Is Pokemon Brilliant Diamond worth it in 2023?
As a long-time Pokemon fan and gaming content creator, I believe Pokemon Brilliant Diamond is undoubtedly still worth playing in 2023. This faithful remake of the 2006 Nintendo DS classics retains the nostalgic Sinnoh region that fans love while implementing visual upgrades, quality-of-life improvements, and expanded content.
A Nostalgic Trip to Sinnoh
Brilliant Diamond transports players back to the Sinnoh region first introduced in 2006‘s Diamond & Pearl. The story, locations, and Pokemon roster stay true to the original games. Revisiting Sinnoh with enhanced graphics and music is a treat for series veterans. Over 15 million copies of Diamond & Pearl were sold, so millions share fond memories of these games that Brilliant Diamond recaptures.
Key Locations Are Faithfully Recreated
Iconic Sinnoh locales like Twinleaf Town, Lake Verity, Jubilife City, and Snowpoint City appear just as fans remember but with significantly upgraded visuals. The chibi overworld models match the original sprite art style while the 3D battle environments are vibrant and detailed.
The Core Story Hits All the Right Notes
Players again thwart the nefarious Team Galactic while catching Sinnoh favorites like Staraptor, Luxray, and Garchomp. Plot beats, puzzles, and character arcs stay consistent with Diamond & Pearl, making this a quintessential nostalgic experience.
Enhancements Improve Gameplay
While the core game remains faithful to the originals, Brilliant Diamond implements over 100 improvements that smooth out the gameplay experience.
Modernized Convenience Features
The Union Room enables easy Link Cable-free multiplayer locally or online. The new Catching Contest mini-game adds variety. Players can now preview moves, items, and abilities in battle. These are just some of the many quality-of-life enhancements.
Refined Visuals & Music
The graphical overhaul beyond the chibi characters provides vibrant backdrops for the journey while the remixed music breathes new life into classic tracks fans know and love.
Adjusted Game Balance
With the permanent Exp. Share making level grinding easier, enemy trainer rosters and AI tactics have been rebalanced to provide an appropriate challenge. Improved type diversification ensures well-balanced teams.
The Grand Underground Expands Content
The Underground area has transformed into a vast mine containing biomes with unique Pokemon encounters. Collecting statues that affect spawn rates provides new catch ‘em all opportunities. Excavating spheres to customize Secret Bases also extends playtime.
A Massive New Area to Explore
The Grand Underground comprises sprawling caves covering the entire Sinnoh region underground. Players can dig up valuable treasures and fossils while encountering Pokemon adapted to specific biomes.
Customizable Secret Bases
Personalized Secret Bases can be decorated with collectible spheres and furniture. You can hang out with friends or battle them in your unique space.
Catching Legendaries Boosts Replay Value
Completing the post-game unlocks epic battles against Mythical beings like Dialga, Palkia, Giratina, and even the god-like Arceus. Catching these rare creatures provides tremendous replay incentive.
Sinnoh‘s Creation Trio Awaits
After entering the mysterious Hall of Origin, Dialga, Palkia, and Giratina can be challenged. Adding them to your Pokedex requires mastery of type strengths and weaknesses.
Capturing the Legendary Arceus
In an epic dimensional clash, the Mythical Arceus itself can be caught to obtain the coveted Alpha Pokemon. This requires game data from Pokemon Legends: Arceus.
With such dedication to delivering both nostalgia and new content for Pokemon Diamond & Pearl fans, Brilliant Diamond retains immense value in 2023. It respectfully celebrates Sinnoh‘s past while enhancing gameplay for the present. For only $59.99, this remake should absolutely still be experienced by fans and newcomers alike.
