Highlights
Pokemon Legends: Arceus was a successful game that introduced new potential for sequels in different regions of the Pokemon universe.
Kyurem, a Dragon-type Pokemon linked to Lacunosa Town, holds the potential to become a captivating mascot and focal point in a Unova-based game. Expanding on its lore and connecting it to existing events, Kyurem could embody the same captivating themes depicted in Pokemon Legends: Arceus.
Pokemon Legends: Arceus breathed new life into the franchise and paved the way for potential sequels set in different regions of the Pokemon universe. One of the key factors that contributed to the success of Pokemon Legends: Arceus was its utilization of Arceus, the central deity in Pokemon lore, as the game's main symbol and driving force behind its storyline. Although the rumored sequel set in Unova may find it challenging to surpass Arceus as a prominent figure, there is already a strong contender for this role.
Given the limited information from leaks and rumors, it's difficult to envision what a sequel to Pokemon Legends: Arceus set in Unova will entail. Since there has only been one game of this style before, there isn't much precedent to gauge player expectations for a follow-up. While core gameplay mechanics such as real-time critter capturing will likely remain, the plot for this installment remains uncertain. However, it's improbable that Arceus will once again play a central role in the storyline, and the Unova Region has an ideal replacement for Arceus poised to take the spotlight.
Kyurem Makes the Most Sense as the Mascot for a Legends Game in Unova
Apart from Mew, Arceus is perhaps the most renowned Mythical Pokemon in the series. This makes it difficult for any of Gen 5's Mythicals to possess the same level of star power as the mascot of a new Pokemon Legends game. While Victini, Keldeo, Meloetta, and Genesect have their own intriguing backstories, none are as formidable as Arceus or capable of carrying the plot of a game on their own. Instead, Kyurem, the third Dragon type of Pokemon Black and White's Tao Trio, holds the greatest potential for an exciting story to be woven around it.
Kyurem has a profound connection to Lacunosa Town, situated in the northeastern part of the Unova Region. The locals here recount the legend of a horrifying monster that descended from a meteor, bringing chilling winds and appearing at night to abduct and consume the townspeople. Although this legend is dismissed as a mere old folklore, the citizens of Lacunosa Town diligently maintain the city's protective walls and refrain from venturing out after dark, fearing the emergence of this creature from the nearby Giant Chasm, ready to devour them.
A game set in the past of Unova could revolve around the actual events of this ancient legend, where players must confront the threat of Kyurem attacking Lacunosa Town. The idea of transforming this town into a central hub, fortified with walls to defend against Kyurem, aligns perfectly with the overarching themes of a Pokemon Legends game. With Pokemon Legends: Arceus exploring the formidable power of these creatures and its implications on human civilization, this premise feels like a logical progression for the series.
Kyurem possesses a rich lore that lends itself well to a Pokemon Legends game set in Unova, even if it doesn't possess the same god-like powers as Arceus. Making Kyurem the emblematic figure of this game would allow for the exploration of fascinating aspects of its story that have been largely untouched by the series so far, such as its potential extraterrestrial origin. Furthermore, it would establish a connection between Unova's past and the known events in the Generation 5 games revolving around Lacunosa Town, similar to how Pokemon Legends: Arceus portrays the destruction of the Spear Pillar.
Pokemon Legends: Arceus is available for Nintendo Switch.