Pokemon Art Academy

 3DS
Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 22 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 15 out of 22
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 22
  3. Negative: 0 out of 22
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  1. GamingTrend
    Oct 20, 2014
    85
    With a plethora of mediums and subjects available, a thoughtful approach to teaching art and perfect touchpad controls, Art Academy is a must-have for any Pokemon doodler.
  2. Digital Chumps
    Oct 22, 2014
    84
    After all, stripped of all its unique elements, this is basically Microsoft Paint. Yet, those unique elements – none more important than the step-by-step tutorials and terrific infusion of the Pokemon brand – make Pokemon Art Academy so much more than a mere Office application.
  3. Nintendojo
    Sep 12, 2014
    83
    It is charming and enjoyable, though, and that’s all I want from a piece of software I enjoy on a mobile device. Treat yourself and make some time. It’ll surprise you.
  5. Gaming Nexus
    Nov 19, 2014
    80
    The lack of Pokemon to draw can also be a bit of a turn-off for some, but the Free Paint mode’s ability to use a blank canvas or any picture on your SD card can help alleviate that a bit.
  6. Game Revolution
    Oct 22, 2014
    80
    Where the title lacks the ability to teach you real art skills, it’ll provide dozens of hours of entertainment for a gamer aware of what they’re getting into.
  7. Eurogamer Portugal
    Jul 21, 2014
    80
    Headstrong Games did a good job with New Art Academy and Pokémon Art Academy follows the same direction, by providing an authentic course of visual education with the appeal of Pokémon creatures.
  8. Multiplayer.it
    Jul 5, 2014
    80
    Pokémon Art Academy is a surprisingly well done spin-off which does not merely exploits Pikachu & co. but actually manages to give solid advices and interesting fun facts about drawing and pokémon as well. Kids will love it.
  9. Cubed3
    Jul 5, 2014
    80
    Pokémon Art Academy is an enjoyable, interactive experience that doesn't skimp on the content and complexity from the main Art Academy series.
  10. NintendoWorldReport
    Jun 23, 2014
    80
    Pokémon Art Academy takes both franchises in a weird direction, but the true miracle is that it makes a more entertaining experience.
  11. Nintendo Life
    Jun 16, 2014
    80
    It's a well-realized, totally engaging experience that will appeal to both the curious and long-term fans alike, and uses its host of versatile, recognizable characters to put across a broad range of styles and techniques.
  12. God is a Geek
    Jun 16, 2014
    80
    Pokémon Art Academy is a polished, enjoyable time sink, with intuitive controls. It’s very easy to pick up and play, and uses the Pokémon licence well to introduce a new group of potential artists to the Art Academy series.
  13. FNintendo
    Jun 15, 2014
    80
    Pokémon Art Academy is a well presented software that manages to teach the players about drawing within a Pokémon-esque context, providing a vital and compelling framework for would-be artists to learn some skills while exploring one of Nintendo's biggest series. Sharing one's creations is also a high point here, even though the overall experience can be rather short and a 3DS screen does not go as far as a real canvas.
  14. Vandal
    Jul 11, 2014
    77
    As an Art Academy game, it has a very interesting didactic value, but the Pokémon addition makes it perfect for a different audience.
  15. Official Nintendo Magazine UK
    Jun 16, 2014
    77
    Though the game varies from too restrictive to too free, it's an excellent little sandbox for learning to draw your favourite Pokémon.
  16. XGN
    Jul 13, 2014
    75
    Art Academy is creative, fun and relaxing, but a little bit on the short side.


Awards & Rankings

20
#20 Best 3DS Game of 2014
33
#33 Most Discussed 3DS Game of 2014
36
#36 Most Shared 3DS Game of 2014

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 25 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 20 out of 25
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 25
  3. Negative: 2 out of 25
  1. dmelendez34
    Nov 10, 2014
    9
    This is a game for artists and/or Pokemon fans. Is it really a game? I don't know. I bought this for my son and he had a blast drawing theThis is a game for artists and/or Pokemon fans. Is it really a game? I don't know. I bought this for my son and he had a blast drawing the first 5 Pokemon he tried. It did get a bit harder for him when he started getting more freedom (he is 6 yrs old) but with a little parental help, he was able to complete successfully his drawings.

    PAA takes you step by step with the first few drawings. It tells you what you should be doing and shows you how to accomplish each step. For my son, it really helped him when he needed to push a button that the button would light up.

    I am not much of an artist but I don't mind dabbling in the arts from time to time. I am hoping my wife will give it a shot since she is the painter/drawer in the family. This could be a game that could unite the family in a fun activity... imagine family competitions?

    Pros
    +Easy to pick up and follow
    +Great drawing lessons
    +Plenty of tools for creative types
    +Great replay-ability

    Cons
    - Not a traditional Pokemon game
    - May not be suitable for young artists

    Bottom Line: If you know someone that is into Pokemon AND loves to draw, this is a no-brainer. If the person you want to get this game does not enjoy drawing, then stay clear away from it because even if they are a Pokemon fan, they may hate you for not getting them an actually Pokemon game.    … Full Review »
  2. seric
    Nov 25, 2018
    9
    Fantastic game, it convinced me that I can draw! Still cannot believe how great looking pokemon I made... Really recommend not only forFantastic game, it convinced me that I can draw! Still cannot believe how great looking pokemon I made... Really recommend not only for pokemon fans, but also people who want to practice drawing!… Full Review »
  3. HarryPokeWhoFan
    Dec 23, 2014
    8
    This game definitely is targeted to little kids and dedicated Pokemon fans, if you're merely trying to expand you artistry skills, I recommendThis game definitely is targeted to little kids and dedicated Pokemon fans, if you're merely trying to expand you artistry skills, I recommend the original Art Academy. Also, it felt weird to draw with the 3DS. And, just to test this, I tried it on the 3DS XL, and it just feels awkward. I think it would have been so much better on the Wii U, with the GamePad. There's a lot of untapped potential here. The are tons of options, but only so many templates. Once you get through halfway of the lessons, it feels as though the game is over-estimating your skills (this never bothered me, because I'm a decent artist, but I understand how it could be a problem for other people).
    However, the game is a ton of fun to play. The music is relaxing, and the game never makes you continue before you've fully learned a skill. The game slowly reveals new tools, which prevents the player from ever feeling overwhelmed.
    Overall, I'd recommend the game if
    A) You show legitimate interest in artistry
    B) You actively enjoy Pokemon
    This game has a happy spot in my 3DS library.    … Full Review »
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