Unleashing Chaos: Why Pokemon GO Needs to Expand Its Roster of Villain Teams

Highlights

Pokemon GO could use more evil teams from the franchise to add new and interesting gameplay mechanics.

Evil teams such as Gen 5's Team Plasma, Gen 3's Team Aqua and Team Magma, and Gen 6's Team Flare have the potential to augment the gameplay of Pokemon GO. By integrating these teams, the game can offer additional motivation for players to discover new locations and introduce optional mechanics like cosmetics into the core gameplay experience.

Since its release in 2016, Pokemon GO has undergone significant evolution, with the addition of various features and gameplay improvements to keep players engaged. One notable enhancement was the introduction of PvP and PvE battles, first in 2018 and then in 2019 with the inclusion of Team GO Rocket. This infamous group, specifically designed for Pokemon GO, is a modified version of the Kanto and Johto-based organization. However, after four years, it seems prudent for the game to draw inspiration from other notorious teams within the Pokemon franchise and introduce additional evil teams.

Similar to their counterparts in the main series games, Team GO Rocket's objective is to exploit Pokemon for personal gain. They deplete resources from PokeStops and engage in battles against trainers who dare to oppose them with their Shadow Pokemon. Pokemon GO players who successfully defeat Team GO Rocket members have the opportunity to capture and purify some of these Shadow Pokemon, saving them from the clutches of this malevolent organization. Nevertheless, there are numerous other villainous teams throughout the franchise that could introduce intriguing mechanics to enhance the Pokemon GO experience.

How Other Evil Teams Could Work in Pokemon GO

There are various evil teams in the Pokemon franchise, each with their unique methods and goals. Adding these teams to Pokemon GO could enhance gameplay. One suitable team for Pokemon GO is Team Plasma from Gen 5. Their objective is to liberate Pokemon from their trainers, deeming it unethical to capture them. Incorporating Team Plasma into the game could introduce an intriguing mechanic where players may encounter a Team Plasma grunt trying to prevent them from capturing a Pokemon. Players would need to battle the grunt before proceeding with the capture.

Another option that would work well in Pokemon GO is combining Gen 3's Team Aqua and Team Magma. Team Aqua aims to expand the sea, while Team Magma seeks to expand the land. These teams could be encountered based on the player's location, with those near bodies of water facing Team Aqua and those farther away encountering Team Magma. Designing these villainous teams in this manner would align with Pokemon GO's core theme of encouraging players to explore different parts of the world by providing additional incentives.

Gen 6's Team Flare has the potential to be a unique and unexpected addition to Pokemon GO. Their goal of eradicating those who don't meet their beauty standards could be an interesting way to incorporate cosmetic options into the game. For instance, they could challenge trainers who don't meet specific requirements such as wearing seasonal clothing or having certain Pokemon as their buddies. However, this mechanic may create an imbalance for free-to-play players.

With the Pokemon franchise now in Gen 9, there are numerous evil teams that could be incorporated into Pokemon GO. While some, like Gen 9's Team Star or Gen 8's Team Yell, may not work due to their specific goals and storylines, teams like Team Flare, Team Plasma, Team Aqua, and Team Magma could seamlessly fit into the existing gameplay. As Pokemon GO continues to introduce new content, such as the upcoming Halloween Event and Party Play feature, adding more villainous teams would further enhance the game's experience for players.

Pokemon GO is available now for mobile devices.