Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness

 GameCube
Metascore
64

Mixed or average reviews - based on 27 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 27
  2. Mixed: 18 out of 27
  3. Negative: 2 out of 27
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  1. Nintendo Power
    85
    With the phenomenal graphics and custom rule sets, XD provides a perfect environment for battling friends. [Nov 2005, p.102]
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  2. Games Radar
    80
    Catching new 'recruits' is as addictive as ever, and the range of missions is impressive - whether retrieving stolen Pokemon or saving friends from the extra dimension, XD always feels fresh and exciting. This is the Game Boy classic fully reborn as a top Gamecube RPG. [GamesMaster]
  3. Pelit (Finland)
    80
    Goes back to basics and melts your heart as easily as before. If only there were some depth and new ideas, Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness would be a true gem. [Nov 2005]
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  5. N-Insanity
    78
    Gale of Darkness is one of those games that will use its claws to grab you by the gonads until you complete it.
  6. BonusStage
    76
    This title does have a weaker story when compared to the other Pokémon RPGs, which only helps to expose the fighting engine for what it is: a monotonous series of button presses resulting in a win and a quick trip to the Pokécenter to get your Pokémon ready for the next fight.
  7. Da Gameboyz
    75
    I can only hope that with advent of Revolution, as well as the DS solidifying itself as a innovative portable machine, that future releases of this fan favourite will finally advance beyond its staple gameplay and provide those who want to hunt Pokémon with a new style of play along with all new looks.
  8. eToychest
    75
    Fails to stand up to typical console RPGs in terms of story telling and game mechanics. It simply does not offer the complexity that console gamers would expect and hope for in an RPG title.

Awards & Rankings

57
#57 Best GameCube Game of 2005
6
#6 Most Discussed GameCube Game of 2005
2
#2 Most Shared GameCube Game of 2005

User Reviews

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User Score
8.2

Generally favorable reviews- based on 173 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 130 out of 173
  2. Mixed: 31 out of 173
  3. Negative: 12 out of 173
  1. SnivySomnia
    Oct 17, 2012
    10
    Outstanding. This sequel fixed all of the problems Colosseum had while keeping the fun elements of Pokémon that we all know and love.Outstanding. This sequel fixed all of the problems Colosseum had while keeping the fun elements of Pokémon that we all know and love. Sure, you can't catch any Pokémon you want, but I honestly like the Shadow Pokémon system. For those who don't know, the plot revolves around and evil organization called Cipher returning from the events of the first console game and using Shadow Pokémon to accomplish their goals. Shadow Pokémon are simply Pokémon whose hearts have been sealed off allowing them to become more powerful than they were before(but with a few usage drawbacks). It's the job of the silent protagonist, Michael, to capture and purify all of the Shadow Pokémon he can and destroy the revived Cipher organization. I do believe this game is worth giving a shot: Pokémon XD, it's a different Pokémon adventure, but a damn fun one.… Full Review »
  2. WheelzFourReelz
    Dec 30, 2014
    7
    Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness is probably the best console Pokémon game that has a lot of fun and a lot of flaws. It has great environments,Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness is probably the best console Pokémon game that has a lot of fun and a lot of flaws. It has great environments, fun gameplay, and a gripping story. However, the game gets repetitive after a while and I would have liked a little bit more freedom on the exploration aspect. However, this is still a good game and worth your time.… Full Review »
  3. dbzeenx
    Jul 7, 2014
    2
    Absolutely terrible. I expected it to be a 3D game like Pokemon X and Y, but it just turns out that you can't even catch Pokemon you wouldAbsolutely terrible. I expected it to be a 3D game like Pokemon X and Y, but it just turns out that you can't even catch Pokemon you would like without a handheld game. It sucks! Where's my Charizard?… Full Review »
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