LogFAQs > #958465639

Pokemon Black Version 2 (NDS)

An affirmation of Gen V being the best generation for Pokemon games. It's kinda funny how this game essentially balances out Black and White; while those games shined in story (for a Pokemon game), this one feels like it doesn't really have a story at all. All the story beats feel kinda shoehorned in and most of the plot happens at the end, and is also over before you know it.

Not that it's too much of a problem though, because gameplay-wise this might well be the peak of Pokmon. It's got a phenomenal spread of Pokemon; I enjoyed Black and White's pure Gen V dex, but it's always more fun when you just have access to all of the Pokemon and this game just delivers in that aspect. Every route, every patch of grass probably has a 'mon that makes you go "Ooh, I want to try that on my team!". One of the earliest areas in the game gives you access to Psyduck, Mareep, and Riolu among others. That's three cool Pokemon (lines) from three different gens.

One of the problems I had with OG Gen V was that the new gameplay mechanics it introduced were underutilized or even completely unknowable. While it doesn't go crazy with it, Black 2 features more Triple and Rotation battles, which just creates a nice surprise and challenge (as opposed to double battles, which were always a bit obvious). Hidden Abilities are also easier to get in contact with, as the Hidden Grottoes can offer up Pokemon that always have their Hidden Ability.

But especially the battles feel like a real step-up. Whereas other gens feel like they're afraid to give you trainers past mid-30's, the levels in this game ramp up well. It never really feels like you're under- or overleveled, which is a great change of pace from most Pokemon games where one or the other inevitably happens. It gives a nice challenge, even for normal battles, which is rare for a Pokemon game.

Technically, I actually love the look of Gen V. There's also some absolutely lush tracks in this game; Gen IV is still the best Pokemon OST, but Lacunosa Town is a top-theme in any Pokemon game.

Final team:
Samurott (Roronoa) Lvl. 59
Genesect Lvl. 60
Keldeo Lvl. 60
Kabutops (Zeiss) Lvl. 59
Escavalier (Lancelot) Lvl. 56
Gliscor (The Claaaw) Lvl. 62
(HM users: Patrat, Sandshrew, Mandibuzz, Dialga)

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How paralyzingly dull, boring and tedious!