Yo-kai Watch

 3DS
User Score
8.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 210 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 158 out of 210
  2. Mixed: 30 out of 210
  3. Negative: 22 out of 210
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  1. DORK
    Nov 8, 2015
    10
    This game is not Pokemon. Thank goodness. The similarities are very few, and this doesn't make or break the game at all. Comparing the two is pointless, why not give this great game a fair review. Yo-Kai Watch is a fun and very imaginative creation. I find myself growing more and more addicted to the battle system and trying to find as many Yo-Kai as I can. There's tons of ways to doThis game is not Pokemon. Thank goodness. The similarities are very few, and this doesn't make or break the game at all. Comparing the two is pointless, why not give this great game a fair review. Yo-Kai Watch is a fun and very imaginative creation. I find myself growing more and more addicted to the battle system and trying to find as many Yo-Kai as I can. There's tons of ways to do it too; plenty of quests that might give, or force you to befriend a Yo-Kai, a gambling system in the woods that lets you have up to possibly three a day, a streetpass motel, and probably more. I'm about 8 hours in, I'm not a rush and get it finished type of player. I like details, and Yo-Kai Watch has plenty of little tidbits to make you smile.

    I keep reading reviews about how un-"complex" this game is or how "child-like" it is, and I don't really see that. When I play, I see a witty little girl, who for all I know could be 19 living with her strict parents who don't let her out at night, and she happens to see things others can't. While playing, I saw a domesticated pet Yo-Kai that was turned to ice in the pond, was it a pet that got lost, died and turned to ice in the pond? Maybe. My point, use your imagination guys! And when has whether a game is complex or not ever been a grading criteria? Especially in America, come on, really? The last game I've played, and it's the complete opposite, was the Witcher 3, and I'm pretty sure Yo-Kai Watch is more "complicated" as far as mechanics, battling, befriending, collecting, etc as opposed to button mashing and quest searching. I'm not a hater, I love both games.

    Yo-Kai Watch is addicting, imaginative, cute, and good ol fun. I say try out the game for yourselves! I truly hope some of these mediocre reviews don't spoil the second game from coming to America.    … Expand
  2. turboenchilada
    Dec 27, 2015
    10
    ok, so i was jay walking and my little ghost buddy was all like "you should follow the rules, its dangerous and you could get in trouble." i ignored him because who cares, its a game. After doing it a few more times this monster pops up and he's pissed that i just waltz across the street instead of hitting the button and safely crossing and he completely 1 shots my entire team.
    11/10 will    ok, so i was jay walking and my little ghost buddy was all like "you should follow the rules, its dangerous and you could get in trouble." i ignored him because who cares, its a game. After doing it a few more times this monster pops up and he's pissed that i just waltz across the street instead of hitting the button and safely crossing and he completely 1 shots my entire team.
    11/10 will keep playing the hell out of it.    … Expand
  3. faloop
    Jul 8, 2016
    10
    This game is really cute, the level of finished of the assets and the animation are just beautiful! (As expected from Level 5) Mechanics are really, really different to Pokemon. Don't try to compare them, the only thing they have in common are the little creatures but they are not animal like, like in Pokemon, they are more person like, they talk, have feelings and personalities, AND notThis game is really cute, the level of finished of the assets and the animation are just beautiful! (As expected from Level 5) Mechanics are really, really different to Pokemon. Don't try to compare them, the only thing they have in common are the little creatures but they are not animal like, like in Pokemon, they are more person like, they talk, have feelings and personalities, AND not everyone can see them. The story is child like but charming I could say is more RPG than Pokemon and more open too. The battles are really different and I find them more active than just pressing A A A A A all the time, require a little more interaction. I would say is like Fantasy Life mixed with Etrian Oddisey mixed with Digimon or something.… Expand
  4. MARUYAMA
    Dec 6, 2015
    9
    Really refreshing RPG experience, I recommend playing this without reading about it first. it was like rediscovering Pokémon, the world is amazing and immersive, the battle system is deceptive it seems like your input has no weight because the monsters attack/inspirit on their own will but it's because of that that you can focus purely on strategy ( and you will need it! ) and keeping yourReally refreshing RPG experience, I recommend playing this without reading about it first. it was like rediscovering Pokémon, the world is amazing and immersive, the battle system is deceptive it seems like your input has no weight because the monsters attack/inspirit on their own will but it's because of that that you can focus purely on strategy ( and you will need it! ) and keeping your Yo-kai well, the demo was terrible because it heals your yo-kai after every battle and doesn't let you use items so it seems very shallow. in reality you have to plan ahead and be really fast, so it keeps you constantly on your toes.
    I played this shortly after playing another monster collecting rpg and I WISH it had an "auto A" like the yokai watch battles so i wouldn't be bored.
    anyway, the music is really good except for a few battle themes.

