Pokémon’s Legacy on Nintendo Switch is a Mixed Bag

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The game titled “Pokémon Legends: Z-A” has been confirmed as a cross-generational title for the Nintendo Switch and potential future console, the Switch 2. This could possibly mean it’s the final installment in the franchise for the original hybrid console. However, it’s important to note that Game Freak and The Pokémon Company have surprised us before, such as releasing Black 2 and White 2 on the DS, but this is merely speculation.

Given that this could potentially be the final installment of our franchise running on the original Nintendo Switch, it’s fitting to discuss its impact during its tenure. The critter-collecting RPG franchise has had varying responses on the Nintendo Switch. Although each game in the series was commercially successful, dedicated followers have offered constructive criticism, and their opinions are justified.

To begin with, Pokémon Let’s Go Pikachu and Eevee were generally well-received. As enjoyable reimaginings that incorporate elements from the mobile game Pokémon GO, they effectively emphasized the capturing aspect of the game. Graphically, these games may even be the most stunning Pokémon titles on Nintendo Switch, which has sparked some debate within the franchise’s Switch fanbase.

Looking back, the response to the launch of Pokémon Sword and Shield was quite extreme. Initially, fans were upset because the National Pokédex wasn’t featured in this version, and they felt it didn’t represent a significant graphic improvement compared to previous 3DS games. However, as it turned out, these games caused less controversy upon release compared to other titles.

Back then, the graphics received some criticism, but they’ve aged gracefully and remain stylish. The gameplay isn’t particularly innovative, but it sticks to the traditional Pokémon formula that fans love. Additionally, the DLC enhanced the possibilities of Wild Areas in these games, making everything feel like a well-rounded experience.

As a devoted fan, I found myself quite dismayed with Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, the subsequent mainline entries that seemed to stir up a storm among the community. Compared to Sword and Shield, these games appeared to adopt a more simplified art style, which felt like a step back rather than an upgrade in my eyes. To make matters worse, they were also remakes of Ruby and Sapphire on the 3DS, and many fans missed the rich content that was present in Platinum, which wasn’t included here.

Despite not having many new features or impressive graphics, Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl were satisfactory role-playing games. There was nothing fundamentally flawed about these games, their performance was acceptable, and they offered some additional content after the main game. Additionally, battles in this version occurred more swiftly than on the Nintendo DS, which improved them compared to the originals.

In Legends: Arceus, fans hoped for a fresh start for the series, and it delivered by shifting focus to capturing and battling Pokémon multiple times, as well as completing the first ever Pokédex. Players were encouraged to study these creatures, creating a distinctive adventure that was warmly received.

Despite having relatively basic graphics, players found themselves captivated by the game’s innovative gameplay mechanics and impressive sales figures. Even though the overall performance could have been better, it managed to satisfy fans who greatly enjoyed this role-playing game.

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet served as sequels to Arceus and stirred up quite a bit of debate within the franchise. Aiming for an open-world Pokémon experience, it faced criticism due to its subpar graphics, disappointing performance, and numerous bugs upon release. Although some issues were addressed post-launch, the game continues to struggle visually and run poorly.

Regardless of its reputation for strong storytelling, Scarlet and Violet managed to captivate fans in numerous ways. What took many by surprise was the emotional investment they found themselves making in these characters and the intriguing narrative that unfolded. Moreover, the three-pronged plotline resonated with fans, as it underscored the enhanced freedom offered in this installment. Lastly, roaming around with your companion Pokémon added an enjoyable twist to the traditional formula.

It’s tricky to recommend Scarlet and Violet, but they’re generally solid games. Players are optimistic that the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 will offer a free upgrade, potentially leading to significant enhancements in gameplay performance and resolution.

Reflecting on my experience with the mainline Pokémon games on Switch, I must admit there was quite a stir in the community. On one hand, they delivered engaging gameplay and innovative mechanics that truly captivated us fans. However, it seemed as though Game Freak was grappling with the challenge of creating immersive 3D worlds on more powerful hardware.

While there’s no denying the Switch’s prowess in hosting a variety of visually stunning games, I often found myself yearning for a more polished 3D experience within the Pokémon universe.

In the revised version, Switch 2 might address some of the problems found in these Pokémon editions. Fingers crossed that the developers get ample time to create a great gaming experience too.

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2025-04-12 15:12