Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness builds on the classic turn-based mechanics fans know and love, while introducing the “Snag” system for capturing Shadow Pokémon on the field. Instead of battling wild Pokémon, you must locate and weaken Shadow Pokémon controlled by the sinister organization Cipher, then use your specialized Snag Machine to add them to your roster. This twist adds a strategic layer: balancing your team strength, managing Purify Points, and choosing which Shadow Pokémon to rescue first.

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The exploration of the Orre region is a highlight, with varied environments ranging from dusty desert towns to shady underwater caves. Unlike traditional Pokémon titles, your journey isn’t about collecting eight badges but about locating the six Orre Specs needed for the Purify Chamber. This frees up the world for side quests, hidden collectibles, and NPC interactions that flesh out the game’s lore without feeling like filler fetch tasks.

For competitive players, XD includes a robust link battle mode where you can face off against one or three opponents in custom team matchups. You can build strategies around purifying Shadow Pokémon with unique movesets or lean on fully maxed-out purified favorites. This multiplayer facet extends the game’s longevity, giving friends and foes a reason to keep refining lineups long after the main story is complete.

Graphics

On the GameCube hardware, Pokémon XD represents a significant step forward from its predecessor. Character models are more detailed, environments sport richer textures, and lighting effects—especially in nighttime or facility-based areas—heighten the atmosphere. Shadow Pokémon glow with an eerie aura, making each encounter visually distinct and memorable.

The battle animations retain the signature Pokémon flair while adding new polish: Eevee’s agility in battle looks bouncier, elemental moves like Flamethrower erupt with additional particle bursts, and Purify sequences feature flowing, restorative light that underscores the emotional impact of freeing a corrupted creature. Minor camera shifts during key moments keep battles from feeling static.

Menus and user interface elements are cleanly designed, with crisp text and intuitive icons. While you won’t find next-gen shaders here, the style choices—bold color contrasts, sharp outlines, and dynamic cutscenes—work in concert to present a cohesive world. Even years later, the game’s presentation holds up, lending the story a cinematic flair.

Story

Set two years after Pokémon Colosseum, the narrative thrust revolves around the kidnapping of Prof. Krane and his breakthrough Purify Chamber. You step into the shoes of a young Trainer partnered with a loyal Eevee, thrust into a race against time to prevent Cipher’s ambitions from spiraling out of control. The stakes feel personal thanks to well-timed character moments and a steady pace that balances exposition with action.

Cipher’s motives unfold gradually, revealing layers of betrayal, redemption, and the moral cost of turning independent beings into living weapons. As you encounter Cipher grunts, double agents, and sympathetic insiders, the game challenges the black-and-white morality often seen in the series. You’re not just battling bosses—you’re questioning the consequences of technology without conscience.

Side characters, from local Gym Leaders to underground informants, add color to Orre’s harsh landscape. Conversations aren’t mere tutorials; many NPCs have backstories that tie into the central conflict or offer respite through mini-story arcs. This emphasis on narrative depth is what elevates XD beyond traditional Pokémon fare.

Overall Experience

Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness feels like a bold experiment that mostly succeeds. The Purify and Snag mechanics offer fresh strategic avenues, making every Shadow Pokémon capture feel meaningful. Exploration is non-linear enough to keep you engaged without overwhelming, and the variety of combat challenges—story bosses, shadow raids, and link battles—ensures the gameplay loop stays compelling for dozens of hours.

While the absence of Gym badges and the focus on a singular story might alienate purists seeking the classic “collect ’em all” journey, the trade-off is a more cinematic, emotionally driven tale. Technical limitations of the era show in occasional texture pop-ins or simpler backgrounds, but these are minor hiccups in an otherwise polished package.

For anyone looking to experience a side of Pokémon that leans into its worldbuilding and moral themes, XD: Gale of Darkness is a must-play. It strikes a satisfying balance between accessible battle systems and deeper story elements, delivering an adventure that stands out in the franchise’s long history. Whether you’re new to Orre or revisiting the region, the game promises a captivating ride from start to finish.

Retro Replay Score

7/10