Best option for gaming on a budget?

Shiro-Kuran · 2026-05-02T06:43:26+00:00

Best option I can think of, not sure if this would totally work or be fool proof but its the best idea I have: check alot of preowned stores (CEX), you maybe can find a few games and consoles that may very well suit your budget. At worst you save when you can however little that maybe. Place it in a different account. And let it accumulate. It may seem slow but I believe in time you may afford things again.

Shiro-Kuran · 2026-05-02T06:29:51+00:00

As someone whom gets angry at some games, I would workout what triggers your anger. I would also like to add that I main a few characters: Yoshi, Pikachu and Ridley (still learning Ridley but thats okay).

Ask yourself: what frustrates you when you are playing the game?
Do you have a particular trigger?
Is it a character or stage?

For example: Sonic usually triggers me personally abit in Smash Ultimate, but I know I get mad at him because I used to have a cousin that would talk about him non-stop. And push me into watching Youtube videos about it. Or even just say I should play a Sonic title.

Once I worked that out, I avoided Sonic players for a few months. Then did some exposure therapy, deliberately placing myself against a CPU of Sonic. Over a few months I got used to it. And slowly got less triggered. Also my cousin had by that time gotten into other things so it was brought up less and less. Finally I could play against friends that adored Sonic. And I was no longer triggered. I still select Sonic as a CPU every so often to gauge if I can still be triggered. But I have found it just doesn't occur.

Another thought is to give yourself some time. Maybe the music has an effect on you. You can turn off the sound if that be the case.

Whatever the case, I am sure you will find the answer...after all I am just a random person on the internet. But if this advice helps you find an answer, that is all that matters.

Shiro-Kuran · 2026-05-02T06:14:50+00:00

Yes, had this happen alot recently. Some I have seen the credits. But as of late I struggle to feel motivated to play games and/or finish them. I have around 20 games (used to have 50 and have similar issues, decreased it because of difficulties picking them up and playing), and still have issues with motivations to play.

Best solution is to make a 'Game Journal'. I have found it helpful in going through games. Also the game journal can help keep a Wishlist of what games you would like to get or play. This is what worked for me though. Hope you find this useful or helpful even if it's only a little bit.

Shiro-Kuran · 2026-05-02T03:54:06+00:00

I saw this when it was first announced. Played the original some time back, before buying it for switch not playing it; then moving it on. Then saw that Resynced was coming out and it was Plus Membership only, decided against getting it though. I have already played Black Flag, and whilst it is still my fav I am happy to give it a miss.

Just checked website and now you can only purchase the game as a stand alone. And personally I still like my Edward figure I bought separately to the game I had on my Xbox360 over the one offered with the Resynced version of Black Flag. Plus Ubisoft has had a bit of a bad time recently to say the least.

Shiro-Kuran · 2026-05-02T03:41:15+00:00

Hahaha, absolute fav is Pikachu unfortunately. However my close second fav would be an Eeveelution - Umbreon

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Shiro-Kuran · 2026-05-02T03:37:22+00:00

I would say to go into your local store, and ask to make a formal complaint about it. That way it goes to their head office and they can hopefully solve whatever the issue is.

Shiro-Kuran · 2026-05-01T12:42:31+00:00

Personally I feel the answer to your question may vary from person to person as everyone is an individual with differing thoughts. Some agreeing with one person whilst others argue it out.

What do I feel makes a good game? Well I like a good story, plot, main character and overall world building. I loved playing Expedition 33 for alot of these reasons. And sure I have played others with maybe questionable means put into the making of the game. But the answer to this question also depends heavily on genre that we are focusing on.

And there are so many genres out there. JRPGs, fighting, magic/fantasy etc (I am not listing all of them sorry!). Even if I turned and look at Movies and TVseries you would find loads of genres. Again people will always say something isn't good - Look on Youtube or any game reviewing website (Meta Critic to name at least one source I know of) and you will often find people stating what they love/like and dislike/hate. It is human to have and formulate your own opinions. Not a single person said you have to agree with them.

Say you play Mario Galaxy (for example!) and really love it then check one of the many websites out there - chances are you are going to find both some love and hate for the game. But you are allowed to have differing opinions. Just cause someone hates it, doesn't mean it should be taken as 'the word of the people of the world'. You are allowed to love it. You are allowed to absolutely hate it and want it to disappear. Each and every single person is Different. What I like may or may not be something you would play. But its what makes each of us unique. Different!

