Pokemon Black Version

 DS
User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 873 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 624 out of 873
  2. Mixed: 146 out of 873
  3. Negative: 103 out of 873
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  1. ImUnavailable
    Mar 31, 2012
    8
    Pokemon Black manages to bring some much needed freshness into the series, although not enough to fully satisfy. The usual journey of catching/training pokemon and battling other trainers is still fun and a world populated solely with new monsters is a nice change. What is disappointing is the reluctance of this series to stray too far from its comfort zone. Also, the region exclusive toPokemon Black manages to bring some much needed freshness into the series, although not enough to fully satisfy. The usual journey of catching/training pokemon and battling other trainers is still fun and a world populated solely with new monsters is a nice change. What is disappointing is the reluctance of this series to stray too far from its comfort zone. Also, the region exclusive to Black version is a big letdown. Even so, both newcomers and veterans will lap this up as it manages to recapture part of what made millions fall in love with Pokemon.… Expand
  2. Barking
    Mar 17, 2011
    8
    Yes it's pokemon still, how much do you expect them to change? some new features are new camera angles, you see the back of the whole pokemon (not just the back of their head) and they move constantly, this makes battles look a lot nicer than previous pokemon games, and your first playthough will be full of 'Whoa look at those camera angles.'
    BUT
    The main thing wrong with this game is what    Yes it's pokemon still, how much do you expect them to change? some new features are new camera angles, you see the back of the whole pokemon (not just the back of their head) and they move constantly, this makes battles look a lot nicer than previous pokemon games, and your first playthough will be full of 'Whoa look at those camera angles.'
    BUT
    The main thing wrong with this game is what they decided not to use from SoulSilver and HeartGold, gone is the really useful menu on the touch screen, and you can't have pokemon following you. The touch screen is instead replaced with the Cgear, which currently, does nothing at all.
    The storyline is a lot better than previous games, and some of the new pokemon are pretty cool though.
    All in all, it's pokemon but with better looks and a worse menu than SS/HG.    … Expand
  3. ohaiKendyl
    May 19, 2011
    8
    Pokemon Black and White aren't the best in the series. However, they still retain the same addictive gameplay from their predecessors, yet build onto the overall "look" and "feel" of the game, resulting in another Poke-adventure worth taking! Pros: The use of 2-D sprites in a 3-D overworld is stunning, but the depth in level design is just mind-blowing; variety of Pokemon to catch, itemsPokemon Black and White aren't the best in the series. However, they still retain the same addictive gameplay from their predecessors, yet build onto the overall "look" and "feel" of the game, resulting in another Poke-adventure worth taking! Pros: The use of 2-D sprites in a 3-D overworld is stunning, but the depth in level design is just mind-blowing; variety of Pokemon to catch, items to find, and moves to learn; lots of extras/secrets; fantastic multiplayer value. Cons: Formulaic gameplay; some ridiculous dialogue; some of the Pokemon designs are uglier than ever.… Expand
  4. drlowdon
    Jun 8, 2013
    8
    Largely due to the fact that it was pretty much perfect in the first place the Pokemon series has changed very little in the last fifteen years. Despite this the developers have listened to some of the criticisms leveled at the games and included a number of the improvements fans have long been asking for.

    The game of course still sees the player taking on the role of a child travelling    Largely due to the fact that it was pretty much perfect in the first place the Pokemon series has changed very little in the last fifteen years. Despite this the developers have listened to some of the criticisms leveled at the games and included a number of the improvements fans have long been asking for.

    The game of course still sees the player taking on the role of a child travelling from town to town collecting Pokemon and using them to battle all manner of opponents. Despite the familiar concept Pokemon Black is a more streamlined experience. Little things like combining the Pokemon Centre and Poke Mart into one building for example cuts down on pointless travelling whilst battles also run at a slightly quicker pace.

    Two new types of battle are also included. Triple battles obviously allow for three Pokemon to fight at once whilst rotation battles allow the player to switch out Pokemon before each attack adding a new level of strategy to the game. Some Pokemon can now also combine moves to create more powerful attacks making the selection of a balanced team even more essential.

    For the first time since the Game Boy original this version features a completely new set of Pokemon. Many of these are not as well designed as the original group but it does make exploration more interesting. No longer will you enter a cave to be greeted by yet another Zubat or Geodude. It is possible to get some of the older Pokemon once you complete the game or by using some of the bonus features but as per usual most have to be transferred from your save games on previous iterations.

