Farlight Games, fresh off their successful 2024 collaboration with Lilith Games on AFK Journey, has a new contender in the mobile gaming arena: Ace Trainer. Currently in soft launch in South Korea and the US, this game blends several popular genres in a way that's both intriguing and potentially overwhelming.
Ace Trainer is essentially a Pokémon-inspired creature collection and training game, but with a significant twist. Instead of traditional turn-based battles, players utilize their fantastical creatures in a tower defense setting against hordes of zombies. Adding another layer of complexity (and perhaps a touch of chaos), pinball mechanics are integrated for resource gathering.
The game's eclectic mix of PvP, PvE, tower defense, and pinball elements is ambitious, to say the least. While the combination might appeal to some, the sheer number of mechanics raises questions about long-term playability and balance. Only time will tell if Ace Trainer's unique blend of genres will resonate with a global audience. The multi-region soft launch suggests Farlight has high hopes for its success.
For more insightful (and perhaps slightly cynical) commentary on the mobile gaming landscape, including our take on Ace Trainer and other 2025 gaming news, check out the latest episode of the Pocket Gamer podcast.
