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. 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.
  2. chocapic
    Oct 28, 2017
    10
    EL mejor juego de la saga, con mejores diseños de pokemon, mejor historia de lejos, mejores personajes, mejor dificultad, un final abierto para sus secuelas... en fin 12/10
  3. 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).
  4. 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.
  5. c0mpu73rguy
    Oct 14, 2016
    9
    A really great pokemon game after the (kinda) disappointing 4th gen. The addition of seasons makes up for a very dynamic game map, the story is good for a pokemon game and thankfully, after May and Dawn, we have a new antagonistic rival. Top that with great music, a massive map to explore and splendid cities and you have a really great pokemon game.
  6. Vidjagamez
    Aug 29, 2016
    9
    This might seem strange but the 5th generation of pokemon has always been my favorite.The story is great,the art style is beautiful,and even the anime managed to entertain me.While others complain about vannilluxe and garbordor I see some of my favorite pokemon like lilligant and haxorous.This game truly is a masterpiece.
  7. TVHeadTed
    Aug 9, 2015
    10
    This game is truly masterful and breathes new life into the pokemon series, in more ways than one. Game Freak took a big chance in removing all the pokemon from the previous games, however I think this give the player a chance to experience something great. You are now put into a situation where you cannot rely on using the same pokemon you have been using years before. You must dig downThis game is truly masterful and breathes new life into the pokemon series, in more ways than one. Game Freak took a big chance in removing all the pokemon from the previous games, however I think this give the player a chance to experience something great. You are now put into a situation where you cannot rely on using the same pokemon you have been using years before. You must dig down back into the roots of pokemon, when you first started playing. That experience of seeing a new pokemon, that feeling of trying to come up with a team of pokemon you have never used before. It's a truly nostalgic experience. Looking at some of the designs of the pokemon of this game you'll see that many are similar to the original 151. This allows the players to have an idea of how the new pokemon will play, while still changing the pokemon around enough to make them unique from the originals. The designs are incredibly fresh as well, with nothing overly complicated (except for a handful of very specific ones), but nothing boringly simple. There are some REALLY amazing designs in this game, some of which are a little darker than others if you dig deep into their lore, giving the game a bit of a more adult feel. In addition, the plot to this game is magnificent (by pokemon standards). It asks the player challenging, adult questions at times, and some players are left to ponder their childhood games. There's actually quite some bit of character development in the games rivals and main antagonist. In addition, there's a bunch of great surprises that will keep this game outstandingly fresh, especially towards the end.

    In conclusion, this game was made for the fans. Game Freak knew the players of the original games where getting more mature and many wanted a little more significant pokemon game. So, Game Freak decided to make a game for them. It is a game that appeals to the new players in that there are crisp and cool new pokemon designs, and keeps the basic elements of the games beforehand. It appeals to older pokemon players in that they can get a fresh breath of air, while still being able to go on an adventure similar to their first encounter with the game. It fixes some minor issues, challenges older players, and holds what is probably some of the best pokemon Game Freak have to offer. Over all, it is (in my humble opinion), the best pokemon game to date.

    (ps. Vanilluxe is one of my favorite pokemon, eat your heart out genwunners)    … Expand
  8. SrOctopus
    Jan 19, 2015
    9
    A great underrated game that deserves more love. It's a great new story and the gameplay mechanics are just getting better. 5th gen is not as bad as everyone says, it's one of the best generation in my opinion.
  9. ziozxzioz
    Dec 10, 2014
    10
    3 years after it's release, it's still the best core pokemon game to date. Fresh new experience with only brand new pokemon, it revives the feeling of exploration that pokemon Red and Blue had plus some of THE best OSTs i've heard in quite a while. Some themes are masterpieces while others are just very good. Team Plasma is the most interesting villian team in the whole franchise, moving3 years after it's release, it's still the best core pokemon game to date. Fresh new experience with only brand new pokemon, it revives the feeling of exploration that pokemon Red and Blue had plus some of THE best OSTs i've heard in quite a while. Some themes are masterpieces while others are just very good. Team Plasma is the most interesting villian team in the whole franchise, moving from stupid or clichéd goals like "let's steal every pokemon" or "let's expand the sea" to much deeper questions with no definite answer like "why should pokemons work for us?", that makes for a superb story. The game's progression is much more defined by the actions of this organization, as opposed to just getting all the badges. Most Gym Leaders have actual personalities and roles in the story too, and I don't want to spoil it, but the ending of the game is one of the best i've seen in a pokemon game (after GS). It's a shame Nintendo is moving away from this game's features, as they triggered a very nostalgic part in people who played the first games and where more challenging (I don't think I've ever spent that much time trying to beat the pokemon league). All things considered, this was and still is THE definitive pokemon game.… Expand
  10. 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.
  11. LookinLikeMagic
    Jan 31, 2014
    9
    Story & Characters: 8/10
    With the improved 3D effect Game Freak is able portray a much more cinematic story than was possible in past games. Unlike past games the villainous gang have an interesting goal other than to simply steal Pokémon out of greed. Team Plasma believes they are good guys trying to protect Pokémon from the cruelty of human ownership. However it doesn’t make much sense    Story & Characters: 8/10
    With the improved 3D effect Game Freak is able portray a much more cinematic story than was possible in past games. Unlike past games the villainous gang have an interesting goal other than to simply steal Pokémon out of greed. Team Plasma believes they are good guys trying to protect Pokémon from the cruelty of human ownership. However it doesn’t make much sense why they themselves use Pokémon to accomplish this goal. Although this is an interesting twist on the signature Pokémon storyline it is never really developed into a meaningful conclusion.

