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
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this game

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. Ciano2
    Nov 17, 2019
    10
    My first Pokémon game and loving it so far great battles and wonderful landscapes
  2. Csnively715
    Nov 17, 2019
    9
    I am really enjoying this game. The animations look really good, the new Pokémon are interesting and fun to use. I really like the way they changed the HM alternatives. Plus the wild area is a completely new type of challenge. My favorite Pokémon game since Black and White’s release
  3. Xvolsted
    Nov 17, 2019
    9
    Although the lack of a national dex may seem disappointing at first, it doesn’t bog the experience down at all due to the wealth of new and old Pokémon in the game already. One of the only problems I had with the game was that the pacing can be a little odd at times. But overall I think it’s a game that all Pokémon fans should play. As it’s one of the best yet, only surpassed by Heart GoldAlthough the lack of a national dex may seem disappointing at first, it doesn’t bog the experience down at all due to the wealth of new and old Pokémon in the game already. One of the only problems I had with the game was that the pacing can be a little odd at times. But overall I think it’s a game that all Pokémon fans should play. As it’s one of the best yet, only surpassed by Heart Gold and Soul Silver.… Expand
  4. Alpha88
    Nov 17, 2019
    10
    Great so far 10 hours in and I have only just got my first gym badge a must buy for the pokemon trainers of old and new. My advice take your time with it explore and enjoy the new additions to a game that has improved in many areas. The gym battles and stadiums are an impressive much welcomed new look.
  5. KaiserL19
    Nov 17, 2019
    10
    A very big upgrade from past generation games! Wild area is amazing and gym battles are challanging
  6. Atomicfish
    Nov 17, 2019
    9
    I’m by far not a die hard Pokémon fanatic, I’ve only truly played two of there games thoroughly. I’ve always had a hard time maintaining my excitement through there games and also feeling immersed in the very unique and exciting world the Pokémon has created. Pokémon shield has honestly resolved all those issues, by far their best game yet. It’s obvious that gamefreak put a lot of effortI’m by far not a die hard Pokémon fanatic, I’ve only truly played two of there games thoroughly. I’ve always had a hard time maintaining my excitement through there games and also feeling immersed in the very unique and exciting world the Pokémon has created. Pokémon shield has honestly resolved all those issues, by far their best game yet. It’s obvious that gamefreak put a lot of effort in fixing the parts of their games that were boring or burdening. All of these new additions to the games is only making more excited to see what’s next for the franchise and how they can continue to make their games truly immersive.… Expand
  7. AD2
    Nov 18, 2019
    10
    Easily the best Pokémon game yet. From the user interface, to graphics, to sound, to convenience, it beats nearly every Pokémon game on nearly every metric.
  8. Ruvi
    Nov 20, 2019
    9
    It's my first real Pokemon game though so I don't know all the drama behind the expectations other people had for it. I think It's relaxing and fun. Well thought out!
  9. Interface9009
    Nov 18, 2019
    10
    I love this game, I have played about 23 hours now and I'm just about to enter the challenger's cup. I don't understand all the criticism for this new entry for Pokemon. It's just a really solid game in general.
  10. Ctwilliams98
    Nov 18, 2019
    10
    Pokémon Shield is an excellent game and for a long time pokemon fan it brought back the magic to me that I used to get from the games as a kid. I loved going into the game completely blind and feeling surprised at finding a new Pokémon. All the new Pokémon designs are fantastic and it took a lot more time to settle on a team because there were that many great Pokémon to choose from. EvenPokémon Shield is an excellent game and for a long time pokemon fan it brought back the magic to me that I used to get from the games as a kid. I loved going into the game completely blind and feeling surprised at finding a new Pokémon. All the new Pokémon designs are fantastic and it took a lot more time to settle on a team because there were that many great Pokémon to choose from. Even though all of the Pokémon were not in the game I never felt like I was missing anything and the Pokémon that were in the game made sense. With the amount of Pokémon there are now it's understandable that eventually they would need to make cuts. Pokémon Sw/Sh are amazing games and I recommend them to any long time fans that are still on the fence. Game Freak did a great job and I think they should be proud of what they have achieved!

