4 Much-Needed Changes That Would Dramatically Improve the Pokémon Series

Pikachu standing in field

As an Amazon Associate, Modded gets commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

Source: Pokémon

Pokémon is among the most popular video game franchises of all time. Each release is basically guaranteed to sell millions of copies upon release. However, there’s still plenty of room for improvement. Here are four changes to make the games even better. 

1. Tutorial Removal

Source: Pokémon

If you’re a Pokémon veteran, you’ve probably been playing since the late ‘90s or early 2000s. Gamers know the drill by now, so the developers should allow you to skip tutorials. For instance, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet sold over 25 million copies in 2022. Do you think they need the game to hold their hand?  

Newer, younger players are welcome to do it because it helps them stay with the game. However, Game Freak should reconsider making it mandatory. 

2. Customizable Difficulty Settings 

Source: Pokémon

Pokémon is technically a kid’s game, featuring child-friendly themes and marketing. However, much of the fanbase has grown into adulthood and become video game masters. One could argue that Pokémon has become too easy, so more challenging releases would invigorate the community. 

Some Pokémon have become ridiculously fast. For example, Regieleki has a base speed of 200 and a maximum of 548. These rates can influence battles, so future games should include mechanics that use faster Pokémon more often. Therefore, you’d have to be more strategic in your move order and team composition.

3. Remastered Games

Nostalgia is powerful because of its rose-tinted glasses. Were the old games truly the best? Some people still play Pokémon games on their N64 or Nintendo Switch Online. Regardless, Game Freak should take the opportunity to remaster past generations and add new elements. 

There are plenty of ways to revamp Platinum, Crystal and other titles. The first thing they should do is update the artwork. Even if you’re nostalgic, you can appreciate a graphics update. Another worthwhile venture would be adding new storylines to older games. For instance, developers could expand on Johto and Kanto in Gold and Silver. 

4. Improved Battle System

Source: Pokémon

If things stay the same for generations, it could be perfectly OK. Pokémon’s battle system is basically the same as in 1996, which divides players. Some say it’s become too stale, whereas others want to stay true to the classics. Game Freak should consider making battles more dynamic for revitalization. 

Dynamic gameplay means steering away from the typical turn-based format. Instead, you need to be more conscious of your timing and reactions. Basically, Pokémon would become an RPG. The developers would have to incorporate more AI elements, which is the norm nowadays. Experts say 87% of modern developers use AI for streamlining and cost optimization.  

Progressing Pokémon Play 

Old dogs can still learn new tricks. Pokémon has been a video game staple for nearly 30 years and still has room to grow. Game Freak and ILCA should embrace innovation by making gameplay smarter and modernizing features. 

Stay up to date with the latest by subscribing to Modded Minute.

Author

With almost 10 years of experience writing about cars, gear, the outdoors and more, Oscar Collins has covered a broad spectrum of topics during his time as a blogger and freelancer. Oscar currently serves as the editor-in-chief of Modded, which he founded to spread his love of cars with an international audience. He's committed to providing high-quality content on a regular basis with readers across the world. You can find his work on Auto News, Gizmodo, Esquire and similar publications.