Pokemon Shield

 Switch
User Score
4.7

Generally unfavorable reviews- based on 3465 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,154 out of 3465
  2. Mixed: 587 out of 3465
  3. Negative: 1,724 out of 3465
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  1. Ren57
    Nov 17, 2019
    9
    I’ve put about 21 hours into this game at this point and I’ll just start off by saying if you like Pokémon this game is well worth your money. The removal of some things are indeed a let down but I think what they add does make up for it. The main thing I like is the new gym system and just overall goal to get to the top. I remember when I was a kid thinking “It would be so cool haveI’ve put about 21 hours into this game at this point and I’ll just start off by saying if you like Pokémon this game is well worth your money. The removal of some things are indeed a let down but I think what they add does make up for it. The main thing I like is the new gym system and just overall goal to get to the top. I remember when I was a kid thinking “It would be so cool have characters in the game watch the battles and just have that feeling of everyone in the world knowing your the best” and with this Pokémon I finally got that feeling.

    The story if you hardcore grind and cheese levels for a few hours like I did takes about 18 hours. Now when you compare this to other $60 games where a story mode can last around 7 that’s not bad, but it’s up to you personally if you think that’s good enough especially considering previous Pokémon games and their time to completion. Currently I’m on the post main game story and I’m at 21 hours.

    One of the really cool things they’ve added in are the Max raid battles. Think of a Pokémon go raid basically where you and three other people can team up to take down a giant Pokémon, honestly this is what will probably take up a lot of my time especially when post game story is over for me.

    It’s not all sunshine and rainbows, the system used to notify of Max raids and battles/trades seems to be a little delayed at points, I either have trouble with getting random people in my raids or finding raids that are still available to join even if it says they were just posted. Animation work is mixed with Pokémon and characters, feels like they mixed old animation work with new at times and I personally think we need new audio for Pokémon cries, Pikachu and Eevee got them now I think it’s time for the rest especially if you’re going to cut the Pokédex for the reason they gave and as from what I can tell all the models are the same as sun and moon but I’m no expert.

    So yes I think this is worth your money, could they have done better? Yes I definitely think they could have and I really hope their next game builds more upon this, I think it’s a decent first attempt and I’ll even forgive the graphics for now since they are a company that’s always for the most part developed for portable only systems.    … Expand
  2. Pollox28
    Nov 17, 2019
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Si iban a recortar más de la mitad de los pokémon, al menos debieron haber respondido en algo.
    -Malos gráficos
    -Mala Historia
    -Mala jugabilidad    … Expand
  3. Robiwankenobi
    Nov 17, 2019
    10
    Been playing pokemon since yellow in gameboy and was very hesitant to play this game due to poor feedback. But I've found nothing in the game I don't like so far and can't put it down 10 hours in. The wild area is so addictive
  4. Kingleo77
    Nov 17, 2019
    8
    This game is really great! Traditional style of turn based battle with new era of graphics unlike any Pokémon game ever made. I know it’s got a lot of heat from angry gamers. But if you’ve been apart of Pokémon from the very beginning, you’ll definitely like this game. Sure, the trees look like sausage but to be fair, I don’t play this game to appreciate the trees. Battle animations, moveThis game is really great! Traditional style of turn based battle with new era of graphics unlike any Pokémon game ever made. I know it’s got a lot of heat from angry gamers. But if you’ve been apart of Pokémon from the very beginning, you’ll definitely like this game. Sure, the trees look like sausage but to be fair, I don’t play this game to appreciate the trees. Battle animations, move sets, individual use of same moves are all great! The way one Pokémon uses an attack is completely different for another with some of the moves. It has life and it has potential. I’m very excited for the future of Pokémon now that’s I’ve seen this. Plus the caves are so pretty! They look like Christmas and that’s just so great. The game is a little easy at first but it definitely becomes more challenging as you go along. The Dynamaxing is...cute... I mean it’s an old franchise so their switching it up. It’s cool tho. And I’m regard to the Pokédex, there are so many Pokémon in this game I can keep up. I keep buying more pokeballs just to catch them. I’d love to see a Dratini but it’s not a done deal. It’s really fun. If you love Pokémon and not twitter outrage, this is a great experience. I can’t put it down. Thanks for reading!