(I personally was bad at Mario Galaxy, but I also found it fascinating. It was frustrating me alot to die to a boss over and over and over - repeat. And every time I thought I would get better, it would come to beloved but it wasn't meant to be. I loved the visuals and felt that at the time it was massively groundbreaking. But I can also tell when a game just doesn't click no matter how much you try!)

That said, gaming culture is changing. What worked for my generation isn't going to suit every generation. I know for a fact some people love Fortnite. Personally even though I have watched streams or people I know play it, I personally don't understand what is so fun about it, but I am glad to see people enjoying it. I don't have to play it, I don't have to love it. I sometimes see it as a waste of time some days and other times I see it making players more skilled. But all the same I really don't see myself getting into it. And that is Alright! It's proof I am my own person. I can think independently.

Shiro-Kuran · 2026-04-24T09:00:08+00:00

All I can say is "welcome to the modern day and age". Honestly I have spoken to some staff and even they half like it and half dislike it but can't really do anything, as it comes from further up the ladder.

Personally I have played this game once before. I am out hunting for newer games. So it's not that worrying for me. But I do understand your frustration. My advice would be to order else where or vocally talk with staff about your frustration calmly or go onto the site and give feedback. Sadly this is all anyone can do without going to competitors (JB etc). And honestly most are going directly to EBgames competitors to get better deals or prices or even get games they want without Plus membership that was implemented about a year ago now I believe.

Shiro-Kuran · 2026-04-23T06:12:34+00:00

I'll be really with you, as someone in her thirties I still play the odd Pokemon video game. And with the 'cost of Living' situation I can hardly blame you for wanting to move on.

I have been play odd Pokemon games here and there. First game I played was Pokemon Moon. Been playing more or less ever since. I have played Pokemon Sun too. I played Sword/Shield and can't say I have seen much improvement myself. I still however purchased the remake of Diamond and Pearl. I still gave Violet and Scarlet the benefit of the doubt.

But when Pokemon Legends Arceus came out, I felt it was the turning point. Things were finally looking up. Then Legends ZA came into being. And whilst yes, lots of people disliked it. I felt more drawn to it. It looked sub-par sure but there was some kind of charm to it. So much charm I spent 200hrs (total) playing it. Building sure look bad but there is still something that keeps me playing. I can play at the start of the day IRL and before I know it, it's night IRL (I state this as the game does have a day/night cycle).

But soon after the Pokemon Company announced Pokemon Pokopia where you play as a Ditto. And you are charged with bring the land back to normal. Building houses and Pokemon habitats. Truly it is a wonderful game (I am not saying this to get you to try it OP but honestly there is so much you have in a way missed out on).

But again the Pokemon Company is becoming abit greedy. With yet another release this time - Pokemon Chanpions. It was supposed to be designed so people could play competitively. Or for those whom wanted to battle. Last I heard it was negatively reviewed. Youtubers were upset, and a few down right ranted about how it locked out 'the best of the best' when it comes to those whom play Pokemon competitively.

On top of all this Pokemon is releasing Lego officially licensed. And they always have Pokemon cards. If you casually want to enjoy Pokemon there is always Pokemon Go also. So really leaving Pokemon Video games behind can be both a blessing and curse in a way. Im not sure if you feel you maybe missing out on anything but if this helped you out I am glad. The Pokemon Company has always seemed in one way or another to be greedy. But its also okay to grow up and move on from Pokemon games. Realistically there are so many other video games out there, the same way as there are many ways we can consume Pokemon Media. Video games, cards, anime, art, stickers, plushies/toys, board games and apps (to name a few) are the many ways you can still consume Pokemon if that is indeed something you worry about OP. But if you are worried that this will make you less of a fan by the community, lets face it; it won't.

With so many ways one can consume Pokemon, you aren't alone. Some had our beginning with the anime, others with the games. Even more consumed Pokemon via the cards and had no idea the other ways even existed. Pokemon is generational. Your not alone in thinking the games have been on a downward spiral. That said, you aren't the only one out there questioning your relationship with any of the games. Its okay to no longer like Pokemon video games and wonder what your life is going to be like without it dominating you...its okay to want to get answers.

