If you've played any of the other main Pokémon game then you'll know what to expect here. You take on the role of a generic trainer, battling your way with your Pokémon team to become the best in the world, and fighting anyone in your way.

With the main Pokémon games, since the beginning of the series, they have always been released in a pattern. Two near identical games, followed by another, very similar, but with more changes. Platinum falls into the latter category. Whilst there is virtually no difference between Diamond and Pearl, Platinum is almost a different adventure. If you've played either of the first two games then this may be worth a purchase as well if you're a fan, with enough new features, as well as a varied story line, to keep the game fresh and new, though some may find it not different enough. If you have not played any of the three games then it is undoubtedly that Platinum is the best.

The Gameplay

Of course if battling isn't your favourite thing, then there is of course the collecting and raising aspect to Pokémon. Now with so many Pokémon to catch you can spend ages trying to find them all, even if you've completed the game. There are rarer Pokémon to really keep you searching until you find them all!

Multiplayer

The best thing about this generation of gaming is undoubtedly online gaming. And what better game is there to use the internet then Pokémon? No longer must you trade Pokémon using complex wires, you can use the internet to trade Pokémon all over the world! You can also battle friends, and play some mini games. I haven't used many of these features yet, but it really does add a lot to the game, especially the ability to collect all the Pokémon by trading with friends and strangers around the world.

New Features To Platinum

As I mentioned, this game is another version of Diamond and Pearl, so what's the point of them making ANOTHER one? Well there are plenty of differences and additions to make you consider purchase.

Sounds, Sights and Sinnoh

The fourth region of the Pokémon games is filled with much more depth than the previous three, with the graphical power of the DS coming through brilliantly, blending the traditional Pokémon style with better class graphics, animations and worlds to truly draw you into the experience. One of the best areas is Snow Point city which looks great totally covered in snow. Then there is the other dimension which plays a big part in the story. This is totally different to anything seen in Pokémon games before and shows off the 3D capabilities of the DS.

Overall it's a brilliantly structured game video and sound wise. The games have come a long way since the black and white originals, and this is the best leap in graphics we've seen so far.

Price, and Other Things To Consider

This game has something for everyone really. If you like cute and interesting creatures, like battling monsters, like exploring new worlds, or are even a core gamer who likes deeper games, then this is honestly a game which can suit any of you, especially those who perhaps have brought a DS for Brain Training but now want something more. You can pick up and play easily, so you can do it in short bursts or long sessions simply because it's simple and yet so complex and that's really what gives it it's perfection.