Pokemon Ranger: The Road to Diamond and Pearl review

Range over 200 Pokemon in this unique DS adventure game

12DOVE Verdict

Pros

  • +

    Solid production values

  • +

    Easy to pick up and play

  • +

    Manaphy... some day

Cons

  • -

    Relatively short and easy

  • -

    Little gameplay depth

  • -

    Simplistic storyline

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Another month, another Pokemon spin-off. Yes, the Pokemon money-making machine is full effect on the DS now, building speed in anticipation for next year's Pokemon Diamond and Pearl. Pokemon Ranger is relatively insubstantial and ultimately forgettable, but remains an amusing dual-screen diversion until the next real Pokemon adventures arrive.

So what exactly is a Pokemon Ranger? Unlike a Pokemon trainer, Pokemon Rangers watch over a specific area, its people and its Pokemon. They try to help out the humans with the help of Pokemon, but aren't allowed to remove Pokemon from their natural habitats. As a rookie Ranger in the Fiore region, you'll help the populace and scribble away at injustice with the help of the adorable Plusle or Minun.

More info

GenreAction
DescriptionPokemon Ranger is relatively an ultimately forgettable action/adventure, but is an amusing dual-screen diversion until the next real Pokemon game arrives.
Franchise namePokemon
UK franchise namePokemon
Platform"DS"
US censor rating"Everyone"
UK censor rating"3+"
Alternative names"Pokemon Ranger: The Road to Diamond and Pearl"
Release date1 January 1970 (US), 1 January 1970 (UK)
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