GAME REVIEW: Pokémon Sun and Moon

Twenty whole years after the very first Pokémon games came out, these little pocket monsters are still going strong. Let's take a look at Pokémon Sun and Moon, the newest installment in the popular role-playing series.

Tried and true formula

If you've ever played a Pokémon game before, you probably know how it goes:

1. Collect critters and train your team.
2. Beat all eight Gym Leaders.
3. Challenge the most powerful trainers in the game, the Elite Four, and become the new Champion.

It's familiar, and it's fun. But if that's what you're expecting this time, Pokémon Sun and Moon might surprise you. In a good way. You're still catching and training your Pokémon, but gyms? Gone.

What? A Pokémon game without gyms? Don't worry. It's awesome.

A whole new world

Welcome to the island paradise of Alola. Instead of beating gyms, you'll advance through the game by completing Alola's unique Island Challenge Trials. These quirky puzzles involve everything from seeking out special items to getting your dance groove on.

But the Trials aren't the only cool new thing about Alola. Recognize this guy?

Meow. (© Nintendo)

That's an Alolan Persian and can only be caught on these islands. Even cuter versions of my favourite Pokémon, you say? I'm game!

Help! There's so much to do!

It's true. Pokémon Sun and Moon give you a lot of little bonus games and secondary goals to complete. If you're the type of gamer who loves this stuff, great! But you can also totally ignore it all if you'd rather just focus on catching, training, and battling.

Bottom line: if you're a Pokémon fan, you'll probably love these games. And if you're a new player who's curious about Pokémon, they're a great introduction to the series.

Check out the trailer below for more details.