Highlights
The next Pokemon game is expected to have a new gimmick, similar to the previous generations, to add uniqueness and an impact on gameplay.
Previous Pokemon gimmicks, like Mega Evolution and Z-Moves, have impacted various aspects of the game, ranging from evolution to moves and forms.
For the upcoming gimmick, it may be interesting to explore how a Pokemon's ability and stats can be uniquely emphasized, as these aspects have not received much attention in previous generations.
The next Pokemon game is expected to introduce a new gimmick for Generation 10, and analyzing the series' history may give us some insights into the possible direction it could take. Over the years, the Pokemon series has become known for incorporating various gimmicks alongside its traditional gameplay formula. With the development of each new game, there are numerous possibilities for where Pokemon can go, but exploring the series' past can shed some light on what fans can anticipate. Given the high likelihood of a new gimmick in Generation 10, it is worth speculating on the form it may assume.
The trend of introducing gimmicks in new Pokemon regions originated with the introduction of Mega Evolutions in Pokemon X and Y. These gimmicks have traditionally served to provide each game with a distinctive feature in addition to showcasing new regions and Pokemon. Typically, these gimmicks have only lasted for a single generation, except for the two-generation run of Mega Evolutions. However, these regional gimmicks have been successful in making each game feel unique, as they have had an impact on the metagames of their respective generations. If Generation 10 incorporates a gimmick, it is likely to fulfill a similar role.
Pokemon Still Has Some Unexplored Territory For New Gimmicks
Each Pokemon generation has its own unique gimmick that affects various aspects of a Pokemon. Mega Evolution, for example, grants certain Pokemon a significant power boost. Z-Moves, on the other hand, are special moves that can only be performed with the help of a specific item. Gigantamax, similar to Mega Evolution, allows certain Pokemon to take on different forms. The mechanics of Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, known as Terastal, are linked to a Pokemon's types. These gimmicks have allowed the games to explore and experiment with new traits for Pokemon.
For the next generation, Pokemon's gimmick should build upon the success of Scarlet and Violet's Tera Raids and also introduce new elements. As evolution, moves, forms, and types have already been extensively covered, there are still a few areas worth exploring. Gender and weight of Pokemon rarely influence gameplay, aside from a few limited moves and abilities. Similarly, height is not particularly significant. However, two traits remain untapped in the realm of generation gimmicks: a Pokemon's ability and its stats.
Abilities play a vital role in Pokemon's metagame strategy, and a Pokemon with a Hidden Ability can greatly enhance its usefulness if the ability complements it well. A noteworthy tactic could involve changing a Pokemon's ability during battle, especially if it's a unique ability like Mega Evolutions and Gigantamax. Another option could be a mechanics that impacts stats, either significantly boosting the user's stats or lowering their opponent's. However, since stat changes are not particularly flashy, this idea may not be strong enough to carry a game as its primary gimmick.
It would likely come as a surprise to many if Pokemon Generation 10 deviates from the pattern of introducing new gimmicks. The question is not whether there will be a gimmick, but rather how it will compare to the innovations of previous generations. While most aspects of Pokemon have undergone generation-specific mechanics, there is still potential to explore the remaining traits. If past patterns hold true, this could be where Pokemon Generation 10's next gimmick lies.