Pokemon White Version

 DS
User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 753 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 535 out of 753
  2. Mixed: 123 out of 753
  3. Negative: 95 out of 753
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  1. Krossbone
    Nov 25, 2020
    10
    The best in the mainline Pokemon series beyond a shadow of a doubt. It's got the greatest number of original Pokemon introduced and the best story of the main Pokemon games.
  2. sikyu
    Jun 11, 2020
    10
    Nowadays all of us agree that Pokémon peaked in gen 5. Black and White 2 were greatly acclaimed but Black and White themselves are no exception. An original story with interesting characters, the Pokémon soft reboot concept, the perfect soundtrack and aesthetic appeal of 2D sprite design on it's peak compared to the disaster that is Pokémon 3D models all help drive this point home.
  3. ewormPL
    Aug 26, 2013
    10
    With Pokémon being one of my favorite franchises of all times, I was a bit worried with the 3rd and 4th generation not quite living up to my expectation. Generation IV disappointed me greatly with an absurd over-the-top mess of a story and I was afraid the games were heading in the wrong direction.

    However, generation V changed all of this, instantly becoming my favorite. The story was    With Pokémon being one of my favorite franchises of all times, I was a bit worried with the 3rd and 4th generation not quite living up to my expectation. Generation IV disappointed me greatly with an absurd over-the-top mess of a story and I was afraid the games were heading in the wrong direction.

    However, generation V changed all of this, instantly becoming my favorite. The story was simpler but also more mature, the new Pokémon, while criticized, I think are fantastic and creative, the characters incredibly likable and more complex than ever before, the graphics very good and new game mechanics, moves, items, online functionalities are all improvements.

    I can't quite put into words how much I enjoy Pokémon Black&White, so I'll just say this: I've played Pokémon ever since generation I, being a kid back then. And yet despite the huge nostalgia boost the first generation has, gen V easily wins in my ranking.

