Pokémon Chips review: simple card game with the original 151

Brief summary: Pokémon Chips is a simple, fast card game where you try to catch Pokémon by betting on the right ones. It actually feels a bit like a casino game, but for kids. You can explain it in a minute and play it in fifteen. And it features the original 151 Pokémon, so even parents will feel a nostalgic flutter. Our conclusion: highly recommended for those looking for something accessible.

What is Pokémon Chips and how does it work?

Pokémon Chips is very simple. You start with a few Pokémon in your hand, and each of these Pokémon has its own condition for being caught. For example, one might need a certain number of Poké Balls of a specific type, another might not want any of a certain type, and yet another might want more of one type than another.

Then Poké Balls are randomly drawn from a bag. Each time balls appear, you discard one Pokémon: either the one that is least valuable, or the one you can no longer catch based on its conditions. This repeats four times. At the end, everyone checks if they can actually catch their remaining Pokémon. The first player to score a certain number of points (because harder-to-catch Pokémon are worth more points) wins.

Does it really feel like a casino game?

A little bit, yes. You're basically gambling on which balls will come out of the bag and hoping your conditions are met. That feeling of "will I make it or not" is definitely there. But without money and without smoke, just a fun, cozy version for the table with the kids.

It's really simple to explain and you're done in fifteen minutes. Ideal for a quick game in between, or to start a game night before the heavier boxes come out.

Who is Pokémon Chips suitable for?

Pokémon Chips is primarily for:

• Families with children who enjoy a quick and simple game
• Pokémon fans, big and small
• Anyone looking for a quick filler game that doesn't require a half-hour explanation

151 times nostalgia

And then there's this: it's the original 151 again. For kids, it's just Pokémon, but for parents, it's a trip down memory lane. That's a nice bonus, because it ensures everyone at the table is happy.

Final verdict: Is Pokémon Chips worth it?