    Yours truly,

    Pokémon fan since the 90s.    … Expand
  5. Yauboio
    Nov 17, 2019
    7
    These games are not bad. In fact they are perfectly decent Pokémon games. In some areas there has been great improvement, in particular the menus, the ability to skip some tutorials, the concept of the wild area. However for the first console Pokémon game it's dissapointing and unimaginative. If you love Pokémon you'll have some fun with it but it could have been so much better.
  6. Theco
    Nov 17, 2019
    1
    Jogo inacabado, cortaram metade da dex, modelos de Sun and moon, animações horríveis
  7. MMangia
    Nov 15, 2019
    10
    5 hours and I didn't beat the first Gym yet.
    The graphics looks amazing for a Pokémon game. The social functions are amazing, and the gameplay is brilliant.
  8. Jose12
    Nov 17, 2019
    10
    Normally I would give it an 8, but Im very sure people that hasnt even played the game is giving this game a 0, and thats not fair at all, Im having a lot of fun with this game, I love the new pokemon, I love the gym leader mechanics, the music is awesome, the wild area is the future of the gamem, Im very aware that the graphics arent the expected for a console like switch but thats why INormally I would give it an 8, but Im very sure people that hasnt even played the game is giving this game a 0, and thats not fair at all, Im having a lot of fun with this game, I love the new pokemon, I love the gym leader mechanics, the music is awesome, the wild area is the future of the gamem, Im very aware that the graphics arent the expected for a console like switch but thats why I give it a fair 8, but in my heart is really a ten, cause Im faving fun like no other pokemon game ever, if gamefreak fix the graphics issues and some npcs mechanics we will be talking about a game of the year in future presentations, maybe adding actors to some dialogues would be awesome two, besides that is awesome… Expand
  9. MelonDestiny
    Nov 17, 2019
    3
    I tried to like this game. I really did. The laziness just shows through in too many spots though. Not letting you wear bought uniforms into the gym challenge? What's the point of them then? Forget the big issues, there's so many little spots where the game could have been improved but Gamefreak just didn't even try. Easily the most disappointing game in the series.
  10. Zappy13
    Nov 17, 2019
    1
    the game is good in the first hour , the next is really bad they dont work in the game after the first gym
  11. sythcritic
    Nov 17, 2019
    10
    -this is not a review
    -15+ hours playing it and loving it.
    -not a true fan, (played some of old game long time ago)
    I have to say I am happy with my purchase , i know a lot of people are trying so hard to make it look bad, but c'mon! is not a bad game (not even close!!!) , is so obvious a lot of people are trying to bomb the rating.
  12. demo207
    Nov 17, 2019
    3
    With a new console at hand, obviously expectations for a full refresh are high. And yet again, they were not met. Being one of the highest grossing video game franchises ever, you’d think budget wouldn’t be an issue, as it isn’t. However, greed took place and wherever corners could be cut, they were. Same handholding linear story, same dated abysmal graphics that resemble textures fromWith a new console at hand, obviously expectations for a full refresh are high. And yet again, they were not met. Being one of the highest grossing video game franchises ever, you’d think budget wouldn’t be an issue, as it isn’t. However, greed took place and wherever corners could be cut, they were. Same handholding linear story, same dated abysmal graphics that resemble textures from 2002, same everything. The fact that fans were promised a ground-up refresh and that turning out to be a complete and blatant lie for a cash-grab just adds insult to injury. Really disappointed that lifelong fans can’t get redeem the benefits of supporting a franchise for so long. This game was a slap in the face. Do not waste $60 on a 2012 3DS port with updated cutscenes to make use of the Switch’s graphical capabilities. Believe the controversy. Where’s there’s smoke, there’s definitely fire.… Expand
  13. GreaserPirate69
    Nov 17, 2019
    10
    Great new addition to the pokemon line. Huge open world, tons of cool new pokemon as well as some originals as well. Loved it.
  14. Commiekiller
    Nov 17, 2019
    0
    Half-assed game with below 3DS graphics, awful in-game campaign, no post-game content, the animations are so bad not even a beginner would commit such gaffes. The national Dex was wrongfully cut in more than half of what it should be in the name of "quality" and "balance", but the game lacks either of them. This deserves a nice 0.
  15. KaiserL19
    Nov 17, 2019
    10
    A very big upgrade from past generation games! Wild area is amazing and gym battles are challanging
  16. Analbashing
    Nov 17, 2019
    8
    I've sunk about 20 hours in the game so far. I've beaten the game and honestly enjoyed it. Also I went into the game complety blind. I did not look at serebi. I did not bother looking anything up. Taking it back to those days when you had to buy a manual just to see what you can get. If you approach this game this way you will enjoy it so much more. I am yet to look into post game content.I've sunk about 20 hours in the game so far. I've beaten the game and honestly enjoyed it. Also I went into the game complety blind. I did not look at serebi. I did not bother looking anything up. Taking it back to those days when you had to buy a manual just to see what you can get. If you approach this game this way you will enjoy it so much more. I am yet to look into post game content. I've played every pokemon game in the series. And I got to say the gameplay is a good 8/10 there are new moves and many pokemon to capture that really make you go "yo holy **** what is that thing I want it" it really made me feel like a kid again. I understand not all the pokemon are in the game but if you wanna be the guy to go ahead and code in over 900 pokemon on top of animations dynamax and concider just the fact they manage to work in this game for so long and gave out a really good result. Graphical issues are practically not existant here is a tip TURN OFF YOUR WIFI IN WILD AREA. Pokemon games are not difficult games. They never have been. It's all how you decide to play that truly makes it an experience. If you wanna make it hard go ahead play s nuzlocke. The game is beautiful especially in the area where the fairy type gym leader is present. Story is honestly ass 4/10 but when has a pokemon game actually had a good story. This series is essentially legal dog fighting simulator. Just have fun. If you want difficult dark souls exist. In the topic of dynamax I actually enjoy it. It's so amazing to see the different kinds of pokemon essentially mega evolve into an absolute unit of pokemon.… Expand
  17. saburo90
    Nov 17, 2019
    4
    This game looks like it was a 3ds game but released for Switch. 60% of all Pokemon removed. This game feels rushed.
  18. LycanLiam
    Nov 17, 2019
    10
    Pokemon Sword and Shield are the best Pokemon games in the series! I play the game every day! They are fun, exciting, and easy to play. I hope to see more Pokemon games that focus on story, character development, and gameplay! I recommend these games to everyone! I have played every Pokemon game in the series so far. This game is the best one so far. It is also really easy to learn and getPokemon Sword and Shield are the best Pokemon games in the series! I play the game every day! They are fun, exciting, and easy to play. I hope to see more Pokemon games that focus on story, character development, and gameplay! I recommend these games to everyone! I have played every Pokemon game in the series so far. This game is the best one so far. It is also really easy to learn and get the hang of. The graphics are great and the storyline is fun and engaging. I like how you can customize your character, and what types of new Pokemon are available, and it adds an additional depth to the gameplay. It is my favorite game in the Pokemon series. The storyline is very well thought out and is always interesting.… Expand
  19. Lionthali
    Nov 17, 2019
    8
    The game have a lot of unnecessary hate. Have a lot things to do and obviously they need to improve in some areas but that doesn't affect the whole game and the experience. Still a great Pokemon game.
  20. BaconPancakes
    Nov 17, 2019
    10
    I pretty much hate everything after Ruby. This game is definitely going in the right direction. Depending on your playstyle you can drop a lot of hours into Shield.
  21. Ivan1991
    Nov 17, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Es el mejor juego q han sacado aunque deberian de hacer una actualización y poner cosas nuevas… Expand
  22. Aman144
    Nov 15, 2019
    9
    After playing this game for over 25 hours beating the main story and postgame story, I can easily say this is my favorite Pokémon game and it’s hard to go back to older ones with all the improvements sword and shield has to offer. Animations are amazing especially Dynamax moves and starter signature moves. The art style goes so well with this region that in some areas it just looksAfter playing this game for over 25 hours beating the main story and postgame story, I can easily say this is my favorite Pokémon game and it’s hard to go back to older ones with all the improvements sword and shield has to offer. Animations are amazing especially Dynamax moves and starter signature moves. The art style goes so well with this region that in some areas it just looks gorgeous. Depending on how you build your team the game can be very difficult as some trainers have really good AI. The league battles were incredible being in the stadium knowing everyone is watching you and hearing them cheer for you truly is a great feeling. The cities are big and there were many secrets to find. The game just felt ambitious and with some more time I know this game would have been even better but still I’m happy with what we got. The hate on this game is overblown more people need to play it and most importantly play it with an open mind or you’ll never like it. Definitely a 9/10 game for me and the most fun I’ve had ever playing Pokémon