    Like the past few titles the player has more than one rival, a friend from your home town and an evil rival. Black and White takes this further, the player now has two friends who battle and assist the player throughout the game. These characters however are very dull when compared to Wally or Blue. The main villain and rival “N” however is a breath of air with a great back story and interesting dialogue.

    Visuals & Sound: 10/10
    Black and White looks radically different to past games in the series introducing 3D like effect perhaps leading up to a 3DS version. This graphical update is the biggest leap in the series since the move from GBC to GBA. These 3D effects push the DS hardware to its limits but makes environments look stunning. However due to the limitations of the DS Pokémon in battles look pixelated and sometimes ugly in battles. The game includes pre-rendered cut scenes at some points in the game which look great but they are rarely shown.

    Like every new generation Black and White introduces over 100 new species of Pokémon. However very few of these Pokémon look very impresssive compared to older generations. Although they do not look very appealing it seems to be the most varied generation to date and is not plagued with a particular type such as normal in Red and Blue or water in Ruby and Sapphire.

    Throughout the series they have introduced intro animations were Pokémon move briefly when the battle begins only for it to be removed in the next game in the series but brought back later on. These animations return in Black & White and although they slow down battles considerably they are appreciated. Due to the longer animations during battles, random encounters are much more frustrating taking several seconds before you can flee.

    Gameplay: 10/10
    Black & White keeps to the signature Pokémon formula. Although it doesn’t bring anything revolutionary to the series it is the most refined and structured Pokémon game yet. These refinements include Pokémon Centres and Poke Marts being combined into a single building and unlimited TM uses. Other than these refinements Black & White adds some slight adjustments to keep the gameplay fresh, it introduces both triple battles and rotating battles. Rotating battles contain 3 Pokémon per side which are switch into a one v one battle each getting a single move before switching, meaning players have to anticipate future switches.

    Unfortunately takes you by the hand throughout the campaign introducing you to locations even after you have your first badge. I understand they have this in the game but this shouldn’t go one beyond the first 30 minutes or should at least have some way to skip it. Black & White seems to be the easiest game yet in the series due to less emphasis on team type balancing and a lack of enemy powerhouses (Milktank in Gold and Silver). Continuing with the day and night feature introduced in Generation 2 Black & White introduces seasons alter both the appearance of the environment and the types of Pokémon you can catch.

    Multiplayer & Extras: 9/10
    Like the past few entries Black & White have a huge emphasis on player interaction. Early on in the game you are given a C-Gear which allows them to trade and battle with other players. Using friend codes you are able to interact with friends either wirelessly or online. However you are able to trade and battle with random players around the world online making it much more convenient to catch em all. The C-Gear also includes a past by feature which allows the player to exchange information with other players when in range.

    Enjoyment: 9/10
    Although Black & White is nothing game changing it an excellent entry into the series continuing to capture the magic that was introduced in Red & Blue. Besides being Pokémon games, Black & White are excellent turn based RPGs with a huge amount of content making them an excellent purchase for any RPG fan.    … Expand
  12. 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
  13. 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
  14. Jamison12
    Jul 23, 2013
    10
    What's not to love?
    The only fault is that you have to face the Elite 4 twice to become champ. Despite that though, Pokemon Black is a fun pokemon game, and easier, but not too easy, training.
  15. jeff_reviews
    Jul 23, 2013
    10
    "Pokemon Black Version" is spectacular due to its massive cities, beautiful visuals, and realistic premises. With new additions with seasons, skyscrapers, and roller coasters, "Pokemon Black Version" is a great example of how far the Pokemon game's technology has come. With new and interesting Pokemon, a wonderful villainous team called Team Plasma, and wonderful visuals, "Pokemon Black"Pokemon Black Version" is spectacular due to its massive cities, beautiful visuals, and realistic premises. With new additions with seasons, skyscrapers, and roller coasters, "Pokemon Black Version" is a great example of how far the Pokemon game's technology has come. With new and interesting Pokemon, a wonderful villainous team called Team Plasma, and wonderful visuals, "Pokemon Black Version" is the perfect game for Pokemon fans to love.… Expand
  16. 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
  17. Bloodlustrous
    May 11, 2013
    9
    Intense story, many cheap designs.