    Also don't let the review bombing cloud your judgment, the Pokémon community is incredibly toxic    … Expand
  11. Dysingeriii
    Nov 18, 2019
    10
    Shield has quickly become my favorite game in the series. The new wild area is easily addicting
  12. NinjaSox7
    Nov 18, 2019
    10
    Well since I've actually played some of the game, I think the user reviews are very gross. Don't judge a book by it's cover and actually bother playing it. I know I'm not helping by giving it a perfect 10 but somebody has to balance out the BS this toxic fanbase is causign. In actuality I'd probably give it an 8 so far. The game is very fun and I seriously recommend giving it a second chance.
  13. Fran2211
    Nov 18, 2019
    10
    The Game is fresh air for the pokemon franchise Si Manu new Pokémon takes out in part de sadness of not having de national dex and the feeling of epicness un the gyms is really good
  14. Beautybrand
    Nov 18, 2019
    10
    I love it!!! This is an incredible game, and a lot of fun. I think it will go down as the best.
  15. Ya_boi_Jingles
    Nov 18, 2019
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I absolutely love and adore this game. I am aware of the flaws it has which is why it doesn’t get a perfect score, but it’s just such a blast to play, and the Champion, Leon, was one of the most amazing fights I’ve played in Pokémon. It really was challenging. The new Pokémon are fantastic, and the music is amazing.… Expand
  16. Lupinwolf89
    Nov 18, 2019
    10
    Great addition to the franchise. Game is fun and beautiful and the sound track is amazing. Have been playing since the beginning and am excited to see where the franchise goes.
  17. Kainolan
    Nov 18, 2019
    10
    Beautiful graphics, great mechanics, a super fun time. I can't put it down.
  18. Jakey92
    Nov 18, 2019
    10
    The best game in the series to date. The Wild Area in particular is any Pokémon lovers dream.
  19. Lugui96
    Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Haven't been this excited for a Pokémon game for so long. The graphics are not mindblowing, but thats not what I expect out of a Pokémon game. For me, the gameplay and atmosphere are what matters most, and this game nails it.
  20. fidalgo0
    Nov 20, 2019
    9
    The story is amazing and entertaining. The pokemon selection, despite incomplete, is perfect for the region. The music is amongst the best of all the franchise. The wild area is immersive, and a great step forward in the franchise.
  21. Mattminty
    Nov 20, 2019
    10
    Best Pokemon in time loved it. Great Pokémon great mechanics . I’ve been a fan since gen 1 . The only reason the user score is low is be cause some children are having a strop(tantrum) about not having all the Pokémon in the game.
  22. Lawrence7
    Nov 20, 2019
    10
    For anyone debating whether they will like the game or not - stay assured that game freak put a lot of thought and love into this game. I played non-stop the last few days, and I have had a blast. A very charming and fresh addition to the series. There is always room for improvement of course, and I hope the next games on the switch are even better. As a casual Pokemon fan I am very happyFor anyone debating whether they will like the game or not - stay assured that game freak put a lot of thought and love into this game. I played non-stop the last few days, and I have had a blast. A very charming and fresh addition to the series. There is always room for improvement of course, and I hope the next games on the switch are even better. As a casual Pokemon fan I am very happy with it and don’t regret buying it at all.… Expand
  23. Rolling740
    Nov 21, 2019
    10
    This is still a great game even though the animations '' arn't as good ''. The battles are still fun and that is what the game is about.
  24. BIGBenY
    Nov 24, 2019
    0
    This game is uninspired and boring. It's the same thing for 20 years now or something. Try something new. The graphics are poor. Pokemon aren't even all in the game and the new Mons are quite ugly/boring, though the last thing is a matter of taste for everybody individually.
    Try something new GameFreak. Don't give us the same warmed up **** stew every time and with some new irrelevant    This game is uninspired and boring. It's the same thing for 20 years now or something. Try something new. The graphics are poor. Pokemon aren't even all in the game and the new Mons are quite ugly/boring, though the last thing is a matter of taste for everybody individually.
    Try something new GameFreak. Don't give us the same warmed up **** stew every time and with some new irrelevant bull**** features, but with few good features or even less features that became a standard.
    Step aside if you can't do it because you are too lazy.    … Expand
  25. NILord
    Nov 17, 2019
    2
    No national desk, bad optimization, random glitches, where are all the movements? Bad animations. Maybe worth pokemon so far.
  26. picnick
    Nov 19, 2019
    0
    This game has too many problems to recommend.
    No national dex, Bad Performance, Bad textures & WAY TOO MANY UNSKIPPABLE CUTSCENES. all of this could've been fixed but pokemon is too lazy. I will wait until they release a good game before I buy another pokemon game.
  27. jorgeben292110
    Nov 16, 2019
    5
    Es un "buen" juego si ignoras ciertos apartados (gráficos, etc), lo mismo con la otra versión, sin embargo es cuestionable el hecho de haber eliminado de forma masiva la mayoría de Pokémon, también megaevoluciones , etc. No es lo que esperaba, espero que la próxima entrega sea mucho mejor que esta.
  28. Kemmo_ado
    Nov 21, 2019
    0
    Litrally all the things that the dexers said about the game is now true 60% of the pokmeons are gone Reusing the same models and animations we’ve seen for the past 6 years

    The world is just a bunch of hallways with nothing much to do in it The story is none existing and has the same cookie cutter formula The graphics look mediocare all the way down to the N64 trees Only 81 new pokmeons    Litrally all the things that the dexers said about the game is now true 60% of the pokmeons are gone Reusing the same models and animations we’ve seen for the past 6 years

    The world is just a bunch of hallways with nothing much to do in it The story is none existing and has the same cookie cutter formula The graphics look mediocare all the way down to the N64 trees Only 81 new pokmeons and only 400 mons in the entire game And the problems keep on piling on and on and on. So much for a 60$ game. “But it said the footage is not final” now all I can do is laugh about that sentence... all in all buying a 60$ game that doesn’t have that much content is a waste of money and time as you can use said 60$ to buy other games. Not only that but buying this game would mean that you’re supporting game freak with their laziness and supporting TPC with yearly releases and getting less content.    … Expand
  29. Aioria
    Nov 16, 2019
    10
    Fantastic Game.
    It's a Must have , new designer, pokémons , raids on line, If you have a Nintendo Switch, buy It .
  30. nafechinde
    Nov 21, 2019
    0
    only thing i would like to say is that this game and ultimately nintendo does not deserves your money, they should be punished economically.
  31. maxspin
    Nov 15, 2019
    5
    I have just played this game for 5 hours and all I can say is that the rumors were right. Graphics are lackluster (to not say bad) for a Switch game, animations are not detailed like Nintendo promised, routes are boring and most are just straight lines, national dex is nowhere to be seen (I was expecting this but whatever), and tons of other small issues that end up causing a snowballI have just played this game for 5 hours and all I can say is that the rumors were right. Graphics are lackluster (to not say bad) for a Switch game, animations are not detailed like Nintendo promised, routes are boring and most are just straight lines, national dex is nowhere to be seen (I was expecting this but whatever), and tons of other small issues that end up causing a snowball effect. I really did expect it to be a bit better, but as a long time fan, I'm just disappointed.… Expand
  32. Damba
    Nov 15, 2019
    4
    It's better than I expected and if u play pokemon casually its probably the best entry in the series. However it feels like a slap in the face for more dedicated fans like myself. The graphics are improved but I expect that at least going from the 3ds 240p to the switch 720p. Dynmax and gigamaxing are unnecessary and feel way less fun to use the mega and z moves. Pokemon were explainedIt's better than I expected and if u play pokemon casually its probably the best entry in the series. However it feels like a slap in the face for more dedicated fans like myself. The graphics are improved but I expect that at least going from the 3ds 240p to the switch 720p. Dynmax and gigamaxing are unnecessary and feel way less fun to use the mega and z moves. Pokemon were explained also to be removed for balance yet a lot of pokemon specifically charizard just feels like it there to cash in on nostalgia. At end of the day you look at the number of pokemon in this game and there was more in the 4gen which ran on the original ds, mean while 6th gen u could catch every pokemon between 4 games, while now I can get half from 2. Also I believe it's safe to assume these games were in development longer than most with let's go games being more remakes with even less in there. Mean while my last major point is these2 games are $20 more than the old games it's not asking alot the expect more. Gamefreak and the pokemon company care more about money than they do about the product there putting on the shelves. Hgss were gr8 remakes of the johto region that had everything, oras were missing parts including the much loved battle frontier.and now in gen 8 they cut the reason ppl pay for pokemon bank while reiterating they dont have plans to add them. This company is showing it doesn't care, i dont think it my time to boycott sales but it is noted that these games should have more than what they are.… Expand
  33. DarckFlow99
    Nov 16, 2019
    10
    El mejor juego de la saga, con unos gráficos nunca vistos en Pokémon, una suavidad impresionante y una historia 100% original
  34. Alvarezz916
    Nov 16, 2019
    3
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Not really sure how I feel about this game. I’ve been having fun playing, but graphics definitely are not good, looking at games that came out two years like Mario Oddesy and Breath Of the Wild. Pokémon Sword and Shield lack in a lot of areas.… Expand
  35. RODREZA
    Nov 16, 2019
    1
    Its a game with a lot of bad textures and it lacks all the things that makes pokemon good, so disgusted
  36. FruitJuicer
    Nov 16, 2019
    5
    !!WARNING!! I HAVE TERRIBLE GRAMMAR I'M DOING MY BEST