    Wrongly looked upon as 'a game for kids' Pokemon remains once the most in depth and strategic RPGs available on any console and with its more streamlined approach the Black or White game are as good a place to start as any.    … Expand
  5. Ironmonger
    Jul 6, 2011
    8
    I, being a big poke maniac, love the game and new pokemon. I will agree to some of the pokemon being a little weird (and frankly...stupid looking), but if you look at their combat skills over their looks, you will like them. I will also agree that pokemon may be new (in terms of versions), but it is still the same. I got the game, but if pokemon doesn't change for the better soon, i mayI, being a big poke maniac, love the game and new pokemon. I will agree to some of the pokemon being a little weird (and frankly...stupid looking), but if you look at their combat skills over their looks, you will like them. I will also agree that pokemon may be new (in terms of versions), but it is still the same. I got the game, but if pokemon doesn't change for the better soon, i may stray from it some. I love how the pokemon keep moving after battle. I played pokemon platinum after i finished this, and i kept thinking, "why aren't you moving?" It grows on you! The legendaries were good, but i think they are repeating a little with the 3 musketeers as dog-like creatures. If they aren't dogs, they looks awful close to them. The graphics got a lot better, that i liked. To be honest and short, the game was great from all the new features (including the dream word!), but it is still pokemon, and pokemon needs to expand, not just stay slow, turn-based combat. No amount of features wil make up for a game that refuses to grow (other than new creatures).… Expand
  6. ja52ng74
    Jul 15, 2011
    8
    The Pokemon series is like space. It keeps expanding, and adding more to itself, and sometimes something changes, Pokemon Black does that, again. The thing I don't like about Pokemon Black, is that it feels more like Diamond/Pearl rather than HeartGold/SoulSilver. What I noticed that HG/SS has that Black doesn't have are: More touch screen controls, have Pokemon follow you in theThe Pokemon series is like space. It keeps expanding, and adding more to itself, and sometimes something changes, Pokemon Black does that, again. The thing I don't like about Pokemon Black, is that it feels more like Diamond/Pearl rather than HeartGold/SoulSilver. What I noticed that HG/SS has that Black doesn't have are: More touch screen controls, have Pokemon follow you in the overworld, radio and ability to travel in more than one region. However, Pokemon Black does improve on many things that should have been in the Pokemon Series years ago: Fully animated battle sprites, C-Gear, more internet connectivity and more time based events.… Expand
  7. Zegilgamesh
    Dec 29, 2012
    8
    The graphic overhaul is well-awaited, and with a Pokemon game, it's hard to disappoint. BUt then again, its a Pokemon game, so its hard to be groundbreaking either.
  8. AeroKieran
    Feb 20, 2012
    8
    This game has a lot of new enhancements and features. The story is great, the places are cool but I don't like the new Pokemons, there are few exceptions but not all. Some just look so horrible, I can even draw myself a better one for those.
  9. ALTPL
    Sep 7, 2023
    8
    I first played it in 2023 so 12 years after release date. Does it hold well today? Should it be played?
    I've played it on physical console and I've had lots of fun. I've tried it previously on emulators but such approach doesn't ignite a spark of joy.
    In terms of story-telling, lore and world-building this game should get straight 10 - but after reaching some point of the game near the    I first played it in 2023 so 12 years after release date. Does it hold well today? Should it be played?
    I've played it on physical console and I've had lots of fun. I've tried it previously on emulators but such approach doesn't ignite a spark of joy.
    In terms of story-telling, lore and world-building this game should get straight 10 - but after reaching some point of the game near the end the grind becomes unbearably dull and legend hunting isn't as good as in previous (and later) installments in series.
    Even though I've spent about 150h on this game it doesn't have factor that would make me repeat whole adventure any time in the future.    … Expand
  10. SethyChan
    Oct 29, 2012
    8
    This is a half decent game. I would have given it an 10 for the Plot and the design of the Player Character and NPC's but the majority of the designs of the Pokemon just let the game down. Sure, Snivy is a gorgeous Pokemon, but some designs just made me die a little inside. Some of the names were also a let down: a.k.a: Gothitelle? The design may be beautiful but could be seen as offensiveThis is a half decent game. I would have given it an 10 for the Plot and the design of the Player Character and NPC's but the majority of the designs of the Pokemon just let the game down. Sure, Snivy is a gorgeous Pokemon, but some designs just made me die a little inside. Some of the names were also a let down: a.k.a: Gothitelle? The design may be beautiful but could be seen as offensive to 'Goths'. Anyway: Decent game, Pokemon designs let it down considerably. However: N is the best antagonist there has ever been.… Expand
  11. ATTin
    Jun 26, 2019
    8
    Story: 9, Gameplay: 8, Graphics: 8.5. The new graphics, new pokemons and new mechanics and especially the story in this game are great, a great start for Generation 5
  12. SrPepe
    Oct 30, 2017
    8
    La mejor historia que ha visto la saga de Pokémon la proporciono Pokémon Blanco y Negro, si bien los Pokémon útiles y agradables son pocos, el juego es excelente.
  13. gauxelus
    Apr 7, 2022
    8
    Probably the best of mainline games which don't have third versions. A far more responsive battle speed (my god, the Generation 4 battle pace were horrible), probably some of the best graphic style for DS and sprite work bar a few give so much life to the creatures and the environment. The new Pokemon roster is also quite diverse enough to not make different playthrough monotonous. StoryProbably the best of mainline games which don't have third versions. A far more responsive battle speed (my god, the Generation 4 battle pace were horrible), probably some of the best graphic style for DS and sprite work bar a few give so much life to the creatures and the environment. The new Pokemon roster is also quite diverse enough to not make different playthrough monotonous. Story is a bit more thought provoking and better than previous iterations. The map progression leads it to being a linear game, but due to various features like Dream World, Entralink and others (Musicals, they aren't that much liked or used by people), it feels decent enough room to explore. The main story beat ends in a bang. Post-game areas (Black City and White Forest) and the Looker quest were nice but the main draw is Battle Subway. Fantastic facility. While it is a solid entry in the franchise, the extra facilities and features brought by its sequels (B2W2) makes for the best Unova adventure then these. I do recommend playing through BW once through the post-game since our progress can be synced for rewards on the sequels.… Expand
  14. Dragonfly44
    Oct 7, 2018
    8
    With a truly captivating story and a plethora of things to do, this game is undoubtedly one of the strongest in the franchise. While the graphics are rather hit or miss, this game is still spectacular.
    Rating - 85%
  15. Dialga236
    May 18, 2023
    8
    A fantastic game that was given a hard time due to people's refusal to accept change. With a brand-new cast of 156 Pokémon to catch, the largest amount introduced before or after, many people grew hostile to many of the monsters due to not being allowed to use any old favorites in the main story, which is a shame as Pokémon Black and White have the strongest story out of the entire seriesA fantastic game that was given a hard time due to people's refusal to accept change. With a brand-new cast of 156 Pokémon to catch, the largest amount introduced before or after, many people grew hostile to many of the monsters due to not being allowed to use any old favorites in the main story, which is a shame as Pokémon Black and White have the strongest story out of the entire series with the best engine to date both in and outside of battle. A region brimming with life and diversity of location and people alike, Pokémon Black and White are fantastic games that are deserving of being the series' penultimate sendoff for the Nintendo DS.… Expand
  16. Maxttvd
    Jun 22, 2020
    8
    Junto ao Pokémon Pearl, um baita jogo de Pokémon, muito legal e bacana kkkkk
  17. KegMinami
    Dec 31, 2019
    8
    Overall a very solid Pokemon game. I like the "soft-reset" idea, with 150 new Pokemon and none of the old ones available until post-game. Some may see that as a downside but I like to see what's new when it comes to Pokemon games. The story is probably the best in the series to date, and it all comes to a head when you reach the Pokemon League. I'd rather not spoil it for those who somehowOverall a very solid Pokemon game. I like the "soft-reset" idea, with 150 new Pokemon and none of the old ones available until post-game. Some may see that as a downside but I like to see what's new when it comes to Pokemon games. The story is probably the best in the series to date, and it all comes to a head when you reach the Pokemon League. I'd rather not spoil it for those who somehow haven't played it by now, but the climax is amazing. There's quite a few interesting dungeons and secrets scattered about the region, even places you might initially miss on your first playthrough. There's a lot to explore here, and I love it. The post-game is basically just checking out a previously unavailable portion of the region. The sprite work is phenomenal, and really helps the Pokemon feel alive.
    Overall, this is one of the best in the series.    … Expand
  18. W-Lights
    Dec 2, 2018
    8
    While the whole only new pokemon could and should be better implemented, and it removed the undreground, following pokemon and contests, it did a good job with the story, which is now a staple in the series but not something they risked meddling with before, and also had interesting looking routes and the urban theme was a creative take to go with (I personally find it better than White'sWhile the whole only new pokemon could and should be better implemented, and it removed the undreground, following pokemon and contests, it did a good job with the story, which is now a staple in the series but not something they risked meddling with before, and also had interesting looking routes and the urban theme was a creative take to go with (I personally find it better than White's rural one since all pokemon games are already nature-bound in their layouts)… Expand
  19. ShawnEXE
    May 3, 2019
    8
    Music: 4.5/5
    Game Play: 4/5
    Graphics: 4/5
    Story: 4.5/5
    Time-Value: 5/5
    Overall: 4.0/5
  20. Zankyouo
    Sep 3, 2019
    8
    Pokémon es una saga que nunca a sido reconocida por su nivel narrativo, o es malo o de paso inexistente. Pero en este juego todo cambia y hace un trabajo muy bueno en ello.

