Compared to the replayability of other titles within the Pokemon franchise, Pokemon: Let’s Go is relatively short and fans were quick to notice. There’s been a wave of criticism on this end and the game’s director Junichi Masuda explained in both the Japanese and English strategy guide created for the said title. Masuda said:

When you consider how people live in this day and age, I think it’s safe to say everyone’s pretty busy. The way we spend our team is different now from how it was 20 years ago. Thanks to smartphones, you’re constantly bombarded with new information, and it’s natural that you end up thinking you want to play some other games, too. So I felt like perhaps the time you spend on your adventures in these games didn’t need to dominate all your free time.

We sped up the walking speed for the player and kept the playtime needed to reach the Hall of Fame on the shorter side. For the people who want to play more, I’d like them to enjoy cuddling their partner Pikachu or Eevee and giving them Berries, having fun with outfits, and building up their bonds with their partner. And after they reach the Hall of Fame, I hope they might also enjoy battling the Master Trainers, who can give you special titles to boast about.”

In other words, the goal for Pokemon: Let’s Go was to create a leisurely title unlike the more action-packed entries before it. It’s aimed for a younger audience rather than the ones that grew up on the TV series or handhelds as a kid. It’s easier to absorb and faster to complete as well for the purpose of the onslaught of new titles coming out every year.

Were you disappointed in the gameplay time for Pokemon: Let’s Go? What do you think of the director’s response? Let us know what you think in the comments section below or start a conversation on DFTG Facebook page. To stay up to date on gaming news as it happens, follow us on Twitter! Here’s some of our latest to catch up on:

• Detroit Become Human Teases “Great News” For 2019
• Persona 5 R Officially Announced With New Trailer (VIDEO)
• Despite Getting Defensive, Soulja Boy Drops His Bootleg Consoles

Pokemon: Let’s Go is available now exclusively on the Nintendo Switch.