IT’s no surprise Nintendo has revisited its WiiU library in the interim period while we wait for its big-hitters on Switch, given that the console ended up in so few homes.
The latest is the Namco-Bandai developed Pokkén Tournament DX, which is similar in vein to the recent Mari Kart 8 re-release.
Pokkén Tournament DX features 21 different Pokémon in its roster, which are all playable from the start. Players can also call on support Pokémon, which can be called on to assist you in battle.
Fights shift between ‘Field Phase’ where the Pokémon move freely around the arena, and ‘Duel Phase’ where they move relative to each other similar to the Tekken series.
Another key feature during matches is the characters’ ‘Synergy Burst’, which allows Pokémon to unlock their full power.
Players build up their gauge and when they are ready activate burst mode, which gives them a multitude of buffs.
They also have a short window of opportunity to unleash a devastating ‘Burst Attack’.
Pokkén Tournament DX packs in a decent number of modes to get your teeth into.
There is a decent, if not exceptional story mode, local multiplayer where you can battle friends 1v1 or 3v3, daily challenge and a practice mode.
The meat of the game for serious players though will come through the online mode.
Online matches are also great when played on the go, although you will need a WiFi connection.
We found this a particularly seamless experience, being matched with opponents in seconds with matches being fought out without any noticeable lag.
The main criticism for Pokkén Tournament DX is its roster, which is a real mixed bag. Some, like Mewtwo and Pikachu, play wonderfully.
Others, such as Chandelure, are massively out of place, which seems like an odd move considering the development team had 802 Pokémon to work with.
On the whole, Pokkén Tournament DX is a fun and surprisingly deep fighter with enough features to justify this re-release.
That said it isn't quite the essential purchase like Mike Kart Deluxe 8 was if you already played it on WiiU.
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