Haunted Pikachu dolls? Dead-eyed Ditto-humans? The very weird post-apocalyptic world of Pokémon Pokopia is easily the most fun I’ve had with Pokémon in ages

The moment I first delved into Pokémon Pokopia, I realized it was something truly unique. Instead of the mundane actions typically found in life-simulation games, like reaching for a watering can, I was met with an absurd and amusing surprise: my character simply opened its mouth wide and expelled a jet of water onto the floor with a press of a shoulder button. While Pokopia undoubtedly shares its foundational elements with renowned titles such as Animal Crossing, Minecraft, Stardew Valley, and even Viva Piñata, it sets itself apart with an undeniably wonderful and refreshingly subversive streak that I’ve found utterly captivating from the very beginning. This isn’t just another creature-collecting adventure; it’s a wonderfully weird and fresh experience that redefines expectations.