Overview

• The Game Freak release arrives tomorrow, October 16, with critics calling it one of the series’ best modern entries.
• Metacritic currently lists an 81/100 average from 42 reviews, indicating broadly favorable reception compared with recent mainline titles.
• Set five years after X & Y, the game functions as a direct sequel that returns to Lumiose City and concentrates play within its redesigned urban setting.
• Combat shifts to real time with players controlling both trainer and Pokémon, and the Mega Evolution mechanic makes a noted comeback.
• Reviews praise the battle overhaul, tone and soundtrack, while some note limited exploration outside Lumiose and minor hardware constraints, with several outlets pointing to better performance on Switch 2.