Jumping the 'Karp

I recently was finally able to download and play Pokémon Magikarp Jump, which as I've noted in my mobile games post last year, was released at around the same time. I also noted back then that I had hoped not to get addicted, and... well, that seems to not be the case. I'm now somewhat addicted, sometimes even playing it while I'm handling Shuffle on my 3DS at the same time. It's hard not to, given how the game is played.

The objective of the game is to raise Magikarp so that they can jump as high as the sky. The player starts out by fishing for a Magikarp; once one is obtained, a series of phases come into play. The Magikarp can be fed Berries to increase its level and Jump Power - abbreviated in the game as JP and succinctly displayed in abbreviated points - and training Magikarp further increases JP. Once that is done, the Magikarp can battle other Magikarp in a series of leagues, the winner being determined by the one with the higher JP. These phases then repeat as needed. It's a simple thing.

What makes things not so simple are the things that hinder or limit this progression. Each Magikarp has a limited maximum level (and therefore limited JP as well), and when that is reached, the Magikarp has to battle one last time as far as it will go before it retires. Unfortunately, there are hidden dangers as well; certain events in the game, if one is unlucky, will force the Magikarp to retire early, such as being scooped up by a Pidgeotto, never to return again. In both of these cases, the player has to start again with a fresh new Magikarp, bringing it back to prime.

There are, of course, helpful things that aid the player's progress. Higher-level Berries and even other treats can be bought to increase JP rapidly, as well as other training regimens. Different Pokémon pals may also be invited that can do special actions. The pond can even be decorated with objects to enhance progression. All of these certainly do not come cheaply, as they are earned through victories in leagues or purchase by Coins or Diamonds, of which the latter in turn can also be purchased by real money. The investment is up to the player to make.

This game is very simple but very addictive. It's hard not to keep raising Magikarp, building up its JP, and battling others. At the least, it's a great way to pass the time when one is bored. And even if one isn't bored, this is a potentially useful time-waster. As a fan of all things Pokémon, I'm delighted with this game, and I hope that my fellow fans and even those who like mobile games in general would find it a delight as well.

Now, it seems that my latest-generation Magikarp is calling me to be fed and trained for glory.

One year ago: Married... to Pikachu?