    I don't like comparing it to pokemon, but since everyone is doing it, Pokemon X and Y tried really hard to rip off YW and going as far as stealing a few character designs.
    and YW is, disregarding pokemon BW, the best pokemon game since the original gold and silver. it feels like the natural evolution of those GBC rpgs like robopon, pokemon, and so many others.
    a pet pevee of mine, pokemon houses still doesn't have beds while this has bedrooms and even bathrooms. it's amazing

    it's only a little bothersome to recruit some yokai, but it's understandable, they got the recruiting system from Dragon Quest Monsters on GBC
    it's a bit frustrating sometimes, but i prefer that to the pokemon formula that people have figured out mathmatically and all    … Expand
  5. thomasnichols
    Jan 4, 2016
    8
    It has it's bumps along the road, but it is great fun. The game is not Pokemon. It isn't and it never will be, which is fine by me. It is it's own thing and after completing the game, you can see that it isn't like Pokemon at all. Their only similarity is the monster capturing aspect (which, of course, is a pretty big similarity). If you start playing expecting it to be this "PokemonIt has it's bumps along the road, but it is great fun. The game is not Pokemon. It isn't and it never will be, which is fine by me. It is it's own thing and after completing the game, you can see that it isn't like Pokemon at all. Their only similarity is the monster capturing aspect (which, of course, is a pretty big similarity). If you start playing expecting it to be this "Pokemon Killer" than you will be disappointed. If you respect it as it's own game, you will enjoy it.… Expand
  6. javiandre10
    Jul 5, 2016
    10
    Hace unos días le di oportunidad a este juego y llegué a la conclusión de que la prensa especializada está lejos de realmente analizar con la misma vara a todos los juegos o por lo menos en profundizar algunos que tiene mecánicas poco usuales, como así mismo también me doy cuenta del por qué del rotundo éxito de Yokai Watch en Japón.

    Las similitudes con Pokémon son muchas, pero es un    Hace unos días le di oportunidad a este juego y llegué a la conclusión de que la prensa especializada está lejos de realmente analizar con la misma vara a todos los juegos o por lo menos en profundizar algunos que tiene mecánicas poco usuales, como así mismo también me doy cuenta del por qué del rotundo éxito de Yokai Watch en Japón.

    Las similitudes con Pokémon son muchas, pero es un concepto totalmente diferente, Yokai Watch te ofrece un mundo abierto y mayor libertad que los monstruos de bolsillo, contrario a Pokémon donde la historia avanza de manera más lineal, aquí puedes darte el lujo de ir completando misiones, atrapando yokais, descubrir zonas y distraerte por los vecindarios de una enorme ciudad, donde cada uno de los recintos están bien detallados, con variedad de npcs, tiendas, casas y un mundo más vivo de lo que normalmente ofrece Pokémon.

    Al principio el juego parece un poco simple y repetitivo, pero conforme vas avanzando te vas dando cuenta que tiene un grado de profundidad interesante, donde debes tomar decisiones de manera inmediata pero eficiente, donde así mismo el que realmente le da oportunidad al juego de principio a fin se da cuenta de que en el aspecto jugable es un RPG muy innovador donde siempre se presentan situaciones diferentes en cada combate.

    Los personajes humanos como los Yokais tienen mucha personalidad, el cual se mezcla con el ambiente de un juego donde realmente nos hacen sentir que estamos en un pequeño pueblo en Japón, con detalles y tendencias que no pasaran desapercibidas para los fans de la cultura nipona. El juego tiene una duración considerable, larga y justa para lo que esperamos de él, como así mismo la recolección de los monstruos, objetos, misiones, etc., le dan mucha vida al juego que no tiene nada que envidiarle en cuestión de tiempo a la competencia.

    Como fan de Pokémon les puedo decir que me alegra encontrar esta interesante alternativa, que lejos de venir a suplir al juego de Nintendo, viene a aumentar nuestra variedad de diversión en cuanto a lo que significa los juegos de colección de monstruos, Nintendo tiene un nuevo vende consolas en Japón, el cual convivirá junto a la franquicia de Game Freak para seguir nutriendo los catálogos de sus portátiles, en este caso 3DS.

