Summary
Given thatPokemon Legends: Arceushas already revamped the starter Pokemon tradition with fully evolved regional forms, the nextPokemon Legendsgame should go a step further by embracing another new gimmick introduced inPokemon ScarletandViolet. WhenPokemon Legends: Arceuswas first announced with its intergenerational selection of Cyndaquil, Oshawott, and Rowlet as its starter Pokemon, it was able to add a new twist to the series staple by giving each their own Hisuian form as their final evolution. But with the precedent set for any future games that might follow, fans are alreadypredicting that the nextPokemon Legends' starterswill do the same.
This is where one ofPokemon ScarletandViolet’s recent gimmicks could offer another way for the nextPokemon Legendsgame to recapture that same element of surprise. Despite a mixed reception upon their first reveal, Gen 9’s addition of regional fakes or convergent Pokemon has allowed Game Freak to revisit previous Pokemon and rework their designs to create something altogether new. Though the gimmick is still in its infancy, it could have a great deal of potential to ensure fans never know just what to expect for regional forms and fakes, especially if aPokemon Legends: Arceussequeladopts this with new regional fake starter Pokemon.
Pokemon Legends Goes Beyond The Mainline Games
Despite bearing all the hallmarks of a spin-off,Legends: Arceusis actually part of the core series ofPokemon,which means it ultimately enjoys the best of both worlds. As a result,Pokemon Legendshas had the benefit of being canon while also getting the opportunity to experiment withbreaking various traditions of thePokemonseries. With the ability to test ideas, like regional starter Pokemon, that would likely have never been attempted in a mainlinePokemongame,Pokemon Legendsprovides Game Freak with the opportunity to experiment with what it has created so far and find new ways to innovate the series' formula.
Regional Fakes Could Be Better Explored in Pokemon Legends
Due to the game’s unique position, the gimmick of regional fakes might ultimately be better suited toPokemon Legendsas it would give Game Freak the choice of either embracing or overlooking convergent Pokemon depending on how well they are received. But with the advantage of creative freedom,Pokemon Legendscould make a more sustained effort to experiment with regional fake designs beyond the six that have so far been introduced. Moreover, as an alternative to regional forms,regional fake variants could help futurePokemon Legendsgames differentiate themselves fromLegends: Arceus, especially when it comes to its choice of starter Pokemon.
The Next Pokemon Legends Game Should Introduce Convergent Starter Pokemon
SinceLegends: Arceusintroduced regional variants to its starter Pokemon, the nextPokemon Legendsgame will need to do something else to give players something new and interesting. While one option would be to introduce regional forms for all three stages of each starter Pokemon, it would be more memorable and noteworthy if the nextPokemon Legendsinstead embracedScarletandViolet’s gimmickand cut to the chase. Ultimately, the reveal of all-new starter Pokemon based on previously familiar designs would be a bold move that players probably couldn’t anticipate, nor would it be something they’d ever see in a mainlinePokemongame.
By creating new regional fake starter Pokemon,Pokemon Legendswould be able to introduce its own trio of starters like a mainline game while still capitalizing on the popularity of older generations just asPokemonLegends: Arceushad done. For example, given how popular Gen 1 Pokemon continue to be with fans, regional fakes for the Kanto starter Pokemon would be one option for grabbing players' attention. But out of nine starter trios to choose from, the nextPokemon Legendsgame could select any three and rework their designs, from swapping their types to changing the animal they’re based on, with several potential examples listed below.
Pokémon Legends Arceus
WHERE TO PLAY
Pokemon Legends: Arceus is an action RPG video game set in the Hisui region, a place from the distant past in the Pokemon world. Players will explore this new region, inspired by ancient Japan, and study the behaviors of wild Pokemon. With the ability to sneak up on them and throw Poké Balls, players can catch Pokemon to add to their collection.The game features a new combat system where players can choose between a speedy agile style or a powerful strong style to take on wild Pokemon and other trainers. Players will also learn about the mythical Pokemon Arceus, who plays a key role in the game’s storyline.