    Este juego habla sobre el debate de si esta bien o no tener pokémon y hacerlos luchar, y es la primera vez en la saga que se trata un tema de una manera un tanto profunda y si, se que pokémon está principalmente    Pokémon es una saga que nunca a sido reconocida por su nivel narrativo, o es malo o de paso inexistente. Pero en este juego todo cambia y hace un trabajo muy bueno en ello.

    Este juego habla sobre el debate de si esta bien o no tener pokémon y hacerlos luchar, y es la primera vez en la saga que se trata un tema de una manera un tanto profunda y si, se que pokémon está principalmente orientado para niños, pero el desarrollo de la trama en este juego es bastante bueno, no sólo por parte del personaje N, sino también de el equipo contrario que empieza a ganar protagonismo por más de la mitad del juego, me parece sinceramente el pokémon mejor hecho.

    Mecánicamente es otro pokémon con toques mejorados que solo se notarán si te gusta el competitivo, así que no hablaré mucho de eso ya que todos conocemos ya esta saga y como funciona    … Expand
  21. AShinyGiratina
    Nov 21, 2019
    8
    How can you not love these games? This is what pokemon should've been from the start. A nice basic storyline that questions morality of not just villains but yourself for basically enslaving living creatures. The soundtrack of this **** is the best to date of the entire series. If Platinum wasn't so amazing I'd definitely choose these as the single best games in the series.
  22. fanmadeendings
    Feb 15, 2022
    8
    Really good main game, people will say it is linear, but that's just the layout of the map. The routes offer a satisfying amount of exploration, unlike Swsh, for example. It's only lacking in meaningful post game content.
  23. ND-Bringer
    Jul 11, 2023
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The best way to relive the enjoyment of classic Pokemon games, by exploring a region that contains nothing but Unova Pokemon. With entertaining pseudo third dimensional graphic design, intimidating and interesting villains, and well balanced grinding mechanics, definitely one of the greatest games in the franchise.… Expand
  24. greenwood101
    Nov 11, 2021
    8
    Good!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  25. notnoxi
    Dec 2, 2021
    8
    Pokemon Black and White is sprite-based pokemon at it's best. The world is even more animated than ever and captured in a beautiful art direction and color palettes. Brilliant character designs and consists of many new pokemons, one of the Nintendo DS's highest quality game.
  26. Cash_te_furry
    Feb 2, 2022
    8
    I really liked playing this game as a kid but now everyone praises it so much it feels over rated and i feel like if i give it anything more then a 9 ill be one of those joining it in the over hype
  27. AShinyG1ratina
    Jun 21, 2022
    8
    Easily the best story Game Freak has ever written, with the most compelling characters in the franchise.
  28. FireBroFilms
    Aug 15, 2022
    8
    ‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎
  29. DegenerateKeith
    May 8, 2023
    8
    This is my first pokemon game and I say I had a pretty ok experience. It's fun to discover new pokemon, new evolution etc. The gyms are creative and the soundtrack is good. But it doesn't have the deepest gameplay of all time it's mainly to chill and have fun with your siblings and friends.
  30. krabboss
    Mar 7, 2011
    7
    Unfortunately, it seems Game Freak still hasn't worked out a few kinks in the Pokemon design. Like the previous generation, Pokemon Black and White play at a snail pace. Your walking speed is atrocious and you're stuck with it until you're given the running shoes. I don't understand this design choice at all. Why disallow us from running in the first place? I've always found this to be aUnfortunately, it seems Game Freak still hasn't worked out a few kinks in the Pokemon design. Like the previous generation, Pokemon Black and White play at a snail pace. Your walking speed is atrocious and you're stuck with it until you're given the running shoes. I don't understand this design choice at all. Why disallow us from running in the first place? I've always found this to be a nonsensical milestone to meet in the games.

    Most actions and events are unnecessarily slow too. Transitioning from one scene to another (such as entering/exiting a building or a battle) still takes too long. Battle phases are still too drawn out as well. It should not take so long to show the attack you've used, the damage it has done and any multipliers or effects applied to it. This could all be remedied by simply showing all relevant information above the rival Pokemon (a la most RPGs), rather than the usual text boxes at the bottom of the screen.

    The new Pokemon are better than I expected, to be fair. I'd seen a lot of the official art of these new Pokemon a while ago and I was not impressed. Fortunately, as sprites, they look a little less hideous. Still, I consider them to be pretty weak compared to earlier generations (I didn't think much of Generation IV's new Pokemon either), but that could be nostalgia clouding my judgement.

