The Pokémon games have given many fans memories and exciting battles that will last with them for a lifetime. Whether it's triumphing over one's rival trainer or defeating the champion that holds the crown, many love to see themselves and their team shine bright in each title's hall of fame.
Pokémon's Sinnoh region implemented new evolutions for older Pokémon and intriguing gym leaders for fans to engage with in Pokémon Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum. However, there are gym leaders in this region that fans love more than the others.
8 Roark (Rock Type Gym Leader) Wasn't Supposed To Be Oreburgh's Rock Type Gym Leader
Despite having a Rampardos on his team when players face him in the battle zone in Pokémon Platinum (a Pokémon that can learn one of the most-powerful Pokémon moves ever,) Roark doesn't stand out much from the other Sinnoh gym leaders.
Roark has a bland personality and doesn't seem to have any memorable qualities outside of his team and rivalry with former Oreburgh City gym leader Byron. Further, players learn that the Lucario owner Riley planned to take over the gym leader title instead of Roark. This means that Roark wasn't in Byron's mind when choosing who should become Oreburgh's gym leader.
7 Byron (Ground Type Gym Leader) Is A Bad Father And Lacks A Unique Personality
When visiting a friend's home, many will notice the subtle aspects of the relationships their friends share with their relatives. Fans were not too pleased with this character's disregard for his own child. Byron's lack of faith in Roark could hurt the fan's attachment with him as a Pokémon gym leader and father.
After Byron receives word from the player's trainer character about Roark's loss to them, he shrugs and replies that he wasn't surprised his son lost. This instance may make many view him as one of the worst anime parents and damage the viewpoint of those who like him.
6 Maylene (Fighting Type Gym Leader) Is A Hard-Working Trainer Who Is Willing To Lose In Order To Improve
Maylene exemplifies a hard-working attitude in herself and spreads that energy to her Pokémon companions. Maylene's hard-work shows in the battle against Ash's Buizel, which ended with a double knockout.
Despite having Lucario, it's her willingness to accept defeat and become a better trainer that makes fans love her character.
5 Gardenia (Grass Type Gym Leader) Might Be Obsessive Over Grass Type Pokémon, But Can Be A Fierce Opponent To Battle
Although Gardenia's quirky personality may scare some Pokémon fans, her dedication to these Pokémon types helps her become memorable and unique to fans.
Further, Gardenia's known for being a confident and intelligent trainer regarding grass types. She understands what their faults are and can find solutions to counteract their weaknesses in battle. Gardenia's willing to accept criticism and isn't afraid to praise those who defeat her in a Pokémon battle.
4 Fantina (Ghost Type Gym Leader) Is An Elegant Showman In The Sinnoh Region
For one who owns some Pokémon that belong in a horror movie, Fantina's elegant and noble personality may catch many players off-guard. Not only that but Fantina's known for being a graceful trainer in Pokémon contests, which is a trait that has helped her gain the fandom's love.
Fantina will always give her opponents and audience a show regardless of the environment she's competing in.
3 Candice (Ice Type Gym Leader) Wishes To Show A Unique Take On Ice Type Exclusive Pokémon Trainers
Candice is one of those people who seek to differentiate themselves from the rest. She is an individual and wants the world to know it.
Although owning a ferocious Pokémon as Frosslass sets her apart from many gym leaders, Candice's wishes to shower trainers that her warmth and kindness is what really helps her stand-out when compared to other ice-type exclusive trainers. She even explains that she wants to be different from other ice-type gym leaders because they tend to be cold and distant people.
2 Crasher Wake (Water Type Gym Leader) Is A Prideful And Energetic Character Who Can Stand His Ground
When looking for someone with a lot of charisma, prowess, and strength, Crasher Wake wouldn't disappoint many fans. As a character who could fit beautifully in some of the best anime for wrestling fans, Crasher Wake always wishes to make his presence known to the world.
Further, Crasher Wake's a fierce competitor and makes sure trainers realize he isn't all talk with his Floatzel and other water-type Pokémon. Crasher Wake also knows when to act serious when the time calls for it, making him feel like a lovable and balanced character many fans can vibe with.
1 Volkner (Electric Type Gym Leader) Got Bored Of Being A Gym Leader And Wanted To Quit
As a gym leader, it makes sense for one to lose their love for Pokémon battling as, over time, battles will start to feel bland and boring. Despite being one of the strongest gym leaders in Pokémon, Volkner exhibited these feelings and wanted to quit his gym leader position.
Despite having a change-of-heart after the player's character defeats him in battle, it's intriguing to witness a gym leader wanting to quit in the Pokémon world. It is relatable in a way that few other trainers are.