Pokémon Pokopia was released exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2 console on March 5. Get ready to traverse the world inhabited by Pokémon, and create a world filled with the possibilities of imagination.
To begin, here’s a little story spoiler: In this game, players will play as a Ditto transformed into a human. They encounter a land that was once a place for humans and Pokémon to coexist, but over time, the plants, grass, and trees began to die out, leaving the area completely deserted. But all hope is not lost. Professor Tangrowth is the only Pokémon left, but he has hope that the land can be restored, and with the players' help, they can bring it back to be a place where Pokémon can thrive again.
To start, players will be able to create habitats that will attract Pokémon. Every Pokémon is different and has its own specific type. Some examples are fire, water or electric-type Pokémon. Depending on the type of Pokémon, it has its own unique environment and climate. Different Pokémon are associated with various habitats. To make the land flourish with many Pokémon, players will need to create habitats that are suited for each creature’s preferences. As the land begins to shape up, Pokémon of many personalities will emerge in the diverse habitats that the players created.
With the new Pokémon inhabiting the new land, players can form a bond with them, and some may teach the signature moves they use to traverse the land. For example, forming a close bond with Squirtle can grant a player its designated move called Squirtle's water gun, which can be used to bring dessicated plants back to life. Another example is that players can take on the form of a Lapras that can help them travel to distant islands. Using the moves players inherit from Pokémon, they can restore the land, make openings for blocked paths, grow fruits and vegetables, and expand the explorable places to achieve what is possible.
This game also allows players to craft materials to build streetlights, roads, houses and furniture, and they can use the items they create to build a town to their wildest imaginations. Players can use their creativity to help Pokémon live more comfortably by turning the land into a lively community.
The Pokémon will also call on a player to grant them special requests to help with. If Pikachu wants the players' help to go somewhere, it’s up to the player to find a way to get Pikachu to their desired location. Another request could be for a Pokémon in trouble that needs the players' help to get out of areas where it's stuck. There are special requests that require the player to work collaboratively with other Pokémon to complete certain tasks.
Working together with other Pokémon can help reshape the world into a vibrant place that’s suited to living. They can help water plants, light fires, help grow crops, have lights that shine in a dimmed area, or even destroy objects that prevent the player from progressing. Keep up the teamwork, and eventually, players can work with other Pokémon to build magnificent houses.
Soon, players will have the land back to its former glory. Using their creativity and imagination, players can craft a world that’s filled with thriving life and Pokémon they wish to live in their towns. So, if you want an action-packed world-building game within the world of Pokémon, make sure to check out Pokémon Pokopia, out now.