Was Nintendo the problem all along? Game Freak’s Beast of Reincarnation sparks shock

Japanese developer Game Freak recently took the internet by storm during the 2025 Xbox Games Showcase after revealing its upcoming souls-like, Beast of Reincarnation. The stunning graphics left people in shock after they compared the developer’s previous games to Nintendo’s Pokémon franchise. 

Game Freak has always been subjected to criticism for its lackluster graphics and poor optimization in Pokémon games such as Sword and Shield, Legends: Arceus, Scarlet and Violet, and many more. Many fans blamed the developer, further stating that the studio lacks “motivation.”

However, others blamed the Nintendo Switch hardware, deeming it “outdated” and “weak” for its time, which caused limitations in graphics and performance.

Was Nintendo the problem all along? Game Freak’s Beast of Reincarnation sparks shock

While that might’ve been the case, other Nintendo titles like Kirby: The Forgotten Lands, Mario Kart 8, Luigi’s Mansion 3, and many more run steadily with stunning graphics.

Additionally, Game Freak recently showcased the visible difference in textures between the Switch and Switch 2 versions of its upcoming game, Pokémon Legends: Z-A.

Game Freak describes Beast of Reincarnation as “an expansive one-person, one-dog action RPG built around demanding, technical combat.”

It follows the story of Emma and her loyal canine companion, Koo, who venture into post-apocalyptic Japan as humanity’s last hope. The game is set to launch in 2026 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC via Xbox Game Pass and Steam.

According to its Steam store page, Beast of Reincarnation draws elements from adventure, action, and souls-like games