Coromon

It's hard to talk about new entries in the monster tamer genre without bringing up Pokemon as a comparison, but Coromon -- even with a few notable faults -- feels like a significantly updated version of those GBA-era games thanks to some unique features that modernize it enough so that it doesn't lean too hard on its inspirations.

Pokémon clones have been a dime a dozen through the years. Some turn out to be hidden gems in their own right, introducing ideas that allow them to stand out. Others, however, attempt to only cash in on the concept with no morsel of creativity put forth into the project. One thing is sure; however, the majority of these are found on the mobile market. App stores are bursting at the seams with an o...

Shine bright! It’s time to explore the vast Velua Region in Coromon, a new monster-taming RPG from Netherlands-based developers TRAGsoft. Boasting over 100 unique monster designs and citing gameplay inspiration from Pokémon, Golden Sun, and Zelda, this pixelated adventure promises a nostalgic romp with a modern twist – and what a delightfully charming romp it is.

It's easy for Coromon to be labeled a clone. It almost begs you to think of it as one. On the surface, it looks like a new set of monsters were dropped into a nearly identical world. But dig a little deeper. A story that doesn't have gyms or badges, customization in both difficulty and player options that you don't see in the competitor. Coromon feels more like a spiritual successor to monster tra...

Coromon joins the roster of monster-taming RPGs with its charming retro art and puzzles. It proudly pays homage to its source of inspiration, but lacks innovative ideas to stand out.

Coromon is a game filled with potential but past sinking sands and perplexing puzzles it starts to fall flat. The shake-ups do let Coromon stand on its own and create an enjoyable experience, but it could’ve evolved to be something a little more.

Ultimately, Coromon will resonate with some people purely by recreating some of that joy they felt during their first Pokémon. It drops a lot of baggage of the series, at its best, feels like how Pokémon could be if it wasn't too tied to appeasing long-time fans. It’s a delight from its polished combat, challenging dungeons, and gorgeous battle environments and sprites. If people can deal with the...