Another notch in the franchise's long history, but unlike the previous installment, is actually enjoyable
Diamond and Pearl can be seen as a 'fresh' start in the franchise, despite the formula of the game remaining more or less the same, with the exception of a few added new features. But regardless, personally I see this as a more colourful and more inviting world, Pokémon has never looked so good.
As is the way, you begin the game as a young up and coming Pokémon trainer, about to embark on your journey. You're eventually given the choice to pick from three starter Pokémon, which again, are Grass, Fire and Water types. Once you've got your first Pokémon off you go, to begin your adventure.
Diamond and Pearl come in tack with over 100 new Pokémon, bringing the total to 493. It also brings with it a greater challenge than the previous installment (Ruby and Sapphire), having the Gym Leaders and subsequently the Elite Four at higher levels, making the game that bit harder.
Players are once again able to breed their Pokémon, but with added depth. There is complete connectivity with Fire Red, Leaf Green, Emerald, Ruby and Sapphire, allowing players to obtain every single Pokémon (par a few only available through Official Nintendo Events).
The look of this game is a nice blend of 2D and slight 3D, making exploring the world a much nicer experience on the eyes than ever before. The battle effects have been highly improved, and avid fans of the previous games will enjoy seeing their favorite moves from the Red and Blue days being used in full fantastic colour and life.
The sound is wonderful, of course this is a personal opinion. I have always enjoyed the music in Pokémon handheld games, from the background music as you walk through the grass, to the battle cries of the Pokémon has they pop from their Pokéballs.
Overall, this game is really just for old fans of the game, but, Nintendo have also catered the game for new-comers as well, being that they provide enough information for new players to get the grip of the games concept. As with all Pokémon games, it will have you playing for hours and hours on end, and will continue to be a source of enjoyment for years to come. But, there is something about the DS versions that is a little bit better than the old games, being that it gives you so much connectivity with others through the Wi-Fi system.
So, if you're a closeted Pokémon fan and have been too ashamed to buy it, go and get it, because fact: Handheld gaming is no longer the shame cliche it used to be. And if you've never played a Pokémon game in your life, Diamond or Pearl are perfect games to begin with.