    Personally I recommend White version, as it has, in my opinion, more interesting version-exclusive Pokémon and locations.    … Expand
  4. gavroche1337
    May 23, 2015
    9
    This game is awesome!! It is one of the best DS games out there The one complaint i have are It is EASY i beat it in a month and yes im not a hard core gamer i usualy beat a game a year ps this is my first review
  5. W-Lights
    Dec 2, 2018
    8
    It's comparatively unambitious and plays safe compared to previous and later games, and I personally prefer Black's urban theme better than White's rural one since all pokemon games are already nature-bound in their layouts but as I said about Black, it did a good job with the story, which is now a staple in the series with later games even surpassing it but not something they riskedIt's comparatively unambitious and plays safe compared to previous and later games, and I personally prefer Black's urban theme better than White's rural one since all pokemon games are already nature-bound in their layouts but as I said about Black, it did a good job with the story, which is now a staple in the series with later games even surpassing it but not something they risked meddling with before.… Expand
  6. Fresh
    Mar 14, 2011
    9
    I have played Pokemon for a very long time. I told myself that this game would be no different to the ones that came before it. I can't believe I ever thought that. This game is new and fun and full of surprises! I can't wait to get my 3DS in the mail and pop this into it, that will be the first thing I do. This game has replay value out the back and I can't wait to buy my second copy.I have played Pokemon for a very long time. I told myself that this game would be no different to the ones that came before it. I can't believe I ever thought that. This game is new and fun and full of surprises! I can't wait to get my 3DS in the mail and pop this into it, that will be the first thing I do. This game has replay value out the back and I can't wait to buy my second copy. Well done Nintendo.… Expand
  7. Ladislao
    Sep 5, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It's the best Pokemon game, personally. It has the Pokemon charm but taken even further. It may not be possible to have all Pokemon catchable, but they can be obtained. The music is 10/10, the story is something never done before (or after) in a Pokemon game. The Pokemon are lovely and balanced. The map is really big and , the battles are challenging if you choose so, and the after game is good. Do not doubt to grab it if you see it.… Expand
  8. Shadran
    Nov 18, 2019
    8
    Very well made game. Progression is super smooth making your life very easy, basically zero grinding is needed. HM's are almost not needed to progress. Story is pretty good for pokemon game. Visually the world is really bland, concentrating all visuals around gyms. Over all nothing revolutionary for pokemon games but still fun.
  9. Edumiroku
    Feb 2, 2020
    10
    The Best Game ever. A very underrated generation in its launch year, but now, the time has put this game in its truly place.
  10. stupidopinion
    Jun 22, 2022
    9
    Realistically this game probably isn't a 9 out of 10. It still falls into many of the pitfalls that the other pokemon games do. There's a lack of difficulty, simplified gameplay, and a lack of significant change when compared to the other games. However, I still love it. Beaten this game and Pokemon Black maybe 5 time combined and every time I enjoy it just as much. A surprising stepRealistically this game probably isn't a 9 out of 10. It still falls into many of the pitfalls that the other pokemon games do. There's a lack of difficulty, simplified gameplay, and a lack of significant change when compared to the other games. However, I still love it. Beaten this game and Pokemon Black maybe 5 time combined and every time I enjoy it just as much. A surprising step forward for pokemon when it comes to storytelling, as this time it actually poses questions and ideas that encourage the player to think about the actions they are taking, even if it's still comparatively basic to other RPG stories. The sprite work and world design is at its best here, love the culture of Unova and its varied settings. I like how the gym leaders actually play a role in the world and in the story, with you often times working alongside them, instead of just doing a fetch quest for them or finding them in a random spot. Has some of my favorite music in the series, namely Ns theme, Driftveil, Nimbasa, and the Elite 4. Has it's flaws but I just like it too much not to rate it highly.… Expand
  11. Zilcell
    Apr 2, 2012
    10
    Not only are black and white the best of the series, but they are some of the greatest games ever created for the Nintendo DS. They are true masterpieces because of improved graphics, area, battle system, amount of creatures, and even small editions such as triple battles and c-gear.
  12. Joelthethief
    Apr 21, 2011
    9
    Looking back on the Pokemon series, its easy to claim that Gamefreak hasn't made very many changes. That was never more apparent than in Pokemon Diamond/Pearl. It was disappointing and over all, the game felt stale, with hardly any new pokemon worth caring about. Thankfully, Black and White have solved all of these problems. The game is longer, the pokemon are better, and everythingLooking back on the Pokemon series, its easy to claim that Gamefreak hasn't made very many changes. That was never more apparent than in Pokemon Diamond/Pearl. It was disappointing and over all, the game felt stale, with hardly any new pokemon worth caring about. Thankfully, Black and White have solved all of these problems. The game is longer, the pokemon are better, and everything looks and feels new and exciting. It seems like its been years since I've cared about pokemon and this game has pulled me right back in. Of course, its a very similar game as you still move from town to town, defeating trainer after trainer and gym after gym. However, now with new pokemon and a bigger emphasis on exploration rather than HM moves, it all feels much better. Even if you're a jaded game, Pokemon Black/White does a lot to pull you back in.… Expand
  13. Decemuladores
    Nov 28, 2011
    8
    Although it does not mean that the magic is gone, the new Pokemon enters undoubtedly represents a step in the saga, saga which already symptoms of fatigue but with slight improvements can become what it was two generations ago. Nintendo and Gamefreaks have created the game that made â
  14. FrozenStar90
    Apr 6, 2011
    9
    Pokemon Black and White is the most original and refreshing entry in the series since Pokemon's first inception. Over ten years have passed since I was first exposed to my Blue version, and the series is still going strong. Game Freak is a truly amazing developer, with their uncanny ability to rejuvenate what is essentially a bunch of rock-paper-scissors battle. Pokemon is still one of thePokemon Black and White is the most original and refreshing entry in the series since Pokemon's first inception. Over ten years have passed since I was first exposed to my Blue version, and the series is still going strong. Game Freak is a truly amazing developer, with their uncanny ability to rejuvenate what is essentially a bunch of rock-paper-scissors battle. Pokemon is still one of the most enriching and addicting RPGs out there.… Expand
  15. SuperTakashii
    Mar 9, 2011
    9
    So close to perfect. The gameplay mechanics have been tweaked beautifully and the world to explore is vast and fresh, triple battles add a whole lot more strategy to the game and the graphics are gorgeously simplistic (nice to see the return of pixelated close-up sprites, blast from the past from Pokemon Yellow right there). It's just a shame that a few of the new pokemon feel rushed and weak.
  16. ImUnavailable
    Mar 31, 2012
    8
    Pokemon White 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 White 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 White 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
  17. GeneriCritic
    Aug 13, 2011
    9
    An excellent game like its many predecessors and it brings some interesting new concepts to the series. However, the exclusive area, "White Forest" and in this game's counterpart, "Black City" were big disappointments. But I still enjoyed this game immensely.
  18. BasilZero
    Nov 22, 2011
    10
    Pokemon White is one of Nintendo's 5th generation Pokemon games, released on the NDS early 2011. The game has come a long way, featuring many elements from the previous generation, and along with that features a new graphic scheme, new features never before seen in the pokemon series and includes a whole new set of Pokemon to collect. Fans will surely love this game as it reboots thePokemon White is one of Nintendo's 5th generation Pokemon games, released on the NDS early 2011. The game has come a long way, featuring many elements from the previous generation, and along with that features a new graphic scheme, new features never before seen in the pokemon series and includes a whole new set of Pokemon to collect. Fans will surely love this game as it reboots the series pretty much with all new pokemon, a new region and a complete make over storyline that will be remembered for years. Fans who were disappointed with the 4th generation will surely love this game as it fixes many of the problems that the 4th generation had and strays away from the generic storyline that was used in previous installments.… Expand
  19. FranciscoM
    Nov 23, 2018
    9
    One of the best stories in a Pokémon game EVER, Pokémon Black and White are the games Pokemon fans have been asking for a long time but weren't able to appreciate. The story is great, the music is superb, having 150 new Pokémon until you access the post-game made me super excited to play this game when it came out and I couldn't tell enough good things about it.

