Pokemon Stadium 2's Unexpected Release Could Revolutionize the Gaming World
The highly anticipated release of Pokemon Stadium 2 on Nintendo Switch Online will undoubtedly stir mixed emotions among fans, leaving them yearning for more However, this shouldn't mark the end of the Stadium series, as Pokemon is long overdue for an innovative spin-off like Pokemon Stadium 3, which would offer a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern gameplay
Highlights
The recent Pokemon Presents featured updates on games like Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, Detective Pikachu Returns, and mobile games like Pokemon GO and Pokemon Unite.
The arrival of Pokemon Stadium 2 on Nintendo Switch Online has underscored a void in Pokemon's upcoming game lineup. Fans eagerly anticipate a new spin-off of Pokemon Stadium specifically designed for the Nintendo Switch, as the current port may not have a substantial impact. A fresh installment would reignite the thrill of competitive battling and offer enhanced presentation. With optimism, this port serves as the initial stride towards a revitalization of Pokemon Stadium.
The annual Pokemon Presents event in August 2023 has just concluded, delivering a plethora of updates for Pokemon enthusiasts. The focus was mainly on the DLC for Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, with the announcement of a release date for its first installment, The Teal Mask. Additional details were also revealed about Detective Pikachu Returns, and popular mobile games like Pokemon GO and Pokemon Unite shared their latest updates. Alongside various other announcements, including new Pokemon shows and information on the 2023 Pokemon World Championships, it was announced that the Game Boy Color Pokemon Trading Card Game and N64 Pokemon Stadium 2 have now become available on Nintendo Switch Online.
These long-awaited titles are considered prime examples of Pokemon spin-offs. The Pokemon Trading Card Game captures the excitement of the physical, traditional TCG within an authentic Pokemon RPG experience. On the other hand, Pokemon Stadium 2 builds upon the success of its predecessor, Pokemon Stadium 1, by introducing new features for both singleplayer and multiplayer gameplay. The inclusion of online multiplayer enhances the value of both games, even if many players primarily engage in Stadium 2's mini-games. Although these releases are highly anticipated, their arrival also sheds light on the gaps within the Pokemon Presents showcase and Pokemon's upcoming game lineup as a whole.
Pokemon Is Overdue For A New Stadium Spin-Off
The Pokemon TCG community has enjoyed a variety of novelty cards and sets that pay tribute to the game's history. However, Pokemon Stadium hasn't had the same level of attention. The last game in the Pokemon Stadium lineage, Pokemon Battle Revolution, was released early on the Wii by Genius Sorority. While it wasn't terrible, it was overshadowed by its predecessors, Pokemon Colosseum and Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness, and ultimately fell short of the Pokemon Stadium duo.
The release of Pokemon Stadium 2 for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack owners feels like a temporary solution for a larger problem. While having a port is nice, it would be even better to have a brand new Pokemon Stadium game available for the Nintendo Switch. Currently, the Pokemon franchise lacks upcoming spin-offs, aside from Detective Pikachu, possibly due to rumors of a new Nintendo console launching in 2024. Although the port of Pokemon Stadium 2 may not make a significant impact, it could be a hint at something greater to come in the future.
Pokemon Stadium 3 Would Be A Perfect Modern Pokemon Game
The Nintendo Switch has been a haven for older Pokemon spin-offs, offering a variety of ports, remasters, remakes, and sequels like New Pokemon Snap that have delighted fans. This trend should continue with the anticipated backwards compatible Switch successor, and Pokemon Stadium 3 could be a much-anticipated addition. The game would maintain the focus on competitive Pokemon battles and tournaments, while also reintroducing the beloved mini-games and rental Pokemon that made the original Stadium games so appealing.
Not only that, but Pokemon Stadium 3 could also bring back the impressive presentation that the Stadium titles and Battle Revolution are known for. This would include features like a voice commentator for matches and detailed models and animations for all the Pokemon present. Additionally, a new Pokemon Stadium would offer official competition for the popular Pokemon battle simulator Pokemon Showdown, as well as the opportunity for more Pokemon HOME-exclusive species to be made usable again. The arrival of a new Pokemon Stadium would be a reason for celebration, and it is hoped that the Switch ports of Pokemon Stadium are a sign of even bigger things to come.
Pokemon Stadium 2 is available now for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack.