    Este es un juego de 9 en general, pero para el amante de los RPGs y la colección de monstruos en un 10 con muchas horas de diversión y exploración.    … Expand
  7. The-criticman
    May 4, 2021
    10
    i just, hate people who say its a bad game or a "Pokemon ripoff" it is such an unique thing i have even seen people who haven even played the game and write its a Pokemon ripoff I even saw a review that said that he could suicide but just give it a chance it has a good battle system (even though you can't do that much) yes, yes, I know the befriend sistem is kinda weird but this game isi just, hate people who say its a bad game or a "Pokemon ripoff" it is such an unique thing i have even seen people who haven even played the game and write its a Pokemon ripoff I even saw a review that said that he could suicide but just give it a chance it has a good battle system (even though you can't do that much) yes, yes, I know the befriend sistem is kinda weird but this game is much better than it looks just give it a chance and you'll see… Expand
  8. SirXyonder777
    Jun 9, 2021
    8
    This is a good game, but be warned, play this one BEFORE the sequels, you don't need to, but once you play the second game, you can't go back to this one. It has a big open world, and lots of Yo-Kai, but the second improves on this one first in every way, so play this one first.
  9. AfonsoPro
    Oct 1, 2021
    10
    THIS GAME IS AWESOME. Good graphics for the 3DS, very good music, good game-play and a good story. If you have a 3DS and want something new and very good try this game it is amazing. They say that this game is a Pokemon rip-off but this game is not that. I can confirm that this game can be sometimes better than Pokemon, but not always.

    P L A Y T H I S G A M E
  10. Slizarus
    Nov 18, 2015
    9
    Long review, so my real score is an 8.5.

    +This game is great, + the combat is fun, + practically every person on screen has something to say (Coming from so many worlds of uninteractable npcs even a single line of dialogue is nice) + Interesting Yokai, there are a couple recolors, but mostly you find evolved versions, I like the art style. + Positive Dialogue for children, I put on    Long review, so my real score is an 8.5.

    +This game is great,
    + the combat is fun,
    + practically every person on screen has something to say (Coming from so many worlds of uninteractable npcs even a single line of dialogue is nice)
    + Interesting Yokai, there are a couple recolors, but mostly you find evolved versions, I like the art style.
    + Positive Dialogue for children, I put on my thinking cap as I played through the Girl's Story, I think she starts off differently and she has different parents because both the girl and the boy exist in the world, there's a lot of good female positive talk in here and most people find positive resolutions to the problems visited upon them by the Negative YoKai

    Neutral Thoughts:
    The story is alright, it's not necessarily gripping but it's a kids story and so far 8 hours in it's done fine with keeping my attention, there are plenty of sidequests to do too, I enjoy them as I like to keep a strong team and I like meeting new Yokai and learning more about their world since most Yokai can talk to us and some characters know about Yokai.

    Negatives/Nitpicks:

    -The game doesn't go to any lengths to explain some of it's systems, I come from Darksouls and other games that love to just drop you in, I'm fine with that, but I wish it said more in game, gave another option to see what "Caring, Tough, Grouchy" mean or whatever, maybe it's in the EManual, I'll have to check.
    For this reason, I recommend using a Yokai Watch Wiki or Guide to understand the automated combat and yokai acquisition system better so that you'll have a better experience. I'm a Catch Most of 'em All kinda guy and I like to get a lot of monsters, and fuse lots too, so the relatively low rate of acquisition early on is a nitpick, I'm ok with it because I'm levelling up my main guys but it could be finetuned.

    -The Combat resolution screens and most especially the quest turnin screens are slow going! I can't imagine any kind of speedrunner doing sidequests in this game, it takes too long because you get a quest complete screen then a little symbol and a sound has to pop up in like 2-3 seconds, then in sidequests a clip plays of the Yokai Watch Anime doing something silly or dumb with a Bingo or Boo afterwards and they're cute the first couple times but you start to have repeats and I don't think they're skippable. I mean, it's not long enough to curb my experience, but it's like watching an Ad in the middle of a youtube video, sometimes they're interesting, but oftentimes they only serve to make you that much happier to get back to the game.