    On the downside, I feel    One of the best stories in a Pokémon game EVER, Pokémon Black and White are the games Pokemon fans have been asking for a long time but weren't able to appreciate. The story is great, the music is superb, having 150 new Pokémon until you access the post-game made me super excited to play this game when it came out and I couldn't tell enough good things about it.

    On the downside, I feel these games marked the sort of downfall of the legendary Pokémon. 13 legendary Pokémon is simply too much and apart from the cover ones and maybe one or two more, the rest didn't add much in terms of story and therefore I feel like they're useless.    … Expand
  20. GamersNational
    Aug 22, 2013
    10
    6 words.......Pokemon has come a long way. The graphics, the new creatures, the replayability, the online play, AH!!!!! IT'S GREAT!!!! IT'S EXHILARATING!!!! IT'S POKEMON FOR PETE'S SAKE!!!!
  21. greninjaX
    Nov 16, 2019
    10
    to this day, this is still my favorite pokemon game. i don't think gamefreak will ever make a pokemon game better than black and white.
  22. Marchbaby
    Mar 7, 2011
    9
    I posted a review of Black and so I thought I would post a similar one for White since I have both but instead of copying my other one I am going to cover some of the features on this one I did not on my review of Black.. I really liked how they added triple battles and rotation battles but tri type pokemon would have been nice. Another thing that would have been nice is a dragonI posted a review of Black and so I thought I would post a similar one for White since I have both but instead of copying my other one I am going to cover some of the features on this one I did not on my review of Black.. I really liked how they added triple battles and rotation battles but tri type pokemon would have been nice. Another thing that would have been nice is a dragon Evveeloution but it is forgivable. The camera has some cool angles but it is a little overhyped. Zekrom and Reshiram are cool but the elemental legendaries which have those weird names one is which is a fire tpye is pretty weird. As for graphics they were improved but not earth shattering. Full 3d like in Battle Revolution would be nice. As well as Pokemon appearing in the over world with no need to walk through grass but you cannot have it all. The sound is good but not as classic or as awesome as HG/SS but it is still a worthy effort and a great rethinking of the series that comes a little short of perfection. I give both versions a 9/10… Expand
  23. TheCritic1
    Feb 11, 2012
    9
    This is the first REAL Pokemon game I have played and I knew it wasn't going to disappoint and it didn't.. But there really is nothing else to do after beating the Elite Four and it is very easy, and it's only the first time of played. Still very good though.
  24. SKULLbrgr7
    Apr 13, 2011
    10
    I love this game, Pokemon has always been my favorite video game franchise, and White was the first game I ever preordered and rushed to the store on launch day for, and I am not at all disapointed with the final product. The graphics are similar to previous DS installments, but are given new life with cool camera angles and full animations for every single Pokemon, whitch made all 156 newI love this game, Pokemon has always been my favorite video game franchise, and White was the first game I ever preordered and rushed to the store on launch day for, and I am not at all disapointed with the final product. The graphics are similar to previous DS installments, but are given new life with cool camera angles and full animations for every single Pokemon, whitch made all 156 new ones look great and gives the previous 493 a new life. Gameplay is the same, but there was never anything wrong with it in the first place. To sum it up, if you own a DS, or even just bought a new 3DS, this is the game to get.… Expand
  25. EverettLamb
    Mar 16, 2011
    9
    I've had more fun and enjoyment with this game than Dragon Age II for the PC. My introductory to Pokemon was Blue for the Game Boy when I was a kid. As an adult now, I tried White and it made me reminiscent the fond memories and good times of Blue. As one reviewer has truthfully stated, this game does have the reply value and you'd instantaneously be addicted easily. Nothing reallyI've had more fun and enjoyment with this game than Dragon Age II for the PC. My introductory to Pokemon was Blue for the Game Boy when I was a kid. As an adult now, I tried White and it made me reminiscent the fond memories and good times of Blue. As one reviewer has truthfully stated, this game does have the reply value and you'd instantaneously be addicted easily. Nothing really more needs to be said as the three reviewers below my review have said it nicely and an accurate spot on. I'm a gamer who feels Pokemon exceeds to all ages and not kids, This is a solid rpg with strategy elements on the handheld. White and Black are definitely a DS title to pick up and you'd get your money's worth. Recommended to everyone.… Expand
  26. duckypwns
    Dec 11, 2011
    9