    The story in this generation is slightly darker and more complex than the series has ever seen before, which is a nice touch. There are themes in this game I wouldn't have ever expected to see in the series and I'm glad they're there. In terms of story, this generation is far ahead of anything before it. However, don't expect to be enthralled by it - this is still a Pokemon game.

    I was hoping for more change in these games, honestly. I wasn't expecting these changes (I imagine straying from the proven formula too much could prove hazardous), but they would have been nice. That's about all I've got to say, really.    … Expand
  31. WhiteTalpa
    Jan 19, 2013
    7
    I was a little let down with this game. After the amazing soulsliver i expected this to be just as good or even better however that was not the case sadly.
  32. NocheShade
    Feb 9, 2013
    7
    I don't mind the design here it's just that it gets really boring straight after the elite 4 and the level difference is about 10 and it's boring as heck doing that just to visit 2 more towns.The worst of the Pokemon but still a very good game.Get Black2/White2 though.
  33. Glitter
    Aug 30, 2013
    7
    An essential reboot of the Pokémon handheld titles, Pokémon Black and Pokémon White are not so innovative as they might aspire to be. The same mechanics are utilized, and little to nothing new is brought to the table. Attempting to attract attention of leading the edge in modernization, by adding over a 150 new species to the Pokémon roster, it fails by doing little more than this. TripleAn essential reboot of the Pokémon handheld titles, Pokémon Black and Pokémon White are not so innovative as they might aspire to be. The same mechanics are utilized, and little to nothing new is brought to the table. Attempting to attract attention of leading the edge in modernization, by adding over a 150 new species to the Pokémon roster, it fails by doing little more than this. Triple battles and rotation battles, while a nice addition, are barely featured and almost a backdoor surprise feature that you don't unearth unless you go looking for them. The Unova region is heavily grotesque in that it fails in its forced marriage of nature and urbanization. Within 30 seconds you are able to travel from a forest, to a bridge, to a metropolis, to a desert. The inspiration of New York City bares little resemblance outside of the trivial skyscrapers and harbors in Castelia City. Perhaps the only redeeming and general progression in the Pokémon series is the beautifully crafted soundtrack. However, outside of this there is little if anything new to the series.… Expand
  34. guitarguy001
    Jan 8, 2014
    7
    A great RPG for the DS, though not as good as it's previous installments. While the gameplay is incredibly familiar and addicting and it has great visuals for the DS, the story itself is meh, especially towards the ending. The music, while good, is pretty forgettable and for a Pokemon game, that's a negative. However, the game itself is very fun and addicting especially with friends, butA great RPG for the DS, though not as good as it's previous installments. While the gameplay is incredibly familiar and addicting and it has great visuals for the DS, the story itself is meh, especially towards the ending. The music, while good, is pretty forgettable and for a Pokemon game, that's a negative. However, the game itself is very fun and addicting especially with friends, but it is not the best Pokemon installment.… Expand
  35. dislexicpotato
    Nov 2, 2018
    7
    With many new ideas Pokemon Black is definitely a good game however many of its new Pokemon are quite forgettable and the experience overall just isn't as memorable as its predecessors
  36. POK95
    Mar 22, 2018
    7
    I've been playing those games these days, and i find them really good, story its the second best for me (The best now its Sun and Moon) and routes and great. The bad thing a can found its the designs of the Pokémon, some are really great, but, for example, starters... Just bad. The region is one of the most lineal, but it has interesting places. Difficulty doesn't exists here at least inI've been playing those games these days, and i find them really good, story its the second best for me (The best now its Sun and Moon) and routes and great. The bad thing a can found its the designs of the Pokémon, some are really great, but, for example, starters... Just bad. The region is one of the most lineal, but it has interesting places. Difficulty doesn't exists here at least in the main story, a bit at postgame, which is great.

    I really love the soundtrack and Ghechis is a great villain. Games are good, if you want a great pixel Pokémon game, this is a good one.    … Expand
  37. Speedie
    May 22, 2019
    7
    Story is a main focus for this game. Pokemon had been adding more and more story to their games up to the release of Pokemon Black Version and this game delivered one of the best stories yet. It challenges many things that you think about the Pokemon world and treats you more like a true hero than a kid playing a video game. Almost all of the new content to this game is memorable andStory is a main focus for this game. Pokemon had been adding more and more story to their games up to the release of Pokemon Black Version and this game delivered one of the best stories yet. It challenges many things that you think about the Pokemon world and treats you more like a true hero than a kid playing a video game. Almost all of the new content to this game is memorable and fantastic, especially the season changing feature, where the seasons in game will change every few weeks. Pokemon Black Version also had the cleanest graphics and art out of all of the 2D Pokemon games to compliment its variety of music, moods, and events.

    The reason this game falls a bit short is mostly its ambitiousness not quite paying off. The quick connection feature is something you rarely use, that Game Freak seems to have put a lot of time into. It seems like they wanted to expand into an online oriented game before moving the series to 3DS, when they should have waited for their next main series game instead. The "triple battles" was something I was so excited for when the game first came out, but I'm not sure I ever even used it.

