What is Gen 7 Based On?
Introduction
The seventh generation of the Pokémon franchise is a significant milestone in the series, marking a significant departure from previous generations in terms of game mechanics and setting. Introduced in the 2016 Nintendo 3DS games Pokémon Sun and Moon, the Generation VII (Gen 7) region, Alola, is the setting of this new generation. Alola, a Hawaiian-inspired region, is a departure from previous regions like Kalos and Unova, which were inspired by France and New York respectively.
The Birth of Alola
When Game Freak, the creators of the Pokémon series, decided to introduce a new region, they drew inspiration from a region that few people knew well – Hawaii, the Hawaiian Islands. The Pokémon Company, Game Freak’s parent company, has its headquarters in Japan, a country with a rich culture and history with Hawaii, having occupied the islands between 1898 and 1941. Game Freak’s concept artist, Ken Sugimori, who is known for designing the Pokémon species, also has a personal connection with Hawaii, having visited the islands several times.
Inspiration from Hawaii’s Culture and Landscape
From the lush green mountains to the sun-kissed beaches, Hawaii’s unique natural beauty and vibrant culture heavily influenced the creation of Alola. Pokémon characters, such as the Electric-type Pokémon, Helios, and the Fire-type Pokémon, Incineroar, are inspired by Hawaiian folklore and mythology. The Pokémon designs reflect the region’s tropical atmosphere, with Pokémon like Decidueye and Incineroar being inspired by Hawaiian birds and animals. The game’s plot, which focuses on defeating the evil team, is also influenced by Hawaiian themes, such as the story of the Pele.
Gameplay Mechanics
Gen 7 introduced significant changes to the Pokémon game mechanics. The game features new Pokémon types, such as the Ultra Beast, Ultra Sun, and Ultra Moon, which add a new layer of complexity to battle strategies. The battle system has also undergone significant changes, with Z-moves, which are super powerful moves that can only be used in battle against other trainers. This new mechanic added a whole new level of strategy and excitement to the game. The ability to trade Pokémon between Sun and Moon, and Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon, also became a key feature of Gen 7, allowing trainers to share Pokémon and interact with each other in ways that were previously not possible.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Gen 7 is based on Hawaii, a region that has rich cultural and natural heritage. The Alola region, with its lush rainforests, sun-drenched beaches, and ancient temples, reflects the islands’ unique character and allure. From the new Pokémon designs to the improved gameplay mechanics, Gen 7 has cemented its place as a significant moment in the history of the Pokémon franchise.
Hawaiian Inspired Pokémon Gen 7 Features
Pokémon Names
| Pokémon Name | Inspiration | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Helios | Hawaiian word for sun | Electric/Fairy |
| Incineroar | