While there is certainly no age cap for being a Pokémon fan, Pokémon Legends: Arceus provides a much more mature experience than prior entries in the series. Most mainline Pokémon games have followed similar gameplay formulas and story arcs which have become repetitive over time. However, Legends: Arceus has made several updates to the usual Pokémon blueprint that are especially welcomed by more experienced Trainers.
Each Pokémon game is special in its own right but the series has notoriously repeated its formula in most entries. Characterized by battle loops, strictly linear exploration, and stories with characters that can sometimes feel paint-by-number, this formula has perhaps become stale. Though this style of game will always be nostalgic, there are infinite imaginative possibilities in the incredible world of Pokémon to explore.
Pokémon is often targeted towards kids even though Trainers come in all ages. There are many adults who have grown up with the franchise or play more recent popular games like Pokémon GO. Promotions for Legends: Arceus set expectations for an advanced experience high, especially among longtime fans. Thankfully, Pokémon Legends: Arceus has acknowledged these players through more thoughtful storytelling and enhanced gameplay.
Legends: Arceus Is A More Mature Pokémon Experience
The plot of most Pokémon games is intense (i.e. a 10-year-old travels a world of monsters alone), but Legends: Arceus’s story and character design are noticeably more mature than other titles. The story begins with the protagonist falling through space and time; they must then prove themselves worthy to stay in Jubilife Village. Should they fail in this mission, they will be thrown out to certain death in the wilderness. This sense of immediate danger continues throughout, as the player dodges attacks from Legends Arceus's angry Pokémon at every corner.
Legends: Arceus’s characters also feel more advanced than in past games. Each of Hisui’s different factions has strong beliefs about the world they share with Pokémon. This sets up more nuanced characters and interactions. The game even acknowledges this maturation by making the protagonist fifteen instead of ten. Whereas engaging with characters can often feel like a chore in other Pokémon games, it feels like story progression in Legends: Arceus.
Legends: Arceus also makes significant upgrades to Pokémon’s usual blueprint. Side requests, crafting, improved character/Pokémon team customizations, and unique monster- battling and catching systems keep the game from becoming redundant. Additionally, even the most dedicated Trainers can learn something new by observing and cataloguing every Pokémon in the Legends: Arceus Pokédex. Taken altogether, Pokémon Legends: Arceus is a much more complex and mature experience than past entries, but one that more experienced Trainers in particular are likely to enjoy.