    Most of what Game Freak did for this game, was a massive leap for the series, but they tried to do too much, too fast. The game is definitely an exciting and engaging one, but too many features were a let down.    … Expand
  38. Sfrio
    Jan 13, 2022
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Pokemon black&White é um excelente jogo em história , tem uma equipe vilã é um vilão bom, e também tem um envolvimento melhor dos lideres de ginasio na história, podia ter mais conteudo em gameplay, mais ele é excelente em exploração , o que me encomonda muito é que as batalhas são fáceis demais, mais trás sistemas novos como de estações do ano, e de batalha tripla é batalha rotatória.… Expand
  39. Triblue
    May 21, 2023
    7
    Très sympa. C'est un Pokémon classique mais un Pokémon est toujours sympa et amusant au point que je pourrais presque mettre le même commentaire à tous les Pokémons.
  40. RuneScapian
    Jan 27, 2012
    6
    Honestly, Pokemon games are starting to get worse and worse. Nintendo seems to be running out of ideas for new Pokemon (a sarcophagus, seriously). Generation IV of Pokemon pretty much ruined it all. It's more fun to actually go to another person's house and play the older Pokemon games in person.
  41. CheeZ_Girl
    Feb 27, 2012
    6
    honestly, It's really getting boring. they should try to get better ideas...... I'm just kinda sick of the Pokemon series.... this is nothing compared to the amazing-ness of my favourite; pokemon ruby.
  42. rubin
    Apr 28, 2012
    6
    Why GameFreak, why? Why, after the excellent HG/SS versions, you had to come out with this... thing? The best bet I have is that the team that worked on this abomination is NOT the same that worked on HG and SS. But anyway. The entire franchise got so dumbed down with Black and White it's not even funny. Poison not working outside of battle? Region being linear as crap? Gym leaders onlyWhy GameFreak, why? Why, after the excellent HG/SS versions, you had to come out with this... thing? The best bet I have is that the team that worked on this abomination is NOT the same that worked on HG and SS. But anyway. The entire franchise got so dumbed down with Black and White it's not even funny. Poison not working outside of battle? Region being linear as crap? Gym leaders only ever having 3 Pokemon max? Audinos and Lucky Egg making the game lose ANY traces of challenge it ever had? And that's only scratching the top of a mountain of problems this game has. Truth to be told, the game has some improvements. Mostly minor, and/or completely irrelevant to the franchise as a whole (like a plot) but there are still there. Still, the game left me with a really bad aftertaste (esp. with what they did to the multiplayer...) and that pushed me, a lifelong fan of the franchise, to rate this game with such an avarage score.… Expand
  43. Steeldude
    Oct 13, 2014
    6
    Pokémon that look really ugly, lack of Pokémon from other generations making your team very limited, the worst region which is completely linear and is basically a single line and a very boring post-game. Easily the worst Pokémon game I've ever played and even the better story than usual cannot outweigh the flaws in this one.
  44. Focaccia
    Apr 28, 2017
    6
    In my opinion, the 5th gen is the worst pokemon gen, simply because the game isn't as fun as the other games. That does't mean it's a bad game, it's just that this game simply lacks originality, and at the time, pokemon was starting to get repetitive (until the 7th gen).
  45. SortOfCritic
    Jan 1, 2018
    6
    Pokemon Black and White offers great music, a strong story, awesome pixel visuals, and the biggest new roster of Pokemon ever seen. However, its crippled by major balancing issues, as multiple challenge spikes will frustrate you to no end. I found myself going at a steady pace, but still getting stuck on every single gym I came across, I really hope I'm not just bad
  46. brendo214
    May 21, 2019
    6
    I always never liked that the Pokemon from previous generations weren't in this game.
  47. Nikitosss95
    Feb 13, 2021
    6
    This is the last Pokemon game that I played so far. I didn’t go beyond generation V and I have stopped right there. This game is still solid, however I found those new Pokémons a bit distasteful and weird (as if someone was running out of ideas). I am a Pokémon fan of the first four generations; maybe I grew up from Pokémon, but Pokémon Black didn’t impress me that much, although theThis is the last Pokemon game that I played so far. I didn’t go beyond generation V and I have stopped right there. This game is still solid, however I found those new Pokémons a bit distasteful and weird (as if someone was running out of ideas). I am a Pokémon fan of the first four generations; maybe I grew up from Pokémon, but Pokémon Black didn’t impress me that much, although the region was fun to explore... when I heard that the following games would contain Megaevolutions, that ruined Pokémon world for me forever, unfortunately… Expand
  48. LordJazbin
    Apr 19, 2021
    6
    Story is bad, but not as bad as before, Pokémon designs are horrible, more inspired by Kanto than ever and most of them evolve at high levels so you won't be able to see their final form in the maingame this time around, maingame is short and difficulty is a joke... But... The game is pretty fun to play and it improved a lot all of the flaws Diamond and Pearl or Platinum had. It reallyStory is bad, but not as bad as before, Pokémon designs are horrible, more inspired by Kanto than ever and most of them evolve at high levels so you won't be able to see their final form in the maingame this time around, maingame is short and difficulty is a joke... But... The game is pretty fun to play and it improved a lot all of the flaws Diamond and Pearl or Platinum had. It really feels like a DS game, not like those. Also the music is as always very good.… Expand
  49. sathvik_
    Aug 1, 2023
    6
    Good but im not too fond of the "only gen 4 pokemons in this game" thing, its a bit lack luster
  50. Garde_Mystik
    Aug 23, 2023
    6
    I was writing a review but got hit with a 403 forbidden and my review got removed. I'm just gonna leave it at this. tl;dr - Pokemon Black and White, as GAMES, are kinda mid. the climax was epic. the story was flawed and really boring much of the way through. the gameplay is super dull and barren for a pokemon game, almost as much so as the gen 1 games. this was disappointing for a game 5I was writing a review but got hit with a 403 forbidden and my review got removed. I'm just gonna leave it at this. tl;dr - Pokemon Black and White, as GAMES, are kinda mid. the climax was epic. the story was flawed and really boring much of the way through. the gameplay is super dull and barren for a pokemon game, almost as much so as the gen 1 games. this was disappointing for a game 5 generations in. Even games like XY people find are barebones have so much more to them in the gameplay aspect than Black and White. BW added detrimental features like the critical health theme, holding hostage the quality of each fight, the postgame was overrated, as it was simply 3 cities you explored with little incentive and not much reward. The Battle Subway is heavily lackluster in comparison to gens 3-4 battle facilities and gens 6-7 battle facilities, despite being the only battle facility in this game.… Expand
  51. alex2542
    Jun 17, 2011
    5
