Fangames should push the formulas of our favourite series to the limits. I love ROM hacks and reimagined titles that channel the spirit of a beloved game but bring so many new features that we could have only dreamed of back in the day. Pokémon Unchosen, created by French developer Aldrine, does just that, bringing a new combat system that turns it into a tactical RPG and local co-op action.
Imagine if Pokémon met Fire Emblem - that's one of the main pulling points of Pokémon Unchosen. The entire mechanics of the games that you know and love have been adapted, with your whole team of Pokémon moving around the field of play instead of them attacking one-on-one in the usual format, using action points to power up moves to defeat your enemies.
There are lots of what I call 'supporting features' to this game that give it that extra point of interest, features that you might remember from other Pokémon games on different systems like opening booster packs of cards and playing mini games (thanks Pokémon Trading Card Game GBC and Pokémon Stadium!). You can also cultivate plants and craft your own items. It's a multi-faceted game with lots of different features that will leave you wanting to play more.
The fact that you can play with two people on one screen is a cool touch too - one of your friends can join locally and control one of the critters in your squad as you explore the map and battle opponents. Finally, you and a friend can live out what it would be like to go on a real-life Pokémon adventure!
When it comes to the Pokédex, Aldrine has hand-picked some of the best in the business to take part in your quest. All of the original Kanto 151 can be picked, as well as the likes of Lucario and other fan favourites. You can pick up special items called Chroma Charms to make your Pokémon shiny, and you can Mega Evolve Pokémon too.
The game is playable on Windows and JoiPlay and can be downloaded from Itch.io!
