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Digimon, inspired by the virtual pet craze that captivated a generation, returns with Digimon World: Next Order. This installment emphasizes the “virtual pet” aspect, streamlining RPG elements like combat, quests, and storyline to focus on raising and training your digital companions. This review delves into the game’s strengths and weaknesses, exploring the intricate training system, diverse Digivolutions, and the repetitive gameplay that might leave some players wanting more.

Digimon World: Next Order – In-game screenshot showing the main character with two Digimon

Engaging Training and City Building

A core element of Next Order is rebuilding the dilapidated city of Floatia. Players explore various regions, recruiting Digimon to contribute to the city’s restoration. Each Digimon specializes in different areas like agriculture, construction, administration, and business, gradually transforming Floatia into a thriving metropolis. Upgrading these areas provides valuable benefits for training and caring for your Digimon. While time-consuming, the process of recruiting Digimon, gathering upgrade materials, and witnessing the city’s growth is rewarding. Side quests, though plentiful, are generally simple fetch or battle tasks, with some puzzle-solving elements adding variety.

Digimon World: Next Order – Screenshot showcasing the city of Floatia

Next Order allows players to raise two Digimon simultaneously. Successfully raising and training them requires significant time and skill, immersing players in the role of a dedicated Digimon trainer. Each Digimon possesses six core stats: Mood, Discipline, Curse, Fatigue, Bond, and DigiFriend, along with Weight. These stats fluctuate based on care and training, impacting training effectiveness and battle performance. For example, feeding a Digimon its favorite food boosts its Mood, resulting in training bonuses and increased attack damage.

Training focuses on HP & MP, STR (Strength), STA (Stamina), WIS (Wisdom), and SPD (Speed). Players can train in the Gym, focusing on specific stats, or battle wild Digimon for stat gains based on the opponent. The trainer also levels up through battles, earning Tamer Skills points to enhance training and care capabilities.

Digimon World: Next Order – In-game screenshot of a training session

Diverse Digivolutions and Mechanics

Boasting over 200 Digimon, Next Order offers a diverse roster with unique designs. Digimon progress through stages: Baby, In-Training, Rookie, Champion, Ultimate, and Mega. Digivolution requires meeting specific Key Points, including training stats and emotional stats. For example, evolving Gomamon into Ikkakumon requires specific training stats, a weight of 25, Discipline below 49, and 15 battle victories. Initially hidden, Key Points are revealed through interactions like praising or scolding. Reaching the required Key Points and age triggers Digivolution.

Digimon World: Next Order – In-game screenshot displaying various Digimon

The game features several Digivolution methods: standard Digivolution, DNA Digivolution (combining two Digimon), evolution using special stones, Mistake Digivolution (failed evolution due to unmet conditions or high Curse), and Digivolution Blocking (preventing previous forms) at Digivolution Dojo Level 2.

Simple Story and Repetitive Gameplay

Next Order’s narrative is relatively simple. The protagonist is drawn into the Digital World through a Digivice, partnering with two Digimon to combat Machinedramon and rebuild Floatia. While the Digimon care system is engaging, managing their needs can become tedious. Balancing food supplies, maintaining ideal weight for desired evolutions, and monitoring Fatigue to prevent illness requires constant attention. Furthermore, the limited lifespan of Digimon, averaging 15-18 days across six stages, necessitates efficient Key Point completion. Though reincarnation grants higher stats, restarting after dedicated training can be disheartening.

Digimon World: Next Order – Screenshot of the game's opening sequence

Limited Combat and Graphics

Combat is limited, with the player issuing orders, healing, and managing MP while Digimon fight autonomously. Extra Cross Evolution (EXE) temporarily fuses two Digimon for a powerful attack. Graphically, Next Order’s simple anime style and lack of detailed environments are underwhelming.

Conclusion

Digimon World: Next Order offers a deep and engaging Digimon training experience, but its repetitive gameplay and simple story might not appeal to all RPG fans. The diverse Digivolution mechanics and city-building aspects offer long-term enjoyment, but the constant attention required for Digimon care and the limited combat system can become tiresome. Ultimately, Next Order is a rewarding experience for dedicated virtual pet enthusiasts, but those seeking a complex RPG experience might be left wanting.