A Shiny Experience
Gameplay: 2.5 (Wonderful, wish more games used this model) Monetization: 2.5 (Wonderful, wish more games used this model) Replayability: 2.5 (Wonderful, wish more games used this model) Atmosphere: 2.5 (Wonderful, wish more games used this model)
Score: 10
Personal Play Time: 20 Hours
Coromon presents an impressive deviation from typical Pokémon games, addressing longstanding issues like difficulty and HM management. Structurally similar to Pokémon, players navigate through regions, capturing Coromon, engaging in battles, and tackling side quests. The standout feature is the game's ""insane"" difficulty, especially in its built-in Nuzlocke mode. Boss battles demand strategic maneuvering, requiring thoughtful switching between Coromon and efficient item usage.
The game excels in offering quality-of-life improvements like movement and battle speed customization, and direct stat modificaiation, akin to the IV system in Pokémon. Eliminating HM dependence and the ability to increase encountered Coromon's levels enhance the gameplay experience, streamlining the traditional Pokémon grind. There are shiny Coromon that actually have stat modifications instead of just being color palate swaps and the elimination of PP instead introducing a system that allows for more grinding outside of a single battle but forces you to be more strategic on long drawn out ones.
However, the storyline lacks groundbreaking elements, although it utilizes environmental puzzles effectively. A few challenges and specific encounters prove overwhelmingly difficult (really only on the hardest difficulty), necessitating frequent save scumming or employing specific strategies. The game's need for grinding, especially on higher difficulty levels, might deter some players who are not used to this.
Ultimately, Coromon stands as one of the year's best games, especially for Pokémon enthusiasts seeking a fresh experience. Despite my 20-hour playtime it's worth noting that this duration was reduced due to increased game speed. Priced at $4.99, the game offers exceptional value, making it a must-have addition to any mobile gaming library for those seeking a challenging yet nostalgic RPG experience.