    Overall, I'm still really happy I bought this game and I have actually enjoyed it enough to give me hope that I'll enjoy LBX, another child story JRPG, as much as I did this.    … Expand
  11. Fenny86
    Nov 11, 2015
    8
    This is an excellent must have game if you enjoy the pokemon series, and I must apologize in advance for the inevitable comparisons. This game is distinct in numerous ways I enjoy, yet there are a few ways, mainly the battle mechanics that are a mixed bag of good and poor innovation. It's key innovation is exploration.

    The environment, map, and designs are excellent. I like the camera    This is an excellent must have game if you enjoy the pokemon series, and I must apologize in advance for the inevitable comparisons. This game is distinct in numerous ways I enjoy, yet there are a few ways, mainly the battle mechanics that are a mixed bag of good and poor innovation. It's key innovation is exploration.

    The environment, map, and designs are excellent. I like the camera angels and the ability to camera angles. The ability to search tunnels, garbage-laden alley ways, ponds, beaches, forests, cars, utility poles, gutters, and vending machines in search of yo-kai adds a sense of adventure that is not captured in the pokemon "hunting" process. The only issue I find is that the map is not interactive or useful for navigation. For instance, you cannot open up quests and display directions on the map. Not only is the atmosphere great, but so is the music and yo-kai designs.

    The score is an 8 rather than a 10 primarily on the basis of the battle system. Though it is fresh and distinct from the battle mechanics of the pokemon series, I take issue with the lack of autonomy the player has in the battle. You cannot change movesets, select attacks, or anything of the sort. The player has the ability to use items, use one special move (which cannot be modified), and switch the party arrangement in battle. I do like the active element of the battle mechanics, easy access to the full team, simple training (without the preoccupation of IV's and EV's), the emphasis on party alignment and team work, and the animated action sequences.

    If only the innovative mechanics and environment were also met with more player autonomy and battle strategy, along with more bosses and degrees of difficulty I would have scored this game as a 10. Still, this is an excellent and highly-addictive game.    … Expand
  12. Bitrip
    Nov 7, 2015
    10
    Yo-kai Watch is an open-world mission-based RPG that will have you smiling again and again. Production values here are quite high and you'll quickly notice as the voiceovers, graphics, and cutscenes are all immaculate. The game is very episodic as each day more or less consists of a main quest, though you are free to do as you please throughout. Don't compare the game to Pokemon or you'llYo-kai Watch is an open-world mission-based RPG that will have you smiling again and again. Production values here are quite high and you'll quickly notice as the voiceovers, graphics, and cutscenes are all immaculate. The game is very episodic as each day more or less consists of a main quest, though you are free to do as you please throughout. Don't compare the game to Pokemon or you'll be disappointed, it's truly a game of it's own pedigree...and that's exactly where its strong points come into play: aside from the storyline quests, everything is optional! Dungeons are optional, battles are 90% optional, fishing and bug-catching is optional, talking to NPCs is optional, side-quests are optional...are you starting to see a pattern? Another nice thing the game does is reward you for what you like doing the most. You don't only have to battle Yo-kai to gain experience for your party, you can actually get a large chunk of xp from completing favors and requests from locals.