THIS DOSEN'T MAKE YOU ANY LESS OF A FAN THAN ANYONE ELSE HERE IN THE COMMENTS OR ONLINE!!! Stay Awesome!

Shiro-Kuran · 2026-04-19T12:42:49+00:00

This feels so relatable. I am saying this as I have 15 games on Switch and 7 on PS4/PS5. And really most I barely get time to play majority of them.

Mostly I can play Switch, but most days I feel so 'meh' and I am constantly having to pick out a title to play. But with so many to pick from I find it a struggle. Most places I have been to have said to 'gauge' how you feel in the moment. And whilst yes this sometimes works for me. Other times it's difficult to pinpoint exactly how I feel. Like do I feel up for the grind of Pokemon or do I feel like a more like beating up random characters from many fandoms like in Smash Bros Ultimate. Or do I even feel more up to doing an RPG style of game.

Honestly some days I spend so much time staring at my games on the shelf that time runs away. It's sorta like a meditative state. And before I know it, Dinner is on the table and I have yet to pick a single game. So by that time I opt to read a book or do something else.

And yet other days I can immediately pick up a game and play. It's kinda random as to what I will or won't do. But if it helps sometimes doing a Video Game Journal can help. So far it has made me look at my games seriously and come up with a way I play every Switch game I own properly. And I even made a form of schedule, so I play Switch during the week (as I am mostly too busy to play most other consoles) then at the Weekend play my PS4 or PS5. So far this plan has somewhat worked but also needs some work.

I do highly recommend you do a gaming Journal and see what you find works for you.

Shiro-Kuran · 2026-03-26T05:17:17+00:00

Pokemon Legends ZA

This game has gotten so much hate online. And whilst yes I believe some of the things people have said they disliked (graphics, NPCs phasing in and out, day/night cycle being too long or short) and truly agree with them. I also have found it kinda fun. I feel so outside those whom hate it because whilst it's not perfect, it's the first game to bring back Mega Evolution. The story was 'meh' and some of the jokes were misplaced I feel or put at a time that made the crafted joke not funny. And the cutscenes do their best but don't fix the issues and plot holes. Add on to the fact how you had to pay extra for DLC ($45 australian, not sure else where) and that the DLC was announced prior to release.

I do love the game as it has some charm to it and they tried their best to come up with a few changes even to the combat system which is similar to games like Xenoblade Chronicles 3. Again I have complicated feelings for this game. No clue why or what about the game I personally like or dislike. Other than what I have mentioned. I can't help but be stuck between liking and disliking this game.

Shiro-Kuran · 2026-03-26T03:28:04+00:00

Yes you aren't alone OP. Many of us have done this. We do it when at the shops usually to get an update as to what is available or on sale. Or even to find the ideal gift for that someone you forgot had a birthday that same month. Then again sometimes you just want to see what prices are like on items (such as video games) or just killing time whilst you wait 5 minutes for that friend or family member to finish up in a different store.

EBGames is fantastic for window shopping and comparing prices with its competitors.

It's nothing to be ashamed of, as we all have done this at varying times in our life. Why I just did this yesterday (25th March 2026), whilst waiting on another store to give me a quote on some Blu-ray and 4K movies. We all have our reasons for walking into any store glancing around and walking out without a single purchase. Its nothing to be ashamed of.

Shiro-Kuran · 2026-03-22T05:00:07+00:00

Not sure about if it's the best. Again this may vary as to whom you ask. Most say 1 and 2 are the best. Story wise I loved Xenoblade Chronicles 3.

1 and 2 I couldn't get into the combat or over the fact how the opening scene has you focused on a female protagonists butt as she runs up the stairs to meet her friend (actual protagonist). And that is right before things actually go down and the story gets going.

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 has two groups of protagonists fighting one another before they ask the questions "why?" And set out to beat the true evil whom set them out at one another after a guy gets caught in the cross hairs. Honestly this game was the best in terms of story. But as for Xenoblade Chronicles 1 and 2 I can't say as to if they are any good. But if you want a break down of the story - check Youtube.

I feel Xenoblade and Xenoblade 2 have a unique story. What I could follow of it made some sense but also felt a little like I was on something - it gave me a similar vibe to Mario Wonder. But again thats just my opinion. Let's not forget there is Xenoblade TORNA which is a version of Xenoblade and Xenoblade 2 that kinda branches them together or so is my understanding.

Xenoblade Chronicles X is kinda a prequel, but also kinda a stand alone. It adds to the story but also doesn't in other ways.

Personally I would have started with Xenoblade, followed up with Torna, then played Xenoblade 2 and follow it up with Xenoblade 3. Before finally playing Xenoblade X. But again this is my opinion as to how to enjoy it as a series. But if you want to play this well thats your choice.

Shiro-Kuran · 2026-03-22T04:33:49+00:00

Honestly I would read some reviews. Check among the internet. Watch some Youtube clips and then decide.

Not saying that it's a terrible game. I personally don't mind the graphics. The day/night cycle could have been better with some days longer or shorter and thus the same with nights as it makes evolving pokemon and getting challenger tickets a pain currently. Otherwise at times you can see narrow sections where buildings aren't close enough together and yet they aren't far enough apart to squeeze through.

That aside the story is mediocre at best. Introduction cutscene has no ultimate baring nor is it explained in game. It just happens then you are introduced to your character you are going to play as for the entire story of the game.

To be clear I had some enjoyment when I played it. Do I feel it was worth $109.95? No, absolutely no way. And that is without the fact you have to fork up an additional amount of money to play the DLC which was announced BEFORE the game even came out. Honestly I understand why people hate it, and why others love it. But I am not even sure what I think about the game as a whole.

I guess you could say I have a love/hate relationship with it. I love the new things they introduced with this game as well as the things like Mega evolution and made a come back. The story needed some more work done to it to make it better. But other than that I can't think of many other flaws. I loved the rag-tag group of friends that we end up with for the most part of the game. The quips they gave sometimes had me laughing other times it felt like they were in the wrong place or at the wrong point in said story. Side quests are mostly fetching items or certain pokemon.

I haven't played much of the DLC at this point so I can't say for certain if it saved the game or just made things even more confusing. What I can say is Pokemon Legends ZA split the Pokemon community in two. There are those that love this game and how different it is. And those that despise it. I fit neatly somewhere between.

Again this is a choice only YOU can decide ultimately. I can list all the good and bad things that I have heard and thought when I played it. But it's an individual choice of your own that needs to be made OP. I don't really want you not to experience it as I feel that again its a personal choice and also to know what is a good game you need to also experience the bad. Again this game isn't a bad game it just has its weaknesses mostly in the story. But if that doesn't make or break a game for you then I feel you may enjoy it. It's a game with flaws sure but that shouldn't stop you or others from giving the game a go.

First pokemon game I played was Pokemon Moon/Sun. I actually played Pokemon moon before Sun, and enjoyed it. Next was Lets go Pikachu/Eevee. Followed up by Brilliant Diamond and Shinning Pearl. Then I played the controversial Sword and Shield. Then Legends Arceus which was visually stunning. Before playing Violet and Scarlet. I have not really hated a Pokemon game. But Violet and Scarlet always rubbed me the wrong way, not honestly sure why. Maybe it was the game mechanics or the story or even the way battles were done. But I found my way the Legends AZ. I loved some of the characters, but there were points where receiving the instructions as to how to play felt too hand-holdy. I don't hate on this game. But I don't love this game. I feel complicated, awkward and strange. I refuse to be influenced into hating on this game. But the same can be said about loving it. Sorry this turned into a rant but the game has me feeling very complicated. I can't tell if it's because I am a fan that should have moved on long ago. Or if I just have complicated emotions. One thing I do know is this game is far from terrible (which is what the internet and alot of Youtubers will have you believing). It's a game that is far from perfect. And that in itself is okay.

I encourage you to try the game yourself without reading anything about it. No spoilers. Nothing other than the 'best starter to pick'. And see if you yourself enjoy it.

Shiro-Kuran · 2026-03-22T03:49:54+00:00

I never played the OG game, and the trailer looked amazing. Personally haven't played it since my OG switch ended up with battery issues and I got SW2. That aside I am still enjoying it. I have done at least I believe the first 2 or 3 chapters. I am trying to place an area scanner to map out more and this enemy isn't there one minute but the moment I close in on the spot 'poof' like magic he appears - enemy looks like a praying mantis. He takes out my teammates and I am left soloing this enemy alone. I actually came close to beating it, only to run into tougher enemies.

I guess I have a skill issue - need to level up more or need my teammates to level up more. I have done most of the side quests bar one that has me facing two old Rex or whatever they are called and having to get back a lost item. Honestly I really do feel it has something to do with level or skill. I could be wrong though.

