Attempting to replicate the success of Pokémon is a dangerous game. Despite the fact there are more and more fans growing disillusioned with the iconic franchise with each new release, few have ever really been able to come for Pokémon’s crown.
Palworldhas certainly given it a damn good go, but the “Pokémonwith guns” is a little too heavy on the survival crafting mechanics for my taste. If a properly classic Pokémon flavour is what you crave,Home Of The Yokaiis the game for you.
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During my brief hands-on withHome Of The Yokaiat GDC I was walked through the first 30 minutes or so of the monster collecting RPG. It kicks off in a similar vein to a classic Pokémon adventure. You choose your partner Yokai and set off to run an innocuous errand that inevitably evolves into something more epic.
What immediately struck me aboutHome Of The Yokaiis that it offers up an evolution of the 2.5D artstyle that I so adored from the Nintendo DS Pokémon titles. Your character ambles through gorgeous hand-drawn environments as if you’re wandering around an interactive pop-up book.
It’s an absolute joy to look at, and the Yokai themselves (of which there are over 300) are beautifully realised. I didn’t get to see them all, of course, but critters range from adorable to silly to downright terrifying. And just like the best Pokémon games, you can have your favourite friend follow you around.
Rayka Studio
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The battle system is probably where theHome Of The Yokaidiffers the most from Pokémon, in that it’s been designed to be as in line with the rest of the game’s cosy vibe as possible. The game features an auto-battle combat system in which you choose the Yokai you want to fight and then sit back as they duke it out.
In addition to pursuing the main story, you can battle other Yokai trainers to become the very best, and explore the world’s various biomes as you attempt to catch ‘em all. I was treated to a quick look at some of the later areas in the game’s world, and there’s an impressive level of variety on display.
As far as catching new monsters is concerned,Home Of The Yokaiborrows heavily fromPokémon Legends: Arceus, in that it’s entirely possible for you to relax and catch Yokai without ever having to go into battle. There are also no random encounters, and very little need to grind to victory.
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Rayka Studio
There’s no release date set forHome Of The Yokaiyet, but if you’re craving a classic Pokémon experience with a few genuine twists, I’d urge you to keep your eye on this one.
Topics:Indie Games,Steam,Pokemon,Stardew Valley
