Pokemon Shining Pearl

 Switch
User Score
5.5

Mixed or average reviews- based on 430 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 177 out of 430
  2. Mixed: 88 out of 430
  3. Negative: 165 out of 430
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  1. Alvalos
    Nov 21, 2021
    8
    Are they perfect? No
    Are they fun? Yes
    Does it include platinum content? No Are the graphics bad? No Would you replay them again? In a heartbeat BDSP is, without a shadow of a doubt, a trip down nostalgia lane, a re-imagining of the original journeys throughout the Sinnoh Region from their initial outings in Diamond & Pearl. Story If the goal was to achieve faithful remakes of those    Are they perfect? No
    Are they fun? Yes
    Does it include platinum content? No
    Are the graphics bad? No
    Would you replay them again? In a heartbeat

    BDSP is, without a shadow of a doubt, a trip down nostalgia lane, a re-imagining of the original journeys throughout the Sinnoh Region from their initial outings in Diamond & Pearl. Story If the goal was to achieve faithful remakes of those games, then ILCA have fully succeeded in their mission. It’s just as leisurely paced as the original Diamond & Pearl, encouraging the player to take their time and take in their surroundings. The story of DP is quite grand but it wasn’t fully realised and developed until Platinum. Lots to do & explore whilst not feeling too linear with a maze-like map. In this instance however, after playing through the game, I personally feel as though the fleshed out story beats from Platinum are missing here.

    Graphics
    They’re clean, charming & capture the essence of what classic top-down Pokémon used to be. Cutesy & child-like. Sword & Shiled in comparison can look a little muddy around the edges. There were a few janky animations from time-to-time but nothing that didn’t just make me smile and giggle. They clearly take inspiration from the Links Awakening remake, and on reflection, it was probably the better route to go down than trying to re-create these games in Sw/Sh graphics. Don’t be fooled by the initial reveal trailer, the improvements in lighting, shading & character models has come on leaps & bounds since we first saw it at the beginning of the year. Everything Else
    -The roster of Pokémon is as it was in Gen 4, it actually makes for a decent challenge trying to shape a team with the Pokémon you have at your disposal. We won’t get all the Pokémon in Legebds Arceus, we didn’t get them all in Sw/Sh, why should this be any different?
    -The grand underground is a place where you could spend hours hunting through the walls or capturing Pokémon, otherwise unobtainable in the overworld for your adventure. ILCA, you did a cracking job of the underground and making it useful & accessible for everyone. -Contests have been re-defined & streamlined but IMO I would say this was for the worst. Contests in the original had substance & felt like a journey in of themselves. The new version of contests are a rhythm game - great if you’re short of time, but I didn’t feel as though I had something to work towards. Poffin making can be tedious at times! - The EXP share was a necessary edition although it should have been a toggleable option. I had it on for my whole journey and blacked out a couple of times! It negates the grind, but ideally should’ve been optional. I very much enjoyed my time with BDSP, ILCA have managed to rekindle that inner child and bring back memories of playing my original copy of Diamond back in 2007. Newcomers of the series will have a shock as BDSP is the genuine article when it comes to what Classic Pokémon is all about. A little bit tough, a grand adventure & a lot of fun. Highly recommend first time Pokémon players pick up this one rather than any of the more recent entries. ILCA catered this game to the fans of Diamond & Pearl, a love letter to what Pokémon used to be, trying not to get hung up on the more recent additions & changes in the newer games. I hope TPC continue to outsource some of their projects.    … Expand
  2. Donkristo
    Nov 21, 2021
    9
    Отличная игра. Графика, бои, анимация все радует глаз. Всё те же покемоны, что и раньше. Найти в продаже 4 поколение для DS практически невозможно, так что это единственная возможность ознакомиться с данным поколением.
  3. CasualG1
    Nov 21, 2021
    9
    A nostalgic journey from start to finish, a game recommended only for those who have not played the 4th generation on DS, or want to remember them with adorable graphics
  4. DramaticBox
    Nov 21, 2021
    10
    Same thing I had to say about BD: Sword and Shield just can't compare to the amount of genuine passion put into this set. If you want a Pokemon game that feels like the people making it actually wanted to make a good video game, I highly recommend the DP remakes.
  5. PrincessSaf
    Nov 21, 2021
    8
    While I would have preferred a remake in the style of Sword and Shield, I am not entirely against the style they chose to be closer to the originals as they were on DS. However it just feel like they did the minimum to remake the originals and to me it does not compare with the third gen remakes.

    In a way I don't think they are best for those who did not play the originals because those    While I would have preferred a remake in the style of Sword and Shield, I am not entirely against the style they chose to be closer to the originals as they were on DS. However it just feel like they did the minimum to remake the originals and to me it does not compare with the third gen remakes.

