Pokémon Puzzle Challenge Retrospective: What new direction the storied franchise took

Pokémon Puzzle Challenge Retrospective: Looking Back at a Classic Puzzle Game

Pokémon Puzzle Challenge was a game released for the Game Boy Color in 2000. Developed by Intelligent Systems and published by Nintendo, it was a puzzle game that featured the popular Pokémon franchise. The game was a successor to the previously released Pokémon Puzzle League for the Nintendo 64.

In Pokémon Puzzle Challenge, players had to match falling blocks to clear the screen and defeat their opponent. The game had various modes, including a story mode where players could battle gym leaders and the Elite Four. The game also had a multiplayer mode where players could compete against each other using a link cable. The game received positive reviews for its gameplay and presentation, with many praising its addictiveness and replayability.

Gameplay

Pokémon Puzzle Challenge is a puzzle game that was released on Game Boy Color and DS. The game has six puzzling modes, including Puzzle Mode, Challenge Mode, Marathon Mode, Garbage Mode, Block Tower, and Line Clear.

In Puzzle Mode, players must clear a set number of puzzles to progress to the next level. Challenge Mode pits players against opposing Pokémon, and they must clear blocks to send garbage to their opponent's field.

Marathon Mode challenges players to clear as many lines as possible before the time runs out. Garbage Mode is similar to Challenge Mode, but players must clear garbage instead of sending it.

Block Tower requires players to build a tower of blocks as high as possible, while Line Clear challenges them to clear as many lines as possible.

The game features moves and combos that players can use to clear blocks more efficiently. Players can also create chains by clearing multiple lines at once.

In Puzzle Challenge, players must navigate through a sea of garbage to defeat the puzzle master. The game also features a Time Zone system that changes the game's background based on the time of day.

Overall, Pokémon Puzzle Challenge offers a variety of modes and challenges for players to enjoy.

Graphics & Sound

The graphics and sound of Pokémon Puzzle Challenge are simple yet charming. The game features colorful and cute sprites of various Pokémon, which are easy on the eyes. The backgrounds are also well-designed and add to the overall aesthetic of the game.

The sound effects are satisfying and match the actions on screen, such as the sound of blocks falling or Pokémon evolving. The music is catchy and upbeat, with different tracks for each mode of the game.

While the graphics and sound of Pokémon Puzzle Challenge may not be groundbreaking, they are effective in creating a fun and enjoyable experience for players. The game's visuals and audio are also consistent with other Pokémon games of the time, which will be appreciated by fans of the franchise.

Overall, the graphics and sound of Pokémon Puzzle Challenge are a solid aspect of the game, adding to its overall charm and appeal.

Why It's Still Unique

Pokémon Puzzle Challenge is a puzzle title that was released in 2000 for the Game Boy Color. It was developed by Intelligent Systems and published by Nintendo. The game was later re-released on the Virtual Console in 2014.

The gameplay of Pokémon Puzzle Challenge is unique and different from other spin-offs in the Pokémon franchise. The game is based on Panel de Pon, a puzzle game that was originally released in Japan. The game involves matching colored blocks and clearing them from the screen.

One of the unique features of Pokémon Puzzle Challenge is the ability to link up with other players using the Game Link Cable. Players can battle each other or trade Pokémon with Professor Oak. The game also features gyms from the Johto region, where players can battle against gym leaders and earn badges.

In addition to battling and trading, players can also breed Pokémon with different genders. This adds another layer of strategy to the game, as players can breed Pokémon with specific moves and abilities.

The graphics in Pokémon Puzzle Challenge are simple but charming. The game features sprites of various Pokémon, including Raikou and Lugia. The game also features characters from the anime, such as Ash Ketchum and Team Rocket.

Overall, Pokémon Puzzle Challenge is a unique and enjoyable puzzle game that still holds up today. With lightning fast reflexes and a journey to Johto, players can become the Pokémon Puzzle Champion and defeat the Johto gym leaders. The game is rated E for Everyone by the ESRB and is a great addition to the Puzzle League series.

Why You Should Play It Today

If you are a fan of puzzle games and Pokémon, then you should definitely give Pokémon Puzzle Challenge a try. This classic game was released in 2000 for the Game Boy Color and has since been re-released on the Nintendo 3DS Virtual Console. Here are a few reasons why you should play it today:

  • It's a fun and challenging puzzle game: Pokémon Puzzle Challenge is a spin-off of the Puzzle League series, which is known for its fast-paced and addictive gameplay. In this game, you must match up blocks of the same color to clear them from the screen. It may sound simple, but as you progress through the levels, the game becomes increasingly difficult.

  • It features your favorite Pokémon: The game includes a variety of Pokémon, including Chikorita, Totodile, Cyndaquil, Pikachu, Pichu, Marill, Togepi, Elekid, Bellossom, Sentret, Igglybuff, Cleffa, Magby, and more. Each Pokémon has its own unique block design, making it even more satisfying to clear them from the screen.

  • It has a story mode: In story mode, you play as a trainer who must defeat gym leaders and the Elite Four to become the champion. Along the way, you'll encounter characters from the Johto region, such as Falkner, Jasmine, Pryce, Morty, Chuck, and Clair. The story mode also includes fun mini-games and challenges.

  • It has a encyclopedia: The game features an encyclopedia that includes information on each Pokémon, such as its type, height, weight, and evolution. This is a great resource for any Pokémon fan who wants to learn more about their favorite creatures.

  • It's easy to pick up and play: The game has simple controls and a tutorial mode that teaches you the basics. You can also save your progress and continue where you left off at any time.

Overall, Pokémon Puzzle Challenge is a great game for anyone who loves puzzles and Pokémon. With its fun gameplay, charming graphics, and nostalgic appeal, it's definitely worth checking out.