A fresh chapter in the Pokémon saga is just around the corner, sparking excitement among fans. It’s been a year since the official announcement, and finally, players got a sneak peek at Pokémon Legends: Z-A during the latest Pokémon Presents showcase. This upcoming title invites adventurers back to the world of Kalos, a beloved region we’ve not visited since the release of Pokémon X and Y back in 2013. As a sequel to the innovative Pokémon Legends: Arceus, it promises to weave in its groundbreaking elements, offering another riveting journey through iconic spots like Lumiose City.
Despite the buzz from the recent showcase, The Pokémon Company remained tight-lipped about the future direction of the Pokémon series with no direct hints about the tenth generation. With Pokémon Scarlet and Violet almost three years in the rearview, and the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 release looming, the suspense for the next big Pokémon adventure only grows. Game Freak is in a favorable position with this title, needing only to fine-tune rather than radically overhaul the established formula to entice fans for the next era of Pokémon.
### No Need for Drastic Change
The upcoming generation doesn’t need a radical transformation, largely because Pokémon Scarlet and Violet already ushered in profound changes. These groundbreaking games were the first to introduce an open-world format in the mainline series, granting players unprecedented freedom. They featured three distinct storylines, each with unique objectives and gameplay, that could be pursued in any order—a major shift from the series’ past conventions.
This open-world innovation and branching narrative laid a solid foundation for future Pokémon games. Thanks to these innovative elements, the next generation can focus on refining these ideas, enhancing the gaming experience without needing a drastic overhaul.
### Enhancing with Level Scaling
To take the next game up a notch, incorporating level scaling could be key. Although Scarlet and Violet allowed players to tackle the story in any sequence, each mission’s fixed level posed some limitations. Gamers often found themselves bumping into challenges much earlier than intended.
Introducing adjustable level challenges could solve one of the bigger constraints of the Scarlet and Violet experience. This would truly open up a free-roaming exploration, inviting players to engage with the storylines at their own pace, without the worry of mismatched difficulty. It would also help focus on individual narratives without partners jostling to find the right balance for their Pokémon teams.
### Polishing Generational Boundaries
Arguably, the core improvement needed for Generation 10 is a polished finish. The launch of Scarlet and Violet was marred by technical hitches that overshadowed their innovative gameplay advancements. If Game Freak aims to hit a home run with the next title, addressing these technical missteps should be a priority. Ensuring high-quality visuals and smooth gameplay could turn the next release into a standout moment for the franchise.
With the Nintendo Switch 2’s arrival on the horizon, a polished Pokémon entry could seamlessly ride the wave of anticipation. The foundations laid by Scarlet and Violet don’t need shaking—just better treatment to shine under the spotlight. If executed correctly, the upcoming game could fulfill the potential hinted at by its predecessors, marking a high point as the series continues to evolve.
