The anticipation surrounding the upcoming Pokémon title is palpable, and not just for Pokémon Legends Z-A. While many fans eagerly await the next installment in the Legends series, the greater conversation is centered on the forthcoming mainline Pokémon game. This particular title is under immense scrutiny, given the less-than-stellar launch of its predecessor, Scarlet and Violet, which left quite a bit to be desired. More significantly, this new entry has the potential to capitalize on what the Nintendo Switch 2 has to offer.
Although Pokémon Legends Z-A will be available on the Switch 2, it will only be in an enhanced version since the game is a cross-generation title. This situation raises concerns, as it means we may be presented with another Pokémon experience that lacks the modern features expected from a contemporary AAA game. The onus now falls on the Generation 10 Pokémon game to truly showcase the capabilities of the Nintendo Switch 2 and illustrate how this new console can positively impact the franchise. However, there remains a strong possibility that this title may also be released on older hardware.
The Risk of Pokémon Gen 10 Being Limited by Legacy Platforms
Potential Cross-Gen Launch
Although Nintendo has yet to confirm the specific platforms for the next mainline Pokémon game, there is a strong likelihood that it will be a cross-gen title rather than solely for the Switch 2. This strategy aligns with Nintendo’s commitment to support its original Switch during the shift to the new console. The company is aware of the high price point of the Switch 2 and aims to maintain engagement with the substantial existing user base.
This decision makes financial sense, as abandoning the 150 million units installed on the original Switch could be detrimental. However, this cross-gen approach may lead to several first-party games lacking the capacity to fully utilize the improved hardware of the Switch 2. Consequently, the upcoming Gen 10 Pokémon game may only match the aesthetic quality of Legends Z-A, a concerning prospect given the anticipated advancements.
While the Gen 10 Pokémon title might avoid the launch woes of Scarlet and Violet, achieving the game’s vision of a vast open world with optional multiplayer and an expansive Pokédex will require significantly more power than the Nintendo Switch can provide. It is thus imperative for this title to be exclusive to the Switch 2; failing to do so could result in yet another lackluster release in the Pokémon franchise.
The Necessity of a Switch 2 Exclusive for Pokémon Gen 10
Moving Beyond Subpar Graphics
For the Gen 10 Pokémon games to rectify the shortcomings of Scarlet and Violet, leveraging the advanced features of the Nintendo Switch 2 is essential. This new console can handle more graphics-intensive games, but more importantly, it can effectively manage the extensive open-world designs and the large number of Pokémon that Game Freak aims to include.
If the goal is to feature every Pokémon ever created within a single game, superior hardware is a must, accompanied by cartridges capable of supporting larger titles. Moreover, the introduction of basic gameplay functions, such as voice acting and enhanced exploration mechanics, necessitates greater computational power and storage capabilities. The Pokémon franchise has long felt constrained by outdated technology, a situation that must change as it moves towards a more modern gaming landscape.
Should the Gen 10 games end up as cross-gen releases, it could hinder the franchise’s progress, delaying the next potential title for several years. As Pokémon transitions to hardware competing with PlayStation and Xbox, it must meet contemporary standards for both visuals and gameplay. If Game Freak does not secure the advanced resources it requires to produce these games, fans may find themselves facing yet another disappointing chapter in the franchise’s storied history.
A Call for Increased Investment in Pokémon Development
Time for Serious Investment
For true advancement in the Pokémon franchise, The Pokémon Company must begin investing additional resources not only into the creations of the Pokémon games but also into Game Freak itself. The franchise is a titan in sales, ranking among Nintendo’s most lucrative series; over 480 million copies of Pokémon games have been sold, showcasing its immense popularity. This revenue is complemented by profits from merchandise, television series, films, and various mobile games.
Yet, it is perplexing that Game Freak, with only 207 employees – fewer than other prominent studios such as Warhorse Studios and Larian Studios – is tasked with developing every mainline Pokémon game and the spin-offs. This limited team is responsible for creating titles released annually, a scheduling model that is not sustainable without adequate support.
Unlike Activision, which employs several studios for its lucrative Call of Duty franchise to facilitate annual releases, Game Freak appears to be struggling under its current model. Adequate investment in staffing and development resources is crucial if they are to create a truly exceptional producing process, especially if they are bound to cross-gen releases. Without this necessary support from The Pokémon Company, fans may face repeated disappointments akin to what transpired with Scarlet and Violet. If the upcoming Gen 10 Pokémon titles are to reach their full potential, a dedicated investment strategy needs to be implemented urgently.
Source: The Pokémon Company, Game Freak