Pokemon fans get used to new gimmicks for every launch of a mainline game. These new mechanics feature a fresh battle system for players who participate in co-op, ranked, and casual battles.
Throughout the decades, we have seen huge changes in the whole Pokemon franchise. From Generation 1 to 9, the unique gimmicks have shaped the game by a mile.
Despite being the bread and butter of every game release, some gimmicks are not as pleasing for the fans while others are impressive throughout.
All Pokemon Gimmicks Ranked
The ever-evolving meta is dictated by the newest mechanics for a generational Pokemon game. It's somewhat an indicator of likability given the fresh scene it offers to the spectators and participants.
Looking back, Pokemon Red, Blue, and Yellow have blank slates for gimmicks. No held items, EV spreads, or complicated team building whatsoever.
Triple & Rotation Battles (Pokemon Black & White)
Generation 5 has added triple and rotational battles, an extension of the most popular double battles. These mechanics feature stricter rules focused on Pokemon's placement each turn.
In this gimmick, competitors can't attack opposing Pokemon on a diagonal area. Meanwhile, the Pokemon in the middle can attack anyone and it can be attacked by anything in return.
Z Moves (Pokemon Sun & Moon)
Z-moves are mainly focused on powering up a certain move whether it's an attack or a status move. To pull off this trick, your Pokemon needs to hold a Z-Crystal.
Unlike the usual attack, a Pokemon which uses Z-move will double its power. The status condition, on the other hand, will have an extra effect.
Online Play (Pokemon Diamond & Pearl)
Gen 4 is the peak of online play where players can battle their friends wirelessly. This new gimmick is a relief for those who want to practice online. Fair enough, it stood the test of time and until the recent installment, it's still there to stay.
Held Items (Pokemon Gold & Silver)
In Gen 2, players started to see the essence of held items, making Pokemon battles more competitive than before. This gimmick has the most resonating effect in the history of VGC.
Terastallization (Pokemon Scarlet & Violet)
Some believe that Terastal Phenomenon is the most balanced gimmick among all mainline mechanics. While it's competitive-wise, it is not aesthetically pleasing.
If a Pokemon terastallizes, its current type changes. If you tera your Garchomp to Water type, its permanent typing will be water until the battle finishes. Removing Ground and Dragon STAB will give you a nice Water STAB in return if you have Liquidation.
Gigantamax & Dynamax (Pokemon Sword & Shield)
In Gen 8 mainline games, we have seen colossal versions of Pokemon. Some retain their original designs while others, specifically known as Gigantamax forms, have huge upgrades on their appearance.
This gimmick allows a Pokemon to have access to D-Max and G-Max Moves which have unique secondary effects. Apart from that, a giant Pokemon will have a bigger HP compared to the normal-sized Pokemon.
Double Battles (Pokemon Ruby & Sapphire)
The Pokemon VGC is solely featuring double battles as the main contest. It's been a staple gimmick that allows players to be smarter in predicting opponents' moves and switch-ins.
It's a fun mechanic that almost all Pokemon fans love to see in every game.
Mega Evolutions (Pokemon X & Y)
Mega Evolution is undoubtedly the most popular gimmick of all time. It gives a modified evolution to a Pokemon by enhancing its stats and abilities.
First introduced in Gen 6, it became available in Pokemon Omega Ruby and Sapphire, then in Pokemon Let's Go Pikachu & Eevee on Nintendo Switch.
It might be a short-lived gimmick, but it's the most memorable for every Pokemon fan.