    So pokemon sword/shield I wasn't going to buy this game cause of all the lies that came from the pokemon company, gamefreak, creatures inc and Nintendo. Now why do I blame all of them cause they all have hands on the pokemon license and they know how big it is, so why they decided to not put there time and effort in one of there    !!WARNING!! I HAVE TERRIBLE GRAMMAR I'M DOING MY BEST

    So pokemon sword/shield I wasn't going to buy this game cause of all the lies that came from the pokemon company, gamefreak, creatures inc and Nintendo. Now why do I blame all of them cause they all have hands on the pokemon license and they know how big it is, so why they decided to not put there time and effort in one of there biggest IPs, unfortunately I don't know. What I do know is the game is a below average game and doesn't deserve to be sold at 60 bucks. From low resolution textures to frame drops and most agregious the pokemon count has been decreased dramatically and the pokemon models are still the old models from PokemonX/Y. These models aren't even scaled properly. In pokemon Let's Go Pikachu and Eevee all the pokemon were to scale is Sword/Shield they aren't, also you might make the argument that there were just 150 in let's go but there isn't alot of pokemon in Sword/Shield. (I don't know the exact number o haven't beaten the game yet but I know its below half the pokedex) Now the game is fun for what it is I like the wild area idea but it isn't implemented, dinamaxing (I know I didn't spell that right) is a cool idea but Megas were better and you can use then in any battle. It is better then Sun/Moon but that's not saying much. There is alot of dialog but it wasnt as bad as Sun/Moon. The bike just sucks we have all these cool creatures and we can't us them to sure and why do we need to have on that ugly bike suit... its ugly as @#$%. Customizing your character is nice and fun you get a good variety of clothes and makeup up. Its still limited but its better and going into the right direction. They need to stop making making digimonmons and start making pokemonmons. The pokemon in Sword/Shield are okay but I found out that all the pokemon or alot of newer pokemon are humanoids and when you try to picture them in there environment... well you can't... atleast I cant and I now that's probably just me but I feel like they could he better. Gyms are fun but nothing special they were advertising that each game had had different gym leaders that's cool but the gym gimmicks are the same just diffrent color. For example: they showed off the ghost and fighting gyms and said they were exclusive to one of the games but what they didn't say is they were going to copy and paste the mini game you do before you fight the gym leader. The music is shallow and limited beside the gym leader track (witch they play when you fight any gym leader) witch is pretty cool all the music is stock or just boring. The game isn't difficult but I will say please for the love of mewtwo stop forcing us to use the XP share god let us turn it off or have a different difficultly setting please. In conclusion this game is blow average and isn't worth 60 or 40, this is a 20 dollars game. I am enjoying my time with this game but if you are going to charge 60 bucks a game and with the highest grossing game franchise in the world you guys can do better. But I know they won't they don't car about the license or the fans they just want to appease the casual. So that includes my thoughts I know I'm missing some this but you get the picture right? Well enjoy and have a nice day.    … Expand
  37. Cosmic06Star
    Nov 16, 2019
    0
    Awful game made by awful developers. This is not a current gen game, this barely qualifies as a PS2 game at best. Don't support this game so that maybe the devs learn and actually decide to put effort into Pokemon.
  38. Josepain
    Nov 16, 2019
    5
    Me parecio algo muy repetitivo,lo cual lo hace aburrido,todavia que quitan mas de la mitad de los pokemon's
  39. Lenngel
    Nov 17, 2019
    1
    Bueno habiéndole echado unas horas al pokemon escudo, opino que tener una pokedex de 400 bichos cuando en la anterior habia 809 es una vergüenza. Eso no significa que haya la mitad, porque a esos 809 hay que sumar los pokemon de la nueva generación.
    Por otro lado la falta de texturas en un juego triple A en pleno 2019 es bastante flagrante, las caidas de fps brutales hasta en las    Bueno habiéndole echado unas horas al pokemon escudo, opino que tener una pokedex de 400 bichos cuando en la anterior habia 809 es una vergüenza. Eso no significa que haya la mitad, porque a esos 809 hay que sumar los pokemon de la nueva generación.
    Por otro lado la falta de texturas en un juego triple A en pleno 2019 es bastante flagrante, las caidas de fps brutales hasta en las cinemáticas, y la dificultad del juego es irrisoria. Las animaciones son de 3DS, no solo porque estén mal hechas sino porque literalmente están copiadas del código del anterior juego. Lo mismo pasa con los sprites de los pokemon, estan copiados y levemente remasterizados. Que se congele el juego al subir escaleras no pasaba ni en la n64, y todos los elementos del mapa menos los edificios mas importantes aparecen de la nada cuando te acercas. Podriamos aceptarlo con los pokes salvajes pero pasa tambien con los árboles, esos que estan sacados del ocarina of time.
    Lo bueno: el inicial de planta, el de agua solo en su forma inicial, algo mas de libertad de movimiento (ni de coña estamos ante un mundo abierto).

