Pokémon GO still has some notable omissions, which are quite ironic. Recent updates hint that Dynamax and Gigantamax might be on their way to the game. Prioritizing Galar Pokémon aligns with Pokémon GO’s marketing and long-term strategy.

Updates over the years have aimed to make Pokémon GO a comprehensive showcase of beloved gameplay mechanics and creatures from across the series. After Generation 8 introduced significant changes, such as the removal of the National Dex, many fans eagerly anticipated the return of their favorite Pokémon and called for the reintroduction of Mega Evolution in both casual and competitive play. Despite this, Pokémon GO still has notable gaps, particularly in its representation of Galar Pokémon and features.

Figure 1. Pokémon GO's Recent Feature Tease

Even five years after the release of Pokémon Sword and Shield, Pokémon GO has yet to fully incorporate Galar content. Recent patches and datamined information suggest that Dynamax and Gigantamax might soon be added to the game, but there's still much more that needs to be included. Figure 1 shows Pokémon GO's Recent Feature Tease.

Dynamax and Gigantamax Should Bring All Galar Content to Pokémon GO

Adding Dynamax and Gigantamax to Pokémon GO offers a great chance for upcoming updates to address the game's current gaps in Generation 8 content. Despite Pokémon GO's extensive roster and frequent events, the game has largely neglected Galar’s Pokédex in favor of regions like Alola and Paldea. This has left fans of Pokémon Sword and Shield waiting, especially with notable omissions like Grookey, Scorbunny, and Sobble, while other starter lines are already represented in the game.

Currently, only a limited number of Galar Pokémon are available in Pokémon GO, primarily from the early promotion of Sword and Shield. Most Galar content has been introduced through regional variants, such as Galarian Weezing and Galarian Meowth, with the latest additions being the Galarian legendary birds. With Dynamax and Gigantamax on the horizon, it’s clear that updates focusing on Sword and Shield’s Pokémon are well overdue.

Focusing On Galar in Pokémon GO Makes Sense for Several Reasons

While Pokémon GO initially introduced regions and creatures in a gradual manner, marketing has played a crucial role in shaping long-term decisions about the game. Many Pokémon added over the years have been tied to marketing strategies related to the mainline games, with Galarian Meowth and Weezing being notable examples.

With Pokémon Legends Z-A on the horizon, which revisits the Kalos region and promises to bring back Mega Evolution, there’s potential for a synergy between Kalos and Galar in Pokémon GO. Given Kalos' French inspiration and Galar's connection to the UK, integrating both could provide a unique and engaging experience for players. This would satisfy long-awaiting Galar fans while potentially introducing unexpected surprises from the Kalos region. However, this remains speculative, and it's uncertain if Dynamax and Gigantamax will lead to a comprehensive update for Galar's Pokémon. Only time will reveal how Pokémon GO will address this region's Pokédex in the future.

Source: GAMERANT

Cite this article:

Janani R (2024), Pokémon GO's Recent Feature Tease Should Pave the Way for Gen 8 Content, AnaTechmaz, pp. 60