Review in the context of a full playthrough on DS, with no emulation speedup/QOL adjustments. A solid Pokemon game with plenty of side activities, post-game content, and sizeable national dex. However, the game's extremely slow speed, lack of high-level grinding areas for late/post-game, and underwhelming story severely hamper the experience.

This review is done in context without any modification of the base game/DLC. Gameplay carries this game considerably. Very weak story, questionable deviations/changes to the series canon, and a fun yet ultimately lackluster settlement-building system bogs this game down greatly. The DLC, addicting gameplay loop, and occasional moments of solid writing can keep you coming back. A very flawed, yet fun game.

Got the Platinum Trophy. It was pretty good. Mid-game felt a little weaker story-wise. Somewhat easy if you use everything the game gives you. Overall a great experience.