Ethan Crossfield 
The first review for Beast of Reincarnation has appeared ahead of the game’s August 4 release, giving Game Freak’s new action-RPG an encouraging early reception. Famitsu awarded the title 35 out of 40, putting attention on a project that looks very different from the Pokémon games that made the studio famous.
What happened with Beast of Reincarnation’s first review
Beast of Reincarnation is scheduled to launch on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. The game follows Emma and her dog as they move through a post-apocalyptic setting populated by monstrous enemies. Unlike Game Freak’s best-known work, it is built as an action-RPG rather than a traditional monster-collecting adventure.
The first reported score comes from Japanese publication Famitsu. Its overall rating is calculated from four individual reviews: one reviewer gave Beast of Reincarnation an 8 out of 10, while the remaining three awarded 9 out of 10. That produces a combined score of 35 out of 40, though reviews from other outlets have not yet been detailed in the source material.
Why the reception matters for Game Freak
Game Freak has spent much of its time associated with mainline Pokémon releases, but the studio has also pursued separate projects. Beast of Reincarnation represents a particularly noticeable shift in direction, offering a darker world, a different combat-focused format, and a new cast of characters.
That change could help the game reach players who are curious about what Game Freak can create outside Pokémon. It may also attract Pokémon fans who want to examine the studio’s approach to a substantially different genre. The title is unlikely to match Pokémon’s commercial scale, but its connection to that franchise gives it immediate visibility that many new properties do not receive.
The game’s planned arrival on Xbox Game Pass could further reduce the barrier for curious players. Subscribers may be more willing to try an unfamiliar series when they do not need to purchase it separately.
What to watch next
The most important next step is seeing whether additional outlets support Famitsu’s positive assessment. A single strong score is an encouraging opening, but a broader critical picture will provide a clearer sense of the game’s strengths and weaknesses before launch.
Beast of Reincarnation’s presentation has also prompted comparisons with Game Freak’s recent Pokémon output. Some observers have viewed the new game’s polished appearance as evidence that the studio can deliver a higher visual standard, particularly after Pokémon Scarlet and Violet faced criticism over their visuals and performance on Nintendo Switch.
For now, Game Freak and publisher Fictions have not announced a Nintendo Switch 2 version. A later release on that platform remains possible, but players waiting for a new Game Freak title there have no confirmed Beast of Reincarnation date to follow.
Key takeaways for players
- Famitsu’s first reported score is 35 out of 40.
- The game launches on August 4 for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
- It follows Emma and her dog through a post-apocalyptic world.
- Xbox Game Pass gives subscribers a lower-risk way to try the new series.
- No Nintendo Switch 2 version has been announced.
Famitsu’s reported score breakdown
| Reviewer | Score |
|---|---|
| Reviewer 1 | 8/10 |
| Reviewer 2 | 9/10 |
| Reviewer 3 | 9/10 |
| Reviewer 4 | 9/10 |
| Combined score | 35/40 |
Expert View
Beast of Reincarnation has the right kind of early momentum: its first score is strong, its premise clearly separates it from Pokémon, and Game Freak’s name ensures that players will pay attention. The real test will be whether the full review cycle confirms that the studio’s visual ambition and genre change are backed by a consistently polished experience.
