Polygon praises Pokémon Pokopia’s Bubbly Basin DLC for its underwater setting, water-type focus and nostalgic depiction of Cerulean City, but criticises a compulsory temple-building task for Popplio. The writer argues that forcing players to clear and gather materials alone interrupts progress in a game centred on communal rebuilding.

The comparison is with Palworld, whose companion creatures automatically divide work such as farming, mining, crafting and construction while the player explores. In Pokopia, the writer estimates clearing the temple site takes about 15 minutes, but finds the imposed task frustrating because Pokémon companions appear idle rather than helping, making the delay feel like an artificial obstacle.