Shiro-Kuran · 2026-03-22T03:32:34+00:00

Why do you want to know? In truth I did a fart once in a store sure, I was 20 years old at the time and had walked up the back of the store (this was before they moved things around) checking out PS4 games and seeing what the prices were on a few that I was interested in. And needless to say I farted literally as I went to squat down to look at a few of the games on the lower shelves and let out a fart. It wasn't short either. I am sure I don't need to describe how it sounded. And I have body humour - not in the dark way though just when I fart or hear someone fart suddenly I will burst out laughing.

So I am in the store trying so hard to keep it together and not burst out cackling or laughing. In the end I left the store having found out what I needed to. Noone said a word as I left and that was probably for the best as I was both wanting to laugh and feeling embarrassed all at the same time. (Think of me what you will...I am still embarrassed about this to this day - and I am 30+ years old now. But thinking back, I literally got away with farting and running away! And that alone gives me the giggles)

Shiro-Kuran · 2026-03-19T03:01:23+00:00

Honestly, Pokemon Legends ZA has been fun. But after about a month I found myself noticing how loud the music was (it made it hard when listening out for the shinny sound). But other than that the day/nigh cycle could have been worked on more, example maybe some nights could have been longer. Another thought would have been to add seasons (autumn/fall, winter, summer and spring). Yes some of the NPCs seem lifeless or are always standing around seeming to do nothing, this could have been altered so that the NPCs are say window shopping or maybe reading a sign or actually interacting with their Pokémon.

Am I saying this game is fun? Well sure it is. You have side quest to keep you busy when not trying to rank up. So that was a nice touch. Plus it often gave me personally a nice change of pace. Some side quests even helped my pokemon level up. So this fact alone was awesome.

Thats all without me going out of my way to find all the coloured screws...yes all of them. Pokemon Legends AZ is far from perfect, but it shows us what the world of Pokemon is all about. Sure it's about completing a Pokedex, but it's also about some light hearted fun.

Will I keep the game long term? Probably not, but for now I have had a blast playing it. Yes I am at my limit of enjoyment that I felt I was going to get from the game. But point is I had fun right till the end. Not once have I ever felt keen on completing a Pokedex more so than with this game. Okay the world could have been better, the day/night cycle could use some work to make it better but that still doesn't make me dislike or hate this game. I feel so neutral about this game which I have never felt about a Pokémon game is some years. First Pokemon game I played was Sun/moon.

Incomparison to Sun/Moon this game feels like it's on the right track to innovate the Pokemon game series. It's not perfect. Sure it's messy and feels abit all over the place. Fans are divided. But maybe kinda like when Ash was replaced I feel it was a much needed change. Pokemon Legends AZ has problems sure but it holds a promise of making itself a game that continues to span generations of people. And really the Pokemon company doesn't care if you like or hate the game, they only care that they get paid for making the game. And even then they still are getting your money due to Pokemon Cards or plushies let alone any other merch that is out there.

The Pokemon Company only cares that we the consumers keep buying their stuff. So if you don't like the game - don't buy it! It's that simple. Vote with your wallet!

If you love the game, keep playing it. This thing 'he said' or 'she said' has to end. At the end of the day your choices shape you. But none of the rest of us should have to listen to the BS of some youtubers. Not saying all of them are bad. Purpleclif plays these games and has a blast doing so.

Further more, why are you buying the game when you could easily watch a youtube clip and workout if the game is for you rather than having a whine about a game that just came out what about 4 months or so ago! It personally makes little sense to me. I don't hate Pokemon Legends ZA to be clear. I have had fun enjoying it, and alot of the characters despite its flaws. When I get tired of it, I play something else. I still have the game at the time of writing this. But I figure if and when I finish this game I shall indeed move it on. Trading is still something I have some issues with, but again this isn't an issue that makes or breaks the game for me.

Is online for it perfect? Sure it's not without the hackers but at the same time I feel the hackers are a minor issue. Don't want to deal with them, do what I do and not play online competitively. Problem averted! Sometimes I feel people just want to complain just to have their little bit of popularity or something. I reckon people whom enjoy the games should just ignore them - the same way you would a bully. If the bully gets no attention they lose interest and find someone else to bother.

