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Review of Pokémon White 2 on Nintendo DS

by Jay Aborro Jay Aborro photo Oct 2012
Cover image of Pokémon White 2 on DS
Gamefings Score: 8.5
Platform: DS DS logo
Released: 07 Oct 2012
Genre: Role-playing
Developer: Game Freak
Publisher: The Pokémon Company, Nintendo

Introduction

In the world of Pokémon, few things are as recognizable as the beloved games featuring our favorite little pocket monsters. With the release of Pokémon White 2, we find ourselves back in the Unova Region for a sequel that promises to deliver more adventures, more battles, and of course, more Pokémon! The question remains: Is this just a rehash of what's already been done, or does it offer up something fresh? Put on your best Pokémon trainer hat, and let's dive into this digital world.

Gameplay

Pokémon White 2 is essentially an extension of Pokémon Black and White, picking up two years after the original story. Players will retrace familiar paths, battle obsessively persistent Gym Leaders, and thwart yet another nefarious scheme set in motion by a revitalized organization-Neo Team Plasma. If you're still wondering what happened to the other members who were just a tad too 'villainous,' worry not, they're back, and this time they're convinced their comeback involves some serious world domination. Gameplay largely continues in classic Pokémon style, featuring two central loops: overworld exploration and the frantic battles that we all know and love. You'll navigate terrain from a top-down perspective, talk to a dizzying array of NPCs, and of course, battle opponents using your Pokémon's abilities. What sets this game apart are the newly accessible areas, the additional Pokémon (omg, over 300 of them right from the start!), along with fun new features including the Key System for adding more challenges post-game.* One of the more intriguing new elements is the PokéStar Studios, which gives players a chance to star in their own Pokémon films. Yes, you heard that right! Ever wanted to be a Pokémon movie director? Here's your chance to shine! Alternatively, if juggling a film career isn't your thing, you can always whip out your Pokémon for the Pokémon World Tournament, where you'll face off against legendary trainers from past games, like Brock, Misty, and Cynthia. It's like the ultimate Pokémon reunion where everyone's arguing over whose Pokémon is better than whose. Spoiler alert: it's usually Charizard.

Graphics

Regarding graphics, Pokémon White 2 stays true to the art style introduced with the fifth generation of Pokémon games. While it might not push the graphical limits of the Nintendo DS, everything is vibrant, colorful, and pleasing to the eye. Character models and backgrounds are well-designed, presenting a world that feels alive, even if a little familiar. Those new locations bring fresh scenery and aesthetics, which is kind of like a breath of fresh air as you explore the Unova region. The most noteworthy addition is the fact that graphical improvements are visible in battles. Attacks look slicker, and legendary Pokémon are given a little more panache in terms of presentation. However, if you're/seeing this game as the end-all-be-all of graphical fidelity, let's just say your expectations might need a good hard look in the mirror.

Conclusion

Is Pokémon White 2 groundbreaking? No. However, it embraces its roots and manages to be an engaging experience for both newcomers and long-time fans. The additional features and improvements provide just enough fresh content to keep trainers on their toes while maintaining the essence that we all love. Catching 'em all just became a little more fun. So is it worth your time as you ready your DS for more Pokémon adventure? Absolutely! Whether you're joining the fight against Neo Team Plasma again or just having a blast exploring the Unova region with your trusty Pokémon pals, White 2 serves as a delightful addition to the Pokémon legacy. Grab your Poké Balls, because this adventure will certainly reel you back in!

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