Pokémon Trozei! for the Nintendo DS (NDS) is a hidden gem in the Pokémon franchise that many fans may have missed. Released in 2005 in Japan and 2006 in the USA, this puzzle game brought a fresh and engaging gameplay experience to the world of Pokémon. Combining the addictive nature of puzzle games with the charm of the Pokémon universe, Pokémon Trozei! provided hours of fun for players of all ages.

A Unique Twist on the Pokémon Formula

Pokémon Trozei! takes a departure from the traditional turn-based RPG battles that the franchise is known for. Instead, players engage in fast-paced, tile-matching action. The game features a grid filled with various Pokémon faces, and the objective is to create rows of four identical Pokémon faces to clear them from the board. These rows are called "Trozei," and they can be created horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.


The game's unique twist comes with the Trozei Chance, which allows players to chain multiple Trozei combos together, racking up points and clearing the board with style. Each Pokémon species has its own Trozei Chance criteria, which keeps the gameplay fresh and challenging.

A Diverse Cast of Pokémon

One of the highlights of Pokémon Trozei! is the extensive roster of Pokémon featured in the game. With over 380 different species to encounter and capture, players can truly "catch 'em all." The game serves as a Pokédex for aspiring trainers, offering detailed information on each captured Pokémon.

To catch Pokémon in Trozei!, players must engage in Trozei battles against wild Pokémon. Successfully chaining combos and clearing rows will lead to capturing the wild Pokémon, which can then be added to the player's collection. The game's tagline, "Link 'em, Trozei 'em, and Get 'em!" perfectly captures the essence of the gameplay.

A Fun and Challenging Adventure

Pokémon Trozei! offers an engaging single-player adventure mode that takes players on a quest to defeat the nefarious Phobos Battalion. Led by the enigmatic Phobos, this villainous group has stolen Pokémon and disrupted the peaceful world. It's up to players to thwart their plans and restore tranquility.

Throughout the adventure, players will explore various themed zones, each with its own unique set of challenges and Pokémon. The game gradually increases in difficulty, keeping players on their toes as they strive to achieve high scores and complete their Pokédex.

Multiplayer Madness

For those who prefer to share their Pokémon Trozei! experience with friends, the game offers a thrilling multiplayer mode. Via local wireless connection, players can engage in Trozei battles, competing to see who can clear the most rows and capture the most Pokémon in a set amount of time. The intense competition and fast-paced action make for some of the most memorable multiplayer moments in the Pokémon series.

The Legacy of Pokémon Trozei!

While Pokémon Trozei! may not be as widely recognized as some other titles in the Pokémon franchise, it left a lasting impact on fans who experienced its unique gameplay. Its vibrant graphics, diverse Pokémon roster, and addictive puzzle mechanics make it a standout title in the Nintendo DS library.

Today, Pokémon Trozei! remains a nostalgic favorite for many Pokémon enthusiasts, and it's a testament to the franchise's ability to explore different genres while retaining its core charm. If you've yet to experience the excitement of Pokémon Trozei!, consider dusting off your Nintendo DS and diving into this hidden gem. "Link 'em, Trozei 'em, and Get 'em!" as you embark on a puzzle-solving adventure with your favorite pocket monsters.