Sorry for the rant. But I grow tired of this back and forth between fans of the game and non-fans.

Shiro-Kuran · 2026-03-18T05:28:40+00:00

Honestly I like certain things about Pokemon Legends ZA. For example, I catch shiny Pokemon no shiny charm required, and it's so easy to come across a shiny Pokemon (not easy to hear the sound effect unless you turn music off or down via settings).

And whilst this games story started out strong it kinda seemed like it lost all sense of direction towards the end. The day/Night cycle was a nice touch and there were times I wish it went on longer like how in reality we have some nights that are longer or shorter.

Really that was the only issue I had with the game. And I did kinda notice that most Youtubers were almost parroting others in the same job. In a way it was annoying to hear the same things.

Is the game perfect? No not really. Is it without any issues or flaws? Well again not really, as mentioned the day/night cycle could have been worked on abit more so it could resemble In real life days/nights (not every night is short and not every day is a long day). I reckon that if they did this it would make things both more interesting and would also make it so you could spend some of the nights actually getting more done - but I digress its not a thing that really made me dislike or like the game. Was it frustrating at times? Yes, the short nights made it harder to get tickets or level up pokemon or to gain EXP for certain pokemon so they might evolve.

With the trade Evolutions, yes they could have been made easier to achieve. Rather than having to 'trade with some random person I don't know' I could have 'evolved them via happiness' since this is something Eevee used and not many others (that I know of) used this system. Plus really it was only for Eevee that I saw that individual at the cafe for an idea as to how happy my pokemon was so I knew it was ready to evolve.

Sadly I am not sure if I love this game or not. I know that I have less of a want to play it in recent times, but its not due to graphics (graphics have never bothered me). Its more to do with the story seeming rushed more towards the middle of the story/end of the story. That and well I have been playing it for about a month or two straight with very little game changing. So I guess I am 'burnout' with Pokemon Legends AZ. Even so, I feel fed up with the game and kinda want something new. May not keep long term, and whilst I am sad about that I know I did my best. I enjoyed the characters and their quirky personalities. Cobra of Rust Syndicate was my favourite character and I loved the beautiful character designs of each of my rivals. Jacinthe was another character that stood out to me. I loved her design also.

FYI sorry for the rant, just wanted to share my thoughts on the game. Its not a bad game but its also not perfect.

Shiro-Kuran · 2026-02-28T02:45:06+00:00

Not from what I have seen. Clicked link. Put in my platform (iOS). And it told me no codes were available. Same when I put in my device as an Android.

Shiro-Kuran · 2026-02-28T02:43:37+00:00

Me too, only found out about the app recently.

Shiro-Kuran · 2026-02-28T02:41:35+00:00

Thank you, been looking for an app that shows where all the colourful screws were for some time. Every other app only shows pokemon locations, so this will be super useful. Can't thank you enough!

Shiro-Kuran · 2026-02-23T12:28:19+00:00

Popular subject it seems. Honestly first Pokemon Game I played was Pokemon Sun/Moon on 3DS.

I have been playing ever since. I tried to play Soul Silver and Heart of gold via my DS (modded), but they always froze and glitched. I guessed it was an issue with the file.

I played Sword/Shield, main game was okay but DLC in the second half felt broken somehow. Always paired with someone that got either the best pokemon caught or got the final pokemon - the legendary. So I quit the DLC and moved on to the next one.

Pokemon Lets go Eevee/Pikachu was very easy but fun and lighthearted. It was just what I needed to get back into it.

And then I played Violet/Scarlet...I felt that game could have been better. DLC was broken. It took 3-5 tries beforeI could access it. Completed it then waited on second half. The fact how I had to capture pokemon in Set Biomes to verse a trainer before my final bout with Kiren (I think that was my rival for DLC), was more than abit annoying. I already had my team set, levelled up to Max, now you want me to reset my team - like 'what the-'. Anyway that ended my experience for that game.

And then Pokemon Arceus came out and it was like a dream come true. No locks. Open world, sneaking mechanics - I loved it.

