I like this review. After playing Diamond (and finding myself somewhat disappointed by it), I was a bit nervous to play Black and White because it was different from the older games, technically speaking. The pokemon were new, the setting was different, and the storyline and battle system... changed to a more current way to the play the game.

Needless to say, I was very happy I picked up both versions of the game. Despite what some fanboys of the older games might say, Black and White is, by far, the most superior of the games. It has a storyline that, while it keeps to the same formula we've been used to since our Red and Blue days, changes slightly. N's Castle and Zekrom/Reshiram are prime examples that have deviated from past games.

I think Team Plasma are the best villians we've had in the games yet. Their prime reason for existing is to liberate Pokemon from humans, saying that humans are using Pokemon as their slaves, and not allowing them to reach their potential. And it's such a relatable cause that it does make the player stop and think if they ARE wrong. So I think this is what makes Team Plasma superior to all the other baddies we've had - because their reason for fighting is not too far-fetched.

Good storyline, cool new Pokemon and characters, interesting foes, and more challenges in the battle system definitely make this a must-have game!

I would recommend the game, personally.

If you're into competitve play, like I am, it is getting easier to set up EV/IV trained teams (Items in game can add EVs like defeating a pokemon that normally gives them).

If you don't want to fork over the $40 -- which is understandable -- there is a very decent community on pokemononline.eu that does a lot of online competive battling. It's a downloadable program that allows to connect and battle other players. It is basic but addictive. That is only if you want the battling though.

I think if you're looking for story you're probably better of with actual RPGs -- Skyrim is coming out this year and I'm sure the plot for that will be fantastic (that's a whole other article though). With Pokemon the story has always been lacking. Nintendo sees it more as a game aimed toward kids, therefore the story is pushed further down on their list of priorities. The gameplay, though remarkably similar to early versions, is polished in B&W. I think sometimes playability can outweigh story, especially when nostalgia is involved.

But! There is always roleplaying if you want to add spice to the Pokemon world you are familliar with. There are many Pokemon communities online if that's what you're interested in, all just a google search away.

I would reccomend Pokemon Online though. It's worth a check if you enjoy pokemon. Make sure you learn about competitive play though, or you might get whooped your first few battles!

I'm curious - what do you make of the storyline? As a fan of the series for... longer than I care to admit, the one thing I'm beginning to want from Pokemon is a good story. I've heard that it's much more driving and a much bigger part of the game this time 'round, but I've also heard that the story is rather... unimpressive for being a focus.

I haven't bought Black or White yet, and I'm still on the fence. I am excited about the update on graphics and the gamplay mechanic changes, I'm unimpressed by the stunning lack of creativity in the new Gen. V Pokemon. I'd like to know if it's worth it to put $40 down the drain for what is mostly same-old-same-old.

I do have to admit, though, that the BGM for Pokemon has always been among the most memorable. The battle theme and Pokemon Center theme are right up there with the classic Legend of Zelda and Mario 8-bit tunes. If the BGM in Black/White were to get strong reviews, that alone would probably change my mind on purchasing.

Anyway, it's good to hear some feedback that will help me decide if I want to squander a bit of my college fund or not. Thanks for taking the time to write this.