For example, Electric-type Pokémon can slow down the levels' timer, while Fire-types can automatically fill in certain areas of the grid in a cross-shape pattern.

The game's freemium elements revolve around items known as Picrites, which are required to perform various actions such as unlocking new areas, increasing the number of Pokémon that can be set, opening up Mega Evolution and Alt World stages, and instantly restoring the Energy gauge (the latter of which is replenished over time).

In addition to purchasing them with Nintendo eShop funds, players can obtain Picrites by clearing certain objectives in each stage (such as using a particular Pokémon or beating the stage within a certain time limit), playing the Daily Challenge (which tasks players with clearing several smaller puzzles in quick succession), and unlocking certain achievements as they play.

[1] Pokémon Picross was first announced on a November 12, 2015 Nintendo Direct broadcast, with a worldwide release date set for the following month.

[7] Destructoid found the game to be an improvement over previous Picross entries, stating "Aside from the strangely disguised pricing scheme, the new additions to Pokémon Picross exceed expectations," giving special mention to its mission mechanic, the unlocking of "mural" images, and "mega rows" that encourage non-standard play.