Yo-Kai Watch
Yo-Kai Watch took Japan by storm when it released years ago, and while the series never hit it off the same in the West, it’s still a fun Pokemon-lite experience. In Yo-Kai Watch you play as a young boy or girl as they meet a strange spirit named Whisper, who introduces them to the world of Yo-Kai, Pokemon-like creatures inspired by Japanese culture and myths.
Yo-Kai Watch is a super laid-back experience that has you exploring the town of Springdale, meeting new and interesting Yo-Kai, and solving people’s problems. You can capture the spirits using the Yo-Kai Watch, then battle them in simple turn-based battles.
The real appeal of Yo-Kai Watch, though, is just how weird and charming the world and characters are. So many of the spirits are a blast to meet and learn about, and there’s just something inherently charming about the experience. Luckily, you can also beat the first game in about 18-20 hours, so a full weekend if you need something to do.