Is Pokemon Unite worth playing in 2024?

Pokemon Unite, now over three years old, remains a notable presence in the gaming world. Despite a controversial launch in 2021, the game has continued to evolve. With constant changes to the game, new license releases, events and fresh Battle Passes, the title constantly keeps players hooked to it. But how does it hold up in 2024? Is it worth your time? The answer is a little more nuanced as it depends on your preferences.

Let’s explore the key reasons for and against diving into Pokemon Unite this year.

Note: This article is subjective and solely reflects the writer's opinions.

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Pokemon Unite in 2024: How good is it?

The title can be even enjoyed by players who don't want to pay (Image via The Pokemon Company)

1) Pay-to-win concerns

When Pokemon Unite first launched, it faced heavy criticism for its pay-to-win nature. Players could spend real money to acquire item enhancers, essential for upgrading held items that significantly boosted in-game performance, creating a stark advantage for a few. This alienated many in the community.

Fortunately, these concerns have largely been addressed. The title has moved away from its pay-to-win model, making it much easier to upgrade held items through regular gameplay.

Additionally, the developers have introduced special items that can max out the level of certain held items without spending money. Holowears, while available for purchase, do not impact gameplay performance. This shift has leveled the playing field, ensuring a fairer experience for all.

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2) Game balance

Players often see frequent changes to and balances in the game (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Game balance is crucial in any online multiplayer game. Pokemon Unite had its share of balance issues in 2023, with new releases like Zacian and Mewtwo X and Y dominating the meta for extended periods. These imbalances frustrated players, as it took the development team considerable time to implement the necessary adjustments.

In 2024, the game balance has improved significantly. Meta Pokemon are often nerfed, and new releases are being introduced in a more balanced state. Furthermore, the development team has been quick to address any issues.

This has led to a more stable and enjoyable gaming experience, making Pokemon Unite a more attractive option for both new and returning players.

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3) New Pokemon and content updates

Latest Pokemon introduced in the game (Image via The Pokemon Company)

A steady stream of new content keeps any game fresh and engaging. Pokemon Unite has consistently added new characters, events, and rewarding experiences. The roster, while still small compared to the over 1,000 Pokemon in the full Pokedex, features well-designed and unique characters.

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4) Crossplay and cross-progression

The title gives access to a wider audience (Image via The Pokemon Company)

One of Pokemon Unite’s strengths is its crossplay and cross-progression features. Available on Nintendo Switch, Android, and iOS, the game allows players to use the same account across all platforms and play together regardless of the device. This flexibility makes it accessible and convenient, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

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5) Gameplay experience

Pokemon Unite follows the general MOBA setup (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Pokemon Unite offers a unique experience within the MOBA genre. Unlike more complex MOBAs like League of Legends or Dota 2, Unite is designed to be more casual and accessible. Matches are capped at 10 minutes, making for a fast-paced and less time-consuming gaming session.

Each Pokemon has two main abilities with multiple options, allowing for varied gameplay and strategic depth. For example, Greninja can learn either Surf or Water Shuriken, providing different playstyles in each match. This variety keeps the game fresh and engaging, even for long-term players.

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Pokemon Unite in 2024: How bad is it?

Reason for the title's downfall (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Despite these positives, many have been unhappy with Pokemon Unite due to matchmaking, balance issues, and a declining player base. The competitive scene is weak, with few professional teams and low spectator interest.

The game's short 10-minute matches and its attempt to merge Pokemon with the MOBA genre do not appeal to traditional fans of either.

The title has faced several issues with its matchmaking system based on ELO (a rating system used to calculate the relative skill levels of players). Some primary problems include:

• Unbalanced matches: Players often find themselves pitted against others either significantly better or worse than them in skill, which could become frustrating.
• Long queue times: Specifically, the wait times are disproportionately long for the higher ELO players because the system will be continuously searching for other players of their caliber to find them a match, especially in the off-peak hours.
• Smurfing: Better players make new accounts to play at lower ELOs and ruin the balance and fairness of matches for the real lower-ELO players.
• Lack of transparency: Most players feel there is no transparency in the matchup algorithm. It is not known by players how their ELO is calculated or why they are queued for specific matches. This creates the impression that everything is random and unjust.
• Team compositions: Very often, the matchmaking system fails to create balanced teams with regard to roles and types of Pokemon. Therefore, an imbalance in the outcome of matches is possible.
• Win/loss streaks: Many players have reported being on very long winning or losing streaks, which is discouraging and makes a player believe that the game isn't fair. This may be an artifact of the ELO system trying to balance previous outcomes.

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Pokemon Unite's worth in 2024: Final verdict

Is Pokemon Unite worth in 2024? (Image via The Pokemon Company)

So, is Pokemon Unite worth playing in 2024? The answer depends on your perspective.

If you're just looking for a casual, fast-paced MOBA with a twist, and you are a fan of the Pokemon franchise, then the game has enough in it to give you some good times. Constant improvements in game balance, frequent content updates, very varied playstyles, and cross-play features make it literally the best choice for both new and returning players.

That being said, some areas in the title will seem less appealing and sometimes frustrating to those who value very competitive play or are sensitive to problematic connections and swings in the player base.

Though it still has its flaws, eventually, Pokemon Unite has come a long way since launch and is still worth checking out in 2024. If you are a fan of the Pokemon franchise or just a big MOBA fan, trying this one shouldn't be too much of a problem without it being such a costly burden.

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If you are interested in more Pokemon Unite topics, check out the following:

• Shadow Flame patch update - Winners and losers
• All Pokemon license tier list
• Solo Queue licenses tier list
• All Unite Moves tier list
• All Battle Item tier list
• All Held Item tier list