    Also to address the National dex controversy I believe that is overblown as well, when you are playing the game and seeing all the new Pokémon you forget all about the Pokémon that aren’t there. If a game is bad to you because of frame rate drops and pop ins which in a technical sense in the wild area keeps the game from being unplayable then I don’t know what to tell you. It’s barely noticeable and if it bothers you that much I don’t know how you play many other games. Lastly I just want to talk about how great the music in this game is my lord definitely my new favorite Pokémon soundtrack you got to listen to it with headphones it’s so incredible    … Expand
  23. PokimonRanger
    Nov 17, 2019
    0
    Una completa basura hecha a la rápida, solo para vender por nombre y no por calidad.
  24. Ronaldo_Azevedo
    Nov 17, 2019
    9
    o jogo é bom, os gym são bem divertidos, a wild area é viciante, o plot do jogo é legal, a batalha final é incrivel
    porem temos os pontos negativos: varias animações mal feitas, em certos locais os graficos são fracos,o fato de não ter todos os pokemon.
  25. Kdavis8234
    Nov 17, 2019
    10
    Made an account just to be able to review this game! I understand people are upset about the cut in Pokémon, but giving this game an overall of 4 is ridiculous! This game is amazing! As far as the cut in Pokémon, quality of quantity! Not everything always works out as planned, but if you skip either Pokémon title, you’re missing out!
  26. PC_Master_Race
    Nov 17, 2019
    0
    Reused models, poor graphics and textures, this Pokemon release every year has to end to have quality games like Mario oddysey
  27. Tristezza
    Nov 17, 2019
    8
    This is the most fun I've had with a main series game in years. I've spend 15 hours in game, and just cleared the 4th gym. Wild area, raid battles with friends have eaten up all of my time and its just pure fun. Yes some animations are poor and the graphics in the wild area arent great.. but some locations look damn good. This is NOT a perfect pokemon game by any means, but it's fun andThis is the most fun I've had with a main series game in years. I've spend 15 hours in game, and just cleared the 4th gym. Wild area, raid battles with friends have eaten up all of my time and its just pure fun. Yes some animations are poor and the graphics in the wild area arent great.. but some locations look damn good. This is NOT a perfect pokemon game by any means, but it's fun and that's what matters. Maybe everyone bombing this before they play needs to get some friends and have a nice raid battle (even though they probably have 0.)… Expand
  28. SIKE109
    Nov 17, 2019
    10
    The best game and good adventure it have many good Pokémon and it changed the way of catching Pokémon to the original
  29. Shatohin
    Nov 17, 2019
    0
    Lazy re-skin and upscale of the 3ds version. These companies just love your money and don’t give a **** what they making for the fans.
  30. chaputom
    Nov 17, 2019
    8
    15 hours in and loving it! I haven't been this excited/interesting in a Pokemon game since X & Y so it was good to come back to something new and fresh but similar. The Pokedex goes up to 400 (who would ever want 800+ of ANYTHING in a game?) which is more than enough to keep your attention for Catching Them All's sake. The gym battles are unique and atmospheric and have great animations15 hours in and loving it! I haven't been this excited/interesting in a Pokemon game since X & Y so it was good to come back to something new and fresh but similar. The Pokedex goes up to 400 (who would ever want 800+ of ANYTHING in a game?) which is more than enough to keep your attention for Catching Them All's sake. The gym battles are unique and atmospheric and have great animations which are very interesting and engaging. The new rivals and characters are fine. Trainer battling is more interesting with newer Pokemon and animations - and that you aren't constantly being stopped for battle every few feet just to keep up space. The Wild Area still has my interest and I spend most of my time there (Catching higher level Pokemon, visiting with NPCs, Dynamax Raids). All and all a great new entry into the series and one you shouldn't really skip out on with all the (nonsense) negative reviews Game Freak has been getting lately! Play the game.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

76
#76 Best Switch Game of 2019
3
#3 Most Discussed Switch Game of 2019

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
80

Generally favorable reviews - based on 89 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 69 out of 89
  2. Mixed: 20 out of 89
  3. Negative: 0 out of 89
  1. Nintendo Force Magazine
    Apr 30, 2020
    90
    Sword & Shield have a lot to love for old and new fans, and they're pure quality from top to bottom. [Issue #44 – January/February 2020, p. 72]
  2. GameCritics
    Feb 6, 2020
    75
    I enjoyed my time with Pokemon Sword and Shield, but I ended feeling conflicted. I appreciate many of the changes and felt that it generally respected my time, but I almost felt like a passive participant. The more complex gym challenges had a meatier role, but the narrative shouldn’t have been shoved to the side. Overall, I would recommend it to players who want to have a Pokemon experience, but this one won’t stick with me the way the older ones have.
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  3. Game World Navigator Magazine
    Jan 14, 2020
    78
    Pokemon Sword/Shield is uncharacteristically user-friendly: now there’s no need to backtrack half across the world to heal your entire team of pokemon or to get to a particular city, for example. [Issue#242, p.66]
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