A narrated guide instructs new arrivals on Phase Shifts, Synergy Gauge, Support Gauge, Wall Combos, Wall Burst, Cancels, and Guard Breaks – by the end of it I felt like I'd just sat through a school lecture. Loading Pokkén Tournament’s Tutorial modes immediately illustrates this tsunami of ideas, as several non-interactive demos instruct you on a multitude of topics ranging from actions specific to Pokkén Tournament to advanced fighting game concepts. The sheer breadth of complexity in gameplay places heavy expectations on your shoulders: absorb a lot, and to do it quickly. “Having sung those praises, I have to pivot and argue that Pokkén Tournament’s many strengths also serve as its biggest flaw. Pokémon games have always had quality music, and developer Bandai Namco has made sure that Pokkén Tournament does not tarnish that legacy. The sounds and music fit just as well as the graphics, with new takes on Pokémon soundtrack classics alongside original high-energy compositions.
In Too DeepThe art style feels right at home in the Pokémon universe, while also lending an edge to the visuals to make the action a good fit for a brawler. Gengar manufactures mix-ups with use of misdirection, forcing opponents to guess whether he will attack from above, from behind, or from below. Machamp, for instance, stomps towards his foes, seeking to get close and dole out staggering blows or grab defensive opponents for even more damage.
Each of these turn-based RPG fighters is translated into a real-time combatant with mechanics that feel appropriate for their well-known designs. These are characters that have existed for decades, and Pokkén Tournament does not disappoint in portraying them faithfully. The roster contains a nice mixture of old mainstays and new faces, and while it would be impossible to include everyone’s favorites, the 16-character group is made up of characters spanning Pokémon’s 20 years of history. “Iconic Pokémon from both early and current generations are present and available to be pitted against each other, and as a long-time fan, I felt immediately welcome.