics suggests a potentially unique and engaging experience for its audience.

Sources

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Pokémon Pokopia?
Pokémon Pokopia is a new game where you build homes and habitats for Pokémon. You focus on caring for them and crafting things, not fighting.
Q: Are there battles in Pokémon Pokopia?
No, there are no battles in this game. It is a calm game about living with Pokémon and helping them.
Q: What do you do in Pokémon Pokopia?
You build and decorate homes and islands for Pokémon. They teach you things based on what they are good at, like Charmander helping you with tasks.
Q: Can you play with friends?
Yes, you can visit friends' islands and see their Pokémon. You can even invite Pokémon from their game to visit your island.
Q: Is there a story in the game?
There is a mystery about where humans went, but you can choose to explore it or just focus on building and decorating.