    How dare you make such an awesome game, with such an awesome story and then have such weird looking pokemon. Honestly they look awful. Especially the legendaries. I was iffy about the pokemon in Pearl and Diamond,, but I eventually warmed up to them. In the same time, that hasn't happened with these. I like about 10 of them total.
  52. seieko_pherdo
    Jul 13, 2011
    5
    For whatever reason Black and White Version have there own separate pages, and I don't see why since since there basically the same game. Well in truth every Pokemon game is the same game. Ok the story is good and questions where you bring harm to your army of cute fire breathing badge getters, but just who is this game really for? While the rating says everybody is game aimed at the oldFor whatever reason Black and White Version have there own separate pages, and I don't see why since since there basically the same game. Well in truth every Pokemon game is the same game. Ok the story is good and questions where you bring harm to your army of cute fire breathing badge getters, but just who is this game really for? While the rating says everybody is game aimed at the old fans or the young kids who may not be old enough to care and just want to catch strange looking creatures. While I'm 20 and while I liked the plot I though they could have pushed it farther. However my real issues lie within some the other things the game does. The C-Gear is my biggest pet peeve as I missed the useful menu thing Soul Silver had that made use of the bottom screen apposed to some online thing you will rarely use. Well if you have a lot friends who play this then it has some use but once again whose buying this game? I know more people my own age who have this apposed to kids but I have no life. As the for the new Pokemon I don't care for them much with the exception of a grass type. The game seems unbalanced since if you pick the fire pig you can basically pat your self on the back since most of the Pokemon you will encounter will be weak to moves the pig will learn. While I thought it was nice that you can't resort to old favorites till you beat the game once. I liked the fact the levels were higher too so you can't just wipe out your foes with ease though the new music that plays when your health hit the red zone is really annoying. It's also annoying how they took out most of the neat stuff from Soul Silver such a gym leader rematches, the phone system (still in need of work). The world just feels like a closed off island. But they did finally make TM's unlimited so you could use a move more than once. In general I'm not how to look at this game, personally I think there should be a game that reaches out to the older players instead of trying to jumble the old and the young players. Until then I think for people like me Pokemon will stay as a kitchen sink game, the kind you play to waste time till class starts.… Expand
  53. Rule2006
    Oct 23, 2011
    5
    When I first saw this game I was super excited, but after 2 hours of playing this game I just gave it away to a friend. First off people might think the graphics are great for a Pokemon game, but I didn't think it looked that much different than Diamond, Pearl and Platinum. Everything in this game is in 3D, except for 1 thing, YOU. I just think that Nintendo should take more risks in theseWhen I first saw this game I was super excited, but after 2 hours of playing this game I just gave it away to a friend. First off people might think the graphics are great for a Pokemon game, but I didn't think it looked that much different than Diamond, Pearl and Platinum. Everything in this game is in 3D, except for 1 thing, YOU. I just think that Nintendo should take more risks in these games because in each new installments the only thing I find better is graphics(slightly), maybe combat and te menus. There was only really 1 thing that I liked in this game and that was the unlimited use of TMs which I found quite useful. The one thing that really bothered me was that in the first Pokemon games you only had to collect 150/151 Pokemon to fill the Pokedex which was hard enough as is, but now to fully complete the Pokedex you have to collect over 600. I just think that Pokemon has gone too far with the series. Pokemon Red, Blue, Yellow, Gold, Silver, Crystal, Fire Red, Leaf Green, Sapphire, Ruby and Emerald were all great, but after that I found it was the same game with a new coat of paint. The series should soon end.… Expand
  54. loungegecko
    Mar 10, 2012
    5
    I will say right off the bat that I'm not giving this a 5 because of the new pokemon. I actually think they're very well designed, and a lot of them are super cool. Here's my thing with Pokemon: I like the play style every time. They take the same ol classic Pokemon gameplay and update it with some good changes to make it feel new. I think this time they might have gone a bit overboard,I will say right off the bat that I'm not giving this a 5 because of the new pokemon. I actually think they're very well designed, and a lot of them are super cool. Here's my thing with Pokemon: I like the play style every time. They take the same ol classic Pokemon gameplay and update it with some good changes to make it feel new. I think this time they might have gone a bit overboard, though. It doesn't play like the Pokemon we know and love. Now the number one most important thing to me with Pokemon games: the post-game. I really liked the second and fourth gens (and Emerald in the third gen) because there was so much to do after you beat the Elite Four, and I never actually found myself deleting my save. In Black and White... there's almost nothing. You can go catch a few legendaries. That's it. There's no captivating Battle Tower like thing (there's something similar, but it's not quite as fun, and it can be done throughout the game), there's no captivating new area (once again, there is a new area, but it can be torn through rather quickly without much to do in it), and there aren't many people you can rebattle. I guess with this generation of Pokemon game I'm not mad, just disappointed.… Expand
  55. Rundas342
    Jan 7, 2012
    5
    I played every pokemon released up to date, and this one is by far the worst i have ever played. Reason why? 1. It is very hard to find TM's and HM's in the game.
    2. There is NO vs seeker or method to fight the trianers you have battle before like previous pokemon game.
    3. Enemy Pokemon are much stronger than yours unless your really take time into the game to EV train them. 4. Once you    I played every pokemon released up to date, and this one is by far the worst i have ever played. Reason why? 1. It is very hard to find TM's and HM's in the game.
    2. There is NO vs seeker or method to fight the trianers you have battle before like previous pokemon game.
    3. Enemy Pokemon are much stronger than yours unless your really take time into the game to EV train them. 4. Once you beat the elite four the first time there is a MAJOR level gap when you beging to travel to the next town. A 20 level difference to be exact, which mean time to grind for 20 levels all your pokemon. (Not fun imo) 5. It seems that the makers of pokemon are running out of ideas in making new pokemon, some that where released just look ridiculous 2 of weirdest i've seen are #568 which is a garbage bag pretty much and #618 which looks like a fish who was run'd over by a truck. Those were my negative thought about the game.
    As for my positive they are as followed,

