Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness, is a childhood favourite that I was never able to beat. Either because there wasn't enough time when I borrowed a copy from friends or because by the time I got my own copy other games stole my attention. The past two years though I've slowly been playing it, a few hours after work here, a weekend when sick there, and it feels very satisfying to watch the credits role. I've always loved Shadow Pokémon, and thought Shadow Lugia was the coolest Pokémon ever. It's a refreshing experience to play a Pokémon game with an actual narrative rather than just the tried and true "catch 'em all and defeat all the gyms". It was hilarious to me playing this game when Scarlet and Violet came out. No exaggeration; Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness runs better than the newest Pokémon games, and I've been playing the original 2005 version on my GameCube. I've yet to finish all the post game content (purrifying all the Shadow Pokémon, the Coliseum, the Battle Towers, etc.) but I did defeat the main baddies, and catch all 83 Shadow Pokémon (there's one extra in the post game to catch). If you love Pokémon but are feeling worn down by the main line games check out Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness! The soundtrack in this game slaps too! A shame the Pokémon Company has never revisited the Orre Region again, but I'm grateful to always have the chance to return in this game.