Back in 2019, Game Freak decided to cut the national dex for every Pokémon game moving forward. This means that only a select number of Pokémon would be playable in each game. This news devastated fans, not only those who wanted to move all of their favorites up from past generations but also those who wanted to build competitive teams from any of the 905 Pokémon.
However, the solution to the Dexit problem might be an easy one, especially for competitive players. Pokémon has not seen an arena-style game for many years now, but it could be exactly what's needed to quell the distaste of the fans. With the opportunity to make it universal, the landscape could completely change for competitive play.
What Are Pokémon Arena Games?
The template for a successful Pokémon arena game is quite simple. Past entries in the series have taken place on exciting battlefields. Some have even featured an announcer. Pokémon Stadium and its sequel, Pokémon Stadium 2, featured mini-games alongside a main campaign for the player. Pokémon Colosseum and Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness had more focused story modes and introduced Shadow Pokémon, while Pokémon Battle Revolution was the first to bring arena-style gameplay online. Each one of these entries contains an element from which a new, universal arena game could draw.
All Modes and Gimmicks of Pokémon Arena Should Be Implemented
Every Pokémon game has introduced a unique way of battling. Whether it be double, triple, or rotation battles and mega evolution, Z moves, dynamaxing, or terrastalizing, each Pokémon game has had a unique gimmick that fans have used and enjoyed. Not every gimmick is a universal success, however. Some fans prefer mega evolution over Z moves, for example. Every single gimmick previously implemented should be included with the option to turn them on or off in battles. This would give players the largest amount of choices when it comes to the battles in which they want to participate.
Every Pokémon Should Be Included in Arena Story Mode
Just as other unifying games such as Super Smash Bros. Ultimate have featured every single character in its adventure mode, "World of Light," a new arena game could feature a story mode with every single available Pokémon. Not only will this introduce new players to some Pokémon they haven't seen yet, but it could also serve as a celebration for the series. Including every Pokémon from a roster of over 900 would provide plenty of content for the player to explore. It could also help to unify the Pokémon community, illustrating to players how every single Pokémon has viable competitive potential.
While the Pokémon community has been divided on the Dexit decision, The Pokémon Company has an opportunity to unify the fandom. Since a Pokémon arena spin-off game has not been implemented for some time, this is the perfect opportunity to bring the concept back. Not only should the arena game include every single Pokémon, but they should all be utilized in a story mode that fans will never forget. With the addition of mini-games and other unique features, an arena game would not only benefit competitive players but the entire Pokémon fan base as a whole.