As Pokémon enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the arrival of the next major installment in the series, tentatively referred to as Gen 10, the gaming world is currently captivated by Pokémon Legends: Z-A. This title promises a thrilling experience, temporarily quenching fans’ thirst for new content. Unlike its predecessor, Pokémon Legends: Arceus, the upcoming title has introduced a variety of features, including a reimagined Lumiose City, diverse habitats filled with unique Pokémon, the return of Mega Evolutions, and an updated combat system that incorporates dodge animations.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Pokémon Legends: Z-A is its starter trio, consisting of Chikorita, Tepig, and Totodile—two of which hail from Generation 2. Given that the previous game showcased starters from Generations 2, 5, and 7, fans expected a similar approach for diversity. However, the decision to include both Chikorita and Totodile raises questions, particularly among those awaiting remakes of Generation 5 titles following the release of Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl.
Pokémon Legends: Z-A May Single-Handedly Dispel Johto Game Speculations
Historically, the Pokémon franchise has revisited Kanto through titles like Pokémon Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Eevee!, while fans have long anticipated new games set in Johto. With significant public demand, coupled with various rumors hinting at the development of Generation 2 titles, the emergence of Pokémon Legends: Z-A could potentially halt speculation regarding Johto remakes.
Even if The Pokémon Company is indeed considering a return to Johto, featuring all three Generation 2 starters across multiple games risks saturating fans’ enthusiasm. The consecutive appearance of these beloved starters in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet’s Indigo Disk DLC, followed by their inclusion in both PLA and PLZA, could diminish excitement for a hypothetical Johto remake. This overlap may render the upcoming title less appealing, impacting players’ initial enthusiasm for their starter Pokémon.
Starter Pokémon are crucial to a game’s success, as they are the first companions players encounter on their journey. If the Generation 2 starters are abundantly featured across multiple titles, this could deter players from engaging with them in a potential Johto return. Thus, it appears increasingly likely that anticipation for a Johto-themed game may need to be tempered for the foreseeable future unless approached in a novel manner.
Looking ahead, there is a potential avenue for a fresh take on a Johto return post-Gen 9, potentially through the lens of a forthcoming Legends game. While this would likely arrive several years down the line, it offers an exciting prospect to reimagine the region without rehashing Generation 2 starters. For instance, new Pokémon inspired by the characteristics of the Gen 2 starters, but designated as “regional variants”from Generation 9, could present an invigorating twist. As fans eagerly await further announcements, we can only speculate on how The Pokémon Company will navigate these beloved regions and characters in the future.
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