So instead of adding to the discourse pile (which feels like has grown its own legs and is moving in multiple directions at once) and giving the game more free press, I want to highlight some cool indie creature-collecting games you can support and play instead:
(Huge caveat that a lot of these games I haven't played, but they look like they're doing something cool or interesting!)
Moonstone Island
Mixes creature collecting with Stardew-Valley like life sim stuff (farming, dating, decorating, etc). Combat's done via card-based battles!
Anode Heart
Came out this past November. Looks like a really rich world to explore. The combat and visual direction has me really curious, and reviews so far seem positive!
Project Anomaly: Urban Supernatural Investigator
This one's not out yet, but it has a demo. You use a camera to solve cases and search for cryptids and befriend them. Gonna keep an eye out for this one when it's out.
Bugaboo Pocket
What if you were collecting... bugs? It's a virtual pet game with minigames and cool bug facts. Love the UI direction. Coming out this year.
Europa
This one's tagged as "creature collector" (not sure why?) but it looks gorgeous. Coming out in April. I don't remember hearing anything about this game beforehand, though I'm glad I stumbled across it.
Beastieball
Yes, full disclosure, I'm working on this game as an animator. We're putting a lot of love into our creature designs and you can battle other creatures in turn-based volleyball. Demo's up if you want to try it for yourself. Coming out this year, too.
As a bonus, here's a couple of creatures I animated recently:
