Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Pokémon Colosseum takes the classic turn-based combat of the series and elevates it into a fully realized console experience. Battles are fought in crisp 3D arenas, giving trainers a clear view of each Pokémon’s animations and moves. The removal of random encounters in favor of direct trainer battles and snagging Shadow Pokémon shifts the focus squarely onto strategic planning and team composition.

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One of Colosseum’s standout features is the ability to connect your Game Boy Advance to the GameCube. By linking Ruby or Sapphire, you can import over 200 of your own Pokémon into Colosseum’s detailed 3D engine—bringing familiar favorites into a whole new dimension. Conversely, exclusive Pokémon snagged or purified on the GameCube can be transferred back to your GBA, ensuring that your adventure continues on the go.

Beyond the main Adventure Mode, Colosseum offers a variety of competitive formats. The e-Reader-friendly Colosseum Battle mode includes Single, Double, and Multi Battles, and the enduring CN Battle Mode returns with all your Stadium favorites. Whether you’re challenging CPU opponents or competing locally with friends, the depth and polish keep the gameplay loop engaging long after the credits roll.

Graphics

For a GameCube release, Pokémon Colosseum’s visuals remain impressive. Each Pokémon model is rendered with crisp textures and smooth animations, making every attack, from Flamethrower to Shadow Rush, feel impactful. The camera angles in battle are dynamic, providing close-ups on finishing moves and revealing subtle animation details that were impossible on the N64.

The cityscapes and environments in Colosseum break away from the overhead maps of handheld titles. Jubilife, Agate, and the Cipher Lab are all fully realized 3D locations, complete with atmospheric lighting and shadow effects. Even simple cutscenes, such as meeting new characters or discovering hidden Snag Machines, are bolstered by effective camera work and polished sprite animation for non-battling moments.

Shadow Pokémon themselves receive a distinct visual treatment. Their eyes glow crimson, and they’re wreathed in smoky auras that convey corruption. The transformation back to purified Pokémon is equally dramatic, underscored by a bright flash and dissolving shadow effects. These graphical flourishes reinforce the game’s central conflict and make every snag-and-purify sequence memorable.

Story

Colosseum stands out as the first core Pokémon game with a true narrative campaign. You play as Wes, a former member of the villainous Team Snag, now turned rogue agent working with a mysterious organization named the Illex. Your mission is to rescue “Shadow Pokémon” – creatures whose hearts have been artificially closed by Cipher to force obedience.

The story unfolds across Orre, a desert region distinct from traditional Pokémon lands, populated by washed-up battle trainers and forgotten ruins. As you trek from Phenac City to the depths of the Mt. Battle complex, you’ll uncover Cipher’s dark experiments and confront morally gray characters who challenge your faith in teamwork and redemption.

Dialogue is handled through text boxes rather than voice acting, but character portraits and expressive animations convey emotion effectively. Side characters—from the eccentric Naran to the ruthless leader Miror B.—add color and depth. While the pacing occasionally slows for fetch-quest segments, the core plot remains engaging, culminating in a dramatic showdown that ties together the game’s themes of freedom and trust.

Overall Experience

Pokémon Colosseum is more than just a battling simulator—it’s a bold step into RPG storytelling for Nintendo’s beloved franchise. The fusion of overworld exploration, Shadow Pokémon mechanics, and connectivity with GBA titles creates a multifaceted adventure that appeals to both competitive battlers and narrative-driven players.

Replay value is high thanks to multiple battle modes, optional boss rematches in Mt. Battle, and the endless pursuit of perfect IVs and movesets for competitive play. Fans of Ruby and Sapphire will appreciate the chance to see their teams in full 3D, while newcomers can enjoy a self-contained adventure that doesn’t require prior handheld experience.

Ultimately, Pokémon Colosseum remains a must-own for GameCube enthusiasts and dedicated Pokémon trainers. Its unique setting, captivating story, and deep customization options set it apart from other entries in the series. Whether you’re purifying your first Shadow Pokémon or climbing the ranks in CN Battle Mode, Colosseum delivers a polished, immersive journey that stands the test of time.

Retro Replay Score

7.4/10