What is Gen 8 Pokémon?
Generation 8 of Pokémon refers to the eighth installment of the Pokémon franchise, which includes the Pokémon games released for the Nintendo Switch. The main games in this generation are Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield, which were initially released in 2019.
Characteristics of Generation 8 Pokémon:
Galar Region: Generation 8 introduced the Galar region, a region inspired by the United Kingdom. Galar features a diverse landscape, including sprawling cities, picturesque countryside, snow-capped mountains, and industrial areas. The region showcases a blend of British culture, history, and landmarks.
New Pokémon: Generation 8 introduced 89 new Pokémon species, expanding the total number of Pokémon to 898. These new Pokémon included fan favorites such as Grookey, Sobble, Scorbunny, Corviknight, and Zacian/Zamazenta, the legendary Pokémon associated with sword and shield.
Dynamax and Gigantamax: Generation 8 introduced the Dynamax and Gigantamax features, which allow Pokémon to temporarily grow to giant proportions during battles. Dynamax enhances a Pokémon's stats and grants access to powerful moves, while Gigantamax alters a Pokémon's appearance and provides exclusive G-Max moves.
Wild Area and Max Raid Battles: Generation 8 introduced the Wild Area, a vast open-world area where trainers can freely explore and encounter a wide variety of Pokémon. The Wild Area also includes Max Raid Battles, where players can team up with friends or NPCs to battle and catch gigantic Dynamax or Gigantamax Pokémon.
Gym Challenge and Gym Leaders: Generation 8 features a Gym Challenge, similar to previous generations, where trainers compete in a series of battles against Gym Leaders in order to qualify for the Champion Cup. Each Gym Leader specializes in a specific type and presents unique challenges.
Dynamax Adventures and Legendary Pokémon: Generation 8 introduced Dynamax Adventures, a cooperative multiplayer mode where players can explore Max Raid Dens to encounter and capture legendary Pokémon. Players work together to battle through multiple Dynamax Pokémon in order to reach and catch the legendary Pokémon at the end.
Galarian Forms: Similar to Alolan forms in Generation 7, Generation 8 introduced Galarian forms, which are regional variants of existing Pokémon species with different typings, appearances, and abilities. Galarian forms are adapted to the unique environment of the Galar region.
Expansion Pass: In addition to the main games, Generation 8 introduced an Expansion Pass, which includes two DLC expansions: The Isle of Armor and The Crown Tundra. These expansions added new areas to explore, additional storylines, new Pokémon, and introduced the concept of Legendary Pokémon encounters.
How does Gen 8 Pokémon compares to other generations?
Compared to previous generations, Generation 8 brought the Pokémon series to the Nintendo Switch, offering enhanced graphics and more immersive visuals. The Galar region provided a new and distinct setting, inspired by the United Kingdom's culture and landmarks. The introduction of Dynamax and Gigantamax mechanics added a spectacle to battles and expanded strategic options. The Wild Area and Max Raid Battles encouraged exploration and cooperative gameplay. Generation 8 continued the tradition of introducing new Pokémon species, as well as regional variants and DLC expansions, providing additional content and areas to explore. Overall, Generation 8 built upon the core Pokémon experience while embracing new technological capabilities and gameplay mechanics, creating a unique Pokémon adventure for players to enjoy.