    I am really enjoying the game so far, I love the real-world setting and the characters are all very charming. The only reason I feel people are confused about some things is because everyone is drawing comparisons from Pokemon. If you are going to compare a game compare Digimon World 2 or 3 because those have far more similarities with Yo-kai Watch than Pokemon does.    … Expand
  13. gibran19
    Nov 8, 2015
    10
    Cute and charming. If you don't understand the charm in yo-kai watch the inevitable has happened, you lost your inner child. This game is not pretentious, is just a likeable game for kids or anybody who wants to feel like a kid again
  14. Dartek
    Nov 24, 2015
    9
    Big question, is this a same game as Pokemon? The answer is NO, Yo-kai Watch is a game that shows an interesting lesson, every Yo-kai have the power to make people do good or bad things, e.g. if you suddenly want to fight to a friend probably is a Yo-Kai messing with you, or if you hear a person that have a lot of hungry maybe is a Yo-kai, so, as the main character Nate you will receive aBig question, is this a same game as Pokemon? The answer is NO, Yo-kai Watch is a game that shows an interesting lesson, every Yo-kai have the power to make people do good or bad things, e.g. if you suddenly want to fight to a friend probably is a Yo-Kai messing with you, or if you hear a person that have a lot of hungry maybe is a Yo-kai, so, as the main character Nate you will receive a yo-kai watch that can display a lens and a light to see where Yo-Kai are, and you can fight them with other yo-kai or try to be a friend, if you succeed you will receive a medal from them so you can put it on your clock and summon them to help you on your journey.
    This game is for those people that want a refresh on a battle system that is not per turns, have 3 ways to fight using the touch screen (spin, tap, follow the patron) and also is full Japan fan service, you have main quest and side missions non repetitive and a lot of yo-kai to be friend with, scenarios look great, 3D effect is really amazing on this game, and so much charming.
    Also let you know that you only need the game to play, no need of additional medals or the physical watch. Only available on english for those who wanna know if other language available on the game.    … Expand
  15. Lingrow
    Nov 6, 2015
    9
    The first thing that comes into mind when one talks about Yo-kai Watch is Pokemon but in order to truly appreciate this game we should not compare the two of them. Of course there are similarities but they are a lot of differences also. Also we need to understand that this game is aimed to children so the story is not very complex. In my opinion Level-5 has done an awesome job with thisThe first thing that comes into mind when one talks about Yo-kai Watch is Pokemon but in order to truly appreciate this game we should not compare the two of them. Of course there are similarities but they are a lot of differences also. Also we need to understand that this game is aimed to children so the story is not very complex. In my opinion Level-5 has done an awesome job with this game, is very funny and catchy, the music is awesome and the design in general is top notch. The only flaw of this game is the battle system, is not BAD but is not GOOD either, I have no idea in the 2nd installment of the game they fix it (I hope so) but in this one you do not have a lot of control in the battle, of course you can do stuff but is very basic. Still the game really shine in the other aspects that I mentioned, I recommend it to any fan of JRPG and Level-5 in general.… Expand
  16. thedreadedzero
    Nov 8, 2015
    10
    I can see why this is as big as Pokemon in Japan. The game is full of charm, and I'm glad we finally got it. Some people complain that the battle system is poor because you don't have direct control over each yo-kai, but you are given enough control that simply sitting there and letting your yo-kai attack will lead to your failure. The characters are cute and charming, and Jibanyan easilyI can see why this is as big as Pokemon in Japan. The game is full of charm, and I'm glad we finally got it. Some people complain that the battle system is poor because you don't have direct control over each yo-kai, but you are given enough control that simply sitting there and letting your yo-kai attack will lead to your failure. The characters are cute and charming, and Jibanyan easily surpasses Pikachu as an awesome mascot. There are plenty of side missions in the game to keep you busy, and if you want to collect all the yo-kai you'll be playing even longer. I've been reading the manga and watching the show alongside playing this game and it is a sheer joy. It's an entertaining world to be a part of. I highly recommend the game.… Expand
  17. blisters
    Nov 9, 2015
    9
    Finish The Game And Find all Yo kai's -- then tell us that this game doesn't have Depth -- Lots To do After finishing the game ! fantastic game play and so much fun !!!
  18. Rumic
    Jun 9, 2016
    8
    It is one of the freshest games of the year, at the start you can think it's a simple game, but when you try the mechanics and look the Yo-kai character and how to get profit from it in combat, you see how fun the combats can be.
    You don't choose the attack, but you can treat wounds with food, clean diseases and lock on an objetive, in some combats you can't stop doing things.
    The plot    It is one of the freshest games of the year, at the start you can think it's a simple game, but when you try the mechanics and look the Yo-kai character and how to get profit from it in combat, you see how fun the combats can be.
    You don't choose the attack, but you can treat wounds with food, clean diseases and lock on an objetive, in some combats you can't stop doing things.
    The plot is simple as allways, normally it takes 24h to complete doing only the basic to advance and beat the final boss, but don't mistake complete this game takes much more than a hundred of hours, geat all medals, fulfill al secondary missions and the secret dungeon is not something you can do when you fbeat the final boss    … Expand
  19. Viltgance
    Feb 17, 2016
    10
    What a excellent new ip for the Nintendo 3DS...this game blew past my expectations on many levels. The tone of the game may be directed for a youger audience but I'm a 33 year old man and it made me smile a lot playing this and I had problems putting it down it was that addictive. The story is done well with an excellent quirky soundtrack with some good music. The Yo Kai are hilariousWhat a excellent new ip for the Nintendo 3DS...this game blew past my expectations on many levels. The tone of the game may be directed for a youger audience but I'm a 33 year old man and it made me smile a lot playing this and I had problems putting it down it was that addictive. The story is done well with an excellent quirky soundtrack with some good music. The Yo Kai are hilarious and it funny to see the different characters they came up with, and looking for the many different Yo Kai is fun and never seems to feel to repetitive or boring. The battle system puts a new spin on things which I find quite enjoyable. You have 6 different Yo Kai on a rotating wheel which you can decide on the fly which ones to swap in and out. The Yo kai attack themselves but you control their super moves and some healing. The battle system can be very strategic and is fresh and fun.... A great new way to do rpg style battles.

