Introduction

Monster collecting games have always been popular, especially among gamers who love Japanese anime and manga. Among the many monster collecting game series out there, two of the most popular are Pokemon and Digimon. Both have been around for more than two decades, but which series is better? Let’s dig in and find out!

Gameplay

Both Pokemon and Digimon games have similar gameplay elements, where players catch and train monsters to battle against other monsters. However, there are some differences in how the games are played.

Pokemon

In Pokemon games, players are tasked with catching and training creatures called Pokemon, which come in different shapes, sizes, and types. They can evolve into stronger versions of themselves and learn new moves as they level up. Battles in Pokemon games are turn-based, and players can choose from a set of moves for their Pokemon to use.

Digimon

In Digimon games, players are given their own Digimon creature, which they can train and evolve by battling against other Digimon. Unlike Pokemon, Digimon don't typically evolve into specific creatures. Instead, they have a variety of evolutionary paths, and which path they take depends on various factors such as the player's care and how they train their Digimon. Battles in Digimon games are real-time, and players can choose from a set of commands for their Digimon to use.

Winner: Draw

Both Pokemon and Digimon have unique gameplay elements, making it difficult to declare one as the clear winner. It ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Popularity

Popularity is a subjective measure but can give us an idea of which series is more successful in terms of sales and fanbase.

Pokemon

The Pokemon franchise has sold over 350 million copies worldwide since its launch in 1996. It spans across various media, including games, TV shows, movies, and merchandise. The series has one of the largest fanbases and a competitive esports scene where players can battle for real-life prizes.

Digimon

Digimon, on the other hand, has sold over 17 million copies worldwide since its launch in 1997. It also spans across various media, including games, TV shows, movies, and merchandise. However, it has a smaller fanbase compared to Pokemon and does not have a competitive esports scene.

Winner: Pokemon

Pokemon has a larger overall fanbase and has outsold Digimon in terms of game sales.

Graphics

Graphics are an important aspect of monster collecting games as they help to immerse players in the game world.

Pokemon

Pokemon games have evolved over the years, but they have always maintained the iconic cartoonish style that fans love. The latest Pokemon games are in full 3D and have stunning visuals that capture the beauty of the Pokemon world.

Digimon

Digimon games have also evolved over the years, but the graphics have not been as consistent as Pokemon games. While some games have stunning visuals, others have been criticized for their poor graphics and lack of detail.

Winner: Pokemon

Pokemon's consistent and visually-pleasing graphics give it the edge over Digimon in this category.

Conclusion

Both Pokemon and Digimon are great monster collecting game series, and there is no clear winner. It ultimately boils down to personal preference. If you prefer a more turn-based style of gameplay, with consistent and visually pleasing graphics and a larger fanbase, Pokemon is the game for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy real-time battles, non-linear evolutionary paths, and a smaller but dedicated fanbase, perhaps Digimon is more your style.

References

1. "List of best-selling video game franchises." Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 22 June 2022, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_best-selling_video_game_franchises. 

2. "Pokémon competitive play." Bulbapedia, bulbapedia.bulbagarden.net/wiki/Pok%C3%A9mon_competitive_play.

3. "What Makes Digimon Different From Pokemon?" Gamerant, gamerant.com/what-makes-digimon-different-from-pokemon/.