    Definitivamente, no estamos ante el peor pokemon de la historia porque era dificil superar al Let’s Go, pero sin duda rivalizan por el puesto ambos. Llevamos tres tomaduras de pelo seguidas en esta saga, ultrasol, letsgo y espada, yo creo que ya va siendo hora de que game freak se desprenda de esta saga y se la entregue a una compañía que pretenda cuidarla.    … Expand
  40. Mainkin
    Nov 17, 2019
    10
    I’ve been a fan of Pokémon and have been playing since the red and blue versions. I think this is an excellent addition to the series and it’s pretty upsetting to hear all the negative feedback. I believe gamefreak did the best they could to deliver a brand new, quality Pokémon experience despite the negativity surrounding it. Consumers have become more and more demanding of video gameI’ve been a fan of Pokémon and have been playing since the red and blue versions. I think this is an excellent addition to the series and it’s pretty upsetting to hear all the negative feedback. I believe gamefreak did the best they could to deliver a brand new, quality Pokémon experience despite the negativity surrounding it. Consumers have become more and more demanding of video game producers without thinking about the amount of work that it takes to create games of this caliber. Be appreciative for what they have done, not angry for what you expected them to do.

    So thank you gamefreak, for creating a Pokémon game I’ve been the most excited for since the game boy Versions    … Expand
  41. Shid
    Nov 17, 2019
    0
    They lied and used 3DS game models and animations and they didn't even include all models in the game.
    Not to mention the innumerous bugs, horrible graphics and lousy finish.
    Do yourself a favor and don't buy it!
  42. HVeigaT
    Nov 17, 2019
    0
    Esse jogo destoa completamente do que é a franquia de jogos Pokémon, uma péssima região com pokemons interessantes, porém com mecânicas horríveis. Porque pokémons gigantes? Porque não temos a National Dex. Comprei o Nintendo Switch só para este jogo, e me arrependo profundamente.
  43. cumirebus2000
    Nov 17, 2019
    0
    Horrible game, don't undersatnd what are all the hypes about! shame on the developer for creating such lousy games. Wake up this is 2019!
  44. Weegee400
    Nov 18, 2019
    4
    -Graphically terrible
    -Story is a mess
    -No national dex
    -No battle frontier

