Parents' Guide to Pokémon Masters

While the Pokémon franchise is no stranger to mobile apps, with games like Pokémon GO! and Pokémon Rumble Rush, this is the first game to really feel like a complete experience for fans. Pokemon Masters has a solid story that unfolds over time, fleshing out brand-new characters and revisiting classic favorites in fun ways that feel like a natural progression of the overall Pokémon odyssey. The story even manages to successfully explain away the "Gotta Catch 'Em All" mentality of the main games in favor of recruiting "sync pairs" of individual trainers and their partner Pokémon. It makes sense that players are taking their closest (and most well-known) partners into this unique tournament.

The folks behind Pokémon Masters have done a fantastic job of capturing the look and the feel of the Pokémon Universe. Characters look and sound like they've been pulled straight from the cartoons. They all have a wide range of personalities, with glimpses into their individual stories that's just enough to raise players' interests. Battles are quick and easy to play, but still require a certain level of strategic thinking. Players need to manage things like strength and weaknesses in their team makeup, as well as thoughtful use of how and when the use their Pokémon's skills. Unfortunately, the one thing holding Pokemon Masters back from being its very best, like no one ever was, is its frustrating in-game economy. While you can earn gems through standard gameplay, these are kept separate from gems that you pay money for, meaning certain items can only be obtained by spending money on one of a handful of overpriced bundles. If you can separate this money driven mechanic, though, you'll find a great adventure just fingertips from your phone or tablet.