    This game is a must play for all 3ds owners of any age.    … Expand
  20. MazinroboX2
    Aug 21, 2016
    8
    Level 5 games almost never disappoint, and this is no exception. It is a full of charm RPG with good characters and many things to do! Yokai monsters are very cool and varied, and although I would like to have more control in the battles (Yo-kais attack on their own), you get to learn as you go in the game that there is actually some strategy involved in these battles. Actions for specialLevel 5 games almost never disappoint, and this is no exception. It is a full of charm RPG with good characters and many things to do! Yokai monsters are very cool and varied, and although I would like to have more control in the battles (Yo-kais attack on their own), you get to learn as you go in the game that there is actually some strategy involved in these battles. Actions for special moves are very repetitive though. Also another annoying part is recruiting Yo-kais, you may need many attempts even when giving them their favourite food!

    All in all, a very refreshing and fun addition to the RPG library of the 3ds!    … Expand
  21. FilemonBR
    Aug 22, 2016
    8
    Jogo que surpreende , esta fazendo muito sucesso no japao, entao podemos ver que é bom, lembra um pouco pokemon, pegue yokais e use ele para resolver problemas ou batalhar com amigos, ganha nota 8, por nao ter modo online
  22. MonkiReviews
    May 10, 2017
    8
    The gameplay is simple and fun. The story makes me want to not stop playing. The characters are all unique ane you get more throughout the game. It would be cool to collect them all.
  23. Jakurz
    Jun 17, 2017
    8
    It is an amazing game.But if I,m being completely honest,if your new to the series,you should start with the second game.The second game has a better story,more exploration and more yo-kai.I recommend this game if you want to play both games or if you only buy the first one so you can get bushinayn in the second one
  24. Tuneison
    Dec 22, 2017
    9
    This is one of the most refreshing games I've played in a long time. After years of watching the Pokémon franchise slowly but surely crash and burn, Yo-kai Watch offered a great new twist on the genre. This game is not Pokémon. There a similarities but, it's so radically different I'd never call this game anywhere near a Pokémon clone. The mechanics are all creative and, I can't get enoughThis is one of the most refreshing games I've played in a long time. After years of watching the Pokémon franchise slowly but surely crash and burn, Yo-kai Watch offered a great new twist on the genre. This game is not Pokémon. There a similarities but, it's so radically different I'd never call this game anywhere near a Pokémon clone. The mechanics are all creative and, I can't get enough of this fantastic addition to the 3DS library. I recommend you at least try the demo and, if you like what you see, you'll most likely love Yo-kai Watch.… Expand
  25. Lance22
    May 1, 2023
    9
    If you are a huge fan of Shin Megami Tensei, then this kid friendly version will definitely be right up your alley, with an easy to learn, battle mechanic, and a lot of great looking Yo-kai, and a great world to explore for all ages, Yo-kai watch is such a fun and addictive video game, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have it shortcomings, Yo-kai watch does have a few bugs, but nothing thatIf you are a huge fan of Shin Megami Tensei, then this kid friendly version will definitely be right up your alley, with an easy to learn, battle mechanic, and a lot of great looking Yo-kai, and a great world to explore for all ages, Yo-kai watch is such a fun and addictive video game, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have it shortcomings, Yo-kai watch does have a few bugs, but nothing that totally breaks the game, if you’re willing to look past its simplicity, and its Chibi art style, there is a fun game to be had here from start to finish.
    Which is why I’m giving this game a 9.4/10.

    The good:
    Easy to learn.
    Fun gameplay.
    An amazing story from start to finish.
    Yo-Kai, all look amazing.