    +new pokemon are cool
    +raid balttles

    Below average pokemon games
  45. PapapauloIII
    Nov 21, 2019
    0
    Lol, seems like no effort was put in this game. Cheap cheap cheap cheap cheap
  46. Cmw2605
    Nov 21, 2019
    9
    Es stimmt. Technisch ist an dem Spiel nicht alles 100 prozentig optimiert, doch mir ging es schon immer mehr um Spielfluss und Spielgefühl bei Pokémon und das bekommen Schwert und Schild besser hin als viele andere. Wenn man sich nicht dem wütenden Mob anschließt, sondern sich selbst eine unvoreingenommene Meinung von dem Spiel bildet, so glaube ich, dass man durch Spiel geht und dieseEs stimmt. Technisch ist an dem Spiel nicht alles 100 prozentig optimiert, doch mir ging es schon immer mehr um Spielfluss und Spielgefühl bei Pokémon und das bekommen Schwert und Schild besser hin als viele andere. Wenn man sich nicht dem wütenden Mob anschließt, sondern sich selbst eine unvoreingenommene Meinung von dem Spiel bildet, so glaube ich, dass man durch Spiel geht und diese Fehler einfach übersieht, denn der Fokus der Entwickler lag woanders.… Expand
  47. supgaming
    Nov 22, 2019
    9
    It’s a good game, I really recommend for those who just want a sit down for a couple of hours and do something.
  48. Syy
    Nov 23, 2019
    10
    This game is GREAT. The controls are great, the movement is GLORIOUS, and the graphics are GORGEOUS, sure, I don’t like that they cut down on Pokémon but if you don’t care about that and like new Pokémon, then this game is for you. The story is great, the sound track is great, and it’s a great way to jump into the Pokémon franchise.
  49. PentaGDVN
    Nov 25, 2019
    0
    Even removed 66% of national pokedex for better animation, the animation still full of trash and copy them from 3DS
  50. Starcat
    Nov 25, 2019
    9
    Just shut the freaking **** up the game is really good not the best but still good. The gym leaders are really fun mega evolution was cut but we have gigantamax now. The look of the game is really good, it's cartoony but this stile really works with pokemon. Yes, the game still has bad things for example the lack of multiple save files. (My fav pokemon was cut but I don't care because theJust shut the freaking **** up the game is really good not the best but still good. The gym leaders are really fun mega evolution was cut but we have gigantamax now. The look of the game is really good, it's cartoony but this stile really works with pokemon. Yes, the game still has bad things for example the lack of multiple save files. (My fav pokemon was cut but I don't care because the game is still really fun and I always use the new pokemons instead of the old ones.) :3 also putting bad grades to a good game is not ethical the game is not the greatest but its not as bad as some haters say.… Expand
  51. JaronReview
    Nov 25, 2019
    10
    Great Game, worth 7/10. voted 10 to boost the score up, it deserves more than 4
  52. Sasa789
    Dec 17, 2019
    0
    Pokemon, make REAL videogames! This is not what we wan't. Evolve like all that other video games have, you of all companies have the funds to make the greatest game EVER.
  53. Brans812
    Jun 21, 2020
    8
    Pokemon SW/SH is great in innovation, with the wild area, Pokemon have introduced a excelent and very fun experience when is about catching pokemon, maybe we´re missing the national pokedex, but in fact, is something that you forget when you´re enjoying the adventure. Althought the fact of seeing Pokemon appearing of no-where is something that kills the immersion, is something that shouldPokemon SW/SH is great in innovation, with the wild area, Pokemon have introduced a excelent and very fun experience when is about catching pokemon, maybe we´re missing the national pokedex, but in fact, is something that you forget when you´re enjoying the adventure. Althought the fact of seeing Pokemon appearing of no-where is something that kills the immersion, is something that should be improved in next titles. In my opinion this titles are a good begining for the franchise on home consoles. Probably not the best titles, but are fun and they have a lot of innovation that should be enjoyed.… Expand
  54. blisss
    Nov 15, 2019
    10
    A wonderful selection of new Pokémon, story that keeps you captivated, an open world to explore, likable characters and Pokémon choices. Good looking graphics, top tier music, and a wonderful tv screen Pokémon experience which is something I’ve always wanted.
  55. Zeliath
    Nov 15, 2019
    10
    Great game so far. Enjoying the Galar region, enjoying all the new Pokemon, and looking forward to battling, nuzlocking and raiding.
  56. Pikerrix
    Nov 15, 2019
    9
    Jugad esta maravilla de juego. Merece mucha la pena gracias al multijugador
  57. Sellerus
    Nov 15, 2019
    10
    This is already one of my favorite Pokémon games, easily in my top 3. Yeah, a lot of the older Pokémon aren’t featured in this these games, but that doesn’t really end up taking away much of the experience that much. I love the emphasis won gyms and the Pokémon league, contrasting sun and moon, which was much more story driven that objective driven. Overall this game is loads of fun and isThis is already one of my favorite Pokémon games, easily in my top 3. Yeah, a lot of the older Pokémon aren’t featured in this these games, but that doesn’t really end up taking away much of the experience that much. I love the emphasis won gyms and the Pokémon league, contrasting sun and moon, which was much more story driven that objective driven. Overall this game is loads of fun and is so hard to put down.… Expand
  58. Kjackson454
    Nov 15, 2019
    10
    Great game. The dex is fine the graphics are great. Its literally day 1. No major bugs.
  59. MGG_2006
    Nov 15, 2019
    10
    Es un juego Magnífico.
  60. Ang24507
    Nov 15, 2019
    10
    Excelente juego, mejor que otros juegos de Pokemon que e jugadoooo, con gran variedad para los gustos, en esta nueva generación.
  61. Malooga
    Nov 18, 2019
    10
    Don’t listen to the “Dexit” reviewers. The game is awesome. There’s over 300 Pokémon and lets be honest - it was too much at 150. Keeping the games unique in offering certain Pokémon is a staple of the franchise. Expecting it to change now is silly. Sound/music is excellent - new designs are awesome. It has a cartoony and pleasing aesthetics and much of the annoying “grind” is gone.Don’t listen to the “Dexit” reviewers. The game is awesome. There’s over 300 Pokémon and lets be honest - it was too much at 150. Keeping the games unique in offering certain Pokémon is a staple of the franchise. Expecting it to change now is silly. Sound/music is excellent - new designs are awesome. It has a cartoony and pleasing aesthetics and much of the annoying “grind” is gone. Replaced by clever mechanics that keep you searching for new partners and customizing the ones you love in cool ways. It feels like a NEW Pokémon game - 40+ hours long (didn’t even see the first gym until hour 10). I even like the odd mix of cockney slang they throw in to dialogue over the “baby-English” in most Pokémon games. If you want a new Pokémon experience, and you don’t mind some subtle gameplay formula changes to enhance experience and keep things lively - then check this out. If you’re an OCD completionist who likes to whine about promises that were never made - you’ll find good company in the droves of spoiled gamers who review bombed this release. Babies. 10/10… Expand
  62. Ocosu
    Nov 16, 2019
    10
    Best pokemon yet. It isn't perfect for a lot of people since its missing a good half of the full pokedex, but I promise you if it had it, about 80% of the people bashing on this game would be giving it 7 to 10 score wise. Regardless of a few hiccups and some lower resolutions textures in heavy parts of the game, its stunning and beautiful in most parts of the game. I cant tell you how manyBest pokemon yet. It isn't perfect for a lot of people since its missing a good half of the full pokedex, but I promise you if it had it, about 80% of the people bashing on this game would be giving it 7 to 10 score wise. Regardless of a few hiccups and some lower resolutions textures in heavy parts of the game, its stunning and beautiful in most parts of the game. I cant tell you how many times me or my girlfriend are commenting about the amount of detail and care that went into some of the scenery in comparison to past titles. It is the best looking game yet; anyone saying otherwise is likely upset at the dex or isn't acknowledging the quality outside the few hiccups I mentioned above.

    The wild area is a great detail and I hope its something that remains and sticks with titles that come after this addition. Its a very good step in the right direction. Even outside of the wild area, pokemon walking around and adding different forms of encountering them really brings the world to life and seems to be something they intend to keep hopefully.

    Story... All and all, its definitely better than a lot of past entries, but its still what you would expect out of an pokemon game. I do like that they're adding more personality to their characters now that they're on the stronger hardware, but it stills sticks to the path you'd expect out of these games.