    In a way I don't think they are best for those who did not play the originals because those remakes feel worse than Sword and Shield and I don't think they are much better than playing the originals either, so I am mixed for the recommendation overall. Maybe if they were a third less expensive than main releases it would have been better.

    I still can't give it a bad score, I can't 100% recommend it, but I like it, it looks good enough, and it's based on good games, so I would recommend people to look a little into it before buying but it should be fine.    … Expand
  6. DistantKingDumb
    Nov 21, 2021
    10
    Good game, I generally love all the animations and remade models, and I think it lives up to the original game in every aspect.
  7. KarimTheTraitor
    Nov 21, 2021
    10
    The triumphant return of my favorite generation, with changes consistent with current generations and new mechanics that make the game more relaxing or enjoyable.
  8. Minato-Arisato
    Nov 22, 2021
    10
    El estado actual de Pokémon es mas que envidiable y estas entregas, tanto Diamond y Pearl, son un demostración mas, junto a anteriores juegos que también me encantaron como Sol y Luna, Espada y Escudo y ORAZ.
    Al principio el apartado técnico puede desagradar, pero cuando uno se acostumbra, interiorizas el aspecto chibi al instante y comprendes que es para dar la mayor sensación de    El estado actual de Pokémon es mas que envidiable y estas entregas, tanto Diamond y Pearl, son un demostración mas, junto a anteriores juegos que también me encantaron como Sol y Luna, Espada y Escudo y ORAZ.
    Al principio el apartado técnico puede desagradar, pero cuando uno se acostumbra, interiorizas el aspecto chibi al instante y comprendes que es para dar la mayor sensación de nostalgia posible.
    Los combates pokémon siempre son un deleite, y la historia de Sinnoh es de las mejores que haya creado el buen estudio que es Game Freak.
    ILCA ha sabido tomar la batuta mientras el nuevo titulo Leyendas Arceus esta por venir.
    Por el momento, casi todos los Pokémon de Switch me han sorprendido gratamente.    … Expand
  9. Swampert_Tube
    Nov 21, 2021
    10
    Great game, and such a faithful remake too. They kept the original tweaking glitches, which is awesome too. Really enjoyed it! On my 2nd playthrough right now too! Cynthia is still hard as well. Would play it again honestly.
  10. Buurto
    Nov 21, 2021
    10
    Game is a perfect review. Music is great. Graphics are perfect. It's a faithful remake to pearl with a few extras. Pearl remake is the best pokemon game we got after ruby remake.. the animation the weather the lightning its all great. It's a nostalgic remake without any **** mechanics Form gen 5-8 im so glad it's just gen 1-4 Pokemon.
  11. B3jn
    Nov 21, 2021
    10
    Best Pokemon game in years, a true return to form. Don't listen to other reviews, Pokemon fans always cry and are never satisfied with anything. This is a great game and well worth $60.
  12. Kratosine
    Nov 21, 2021
    10
    Un par de remakes mucho mejores que lo que fueron en su dia Let's Go Pikachu y Eevee.
    Aunque hubiera preferido mil veces un Sinnoh recreado bajo el estilo de Galar, este estilo chibi adorable y muy pequeño, en remembranza de los sprites originales, sinceramente no me molesta.
    Si bien el juego es mas fácil, no es restrictivo ni te obliga a pasar por el aro, puedes jugarlo de múltiples    Un par de remakes mucho mejores que lo que fueron en su dia Let's Go Pikachu y Eevee.
    Aunque hubiera preferido mil veces un Sinnoh recreado bajo el estilo de Galar, este estilo chibi adorable y muy pequeño, en remembranza de los sprites originales, sinceramente no me molesta.
    Si bien el juego es mas fácil, no es restrictivo ni te obliga a pasar por el aro, puedes jugarlo de múltiples maneras en busca de mayor dificultad.
    La música, los modelos y el enviroment esta muy bien rediseñado, y al jugarlo y al ser tan fiel en todo lo que se propone, produce una gran sensación de nostalgia.    … Expand
  13. Chopyhop
    Nov 20, 2021
    10
    Just glad they managed to find an art style that finally suits the pokemon series.
  14. DistantKingdom
    Nov 22, 2021
    10
    I misjudged this cute title, at first I was reluctant to the idea that the characters were so chibi and poorly defined, but it's something that you learn to tolerate and love.
    The fighting is surprisingly fun and even difficult at some points, it's faster than its original games, and artistically, the reorchestrated music and NPC's models have been revamped in an excellent way.
    I must    I misjudged this cute title, at first I was reluctant to the idea that the characters were so chibi and poorly defined, but it's something that you learn to tolerate and love.
    The fighting is surprisingly fun and even difficult at some points, it's faster than its original games, and artistically, the reorchestrated music and NPC's models have been revamped in an excellent way.
    I must thank and congratulate ILCA and Game Freak for doing such a good job.    … Expand
  15. Mando44646
    Nov 22, 2021
    9
    Best Pokémon RPG on the console. Let's Go was a terrible gimmick-fest and Sword/Shield were....just okay.

