Gyms have been a tried and true formula since day one in Pokémon games, but the mechanic is starting to run its course. Seventh generation’s Sun and Moon introduced the idea of trials, shaking up the traditional Gym League Challenge and replacing it with the Island Challenge. This was an intriguing notion, especially for seasoned players.
It seemed as though a change was in the air, however, Pokémon Sword and Shield brought back the repetitious Gym Challenges, adding flare while annihilating all difficulty. This brings up speculation as to whether it might be high time for Game Freak to retire the long-standing Gym tradition.
The Thrill of Sun & Moon
Galar Gyms Are Flashy Yet Dull
Sword and Shield’s Galar region brought back the traditional Gyms but tried adding some flare, none of which is all that captivating. Gym battles are televised stadium events in Galar, which adds an initial wow factor and little else. Trainers must complete various challenges before battling Gym Leaders, which are fun but lacking complexity and the last few drop the challenge altogether.
Dynamaxing is the game’s main attraction, yet it doesn’t offer up any additional challenges, only flashy graphics. Gym Leaders use Dynamaxing like clockwork so trainers can always be ready to nullify the effects with their own Dynamax abilities. Furthermore, Dynamaxing may only occur in designated areas, so no risk of being caught unawares.
