Eric Carmen stated that "Let's Pretend" was inspired by a cover photo in Time magazine of "a guy and girl dripping wet out in the woods" with a headline that was "something like 'Teenage Sex.'".

[4] Cash Box said that the "Raspberries change the pace a bit and deliver a strong semi-ballad with all the grace and capabilities of the Beatles early sound.

"[3] Music journalist Ken Sharp rated it the Raspberries' 7th best song, comparing it to the "bittersweet ballads found on the Beach Boys' Pet Sounds" and calling it "one of Eric's most transcendent melodies.

"[7] Classic Rock History critic Brian Kachejian rated it as the Raspberries 8th best song, saying that it "defines the sweet side of Eric Carmen’s melodies and hooks.

[11] "Let's Pretend" was included on the Raspberries Pop Art Live CD set from their reunion concert recording, November 26, 2004, at the House of Blues in Cleveland, Ohio, released August 18, 2017.