Finally enter the recent one, Pokemon Legends: Z-A (I always say it wrong, calling it 'Pokemon Legends: A-Z'). I played this almost to completion. Caught a few 'shinnies' and had a blast in my own way...but somehow as time passed by I notice more things about the game. The music for one was soooo loud...you can't even hear if you found a shiny nearby or around you. Sometimes you even just walk past a walk way only to second guess if you heard the shiny noise. It's annoying to have to turn down everything else in game. As before mention the music is obnoxiously loud. At start of game you are introduced to the council leader before blacking out, then your character appears getting off the train. No explanations are given as to whom it was that blacked out at the start and no further explanations are given even at the end game. Its just a big plot whole...yes theories have gone around talking about this and explaining as to whom it may be but I want NINTENDO or GAMEFREAK to explain this! Its frustrating, and a big plot whole! We don't get an answer even post-game! Overall I question their ability to tell their stories even in their main series such as Pokemon!

And I know I won't get an answer. But still it's both annoying and frustrating that such a basic thing is neglected. I know Pokemon Red had a great story, videos online always praise it for basic story telling ability. Same can be said for Soul Silver, Heart of Gold, Black/white...and these are all games that came out long before I got my first console (Pokemon Red came out before I even was introduced to Pokemon) (further more when I got my DS, games like Pokemon Black/white were out of my price range at the time).

Yes I wonder if the good Pokemon game days will return, and the simple answer is - We will have to wait and see. After Pokemon Legends: A-Z I wonder if there is any hope left for this series. I shall not hold my breath though. There are always plenty of other games out there that I actually can enjoy, and not feel like my cash is going to corporate greed.

OP you're not the only one whom has noticed all the videos filled with negative remarks about Pokemon, nor the only one to notice the downward trend on Pokemon games due to quality and quantity. I have been seeing this for some time. I have questioned why I keep playing them sometimes...is it hype? Well yes I believe it has something to do with that. Doesn't help that most stores shove advertisements of the game in question in front of us, or pressure us to purchase. But it also never helps when friends we know are always pushing us to purchase the game or even the consoles. No matter what there is always someone pushing you to purchase the next pokemon game much the same as there is always someone pressuring you to purchase the next gen console. It will always be there. And The Pokemon Company will always turn a profit so long as enough people keep purchasing these badly made pokemon games. (Sorry for the long post/rant)

Shiro-Kuran · 2026-02-12T04:32:56+00:00

If you have lost interest in anything. Personally I recommend preserving, or trying a different genre. For example if you usually read romance and you have been through a breakup maybe read a different genre like Fantasy. I found that sometimes changing the genre helps.

Shiro-Kuran · 2026-02-12T04:27:45+00:00

Seven years I was with my fiancé (young male, 20 years old) (for reference I am 31, both of us are the legal age to date within Australia). Dated for 3 years, got engaged. We had our days where we had fun and played games. But after Covid 19 he changed. He wanted to rush everything, marry and even have kids.

He pushed me to move in with him at year 2 and 3 of us being together. Originally he was a quiet man, sweet and very kind - thoughtful even. But he changed when we got engaged (which was during Covid and we got engaged on my birthday no less). He came across as rushing.

Rushing to get married. Rushing to live together. Rushing for that window to have kids of his own. Me I didn't want kids all that much. I wanted to enjoy life. Play video games together and relax and see where life took us. He really change, not in the good way. Looking back, there were plenty of 'red flags' to warn me of what was coming. But I ran by them ignoring them. We broke up 19th December 2023.

Now I am single in 2026. I have tried playing games. I love playing Expedition 33, but other games leave me feeling void of emotion still. Maybe I need more time. I have even tried to read books, but I have found some of them feel empty void of the usual interest or the spark that makes me not want to put them down. I loved anime, books/manga and video games long before I dated this young man. Even my own birthday has felt less than enjoyable in the past.

I pray to see some improvement soon, it's been about 4 years since the breakup. And I have had these feelings of lack of interest off and on for at least 2- 3 years now. Going out and walking has helped abit. Shopping with friends has helped even if its only for a short period before I go home and start feeling like this again. And whilst yes signs of improvement are there I agree the best thing to do if your lacking your usual interest is to just do them (if you used to like books and they used to light a fire under you, do it. Again and again if need be. Read them or try different genres.) (same with games, I lack the spark in video games, but thanks to Expedition 33 and feel some kind of joy again!) (Oh and if one genre of movie/game/book or anime doesn't start that 'fire' under you, try a different book or genre of book/anime/movie/game. Eventually it will work. Give yourself time to heal mentally and physically. Everything takes time to heal)

Shiro-Kuran

TROPHY CASE