    My opinion? They're great games. It will lack some of your favorites and it might disappoint some fans in that regard, but isn't a bad game. It isn't a bad looking games. It is the best game yet and I look forward to the one that will follow.    … Expand
  63. TalionSwift
    Nov 17, 2019
    10
    Have played a good 10 hrs so far 2 gyms down, i love this game so far! The music is legit my favorite Pokemon soundtrack so far i love it and several choice songs are on my playlist. The new Pokemon are pretty great and SIr Fetche'd is awesome looking. In anycase i look forward to finishing this game, i cant believe all the hate this is getting over mostly Nitpicks IMO.
  64. JustJavi
    Nov 15, 2019
    8
    Just another pokemon game. Quite a lot of fun and great art style. Spent nearly 10 hours before I got to the first gym and did it with a whole team of new pokemon. the game is great and very entertaining.
  65. Cohi
    Nov 15, 2019
    8
    This game is not what everyone says it is. I’m 20 hours in and am enjoying myself. I did notice finding hard to build teams I enjoy, but it did force me to go outside the box and I’m genuinely happy about it. I recommend everyone trying it out I’m sure there will be advancements in the game to expand before the next mainline comes out !!
  66. ImGroOk
    Nov 16, 2019
    10
    It's so fun and good, I really like all about it, pokemon always walking, custom of characters, wild area difficulty amazing, scenes. Better no listen to stubborn haters that they no even tried the game or buy it but their pride won't accept this game is so good
  67. NatsuDracarys
    Nov 16, 2019
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. For me it is the best pokemon ao far. Maybe it could be more polish but not something that made me lost my attention on the story.… Expand
  68. Duffy45
    Nov 16, 2019
    10
    Very good game, i dont know why people critic this game so much, its actually very good
  69. yeehawjunction
    Nov 16, 2019
    9
    The game has some graphical issues, but overall a super enjoyable experience. I love all the customization options! Pokemon camp and the wild area are super fun as well! In terms of enjoyment, i love this a lot more than the 3DS games. I hope the lag and graphic issues will be addressed in later games
  70. voltopt
    Nov 18, 2019
    10
    This game really makes me happy. I love the wild area and the animations. Plus the length of game is tight.
  71. galazyevent
    Nov 18, 2019
    10
    I'm blown away. This game is a natural growth and has everything I want in a Poke game. So fun!!
  72. BlakeJ
    Jan 6, 2020
    8
    People on here just want to complain about what the game doesn’t have. Come on; It’s Pokémon on a console!! I’ve gotten through the first three gyms and have been thoroughly enjoying it. Difficulty is not there for those who want a challenge, but that’s what competitive battling is for. I would love to see a more difficult game in the future, but for now, Shield quenches the thirst for aPeople on here just want to complain about what the game doesn’t have. Come on; It’s Pokémon on a console!! I’ve gotten through the first three gyms and have been thoroughly enjoying it. Difficulty is not there for those who want a challenge, but that’s what competitive battling is for. I would love to see a more difficult game in the future, but for now, Shield quenches the thirst for a Pokémon game on a console.… Expand
  73. BrightEyedPunk
    Nov 15, 2019
    9
    Plays just like how you’d expect a Pokémon game to play. Wild Area could look better. Performance holds up with a stable framerate. The dex cut sucks, but the new Pokémon are better than they have been in years. Game doesn’t deserve a 10/10, but it definitely doesn’t deserve a 3.
  74. Lushen1212
    Nov 15, 2019
    10
    El pokemon que llevo deseando muchismo tiempo. La espera merecio la pena. Es una joya y divertidisimo
  75. Moemoe1
    Nov 15, 2019
    10
    so many people exaggerate this game is a nice game and does what it needs to do
  76. nintendofanboy2
    Nov 15, 2019
    10
    This game is amazing 11 out of 10
    best Pokemon to date thank you game freak
  77. Lesh0
    Nov 15, 2019
    10
    Best pokemon Game to date. Who cares that some pokemon are cut out when u got 400(more than enough) who cares that 100 moves are cut out of the game when u dont really need taht many anyways. Graphics are amazing and story is decent. This is the right direction to transfer the Pokemon franchise to the new graphics. New dynamax system is fresh and fun. I own all pokemon games and I wasBest pokemon Game to date. Who cares that some pokemon are cut out when u got 400(more than enough) who cares that 100 moves are cut out of the game when u dont really need taht many anyways. Graphics are amazing and story is decent. This is the right direction to transfer the Pokemon franchise to the new graphics. New dynamax system is fresh and fun. I own all pokemon games and I was never a competitive pokemon player more on the casual side and I can asure you that the game is worth it !!… Expand
  78. tencentk
    Nov 15, 2019
    10
    I have been playing Pokemon from red and blue, at 10 hours in this has been one of my favorite of the series.
  79. HentaiLover69
    Nov 15, 2019
    10
    Freaking fantastic Game
    I love the Designs And story GF you rock
  80. Cozzy
    Nov 15, 2019
    10
    I’ve played the game for thirteen hours done five gym badges and have had an absolute blast
    It’s a great little Pokemon entry
    The wild area is great The animations of the Pokemon are nice when there out in the wild or in battle the characters and overall story are fine for a Pokemon game. yes it’s not the Witcher 3 or the last of us type story driven and character building games with    I’ve played the game for thirteen hours done five gym badges and have had an absolute blast
    It’s a great little Pokemon entry
    The wild area is great
    The animations of the Pokemon are nice when there out in the wild or in battle the characters and overall story are fine for a Pokemon game.
    yes it’s not the Witcher 3 or the last of us type story driven and character building games with beloved characters you care for.
    because guess what this is a Pokemon game not a narrative driven gaming experience
    Dynamaxing is far more than a gimmick it’s a great little added element that just makes raiding or gym battles that much more fun and cooler to witness.
    There are 436 Pokemon to catch as of now and if that isn’t enough for you then I’m sorry your a self entitled A hole that should get a job at game freaks at see if you can do better than they have.

    There is plenty to do in this game overall from customisation for your character to side actives to raids and post game activities that I haven’t personally experienced but will update once I have.

