Detective Pikachu Returns made its debut on October 4, 2023, as the Detective Pikachu series made the transition from the Nintendo 3DS to the Switch. While some players enjoyed its charming character dynamics and unique gameplay, not everyone was thrilled with this Pokemon spin-off title. Let’s delve into some of the reasons why Detective Pikachu Returns received mixed reviews.
When Detective Pikachu Returns was announced for the Nintendo Switch, fans had high expectations for improved graphics compared to the original game on the 3DS. While the visuals did get an upgrade, some players felt that they still fell short of the standards set by other Switch titles. This has been a recurring issue with several Pokemon games on the Switch, leading to criticism of the graphics and performance.
While the Switch hardware did enhance some aspects of Detective Pikachu’s visuals, it still didn’t quite meet the expectations of many players. Despite being better than the 3DS version in some ways, some fans felt that Returns still looked like it belonged to a previous console generation.
Detective Pikachu Returns wasn’t designed to challenge older players, but some fans still found fault with its gameplay. One common criticism centered around the deduction system used to solve cases. Players felt that the game’s linear structure limited their freedom to explore Ryme City at their own pace. The game directed them toward specific locations at specific times, leading to a somewhat on-rail experience.
Additionally, the game was criticized for its linear story progression and simple puzzles and mysteries. While it aimed to cater to players of all ages, some fans felt that adding a difficulty setting could have made it more appealing to older fans without alienating younger ones. Despite new gameplay elements like involving Pocket Monsters in solving cases, many players wished for more freedom in their gameplay.
Narratively, Detective Pikachu Returns faced challenges due to the 2019 Detective Pikachu film, which had already addressed some of the game’s mysteries and questions. This meant that fans often predicted where the game’s story was headed, reducing the element of surprise.
The sequel focused on Detective Pikachu’s backstory and the whereabouts of Harry Goodman, which were already covered in the movie. While the game might have taken a different narrative approach, it didn’t offer many unexpected twists.
Ultimately, the original Detective Pikachu game didn’t appeal to a wide audience. Most Pokemon games attract players of all ages, but mystery games tend to target older audiences. This put the sequel in a tricky position, trying to cater to both demographics.
For older players who enjoy both Pokemon and mystery games, Detective Pikachu Returns felt too simplistic to be challenging. On the other hand, younger Pokemon fans might enjoy the game, but solving mysteries might not be as engaging for them as collecting and battling Pokemon.
Not every fan disliked Detective Pikachu Returns, but the novelty of solving Pokemon-based mysteries may have worn off after the first game and film. Besides hardcore Pokemon fans or younger players, the game may not have had broad appeal.
As a result, some fans who purchased the game felt that it didn’t offer a fresh enough experience to justify the price tag.