After Pokemon Legends Z-A, the Franchise Should Consider Going Back to Its 2D Roots

It should come as no surprise that every Pokemon lover around the world is highly anticipating the arrival of October 16, as that is the day the next mainline title is set to be released: Pokemon Legends: Z-A. Many see it as the next evolution, as its gameplay is certainly unique compared to previous entries, making it an exciting time to be a fan of the franchise.

However, once it's out and people have had more than their fill of playing it, a big question is what's going to be next. As someone who has played nearly every Pokemon title, I think that instead of going in a forward direction, this may be an opportunity to go back.

What I mean is that after Pokemon Legends: Z-A, the next mainline entry may want to consider returning to its 2D roots. The idea of that happening may not appeal to some, but I believe that, should it take place, it would be very beneficial for the franchise.

A good reason for this is that a game made in 2D is not bound by 3D limitations. Nintendo and Game Freak have done everything they can to create the best 3D Pokemon titles, but there's only so much they can do and directions they can take in terms of things like modeling and animations.

Credit: Game Freak

But if they were to make a game in 2D, not only would those limitations be non-existent, but it would also open up interesting possibilities. Given the current technology, it could mean a potential entry that contains every Pokemon from all generations, which would be something every fan would love.

If not that, then being in 2D would make it easier to create a game with a scale larger than anything that came before it. It could include multiple regions, meaning more places for players to explore, trainers to fight, Pokemon to capture, and hours to spend playing.

I understand that returning to non-3D models and environments may not be acceptable to some, especially since they're already accustomed to seeing their favorite characters and creatures fully fleshed out and visible from every angle. However, people will likely come to terms with such a change and accept it, especially if it means more and better things for them and the franchise.

Credit: Game Freak

The decision to go back to 2D can also be used as a way for both Nintendo and Game Freak to reinvigorate everyone's passion for the franchise. Returning to a more familiar setting and putting effort into ensuring it's enjoyable even in the modern gaming era could act as a love letter to the fans, which would compel them to love Pokemon even more and guarantee that they continue to support it for years to come.

The franchise has certainly come a long way, and it's likely here to stay for countless generations. However, if Pokemon wants to ensure that it does, then I think one of the best things it can do is to return to 2D and prove that any direction it takes, forward or back, it can make it work.

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