    This Pokemon game does what it does very well and if your hating on it as part of the band wagon or controversy over the national dex how about you shut the hell don’t buy the game and go play something else you actually like and leave people that actually like the game alone
    At the end of the day it’s just that a game it’s not a way of life the world isn’t gonna end of it
    Once sword and shield ultra or whatever they call it comes out next year with improved features content and so on you’ll have a defining Pokemon experience.
    It’s a great set of games to build up on in the future and I personally am looking forward to it. .    … Expand
  81. Solemendal
    Nov 15, 2019
    10
    Honestly the best instalment in the series. The quality of life changes are exactly what I needed to be tempted into VGC.
  82. Silverxy
    Nov 15, 2019
    8
    This is a great Pokémon game even if it doesn’t have every Pokémon from past gens that sound is great the graphics are good it plays great I haven’t had a single problem with the game it’s just like all of the other Pokémon games I grow up playing just enjoy the game for what it is and not what you wish it was
  83. Romeo94
    Nov 16, 2019
    9
    Other than some minor graphical issues and slow downs. THIS POKÉMON IS EXCELLENT! Don’t listen to 0-3 scores on here. The game comes back to the basic Pokémon mechanics and does it even better. Amazing additions to make the gameplay smoother and less tedious. Love the addition of Dynamax as well as a lot of trainers and new Pokémon to catch within the first 2 hours of the game. Also theOther than some minor graphical issues and slow downs. THIS POKÉMON IS EXCELLENT! Don’t listen to 0-3 scores on here. The game comes back to the basic Pokémon mechanics and does it even better. Amazing additions to make the gameplay smoother and less tedious. Love the addition of Dynamax as well as a lot of trainers and new Pokémon to catch within the first 2 hours of the game. Also the fact that random trainers have potions and such is a nice touch. The game is a tad more difficult (even though it does still hold your hand) but it gives some surprises and honestly I have enjoyed the first 4 hours ALOT !… Expand
  84. Therealepinn
    Nov 16, 2019
    9
    It gets rid of all the tedious things like swarming random Pokemon in tall grass or caves which allows you to focus on your journey. Love the new features, truly a warm turn for a classic while still leaving the backbone intact
  85. Anelko
    Nov 16, 2019
    10
    Good game. Better than expectet. I dont need every single pokemon in the game.
  86. Kamarr
    Nov 23, 2019
    4
    Hot trash! Cause it's a Pokemon game it's gonna sell regardless of it being bad or great. There are many things wrong with this. 1 being Gamefreak being lazy and it shows. Copy paste trees lack luster Pokedex more than half of the Dex has been cut to bring in hot garbage Pokemon feels like a lot of the older games meant nothing. This is the best franchise in the WORLD and it doesn't showHot trash! Cause it's a Pokemon game it's gonna sell regardless of it being bad or great. There are many things wrong with this. 1 being Gamefreak being lazy and it shows. Copy paste trees lack luster Pokedex more than half of the Dex has been cut to bring in hot garbage Pokemon feels like a lot of the older games meant nothing. This is the best franchise in the WORLD and it doesn't show period. No real end game beyond online battling and Battle Tower and a tournament mode which is very dull. I'd give this a 0 but I feel they deserve a 4 cause at least the wild area and such was pretty legit beyond the copy paste tree's and water that looks like tar. Another thing to add is the fact that the Online capabilities of this game is trash and no GTS? like give me a break.… Expand
  87. gamerhero
    Nov 16, 2019
    1
    Creo que no se merece mas de 1 por el poco trabajo y respeto a los usuarios de la serie... teniendo en el año juegos como gears5, death stranding, sekir y resident evil 2, nintendo nos viene a vender este juego de hace dos o mas generaciones a precio de los anteriores. Un timo por cualquier lado que lo vean y sobre todo que te lo vende doble a precio full. Cuando no inova em ni un solo aspecto
  88. hieroglyphs91
    Nov 16, 2019
    8
    No me parece un juego de 10, pero en cuanto a lo que es el juego en sí, para mi es un 8.

    Me gustan los gráficos, me gusta el concepto de juego y me gustan las innovaciones que han hecho (Area Silvestre, Dinamax...). No entiendo tantos 0... Puede tener cosas que no te gusten, pero ni mucho menos tener un 0. Metacritic debería tomar cartas en el asunto, porque si no este sistema de    No me parece un juego de 10, pero en cuanto a lo que es el juego en sí, para mi es un 8.

    Me gustan los gráficos, me gusta el concepto de juego y me gustan las innovaciones que han hecho (Area Silvestre, Dinamax...).

    No entiendo tantos 0... Puede tener cosas que no te gusten, pero ni mucho menos tener un 0. Metacritic debería tomar cartas en el asunto, porque si no este sistema de votación no tiene sentido.    … Expand
  89. RIELTURO
    Nov 15, 2019
    8
    It's a pokemon game. It doesn't deserve all the negative scores given. I understand a lot of people are dissapointed in the removal of certain pokemons but that doesn't make it necessary a bad game. The graphics are not an huge upgrade but it doesn't look bad either for a switch game .

    If you're a fan of pokemon and want a casual adventure here it is. It's not a really hard game compare    It's a pokemon game. It doesn't deserve all the negative scores given. I understand a lot of people are dissapointed in the removal of certain pokemons but that doesn't make it necessary a bad game. The graphics are not an huge upgrade but it doesn't look bad either for a switch game .

    If you're a fan of pokemon and want a casual adventure here it is. It's not a really hard game compare to some past entries.    … Expand
  90. EvilBunneh
    Nov 16, 2019
    10
    Pokemon sword and shield i have not played it myself but with all this review bombing, this game looks like your normal Pokemon game since the black and white days but i honestly don't mind that myself as i enjoy that sort of style in a game.

    i understand everyone is upset with the national dex not being in this game but you would have to think about it the install size of the game    Pokemon sword and shield i have not played it myself but with all this review bombing, this game looks like your normal Pokemon game since the black and white days but i honestly don't mind that myself as i enjoy that sort of style in a game.

    i understand everyone is upset with the national dex not being in this game but you would have to think about it the install size of the game would be massive if we have the entire dex and everyone would complain about that especially if you have downloaded it instead of buying it on cartridge.

    the graphics in the game are good i think people where expecting details like death stranding but people don't think about how the Pokemon will look if they had real life graphics... (it would no longer be a children's game).

    people also being mad about no Z moves or any other Pokemon changing things from the previous games but this is where dynamaxing comes in, this is the new type of special power moves that game freak wanted to give us and im excited to try it out.

    i wish people would stop review bombing a fairly decent game as it is not fair on the companies that make these games.

