Mildly experimental Pokémon game with more successful ideas than duds overall.
+ surprisingly decent story that trumps over most other series entries in terms of character integration and exposition
+ unconventional setting and progression structure
+ consistently competent 3D environments
+ neat collectables and mini games
+ for the most part good Pokémon variety and decent new designs
+ optional experience share and a larger level range covered in the main game
- annoying companion gadget
- painfully slow and guided opening
- almost exclusively trivial fights due to most opponents only having 1-2 Pokémon, strong moves getting handed out early, and one accessible super attack each battle