Unleashing the Next Evolution: Unveiling the Future of Pokemon Fusions in Gen 10!

Highlights

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet have introduced new mechanics that have been well-received, such as Legendary Pokemon companions and co-op play.

The Terastal mechanic in the games is likely to be replaced in Gen 10, as previous gimmick features have come and gone.

Fusion, a mechanic that has already been explored in previous generations and widely embraced by the fanbase, has the potential to revolutionize the next generation of Pokemon games.

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet have been incredibly successful in the series, thanks to the well-received introduction of new mechanics. From having Legendary Pokemon as companions to engaging in co-op play, these new features have been greatly enjoyed by players. However, it is expected that the Terastal mechanic, exclusive to this region, will be replaced in Generation 10. Despite the constant changes in each release, there is anticipation that the games following Pokemon Scarlet and Violet could revolutionize the franchise with a groundbreaking concept.

As fans speculate about what Generation 10 may bring, there is even consideration for the return of older features like Mega Evolution. While gimmick features were prevalent in earlier generations of Pokemon, more recent additions such as Z-Moves and Dynamaxing have come and gone, and it is likely that the Terastal mechanic in Generation 9 will follow suit. If the next generation includes its own unique feature, there is one mechanic that has a rich history in past games and community projects, making it both familiar and popular among players.

Legendary Pokemon Fusions Are Nothing New

Fusion, though a fresh mechanic for Gen 10, had already made its debut in Gen 5, where players could use the DNA Splicer to merge Pokemon and obtain Black or White Kyurem. This addition stayed true to the lore surrounding the Unova region's Tao Trio. While the Kyurem forms faced scrutiny for their design and competitive viability, they were not the first instances of fusion in the franchise.

The concept of fusion resurfaced in Gen 7 with Pokemon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon, with the Light Trio in Alola following a similar pattern. Necrozma could fuse with Solgaleo or Lunala, resulting in its Dusk Mane or Dawn Wings forms, respectively. The only mechanical distinction was Necrozma's ability to assume its Ultra Necrozma form. Fusion has since become a recurring theme, as seen in the Crown Tundra DLC for Sword and Shield, which introduced Calyrex. This Pokemon can fuse with Glastrier or Spectrier by using them as mounts.

The Impact of Fan-made Pokemon Fusions

The official games may have set a precedent for fusion, but Pokemon's fanbase has taken it to the next level. A third-party tool called Pokemon Infinite Fusion has gained popularity among even casual fans by allowing them to combine any Pokemon from their limited Pokedex. This tool is just a small part of a larger fan-made game also titled Pokemon Infinite Fusion. The game has received support from prominent content creators with millions of views on their videos, demonstrating the potential and influence fusion could bring if implemented in the next generation of official games.

Recent examples of well-received variations on existing designs, such as Regional Variant species and Paradox Pokemon, show the endless possibilities that fusions can offer. While the concept is ambitious, Pokemon Infinite Fusion, as an unofficial project, has provided players with an unprecedented array of options. Other franchises like Shin Megami Tensei and Dragon Quest Monsters have always incorporated fusion mechanics as core systems, and if Pokemon were to catch up in Generation 10, it would further cement its position as the top franchise in the monster catcher genre.

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet are available now for Nintendo Switch.