Pokken Tournament (also known as Pocket Monsters Card Battling) is a 3D crossover fighting game developed by Bandai Namco Entertainment and published in by Nintendo. It was originally released in Japanese arcades on July 16, 2015 and later ported to Nintendo Wii U. It combines gameplay elements from Bandai Namco's Tekken series and the Pokemon franchise, uses 3D models to represent characters and gameplay similar to Tekken. The game introduces many mechanics such as Duel Phase and Field Phase, Synergy Burst and Pocket Monsters Moves, which significantly changes the way battles unfold.
The aim of the game is to reduce the opponent's hit points to zero by using various fighting maneuvers, combos, and specials moves. These moves vary from character to character, and range from basic punches and kicks to powerful energy attacks that require a great deal of finesse to successfully be used. Combos are also introduced, which allows for a greater degree of complexity in battle, as each character has their own unique ability set.
Of course, a big part of Pokken Tournament is mastering the characters and their unique abilities in order to become a better fighter. Strategic thinking and careful timing are very important, as the player needs to both know how to properly use the given move sets, and also which move to use at what time in order to successfully fight the opponent.
The game also introduces the Duel Phase and Field Phase. Duel phase requires the player to directly attack the opponent, while Field Phase requires the player to use mobility to both avoid the opponent's attacks and set up the location in order to land their own attacks. These two phases are integral parts of the game, as they add an extra layer of strategy as the player needs to properly analyze their opponent's movements and adjust their strategy accordingly.
Synergy Burst bring a whole new level to the game, as it increases a character’s power and enables them to launch devastatingly powerful attacks. In order to activate a Synergy Burst, the player needs to fill a meter by successfully executing combos and landing attacks on their opponent. Once the meter is full, a special effect will activate, granting the character either an increase in attack power, defense power, or a combination of both for a limited time. It’s important for the player to know how to use the Synergy Burst properly in order to maximize its potential.
Finally, there are the Pocket Monsters Moves, special moves that heavily resemble those seen in the Pokemon franchise. These moves vary greatly, but all have the potential to turn the tide of battle in the user’s favor. It’s up to the player to know which move to use and when, in order to ensure that the move is used most effectively.
Overall, Pokken Tournament is an incredibly deep and complex fighting game that can take fighting game skills to the next level. While the game has a lot to offer even to newer players, the masterful combination of different game elements offers nearly endless opportunities for experienced players to hone their skills and become true fighting game experts. So if you're looking for a game that can take your fighting game skills to the next level, Pokken Tournament is definitely worth your time.