    The bad:
    Not much to say here.    … Expand
  26. DorianNES
    Jul 23, 2018
    10
    This Game Is Fantastic! A Beautiful Change From Pokemon’s Boring Gameplay. The Story Is Better, The Style Is Better, There Isnt As Many Text Boxes, So Pacing Is Better, It’s A Wonderful Experience, A Masterpieces On The 3DS.
  27. CharlieTheBike
    Oct 1, 2018
    8
    Yo-kai Watch is a wonderfully crafted game. It's battle system is unique, the Yo-kai are great (Besides Mama Aura), the writing is laugh out loud funny. The only true problems are how difficult it to befriend Yo-kai, as well as the story being a little messy. Truly a great game! Also it;s definitely not a Pokemon clone. It only took about twenty minutes of gameplay to realize that.
  28. Lanccealot234
    Jan 28, 2019
    10
    in my honest opinion, Yo-kai Watch takes the basis of what Pokemon is and flips it on its head. I hear so many people say that this game is a Pokemon rip off when it' s so much more than that. if you haven't played the game yet and have heard "it's just a Pokemon rip off", give Yo-kai Watch a look through for yourself and see how of a game it really is
  29. vitin
    Nov 7, 2020
    8
    Mesmo com seus defeitos, Yo-kai Watch funciona muito bem para introduzir um novo mundo e um novo sistema de batalha bem interessante. Os personagens são legais e a história e o aceitável para um jogo como esse.
  30. ND-Bringer
    Oct 11, 2022
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This adventure has left a large impact on my life. At the time Pokemon 3DS games began to divide players due to unsatisfying game play, Level-5 released a fresh take to the monster-fight RPG genre. Yo-Kai Watch is definitely one of my favorite 3DS games of all time. From its colorful characters to its slice-of-life level design, this ghost-hunting extravaganza will most likely leave you smiling. While replaying this game years, I've noticed that not all the mechanics have aged well; and I still think the sequel is the best game in the series. But rather than aim for 100% completion, I think its more enjoyable to just beat the main story. That's where this game really shines, the story has a lot of heart to it. Unlike the anime, the main characters Nate and Whisper are really friendly; and the majority of the gameplay is helping out people and Yo-Kai. It a real "don't judge a book by its cover" type of experience, when the bland gag anime is related to a really enjoyable RPG. Even the action is loads better! You can build teams of up to 6 Yo-Kai to fight in 3 on 3 battles. It's a really engaging battle system thanks to personality of the sprite design. I would find it annoying that I can't completely control how my Yo-Kai attack, but its actually relieving that with good planning, players can just sit back and focus on strategy during the battle dance. When I'm not activating Soultimate Moves, I'm rapidly targeting enemies to barrage. I have a theory that this game is an evolution of Kaz Ayabe's "Attack of the Friday Monsters", combining heavy realism themes with a Saturday morning cartoon style story. And in terms of gameplay and overall structure, Yo-Kai Watch nails just about everything. But because Yo-Kai Watch 2 contains all of 1's content, I don't really have much reason to replay this game except to revisit the charm of the story and fight an army of Jibanyan clones in the Infinite Inferno. For what its worth, I think this game is worth it to play because it has a beautiful ending cutscene where the player puts hand to heart and thanks all the Yo-Kai for just being in around. It makes me cry every time. It's definitely the game with the most heart.… Expand
  31. pretzelq
    Jan 31, 2023
    10
    Holy Shart i love yokai watch i love it so much i jerk off to pics of whisper every nite
  32. Cer2xrafa
    Aug 7, 2023
    8
    Mejoro la formula de pokémon y además cuenta con muchas horas de contenido, el sistema de obtener yokais es mejor que el de pokémon, además cuenta con mecánicas propias bien pulidas y un soundtrack memorable. Una experiencia que a primera vista parece una copia de pokémon, acaba teniendo su propia identidad
  33. gietergeit
    May 15, 2023
    8
    yo-kai watch is a great game for the 3ds. I played it as a kid and I remembered it was fun and when I replayed it, it was great with fun designs, a great battle system, and a great story. But sometimes it drags on a bit but i do not have a super big problem with that. And it has no multi player.
  34. Zeno678
    May 23, 2023
    9
    Yo-Kai-Watch is a good game but however there are some negative points like the fact that sometimes we can be told to go get an object but this object is often badly indicated by the npc who gives us the quest which is often very approximate, but the game remains very good in many points such as the combat system which is original is very pleasant or the Yo-kai system which is similar toYo-Kai-Watch is a good game but however there are some negative points like the fact that sometimes we can be told to go get an object but this object is often badly indicated by the npc who gives us the quest which is often very approximate, but the game remains very good in many points such as the combat system which is original is very pleasant or the Yo-kai system which is similar to that of Pokemon without being a copy which simply takes over the system of pocket creature. In general, the game is very good 9/10… Expand