    thanks for reading.    … Expand
  91. pahono6888
    Nov 16, 2019
    1
    It is the shortest Pokemon game ever released. It cut too much content compared to previous games. It is the culmination of years of downgrading products. There is no story but somehow it doesn't leave you alone to explore either. There is nothing to explore. No sense of adventure. There is nothing to do after you beat the main "story". That alone makes it a 4/10. But it is also buggy andIt is the shortest Pokemon game ever released. It cut too much content compared to previous games. It is the culmination of years of downgrading products. There is no story but somehow it doesn't leave you alone to explore either. There is nothing to explore. No sense of adventure. There is nothing to do after you beat the main "story". That alone makes it a 4/10. But it is also buggy and unpolished, so it is a legit 1/10… Expand
  92. HyperspaceH0le
    Nov 16, 2019
    10
    Game is better than the previous Gen. A bit more challenging, and the new Wild Area is a beast all its own. 10 hours in and loving it.
  93. JReiMan
    Nov 16, 2019
    8
    Some minor lags here and there (sometimes Wild Zone is horrible, maybe server based) but a good Pokemon experience is definitely there! I still have a lot of fun after 15 hours of gameplay. Got what I wanted :)
  94. Elgordogaren
    Nov 16, 2019
    9
    Un poco infantil aveces, la variedad es muy amplia para armar estrategias y las animaciones son muy buenas.
  95. bawk
    Nov 16, 2019
    9
    The new Pokemon games are very vibrant & beautiful and it is a welcome update from the 3DS outlined 3D style that we've had for the past six years or so. The Gym Challenges in massive arenas and Dynamaxing make gym matches feel very epic. Every new route I enter has loads of throwback Pokemon from other regions without flooding out the new additions to the series. Wild Pokemon interactThe new Pokemon games are very vibrant & beautiful and it is a welcome update from the 3DS outlined 3D style that we've had for the past six years or so. The Gym Challenges in massive arenas and Dynamaxing make gym matches feel very epic. Every new route I enter has loads of throwback Pokemon from other regions without flooding out the new additions to the series. Wild Pokemon interact with you in the overworld, whether positive or negative. Gentle/friendly Pokemon will walk right up to you happily to say hello while aggressive types will spot you & chase you down for a battle immediately. It makes the world feel more immersive.

    Tons of new attack animations were added in for many Pokemon, though some attack animations are still fairly basic and old. It's still a huge step up from last gen.

    In the first 5 hours of play, I just spent my time exploring each route and seeing what every Pokemon was available & caught everything I could. If you take your time and enjoy the game then I can see this adventure taking many hours. No need to rush! This is a great first time game for younger players as things start out pretty simple & the challenges are easy at the beginning. Overall the game has been a lot of fun so far and I am looking forward to leveling up my team and completing the remainder of the game!

    I do suggest taking all of the negative reviews with a grain of salt. Many of these people do not own the game or haven't played it yet & are just basing their reviews off of hacked game streams and other things that other players are doing. I have not lagged a single time yet in hours of gameplay in handheld mode, characters popping in and out of the zone is few & far between and barely noticeable. Graphically nothing really stands out bad looking. I haven't encountered a single 'glitch' or error. Autosave hasn't messed up my Switch save files. Just wanted to give my perspective as someone that owns the game.    … Expand
  96. joangb
    Nov 16, 2019
    8
    Con sinceridad, estos juegos no se merecen esto. Los nuevos juegos de la saga de Pokémon significan un gran salto y atrevimiento, siendo los primeros de la saga principal en llegar a Switch.
    Y como estreno en la híbrida, me parece un juego notable. Obviamente tiene sus puntos negativos, como son algún que otro gráfico en el area silvestre, la obligación de llevar el Rep. Exp., el recorte    Con sinceridad, estos juegos no se merecen esto. Los nuevos juegos de la saga de Pokémon significan un gran salto y atrevimiento, siendo los primeros de la saga principal en llegar a Switch.
    Y como estreno en la híbrida, me parece un juego notable. Obviamente tiene sus puntos negativos, como son algún que otro gráfico en el area silvestre, la obligación de llevar el Rep. Exp., el recorte en la dex; pero no es para nada el descontento que está marcando la gente. La banda sonora es muy buena, el mapa es bastante grande aunque de una falsa sensación de ser pequeño, la dificultad está siendo floja pero la sensación de exploración está siendo muy fresca. Es un juego de Pokémon en sobremesa, como todos pedíamos antes de ser tan exigentes después del recorte de la dex...    … Expand
  97. gavs
    Nov 16, 2019
    9
    Beautiful game, loving so many of the decisions game freak made on this one. The new pokemon designs are actually really well done!
  98. TapirReviews
    Nov 16, 2019
    9
    Simply put ignore the immature hate.

    As a longtime fan of the series who started with Red and Blue, sword and sheild has finally revitalized my enjoyment of the series. The 3ds era may have had access to the entire pokedex, but they were without a doubt the WORST entries of the series, and were incredibly boring (looking at you sun and moon.) Sword and shield use the standard Pokémon    Simply put ignore the immature hate.

    As a longtime fan of the series who started with Red and Blue, sword and sheild has finally revitalized my enjoyment of the series. The 3ds era may have had access to the entire pokedex, but they were without a doubt the WORST entries of the series, and were incredibly boring (looking at you sun and moon.) Sword and shield use the standard Pokémon formula, with a few new twists.

    I personally loved the variety of Pokémon that a player can chose and I personally ditched my starter (Grookey) for a Snover as soon as I encountered it in the new open space area. The biggest problem that this game really has is not enough endgame material. A New game+ or multiple profiles really should be a new standard to the series for those who dont want to fork over one hundred twenty dollars for multiple playthroughs.

    If graphics and difficulty are what you are looking for Pokémon has NEVER been that series that pushed for a difficult experience (its target audience is either kids or casual gamers.) I would rather have this kind of Pokémon a thousand times over if it meant never having another X&Y or Sun & Moon. This game is worth a playthrough for sure, and am very satisfied with my purchase.

    9/10    … Expand
  99. Itsmeok
    Nov 17, 2019
    10
    It is fun and especially the Naturezone is a really good and fun thing! It dont really sucks that the nationaldex isn't there. I dont need 1000ths of pokemon
  100. StrikerHills
    Nov 17, 2019
    10
    Great game. Gets hated on by pokemon babies who weren’t hugged by their mums enough and therefore can’t handle change this was a great step into pokemon and can’t wait for the next ones.
Page:

Awards & Rankings

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

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
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.
    Read full review
  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]
See all critic reviews »