The “Pokemon” series has really come into its own in the years since 1998, and the “monster”-collecting series has yet to hit a stopping point in its enormous popularity. With the new installment in the series, “Pokemon Sun and Moon,” the games bring a new warm feeling in the middle of winter by having its setting in Alola, a island region based on the geography of modern day Hawaii. But this, fortunately, is not the only change GameFreak added.

The graphics are not stellar due to the hardware limitations of a handheld console, but do sport a noticeable difference from “Pokemon X and Y.” There are definitely more colors, and to fit the new setting, are much more tropical by having more bright colors.

Pokemon gym battles have been replaced with challenges called “Trials,” where Pokemon trainers must fight a number of weaker Pokemon to then fight the “Totem Pokemon,” an extremely strong Pokemon with high defense and many special moves. After defeating the trial, trainers get “Z-Moves,” very powerful special moves for a certain type of Pokemon. This removal of the traditional gym battle angered many diehard fans, but I find the change refreshing.

The mechanics of the game have stayed the same, and are easy to learn, but hard to master. There is a definite difficulty increase from the previous games, and players might find themselves getting frustrated at the game if they are not used to the mechanics. Players still choose one of three Pokemon for their journey, and the ultimate goal is to defeat evil and strive to be the best trainer there ever was. The new Alolan versions of Pokemon from older games are interesting, but don’t add much substance to the game. Alolan-exclusive Pokemon new to the series, however, add to the many ways trainers can strengthen their teams of Pokemon.

Despite the major changes, “Pokemon Sun and Moon” stands out in the massive crowd of everything Pokemon. While it is not better than “Pokemon X and Y,” it is by far one of the strongest entries since the catastrophe that was “Pokemon Black and White 2.” With this entry GameFreak has shown the fan base that change can be a wonderful thing. One thing is for sure: If the pattern of good Pokemon games continues, fans will continue to flock to the series, and Pokemon will remain a household name.              

Platforms: Nintendo 3DS ( I have only played Moon as of this review.)

Price: $39.99 each