  35. Pacotulokito14k
    Jul 2, 2023
    9
    Un título verdaderamente increíble y que te sorprenderá, cuenta con una increíble banda sonora y un sistema de combate basado en la rotación además de contar con más de 160 Yo-kais entre los que se encuentran 5 legendarios, a lo largo de la historia te encontraras con varios personajes que te darán misiones y tareas que podrás completar a cambio de recompensas ,cuenta con un repertorio deUn título verdaderamente increíble y que te sorprenderá, cuenta con una increíble banda sonora y un sistema de combate basado en la rotación además de contar con más de 160 Yo-kais entre los que se encuentran 5 legendarios, a lo largo de la historia te encontraras con varios personajes que te darán misiones y tareas que podrás completar a cambio de recompensas ,cuenta con un repertorio de bosses y jefes bastante amplio y que te sorprenderá también cuenta con una historia graciosa y con una bonita historia que te sacará alguna lágrima, también cabe recalcar que tiene una gran rejugabilidad gracias a su post game en el cual podrás enfrentarte a la mayoría de los jefes de manera mejorada y podrás conseguir todos los Yo-kais, lo bueno de este juego es que se beneficia de la función 3ds y te invito a que la pruebes.
    En cuanto al apartado de duración, si vas rápido y no te distraes la historia te durará una 20h pero si te gusta explorar o hacer misiones puede que te cueste unas 50h y si lo quieres completar al 100% con todos los Yo-kais y todas las misiones que son 151 te costará aproximadamente 150-160h.
    En cuanto a lo malo se podría decir que es un juego un poco básico y que no innova mucho en la fórmula a excepción de su sistema de combate y tampoco es que cuente con un apartado visual muy grande pero bueno, no es algo que se le pedir a la 3ds.
    En cuanto a todo se puede decir que es un juego que te sacará bastante tiempo y que te enganchará.
    9/10    … Expand
  36. Albeirito
    Aug 25, 2023
    8
    Before you ask me, NO, this is not a copy of Pokémon.
    Despite having a very cartoonish and somewhat childish aesthetic, the game can be enjoyed by young and old alike. As I mentioned in my review of the sequel to this title, this game has a very automated combat in certain parts (even more than in that game). However, this does not detract from the interactivity and fun that can be    Before you ask me, NO, this is not a copy of Pokémon.
    Despite having a very cartoonish and somewhat childish aesthetic, the game can be enjoyed by young and old alike. As I mentioned in my review of the sequel to this title, this game has a very automated combat in certain parts (even more than in that game). However, this does not detract from the interactivity and fun that can be derived from this game mode. Despite not having so many options of what to do during combat, you can make just one mistake during a fight and end up losing it.
    On the other hand, the story is interesting for the most part, but it is clear that the sequel far surpasses it in every aspect.
    I like the fact that you are not forced to do mandatory side quests that interrupt the story unlike later games and speaking of side quests, most of them are not very interesting and feel a bit randoms and filler but it's still more content that extends the game life so I don't consider them as a negative point in the game.
    Overall the game is pretty good but it has a couple of aspects that could be improved.

    8.5/10    … Expand

Awards & Rankings

18
#18 Best 3DS Game of 2015
7
#7 Most Discussed 3DS Game of 2015
2
#2 Most Shared 3DS Game of 2015

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 69 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 46 out of 69
  2. Mixed: 23 out of 69
  3. Negative: 0 out of 69
  1. Telegraph
    Jul 25, 2016
    60
    It is still zippy and enjoyable enough -with touchscreen mini-games for purifying and Soultimates- but strikes an awkward middle-ground where combat isn’t involved enough for more experienced players, but is chaotic enough with its machinations to befuddle newcomers.
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  2. Games Master UK
    Jul 5, 2016
    80
    An expertly paced and enjoyable Pokemon-like RPG, tailored beautifully for younger audiences. [June 2016, p.68]
  3. Edge Magazine
    Jul 5, 2016
    60
    Thanks to a thoughtful, witty localisation, Yo-Kai Watch proves to be a kids' game that's capable of winning over adult players, too. [July 2016, p.123]
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