As the Pokémon franchise reaches the Generation 10 games, including popular Generation 1 characters could shake things up. Gen 10 will undoubtedly be a historic moment for the franchise, and looking back at where it started would not be surprising. The number of things Game Freak could bring back from Gen 1 and the rest of the franchise is plentiful. This means Game Freak, if it so chooses, could make a Pokémon game that is both a creative new addition and an homage to what has come before.
Pokémon recently released its Generation 9 games, and with it proved the ongoing popularity of the franchise. The new games also included a handful of successful new features, from completely free-roaming Pokémon to Scarlet and Violet‘s three story campaigns that players could complete in any order. Scarlet and Violet were plagued with a myriad of performance issues, but they still proved to be a massive success for the series. Still, aside from the series’ regular remake cycle, Pokémon games rarely revisit past Generations’ headlining characters.
Pokémon’s Gen 1 Characters Could Leave A Huge Impact on Gen 10
Gen 1 is filled with nostalgic and memorable characters whose reappearance could be used in many ways. The most significant of which would be Professor Oak, Ash, Red, Blue, and some of the more popular Gym Leaders like Brock and Misty. Ash, while not in the game series, is one of the most recognizable faces in the franchise. The rest mentioned are close if not equally identifiable due to the games and anime series. The last option, which is less likely but would draw interest, is the return of Giovanni and the Team Rocket organization to Pokémon.
Generation 1 Characters Could Return To Pokémon With New Challenges
The return of famous Gen 1 characters could be used in two ways, the first of which is the story. The new multiple paths feature could include a plot about the return of Team Rocket and their boss, Giovanni. This could be similar to the idea used in Gold and Silver, but enhanced in specific ways. Giovanni could lead from the beginning, inspiring a new generation of Team Rocket to reclaim their former glory. Their strength would also be far superior to the last time, as seven generations of new Pokémon and battle gimmicks are at their disposal.
The other characters mentioned could appear as challenging battle opponents. Ash, Red, and Blue are some of the strongest trainers in the franchise, making battles with them akin to facing Red in Pokémon Gold and Silver. This same idea could be used for any Gym Leader from Gen 1, but Brock or Misty make the most sense. Team compositions could vary for each member, though Ash would have the most room for flexibility given his extensive roster of Pokémon. An appearance by Ash would feel the most significant since he will no longer be the focus of the franchise’s anime.
Currently, nothing is known about Gen 10, with only speculation positing region inspirations. The inclusion of Gen 1 characters could undoubtedly bring more excitement and content to the next games. Game Freak has been known to bring characters from past games into its current project, making the appearance of popular Trainers and their most iconic Pokémon from any generation possible. However, the proper implementation of these features will be crucial if Game Freak chooses to use them in Pokémon‘s Gen 10 games.