    Good:
    Visuals
    Ganeplay
    Map
    Underground

    Bad:
    Nothing new and lacks Platinum content
    3D models can be a bit odd
  16. Omega-xis97
    Nov 21, 2021
    10
    this game could have been much more if they had included platinum, i really miss distortion world in the history, but is ok
  17. Fazed
    Nov 23, 2021
    9
    The first pokemon game in a while I would actually want to play again, there are few negatives about the game main ones being the exp share always being on and the levels being lower than the originals. Other than those 2 points its very true the orginal and does a lot of things right. The changes to the underground are really fun and add a good amount of pokemon options without it beingThe first pokemon game in a while I would actually want to play again, there are few negatives about the game main ones being the exp share always being on and the levels being lower than the originals. Other than those 2 points its very true the orginal and does a lot of things right. The changes to the underground are really fun and add a good amount of pokemon options without it being too much. Also the HM system is really good for the first time, the fact you can fly using town map and also the quest log telling you what to do next is nice for not getting lost. The new move sets are great and shining hunting is varied.… Expand
  18. Starfree
    Nov 22, 2021
    8
    This game is flawed but amazing. I would say it’s as fun a platinum but platinum has more and better content, this game just looks better and has some cool things. The new underground is amazing, the music is amazing, the graphics are amazing. There are a few glitches, nothing game breaking tho. Very solid game.
  19. Skwunjo
    Nov 23, 2021
    10
    This game gets a 10/10 for being a faithful remake with some of the best in-battle graphics Pokemon has to offer. It's very faithful to the original games with major quality of life improvements. Underground has been overhauled but my only complaint is secret bases have no furniture now. It is clear that ILCA put time and effort into this game, and it's impressive as it's their first bigThis game gets a 10/10 for being a faithful remake with some of the best in-battle graphics Pokemon has to offer. It's very faithful to the original games with major quality of life improvements. Underground has been overhauled but my only complaint is secret bases have no furniture now. It is clear that ILCA put time and effort into this game, and it's impressive as it's their first big game project as they've only helped with games on the side. The music is extremely good. If someone says the game is buggy, it's because they pirated the game and weren't able to get the update. Ignore the 0ratings for they're review bombing this game and have severe cases of autism. You'll see that they mostly have the two sinnoh remakes as the only game they're scoring sometimes next to Persona or SMTV getting a 10/10. This is due to an extreme case of mental illness and they've ruined the entire SMT franchise as a whole so just ignore them.… Expand
  20. FriendlyDM2
    Nov 22, 2021
    9
    I’ve enjoyed this game a lot!

    Seeing Pokémon Diamond and Pearl in 3D like this was a lot of fun. At first, I didn’t enjoy the overworld style in the trailers all that much, but that feeling quickly faded away as I played the game. Small adjustments which have been made to the game to make some quality of life changes have been very welcome! The battle system is snappy and doesn’t waste    I’ve enjoyed this game a lot!

    Seeing Pokémon Diamond and Pearl in 3D like this was a lot of fun. At first, I didn’t enjoy the overworld style in the trailers all that much, but that feeling quickly faded away as I played the game. Small adjustments which have been made to the game to make some quality of life changes have been very welcome! The battle system is snappy and doesn’t waste any of your time!

    The Grand Underground is a lot of fun, has been made a bit more simple in comparison to the originals on the Nintendo DS and have been expanded at the same time, now including wild Pokémon to catch and train against!

    The inclusion of the Experience Share for every one of your party members shaves off a lot of time previously spent sending out your weakest Pokémon, switching to a stronger one and then finishing the battle, or being able to only train one Pokémon at a time with a single Experience Share Hold Item, which makes it a LOT easier to help evolve Pokémon for completing your Pokédex!

    All in all, I’ve been having a lot of fun with this game, though I personally see this as more of a €40,00 title, rather than a full-price one. I would have wanted to see even MORE from this remake than what we got. I can recommend this game for sure though!    … Expand
  21. MrPablic
    Nov 22, 2021
    8
    Es todo lo que buscas si quieres recordar el juego de la nds. Se ve muy bonito y los nuevos implementos y el post Game tan difícil lo hacen muy disfrutable.
  22. Askeel
    Nov 22, 2021
    9
    It's my first time playing this game, and I'm enjoying my journey.

