ThePokemonfranchise has faced steady criticism and backlash from fans through the last few releases of its main series games. The Pokemon Company recently responded to these criticisms, noting the difficulty it faces in trying to please multiple generations of fans.
Pokemonis over two decades old, having seen its first main series games release in 1996. Since then, it has become the world’s largest media franchise, drawing in legions of loyal players who, more often than not, have enjoyed the games since their early childhoods. As these fans get older and newer, younger fans discoverPokemonfor themselves, it becomes difficult to balance the needs of both demographics.
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Certain sides ofthePokemonfan communityoften levy harsh criticism toward the series' newer releases, typically lamenting that the games are too easy, lazily made, or simple cash grabs. The Pokemon Company’s director of consumer marketing, J.C. Smith, spoke to Axios Gaming about the backlash, stating “We hear it. And I think the creators definitely understand that there’s a desire for maybe something. But we try to focus on making the core accessible to everyone.” This accessibility is a common complaint amongPokemonfans, who often cite older entries in the series as being more challenging, and therefore more enjoyable.
Smith also stated that there is “a vision for what the creators want to provide, and it’s [a matter of] finding that delicate balance throughout.” As thePokemonfranchise ages alongside many of its fans, balance becomes increasingly more difficult.Pokemonmedia is largely marketed toward a younger audience, which can alienate older fans who were once catered to at a similar age. In finding a balance between the two, it becomes impossible to please everyone, leaving room forthe backlash thatPokemonhas received.
Those who recall the “Dexit” movement-a social media storm following the announcement ofPokemon SwordandShield’sreduced Pokedex-know thatPokemonfans have no qualms about lobbying criticism toward their favorite franchise. Still, it might be time to ease up on The Pokemon Company, who are clearly in a difficult spot developing child-friendly games while acknowledging the needs of older players.
Even so,the upcoming release ofPokemon Legends: Arceusmay serve to pacify disappointed fans by offering a new, boundary-pushing experience in the world ofPokemon.The series could certainly stand to shake up the formula, one that it’s employed since 1996. In doing so, the Pokémon Company just might find some compromise between its most dedicated players.
Pokemon Brilliant DiamondandShining Pearlrelease for the Nintendo Switch on June 07, 2025.
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