Pokemon has ruled the creature-collector world for a long time, but now games like TemTem, Cassette Beasts, and Palworld are trying their luck in the arena.
Many of us have enjoyed these kinds of games since we were kids, dreaming up our own versions. Some developers, inspired by these dreams, have created games that stand out. Beastieball, crafted by Wishes Unlimited, feels like it was made straight from my imagination. It’s refreshing to see a game similar to Pokemon that avoids some of the awkward ideas about animals found in the genre.
I’ve shared my thoughts on animal rights in games before, and while some readers didn’t agree, they had valid points. Virtual creatures aren’t real animals, so worrying about their “rights” seems silly. But my focus is on how animals are shown in games, not freeing imaginary creatures.
We often absorb ideas from media without noticing, like how YouTube influences people. In games, animals are often just resources or tools. Changing how they’re portrayed might influence some players’ real-world views. This shift is what Beastieball is starting to do.
I find it fascinating how these games evolve and adapt over time. While I would have liked Beastieball even if it mimicked Pokemon, its new approach to storytelling and gameplay is a breath of fresh air. Enjoying Pokemon isn’t bad, but Beastieball offers a delightful alternative.
Pokemon’s battles resemble dogfighting, a practice most people wouldn’t support in reality. Whether or not the creatures enjoy fighting is debated, but their inability to leave trainers feels more like servitude than friendship.
Though some Pokemon, like Ash’s Pikachu, have distinct personalities, most are defined by their species. The focus is on trainers, with creatures as mere tools. Beastieball breaks away from this idea.
In Beastieball, battles turn into volleyball matches. Beasties love the game, seeking trainers to join them in playing it, which removes any hint of harm. This simple change helps players of all ages enjoy a game without feeling guilty about sending creatures into battles.
Unlike Pokemon, where Pikachu is both a friend and a fighter, Beastieball doesn’t demand that players accept this contradiction. The game world feels more thoughtful and considerate.
Beastieball goes beyond, showing a world where changes were made to avoid common tropes. Beasties can become friends and learn from each other, celebrating together rather than being captured. They follow you freely, like happy dogs on a walk.
As you fill your Beastiepedia, you’ll find details that celebrate Beasties as unique beings, much like museum exhibits. These stories aren’t about dominating others but appreciating the creatures for who they are.
People in the game world speak lovingly of their Beasties. I met a woman who described her bird-like Beastie as unique, highlighting its individuality. Beasties are not just objects; they’re recognized as beings with their own personalities.
Despite similarities to Pokemon, Beastieball skips the tricky parts. Your quest isn’t about catching them all but about saving a special Beastie habitat. The journey is about gathering resources to protect a place cherished by the community and Beasties. It’s about coming together, not conquering.
This genre often makes us overlook awkward story elements, but Beastieball shows we can enjoy creature collectors without them. It’s a fantastic game that fulfills a desire many of us have had for a more heartfelt and thoughtful experience.
