Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! & Let's Go, Eevee!: Complete Guide
Let's Go Pikachu & Eevee Pokédex →Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee! are remakes of Pokémon Yellow for the Nintendo Switch, released in November 2018. They return to Kanto with modern graphics and a very different way of catching Pokémon, inspired by the mobile game Pokémon GO.
Instead of battling wild Pokémon, you throw a Poké Ball at them directly. The Pokémon appear in the world, and a successful throw ends the encounter. A partner Pokémon rides along, either Pikachu or Eevee, and it can even sit on your shoulder or your head.
They suit newcomers who want an approachable first game, and families who want to play together in co-op mode.
Let's Go, Pikachu! & Let's Go, Eevee! quick facts
| Release date | November 16, 2018 |
|---|---|
| Platform | Nintendo Switch |
| Region | Kanto |
| Generation | Generation VII |
| Versions | Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee! |
| New Pokémon | 2 new species |
| Starters | Pikachu and Eevee |
| Legendary and Mythical | Articuno, Zapdos, Moltres, Mewtwo, Meltan and Melmetal |
Story and structure
This section keeps to the structure of the story.
You live in Pallet Town and set out with a Pikachu or Eevee as your partner. A rival, Professor Oak and a charming group of friends accompany you across Kanto.
The journey follows the Yellow route: eight Gyms, an Elite Four, Team Rocket and the original 151 Pokémon, plus two additions from outside the Kanto Pokédex.
Gyms and the Pokémon League
The Gym lineup is the same as in the originals, with updated teams and some new twists. The Elite Four and Champion wait at the end of Victory Road.
Master Trainers
Across the region, expert trainers challenge you to prove that you have trained a particular species. They give you rewards if you meet their standards.
The post-game includes challenges against rematch trainers and an extra boss.
New mechanics explained
Catching with a throw
Wild Pokémon are visible on the map. When you approach one, you throw a Poké Ball using the motion controls. Timing and accuracy affect your success rate.
Tip: Use berries to calm a Pokémon down and aim for the small circle to improve your chances.
Your partner Pokémon
Your partner is stronger than normal and can learn special moves that help in the field. It also rides along on your shoulder or head.
Tip: Use your partner's field moves to access shortcuts and hidden items.
Co-op play
A second player can join at any time using a second controller, and both trainers can throw balls and fight together.
Tip: Co-op is the easiest way to introduce a new player to the game.
Starter Pokémon
Unlike other entries, you start with one partner, either Pikachu or Eevee, depending on the version. The traditional three starters are given to you later in the story.
Pikachu
Pikachu is fast and has strong Electric attacks. Its partner moves make it a very capable fighter.
Watch out: Ground types resist its Electric moves, and it is fragile.
Eevee
Eevee is a Normal-type partner with a broader set of powerful moves that cover many types.
Watch out: Fighting-type moves hit it hard, and its early moves are weak.
Our recommendation
Both partners work well. We recommend Eevee for its flexibility and strong support moves, and Pikachu if you want a classic Electric-type attacker.
Version differences
Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee! share the same story. They differ in the partner and a few wild Pokémon.
- Pikachu is the partner in one version and Eevee in the other, each with a set of exclusive partner moves.
- A small set of wild Pokémon differ between the two.
- Both games let you connect to Pokémon GO to transfer Pokémon, including Meltan and Melmetal.
If you only play one, choose the partner you like better.
Keep exploring
Tips for new players
- Use berries when catching Pokémon, as they raise your success rate.
- Catch the same species repeatedly to build a chain and earn bonuses.
- Use the Pokémon Candy system to boost stats instead of battling.
- Try co-op for a different way to play.
- Check each Gym's type and bring a Pokémon with the advantage.
- Use the partner moves to explore hidden paths.
- Save before Victory Road and the Elite Four.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!?
They share the same story and map. The partner is different, and a few wild Pokémon differ.
Are Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee! remakes?
Yes. They remake Pokémon Yellow for the Nintendo Switch.
Do you battle wild Pokémon in Let's Go?
No. Wild Pokémon are caught with a throw, and no battle takes place.
How many Pokémon are in Let's Go?
151 from the original generation, plus Meltan and Melmetal.