    1. Great Story line.
    2. The triple battle system.    … Expand
  56. kylesar
    Apr 21, 2013
    5
    The game has a nice storyline, but it all boils down to the Pokemon. I was highly pissed off at the Vanillite and Trubbish families. The Pokemon doesn't meet the awesomeness as it did in generation 4 and 1. Other than those things, the game is pretty nice. Unfortunately, the game revolves completely around the Pokemon you can catch
  57. KramR
    Mar 23, 2018
    5
    La generación que volvió la saga repetitiva y se vendió como "innovadora". Para mi, lo único bueno que saqué de esta generación fue la historia, que se transformó en mi favorita, pero ahora ha llegado "Sol y Luna" eclipsándola por completo. Creo que "Blanco y Negro" necesitan un buen remake que dé vida a posiblemente la región más sosa de la saga junto a Kanto.

    No fue un mal juego, pero    La generación que volvió la saga repetitiva y se vendió como "innovadora". Para mi, lo único bueno que saqué de esta generación fue la historia, que se transformó en mi favorita, pero ahora ha llegado "Sol y Luna" eclipsándola por completo. Creo que "Blanco y Negro" necesitan un buen remake que dé vida a posiblemente la región más sosa de la saga junto a Kanto.

    No fue un mal juego, pero fue más de lo mismo. Poca innovación, poco arriesgar, poco más que la primera historia memorable de la franquicia.

    Los diseños la transforman en la generación que más añadió, pero que menos funciona. Los Pokémon iniciales son seguramente los menos "bonitos" de la saga. Aún así, creo que ciertos Pokémon cuentan con un diseño arriesgado pero acertado, el problema principal de los diseños es que el 80% intentan copiar los diseños de la primera generación.

    De hecho, estos son los juegos que más se basan sin duda en "Rojo y Azul" fue un intento fallido de "Reboot" para la saga.

    La dificultad es nula, sin llegar al extremo de facilidad que tocaron "X e Y", pero convirtiéndose en uno de los juegos más fáciles de toda la saga.

    No es el peor juego de la saga, pero seguramente, de los menos interesantes. Si lo juegas, que sea para enterarte de la historia.    … Expand
  58. sebastianali
    Jul 17, 2021
    5
    Great graphics, one of the best plot of the franchise, amazing soundtrack and a great amount of replay value, whats wrong then?
    Im not a big fan of the new exp system, the grinding is excessive, lack of innovation, some of the Pokemon designs are horrible, the level curve of battles are a bit excessive sometimes and the pacing is still very slow, so it gets boring.
  59. ZangBang
    Feb 5, 2023
    5
    UPDATE
    Pokémon Black introduces us to the Unova region, a bustling melting pot of diverse cities, settlements, folklore and ideas. That is the stage of the player's adventure as playfully vibrant, resounding musical pieces accentuate the lively nature of the region and permeate the journey with an endearingly exuberant feel. A journey characterized by a surprising amount of interesting    UPDATE
    Pokémon Black introduces us to the Unova region, a bustling melting pot of diverse cities, settlements, folklore and ideas. That is the stage of the player's adventure as playfully vibrant, resounding musical pieces accentuate the lively nature of the region and permeate the journey with an endearingly exuberant feel. A journey characterized by a surprising amount of interesting character arcs, in a much more story-driven experience tackling unusually mature topics for the series like one's purpose in life, the clash of different ideologies, abuse and propaganda. Regrettably, all of this is done in a pretty simplistic way to avoid straying too far from the intended target audience, but it's nonetheless the most engaging plot and cast of characters in the series yet. Gameplay on the other hand doesn't do much to innovate the series' core formula, which can often be quite monotonous and repetitive especially by today's standards, but at least a pleasant level of challenge keeps the player on edge against the strongest adversaries, and the layered level design provides some rich, engaging exploration. Pokémon Contests do not make a return to leave room for Musicals, which are a dramatically worse side-activity with less depth, content and player agency.    … Expand
  60. AlexMakesToast
    Dec 16, 2022
    5
    Black = 5/10
    ...............................................................
  61. zeldass
    Mar 27, 2012
    4
    same thing as past pokemon.it would be a 6 if they madenew thingsauuuuuuuuuuuuueeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeerrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrreeeeeeeeee
  62. Lost_Hero9
    May 7, 2012
    4
    This game breaks my heart because its the worse one in the series. I've been playing Pokemon since R, B, Y and this is easily the worst in the franchise. Honestly, the TV series has went downhill and now the games are showing the same signs. At this rate, this series will be milked to death. I'm still a true Pokemon fan but they are going downhill.
  63. Shulknoblade
    Sep 4, 2019
    4
    This was originally written in White version:

    Don't get me wrong, it was a good game, maybe a 4 is little note... But I expected so much from this game. Someone told me this was the BEST Pokémon game to date and I decided i had to played it... So i did it and... Well... It's FAR from the best. And i'm not talking about the ugly Pokémon designs or whatever... People that love this    This was originally written in White version:

    Don't get me wrong, it was a good game, maybe a 4 is little note... But I expected so much from this game. Someone told me this was the BEST Pokémon game to date and I decided i had to played it... So i did it and... Well... It's FAR from the best. And i'm not talking about the ugly Pokémon designs or whatever...

    People that love this game, always talk about an 'amazing' plot, but it's not. It's just another Pokémon game like the previous generations but now with a green hair male talking and bothering you so much through the adventure to repeat almost the same things he said to you before. And you don't care at all, because he's not your friend, he's just a stranger, why the hell is he talking to you so much?

    The bad guy Ghetsis is... SO BAD. Maybe not the worst villain (Hello XY) but it's just a stupid that don't know how to hide a plan. He spends 90% of the game revealing you and the rest of the people that he's bad and wants to destroy the world. What the hell?

    People tend to romanticize this plot with 'the ideals', 'not everything is Black and White'... And yeah the idea is good, but it just doesn't work. You can't sell 'not everything is black or white' and then create a villain that is purely black and without reasons to be. Ghetsis it's bad because yes, because he born that way.

    N was a good innovation in 2011, he was the first character to take away some prominence from the player, and that's great. Because although he has boring and redundant speeches, he's charismatic and memorable. But let's be realistic, we are in 2019, 'Sword & Shield' is near and 'Sun & Moon' has a much more catchy and interesting story, with little plot twists, great treated relations and well developed characters. For me the best game to date is Sun & Moon, at least talking about the story, and we'll se what happens with SWSH.

    But for me, this game is good, has some problems with flaws in the Pokédex, linear map and things like that, but has great music, interesting topics, a great champion, good postgame and well... It's a Pokémon, it's a good game. The thing is that it's NOT the best, and if you're looking for the best one. For me you better play 'Sun & Moon' (not the USUM version please).