    When someone brings up the Generation 5 Pokemon, immediately people will bring up the "ice cream Pokemon." Yes, there is an ice cream Pokemon. It was a generic design and a bad idea. That is no excuse to rate this game low. If Magneton were to come out in generation 5, everyone would be like "really? an magnet Pokemon? How lame!" but because of it's    Intense story, many cheap designs.

    When someone brings up the Generation 5 Pokemon, immediately people will bring up the "ice cream Pokemon." Yes, there is an ice cream Pokemon. It was a generic design and a bad idea. That is no excuse to rate this game low. If Magneton were to come out in generation 5, everyone would be like "really? an magnet Pokemon? How lame!" but because of it's release date, it is embraced as an original Pokemon and given much praise and love. Magneton the magnet Pokemon is just as generic as Vanilluxe the vanilla ice cream Pokemon.

    The storyline in the Pokemon games has always been predictable yet satisfying. This installment breaks the chain. The story was not as predictable and had odd twists in it every now and again.

    Same enjoyable fighting and leveling, unexpected new plot, interesting change in overworld graphics, all new Pokemon and tons of fun as always.    … Expand
  18. 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
  19. 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.
  20. 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.
  21. 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.
  22. andrewrox
    Dec 16, 2012
    10
    Amaziiiinnnnngggg.....well it's a good game great story sadly doesn't have as much stuff to do as black 2 but still a good game.....I find this game great and a must have
  23. MOHAMMAD0203
    Nov 1, 2012
    9
    Pokemon may be getting old as some may say but Pokemon black proves that theory wrong.Pokemon black realizes the full potential Pokemon could reach with its great story and narrative ,new graphics and charming visuals , to its improved multiplayer.Where this game lacks is still weak graphics and weak Pokemon designs.
  24. 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
  25. alexwald16
    Oct 9, 2012
    10
    In the generations of Pokémon, one color is representative of a version, be it Red and Blue or Gold and Silver. Never before were direct opposing colors used
  26. julius98
    Oct 6, 2012
    10
    At first I did not want to buy this game. I guessed that adding 156 totally new Pokémon to the game would cause too little variation and few really new and exciting Pokémon. I was definitely wrong. The starters are awesome. Although the start of the game is a little slow, it gets much better when you meet team Plasma, and begin to expand your team with new exciting andAt first I did not want to buy this game. I guessed that adding 156 totally new Pokémon to the game would cause too little variation and few really new and exciting Pokémon. I was definitely wrong. The starters are awesome. Although the start of the game is a little slow, it gets much better when you meet team Plasma, and begin to expand your team with new exciting and beautifully crafted Pokémon. There are a few minor things which could be improved. I think the battles go to slowly. If there was an option that could speed up the animations a bit, it would have saved me a lot of time. Another thing I'd like to mention is that there are far too many Normal and Flying type Pokemon. Some of them are cool like the ancient Pokémon Archeops (Flying type) or the cute dog Pokémon Lillipup (Normal), which eventually evolves into a huge dog, which is the first dog Pokémon I have ever used on my team. Old fans of the game might miss the classic first gen Pokémon, but if you just enjoy the game until after you beat the Pokémon League you will be able to find Pokémon from earlier generations. This, in addition to the already great variation of Pokémon in the game, and a huge potential for replayability adds up to create a game in which I have been completely lost in for several days already. This is a must for every DS owner.… Expand
  27. theguy005
    Aug 27, 2012
    10
    Hmmm...Not the best but not the worst,while this game improves on some points it also shares an even amount of flaws.

    For pros:156 new pokemon,better game-play mechanics,decent enough story,and a large world. For cons:About 70% of these pokemon look too bulky and unnatural to be considered 'pokemon',the game-play mechanics improved in the multi-player section and dreamworld,but other    Hmmm...Not the best but not the worst,while this game improves on some points it also shares an even amount of flaws.

    For pros:156 new pokemon,better game-play mechanics,decent enough story,and a large world.

    For cons:About 70% of these pokemon look too bulky and unnatural to be considered 'pokemon',the game-play mechanics improved in the multi-player section and dreamworld,but other then that,its still just the same old pokemon formula,the story was good but previous games have had better,the large world is pretty linear to the plot,so you'll be walking in a strait line to the elite four.

    Bottom line,if you are a new pokemon fan,Have younger siblings that want to try pokemon for the first time,or just a more die-hard fan then this one is for you.But if your anything but the above,then I recommend the games:Pokemon Heart Gold and Sould Silver.    … Expand
  28. 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
  29. Elesa
    Jul 5, 2012
    10
    I've never been much of a Pokemon fan, played 3 games in the past, this would be my fourth one, I'd say it's the best game I've ever purchased for my DS lineup, I've already hooked up 100+ hours into it and it's just amazing and has lots of things to do, very perfect pokemon game.
  30. 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.
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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.
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  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.
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  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.
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