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The monster-catching RPG genre has captivated players for decades with its intricate gameplay and deep strategic elements. Games like Diablo, Titan Quest, and Grim Dawn focus on character building and skillful combat, while turn-based RPGs like Xenoblade Chronicles and Final Fantasy emphasize strategic team composition. However, few games have managed to capture the magic of collecting and battling hundreds of unique creatures like the Pokemon series. Nexomon seeks to recapture that magic, offering players a nostalgic trip back to the classic monster-catching games of yesteryear.

A Familiar and Engaging Gameplay Loop

Nexomon doesn’t shy away from its Pokemon inspiration, embracing the core gameplay elements that made the franchise so successful. Players explore a vast world composed of interconnected cities, towns, and diverse environments such as forests, grasslands, snowy mountains, and caves. Along the way, they encounter a wide variety of Nexomon to battle and capture.

Nexomon

Battles are turn-based, with Nexomon taking turns based on their speed stat. Players can choose from four skills for their Nexomon to use, most of which deal damage with potential added effects like poison, stun, paralysis, or armor reduction. Strategic team composition is key, as players can swap Nexomon mid-battle to exploit type advantages and disadvantages.

Nexomon

Capturing wild Nexomon involves using traps, similar to Pokeballs. Factors like low health, status ailments, and level differences influence capture rates. While missing the QTE mechanic and percentage display from Nexomon: Extinction, the capture system remains engaging and rewarding.

Nexomon

Overall, Nexomon’s gameplay is accessible and easy to learn, especially for those familiar with Pokemon or other turn-based RPGs. The game streamlines many aspects while retaining the core appeal and strategic depth of the genre. Players will find themselves quickly immersed in the world, eager to discover and train new Nexomon.

Nexomon

Visually Appealing 2D World

Nexomon boasts a visually pleasing 2D art style. The game presents a world filled with vibrant colors and detailed environments. From lush forests to bustling cities, each area is meticulously crafted, creating a sense of immersion and charm.

Nexomon

The Nexomon themselves are equally well-designed, featuring a simplified yet expressive art style reminiscent of earlier Pokemon generations. The creatures are charming and memorable, with distinct personalities conveyed through their animations and appearances.

Nexomon

Compared to its sequel, Nexomon: Extinction, the original Nexomon arguably possesses a more cohesive and polished visual presentation. While Extinction features a beautiful world, it can feel somewhat disjointed. Nexomon, on the other hand, offers a seamless and artistic experience, with environments that feel connected and lived-in.

A Lackluster Narrative

Unfortunately, Nexomon’s biggest weakness lies in its narrative. The story lacks depth and fails to engage the player emotionally. The protagonist’s motivations are weak, and the supporting characters are largely forgettable.

Nexomon

The game attempts to inject humor with a sarcastic robotic companion, but the jokes often fall flat and can even be annoying. Compared to the compelling storyline and memorable characters of Nexomon: Extinction, the original game’s narrative feels underdeveloped and uninspired.

Nexomon

Conclusion

Nexomon offers a fun and nostalgic gameplay experience for fans of classic monster-catching RPGs. Its engaging gameplay, charming visuals, and simplified mechanics make it an accessible and enjoyable adventure. However, the game’s weak narrative holds it back from reaching its full potential. While Nexomon succeeds in capturing the spirit of early Pokemon titles, it lacks the compelling story and character development that make those games truly memorable.