Pokémon creator's new game Beast of Reincarnation disappoints
Game Freak's experimental title fails to deliver originality
1Game Freak's experimental project
The creator of Pokémon, Game Freak, ventures into action territory with Beast of Reincarnation. Known for experimental titles like militarized elephant games and card adaptations, the studio's latest effort lacks the originality of past projects. Set in post-apocalyptic Japan 2000 years in the future, the game blends sci-fi and magic but struggles to find its unique voice.
2Story and world design
The game's world combines sci-fi and fantasy elements where humans have transferred consciousness to robotic golems. A mysterious blight has mutated wildlife, and protagonist Emma, a mercenary who absorbs mutant powers, travels this world to prepare for a final showdown. However, the narrative maintains excessive mystery, leaving players confused about basic plot points for hours.
3Combat mechanics
Beast's strongest aspect is its action system. Emma plays as a speedy samurai with unique plant-based abilities growing from her hair - creating bridges, grappling hooks, and stealth cover. Her giant magical dog companion assists in combat and exploration. While starting like a Souls-like, the combat evolves to allow creative approaches, though it takes hours to fully unlock.
4Exploration and level design
Rather than open-world, the game features large segmented areas. Unfortunately, level design proves disappointingly straightforward with simplistic platforming sections. Underdeveloped systems like weapon upgrades and farming are easily forgettable. Even the skill tree - literally shaped like a tree - lacks depth, representing missed opportunities for innovation.
5Narrative issues
The game overuses mystery: Emma's origins, her companions, the world's history, and even key gameplay elements remain unexplained for too long. Tutorial information is buried in menus, and when answers finally come, they're underwhelming. Players may spend over 10 hours without clear understanding of their objectives, frustrating rather than intriguing them.
6Lack of originality
Beast's biggest flaw is its reliance on borrowed ideas. The story feels like a diluted Nier: Automata, boss battles resemble Monster Hunter, some designs echo Wild Hearts and Stranger Things, while the mobile base mimics Death Stranding (complete with shower) and looks suspiciously like Star Wars' AT-ST. These unoriginal elements prevent the game from establishing its own identity.
7Missed opportunities
Given Game Freak's creative pedigree, Beast represents a significant disappointment. Promising concepts like plant-based powers, human-machine conflicts, and post-apocalyptic Japanese folklore aren't fully realized. Emma's hair mechanics could have been groundbreaking but see limited application. The foundation shows glimpses of innovation buried under familiar structures.
8Final verdict
Beast of Reincarnation demonstrates Game Freak's desire to break from Pokémon but fails to establish a distinctive identity. While combat mechanics work well and creative seeds exist, the game borrows too heavily from other works. Opaque storytelling and shallow systems undermine the experience. Pokémon fans may appreciate seeing the studio's experimental side, but action RPG enthusiasts have better alternatives available.