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Cartridge: Pokemon Rumble Blast
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Started by pikarceus
(2011-11-29 01:42:40)

pikarceus (2011-11-29 01:42:40)

Introduction
Ah....Pokemon. A series that has shifted millions upon millions of copies, sold systems, and is one of the most beloved video game franchises to date. So of course with the main series being so successful and to rake in extra cash, lots and lots of spin-off games have been made. Pokemon Rumble Blast is one of them, being a sequel to the Wii Ware spin-off Pokemon Rumble. Is it a worthy spin-off, or shovelware not worth your time? Read on.
Graphics
The graphics in this game are wonderful. The toy Pokemon models are very well defined, no blockyness or jaggies there. The level design is very good visually, with lush scenery, and detailed textures. Yes, here there are some jaggies, but they aren't too noticeable. The 3D brings the level to life, with trees popping out of the screen, and the level extending far into the back of the screen. As you collect Pokemon, they will literally fly off the screen towards you.

Sound
The Sound, when compared to most Pokemon games is wild and frantic. Sometimes it is calming and peaceful, but for the most part intense. Of course all the Pokemon cries and move sounds are in this game as well, some with new twists. The sound is definitely not what Pokemon fans are used to, but you will love the music of Pokemon Rumble Blast before you know it.
Gameplay
The basic gameplay is you romping through the level taking out or befriending as many Pokemon as you can, and then facing the boss. A bit repetitive at first, but it quickly becomes much more exciting and difficult.
There are however, three other ways to play.

Battle Royale
Your Pokemon are tossed into an arena and must battle it out against waves and waves of enemy pokes.

Charge battle
All your Pokemon mass into an army, and charge into the opposing one. Whichever team has the higher power wins.

Team battle
You choose a team of three Pokemon. You control one of them, and storm a boss laden fortress.

These three different ways to play are not impressive by themselves but together they give the gameplay some much needed diversity.
Overall excellent gameplay. Despite the huge amount of enemies on screen, I have not experienced any lag.
I should also mention the controls. A and B attack, D-pad/Circle pad move. Very simple, but they work very well.
Content
Pretty solid content. The main story will last you ten hours, but that is just where the fun begins. You unlock the insanely powerful ex battles, which will have you training for many, many hours as you get enough money to raise the world rank that makes Pokemon stronger. Then there is the streetpass feature, with Mii usage and playcoin support. No spoilers but lets just say save up those playcoins because you can get VERY rare Pokemon with this.
There are also passwords that can unlock more Pokemon, and a mode where you start off as a lone rattata. Not only that, but this game has all Pokemon across all Generations in it, as opposed to its predecessor having only gens one and two. Overall this game should get you forty hours, if you're a completist, even more.
Set-up

Not the must innovative set-up. The touch screen displays a mini map, and lots of info, but you don't really use it for anything. Touching it does nothing, all the controls are done by buttons. A bit odd to be honest. I suppose it is somewhat helpful, but this game would work fine without the touchscreen. Overall, not a bad set-up, but lacking creativity.
Conclusion

Overall, Pokemon Rumble Blast, while not the experience you will find in a core Pokemon game, is still quite an engaging game. If you like Pokemon this is a must buy. If you don't you may still want to give it a try, because believe me, this game is a whole new take on Pokemon.

Overall: 8/10