    Will be awesome to receive any future update/event
  23. Kelv89
    Nov 22, 2021
    10
    Brilliant game. Faithful remakes of the originals with updated graphics. What more could you want? Classic pokemon
  24. Klenki0404
    Nov 22, 2021
    10
    If you liked the older style of Pokemon games this is just great. It brings backs so many memories.
  25. eeyk
    Nov 22, 2021
    10
    Why are people complaining about the graphics didn't you see the trailer? Actually i like it, it reminds me of the DS games, i hope they will make more pokemon games with this kind of graphics. It's way better then Pokemon Shield and sword.

    and if you complain about the graphics just don't play Nintendo switch i mean what do you expect exactly?
  26. sheep455246
    Mar 6, 2022
    10
    If you haven’t played ds version. This is your best choice. (Unless you particularly like the watch function)
  27. GenkiYokota
    Jan 27, 2022
    10
    Unlike ORAZ, this remake has a more reliable and conservative approach.
    Which is not all bad, in fact, it makes the game more nostalgic.
  28. kito78
    Jan 30, 2022
    10
    It’s best nostalgic Pokémon experience since omega ruby. Many people is complaining that game is too easy, but remember that game is designed for 6+ yo kids. The game will not be challenging for old Pokémon fans, but it will deliver nostalgic and chill feeling. It’s relaxing.
    The graphics style this one have is perfect for me and I do love it
  29. Melonpanic
    Nov 29, 2021
    8
    As someone who loves the franchise, but who skipped generation 4, I am finding this game to be almost the perfect Pokémon experience. The faithfulness to the original means you have the look and feel of the earlier games, which some may prefer, but with a few modern quality of life improvements thrown in, above all, the ability to sit on my couch and play on a TV! I would gladly give thisAs someone who loves the franchise, but who skipped generation 4, I am finding this game to be almost the perfect Pokémon experience. The faithfulness to the original means you have the look and feel of the earlier games, which some may prefer, but with a few modern quality of life improvements thrown in, above all, the ability to sit on my couch and play on a TV! I would gladly give this a 9 or more if this had some extra content thrown in on top of the originals and the few bugs (which I have not encountered myself) had been addressed prior to release.

    I don't really understand the criticism of the 'chibi' style overworld graphics, I think they are charming and chibi Dawn is really cute! The in battle graphics are really nice, with clean but detailed backgrounds and a really beautiful colour palette overall.

    Hope to see more re-makes in this style, would love to see gen 2 and 3 (re-re-make?) brought to the bigger screens in this way.    … Expand
  30. MrBardTimes
    Nov 26, 2021
    9
    This is a very well made remake, the aesthetics are on point, the gameplay is what you would expect from a pokemon game. ILCA did a great job with it.
    The only negative point is that for some reason someone thought it was a good idea to make TMs single use again... why? :'(
    I'm not a fan of how the pokech was implemented, as it is a bit annoying to use, but that's because it needed the    This is a very well made remake, the aesthetics are on point, the gameplay is what you would expect from a pokemon game. ILCA did a great job with it.
    The only negative point is that for some reason someone thought it was a good idea to make TMs single use again... why? :'(
    I'm not a fan of how the pokech was implemented, as it is a bit annoying to use, but that's because it needed the second screen the DS had to be use easily, and the switch doesn't have that. This isn't really ILCA's fault, but it would have been interesting if they managed to use the online phone app as the second screen.    … Expand
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Awards & Rankings

11
#11 Most Discussed Switch Game of 2021

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
73

Mixed or average reviews - based on 88 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 37 out of 88
  2. Mixed: 51 out of 88
  3. Negative: 0 out of 88
  1. Nintendo Insider
    Sep 9, 2022
    70
    Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl are faithful remakes of the 2006 Nintendo DS games. They probably lean too much on the safe side, not achieving an awful lot to improve on the originals other than a few quality-of-life improvements. The improved Underground sections are a welcome addition, but the missing features from Pokémon Platinum are a big let-down. All in all, though, the Sinnoh region offers just as brilliant of an adventure as it was 15 years ago and the formula that worked back then (and then some) is still as addictive to this day. If you are a fan of classic Pokémon titles, this is a no-brainer.
    Read full review
  2. Nintendo Force Magazine
    Mar 7, 2022
    60
    If you're a Switch owner looking to play a Pokémon game, this pair should be your third choice after the Let's Go games and Sword & Shield. [Issue #57 – January/February 2022, p. 67]
  3. LEVEL (Czech Republic)
    Feb 18, 2022
    60
    Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl is a decent remaster transferring the fourth generation from Nintendo DS to Switch. The authors handled well the absence of the second screen, but in the case of game mechanics they could go a bit further.
See all critic reviews »