Just played Pokemon Version Y by Nintendo/Game Freak Pokemon is a franchise that's famous for its consistency. For as long as the franchise has been running, Pokemon games have been tweaking and perfecting the successful formula (for better or for worse) and #PokemonX and #PokemonY are no exceptions. Introducing a batch of 72 new Pokemon, an entirely new region to explore, and a plethora of new features, the Sixth Generation of Pokemon feels more alive than ever before. As with all main Pokemon entries, if you've played any of the other titles you'll feel right at home. The UI and mechanics remain relatively unchanged except for the introduction of the new Fairy type (an unnecessary and mostly irrelevant addition) and an option for certain Pokemon to attain Mega Evolution (a more impactful addition). The most notable deviation from traditional Pokemon games is the shift to a more three dimensional world. The camera pans and the angles change to display more cinematic on-screen displays, game sprites and models are more developed, and player characters have more movement freedom, although the 8-direction grid is still existent. Pokemon inside the battle screen are paired with hundreds of new and unique animations which really bring battles to life compared to older titles. The new generation was also the first to introduce the "Exp. Share" system, which, although completely optional, caused some controversy among the community. As always, Pokemon features the usual dopey plot/subplot line with a much more educated meaning behind it. In the case of the Kalos Region, the plot focuses on themes of absolute power and absolute corruption, man's rights and privileges over nature and vise versa, and the familiar bonds we all share with humans and Pokemon alike. From the perspective of a more seasoned gamer, the narrative delivery can come off as guileless or amateur, but it's exactly what we've come to expect from the charm of Pokemon games. While the performance might not be as groundbreaking as it could have been, it's exactly what it should be. The Kalos Region's staple attraction, the sprawling Lumiose City, does an excellent job of projecting a sense of living presence, so much so that I was saddened to discover that it really isn't as bustling full of things to do as it would appear. Most of the Kalos region's other towns are lacking in things to do as well, and I felt that this journey was similar to a succession of pit stops with the occasional plot point sprinkled here and there. The French-inspired aesthetic was gorgeous and enjoyable, don't misunderstand, but I just feel like there could have been more meat to the journey. The most disappointing aspect of the game for me is the lack of a substantial endgame. After the credits roll, the first thing I like to do is hunt legendaries and max out a team of six. Not only does XY lack a consistent source of postgame level trainer battles, but there's only a meager three stationary legendary Pokemon. By the end of three hours after I had completed the main game, I had completed the postgame as well. Pokemon Y, being my first Pokemon title in over three years, definitely brought me back to the franchise. As a long time Pokemon fan, I can recommend in good faith the sixth generation to both new and old players, and my criticisms are largely personal. While I doubt XY will ever rival the likes of Fire Red, Leaf Green, or Emerald, the wonky cast of characters, new region to explore, and familiar Pokemon experience that we've all grown up with make this a title worth playing.