The upcoming spin-off gameNew Pokemon Snapwill have online features to some degree. Nintendo has revealed that the photo-snapping game,New Pokemon Snap, will have online functionality via the official store page.
With the original release having come out 22 years ago, theNew Pokemon Snapfor Nintendo Switch is highly anticipated. The main gameplay sees players travel through natural environments and take pictures of various roaming Pokemon. While the original game was of a small scope, the Switch entry promises multiple islands to explorealong with gorgeous graphics.
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Details aboutNew Pokemon Snapon Switch are extensive when checking out the store page. Even though it is noted as being for “1 player,” the bottom of the page has the Nintendo Switch Online label. It states that the game supports both “Online Play” and the “Save Data Cloud.” While the cloud is clearly referring to backing up save data, it is unclear what online capabilities will be in the game. The size of the game, 6.8GB, is substantially less thanPokemon SwordandShield, even though it has alot more Pokemon than the original Nintendo 64 game.
It is known that throughout story, players will take pictures and upload the images to their personal Pokemon Photodex. In addition, there is no mention of multiplayer, so fans can likely rule out being able tojoin each other in an open world. This is a game focusing on taking photos, so online play could be referring to some sort of sharing feature. Being able to upload photographs online to compare to other players could add a slightly competitive element to an otherwise single player game.
Having gameplay elements that connect to playing online could boost interest inNew Pokemon Snapfor Nintendo Switch. As a single player game, it will likely attract fans looking for something outside of the mainPokemonseries. But with some sort of online or multiplayer aspect, those on the fence may decide to join in. If a leaderboard or sharing mechanic exists for players paying for online, those wanting to show off their photography skills could see some value. EvenAnimal Crossing: New Horizonshas seen massive popularity in part due to gamers showing off pictures of their towns.
At this time, any ideas about howNew Pokemon Snapwill incorporate online is merely speculation. While one would hope that the feature justifies paying for online,likeSuper Smash Bros. UltimateorMario Kart 8 Deluxe, this implementation could be minor. Nintendo has not shown anything about the online features either, despite the game releasing in a few months. This likely quells any hopes that the online will be extensive. Either way, fans of theNew Pokemon Snapshould see online as icing on the cake for the overall experience.
New Pokemon Snapwill be available for the Nintendo Switch on April 30th, 2021.
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