Genre: Creature Collection
When it comes to Yo-kai Watch the story isn't that engaging but it does fit the vibe of the series. It does make sense that it's a bit souless as this series was designed as an IP instead of as a game they desired to make (source). The gameplay is honestly pretty innovative, it can get a little fatiguing if you're grinding but that isn't a requirement in this game at all. They also took care to add an internal narrative logic to navigating the world which I think is quite charming. Speaking of charming the visuals are incredibly appealing and are a major part of my love for this game. The yo-kai designs are fun and out there which really showcases the unique personalities of each Yo-kai. As for the soundtrack it is pretty forgettable but I think that's a positive honestly, it never takes you out of the sleepy little burg that is Springdale. Finally when it comes to how Yo-kai Watch compares to other Creature Collection games I feel is has a leg up when it comes to team building and training the Yo-kai you've collected but falls short in the actual collecting mechanic. It's just a bit too random and really discourages people from collecting all of the Yo-kai in the game. Regardless I definitely have a soft spot in my heart for this game.
tl;dr
Story: Half Star
Gameplay: Full Star
Visuals: Full Star
Audio: Half Star
Genre: Half Star
Total: 3.5 / 5 Stars
When it comes to Yo-kai Watch the story isn't that engaging but it does fit the vibe of the series. It does make sense that it's a bit souless as this series was designed as an IP instead of as a game they desired to make (source). The gameplay is honestly pretty innovative, it can get a little fatiguing if you're grinding but that isn't a requirement in this game at all. They also took care to add an internal narrative logic to navigating the world which I think is quite charming. Speaking of charming the visuals are incredibly appealing and are a major part of my love for this game. The yo-kai designs are fun and out there which really showcases the unique personalities of each Yo-kai. As for the soundtrack it is pretty forgettable but I think that's a positive honestly, it never takes you out of the sleepy little burg that is Springdale. Finally when it comes to how Yo-kai Watch compares to other Creature Collection games I feel is has a leg up when it comes to team building and training the Yo-kai you've collected but falls short in the actual collecting mechanic. It's just a bit too random and really discourages people from collecting all of the Yo-kai in the game. Regardless I definitely have a soft spot in my heart for this game.
tl;dr
Story: Half Star
Gameplay: Full Star
Visuals: Full Star
Audio: Half Star
Genre: Half Star
Total: 3.5 / 5 Stars