    Hope this don't offend anyone, is great if you loved this game!    … Expand
  64. ColeEngo
    Nov 30, 2022
    4
    Was not a fan and made me kinda drop pokemon entirely for a while. Nothing memorable.
  65. AnthonyStf
    May 18, 2023
    4
    This an BORING GAME! B2W2 is so much better. The progeinsoions is so slow. The fire starter suck, the anime suck, this sucks. Pokemon black is not a good game, probaly one of the worst. 4/10, and B2W2 is a 10/10
  66. JasonBB
    Nov 20, 2019
    3
    Hand holding started here. Difficulty in this game sucks, being the final boss the only "hard" battle, and it's in fact easy. Pokémon got boring with this generation. Unova map is linear as hell.

    For me this is one of the worst Pokémon games. This game doesn't have the essence of Pokémon, even the interface is boring and dull.
  67. JohnCapala
    Jan 2, 2020
    3
    Everyone says that this games have the best story in the franchise but they DON'T. Story is silly as hell, Ghetsis is dumb just revealing his "master plan" to everyone every time he appears, Team Plasma is just a bad filler full of stupid dialogues doing incoherent stuff all the way. It's just really DUMB and childish.

    The game only tells you something interesting at the beginning and    Everyone says that this games have the best story in the franchise but they DON'T. Story is silly as hell, Ghetsis is dumb just revealing his "master plan" to everyone every time he appears, Team Plasma is just a bad filler full of stupid dialogues doing incoherent stuff all the way. It's just really DUMB and childish.

    The game only tells you something interesting at the beginning and at the very end, because the rest is just the same dull characters repeating their favourites words to remember you what to do. Disgusting. The plot make no sense at all since the moment they say you are the chosen one because: yes.

    And let's not forget the bad Pokédex type balance, the MOST linear region of them all, the ugly and Kanto inspired Pokémon designs you must use (thanks GF for improve designs in the new generations), the pretentious the plot is always trying hard to be, the region being bland and similar to Kanto, the short main game...

    This game can be one of the worst games in the franchise with XY.    … Expand
  68. interprete
    Nov 19, 2020
    3
    not great game. I did not have much fun playing it. lots of room for improvement
  69. GDsReviews
    May 27, 2022
    3
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Pokemon Black and White are games full of spectacular extremes. The soundtrack apart from the grating Low HP Music is great, the world is diverse with day, night, and seasons, has an evil team that comes extremely close to its goal and disrupts the Pokemon League like no team before or since, and then has the worst Pokemon of any generation and grinds to a halt after beating it.

    These games have no older generation Pokemon available to you until you beat the game, and that makes the game an exceptional and often frustrating challenge. This generation of Pokemon is so terrible I passionately refer to it as the “Rotgut Generation.” The final boss isn’t even the champion, it is the evil team leader’s head in Ghetsis. Ghetsis’ theme has since become both the stuff of legends and the butt of jokes with the chants sounding like “Dennis” in his imposing battle theme. You can only face the real champion after beating the game, but the game grinds to a complete halt by then.    … Expand
  70. MathewRD
    Mar 10, 2011
    2
    It's the same exact pokemon game you played years ago with a few graphic improvements. The new pokemon are new, true. But the gameplay is still the same, story is still the same, puzzles are still the same, etc. etc. If you're a true pokemon fan, this game is for you and only you.
  71. shambo
    Jul 21, 2012
    1
    For newcomers to the Pokemon Series, this might seem like a masterpiece, from a Generation One perspective it's a recycled piece of poop , with some of the ugliest character designs in the history of video games. I mean who wants an ice-cream for a pokemon? It may possess some new features, but it is intrinsically the same as all the other series. The storyline as alwaysFor newcomers to the Pokemon Series, this might seem like a masterpiece, from a Generation One perspective it's a recycled piece of poop , with some of the ugliest character designs in the history of video games. I mean who wants an ice-cream for a pokemon? It may possess some new features, but it is intrinsically the same as all the other series. The storyline as always encompasses, getting the 8 badges, defeating the bad guys and becoming the Pokemon Champion. They always try to throw in legendary pokemon, to make the game feel 'special, but the reality is a flawed gimmick that needs to be in the ground.

    On a positive note the graphic improvements are breath of fresh air. The characters although ugly, are at least clear, and the background scenery is nice. But people, let me remind you that the purpose of a video game is not the Michael Bay visual's, it's the feeling that you are sucked the world you are exploring without effort . Unfortunately, Pokemon Black/white does match this bill.    … Expand
  72. Federx
    Jan 30, 2022
    1
    garbage. i regret purchasing it, even unworthy of being pirated. to this day the bottom of the barrel of the entire franchise
  73. ProudGenwunner
    Feb 14, 2017
    0
    This game is a massive failure. I can't even get Charizard wtf.
    because this is forcing me to add characters the reason it is a 0/10 is because it has 0 real pokemon and features an abomination known as Druddigon.
  74. Danikyo-Inverso
    May 13, 2023
    0
    Lo peor en toda la saga, pokémon feos, una historia pretenciosa y mal escrita, y es la región de las barreras y los bloqueos absurdos, no hay lugar a donde ir sin que el juego no sepa justificar adonde puedes ir y adonde no, ademas que es fácil en todos sus lideres de gimnasio, no existe reto alguno.
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Awards & Rankings

2
#2 Best DS Game of 2011
1
#1 Most Discussed DS Game of 2011
2
#2 Most Shared DS Game of 2011

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
87

Generally favorable reviews - based on 63 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 62 out of 63
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 63
  3. Negative: 0 out of 63
  1. Universo Nintendo
    Jun 5, 2011
    92
    Learning from the past without ever taking his eyes off the present, this is the pinnacle of the series to date and proof that sometimes you don't need a revolution to give new life to a franchise.
    Read full review
  2. GameOver.gr
    Apr 30, 2011
    90
    Game Freak did it again. Pokemon Black Version is a masterpiece, delivering all the superb gameplay elements that fans of the series learned to love over the years. The only drawback is the dated technology it uses, something that will surely be addressed in the future versions for the 3DS.
    Read full review
  3. Level7.nu
    Apr 18, 2011
    90
    Actually a Pokémon game with some news. The online modes have been polished, there's new pokémons, quick, better animated battles and better graphics.
    Read full review
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