    Easily the best pokemon games to date. The pokemon are the most original pokemon we've seen since generation 2. I would also say these are the most difficult pokemon games, although they're still easy. I didn't like the attempt to incorporate a story more so than the other pokemon games did, but that's not why I play these games. Also the new graphics are nice but again, nobody playsEasily the best pokemon games to date. The pokemon are the most original pokemon we've seen since generation 2. I would also say these are the most difficult pokemon games, although they're still easy. I didn't like the attempt to incorporate a story more so than the other pokemon games did, but that's not why I play these games. Also the new graphics are nice but again, nobody plays pokemon for the graphics. The core reasons to play a pokemon game are all there, such as new pokemon, new world to explore, new secret areas / secrets to find, new legendary pokemon to seek out in interesting ways, new gym leaders and battles, etc.… Expand
  27. mattisme76
    Mar 25, 2011
    9
    This game is the bomb. all 556 pokemon In the game the new poke transfer is awsome its almost as good as heartgold and soulsilver but ive been playing pokemon since fire red and this is the third best. First soulsilve secend ruby third black and white
  28. nonnikchief
    Jul 15, 2011
    9
    Pokemon White is a great game. The story is actually a story, and the best of the series so far. The villains, Team Plasma, actually have some character, in that they are fighting FOR pokemon, to free them from captivity. The graphics are great for the DS, and good for any platform, even though many of us resent that Oshawott shows up so clearly. The new pokemon for the most part arePokemon White is a great game. The story is actually a story, and the best of the series so far. The villains, Team Plasma, actually have some character, in that they are fighting FOR pokemon, to free them from captivity. The graphics are great for the DS, and good for any platform, even though many of us resent that Oshawott shows up so clearly. The new pokemon for the most part are great, though many are awkward in shape, appearance, or both. (Trubbish) However, after you spend some time with these aforementioned "ugly" pokemon, you get used to them, and they aren't really that ugly anymore. (Except for Trubbish, there's no saving him) the gameplay is Pokemon, that hasn't changed. There are now two rivals, so one you will have an advantage over, while the other still has the advantage over you. It is a nice touch to have the rivals as the characters friends, building upon that found in Ruby/Saphire/Emerald. there are a few new moves that you'll have to familiarize yourself with, as well as some new type combinations. The new pokemon are cool, and even the hideous ones are okay after a while. The new region is fun to explore, and the story is the best of the series. (Except Coliseum, but that's a console) And the new pokemon are great. Basically, pokemon lovers and children up to the age of 14, get this game!… Expand
  29. M-Rod
    Apr 13, 2011
    10
    Pokemon is the best rpg type games of all time.Pokemon White really is a improvement from all the other Pokemon games.With new never before seen Pokemon just makes the game better.There is a few Pokemon that are more like animals than real Pokemon but the rest are normal Pokemon.
  30. MikeCraig
    Apr 17, 2011
    9
    For someone who's played every generation since Red and Blue, I was certainly someone who was looking forward to a bit of change to the old formula after so many years, which to honest Black and White don't really give. What they do give is a great continuation of the series, and surprised so many including myself that the game's formula still has a lot of aces up its sleeve that were toFor someone who's played every generation since Red and Blue, I was certainly someone who was looking forward to a bit of change to the old formula after so many years, which to honest Black and White don't really give. What they do give is a great continuation of the series, and surprised so many including myself that the game's formula still has a lot of aces up its sleeve that were to be added! To be fair some of the new Pokemon designs were a bit... meh but the gameplay was as solid as ever - polished and tweaked to make it what it is. It's not going to turn the Poke-hater into the Poke-lover but it's without a doubt the best Pokemon around. Only question is where do Nintendo go from here?… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

1
#1 Best DS Game of 2011
2
#2 Most Discussed DS Game of 2011
5
#5 Most Shared DS Game of 2011

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
87

Generally favorable reviews - based on 56 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 56 out of 56
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 56
  3. Negative: 0 out of 56
  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. N-Europe
    Apr 7, 2011
    90
    One of the best generations of Pokemon titles to date, Black & White take almost all of the best elements from the series and then carefully craft it into something truly wonderful; recreating that same sense of adventure from the very first titles.
    Read full review
  3. Multiplayer.it
    Mar 31, 2011
    90
    Almost a franchise reboot, Pokémon Black & White is your ultimate Pokémon experience. Overall better than previous generations by any means, this new installment manages to inspire on veteran players a sense of wonder and awe gone missing years ago. The new adventure flows better and is much more intriguing and challenging but of course you are not going to change your mind if you hate Pikachu and friends.
    Read full review
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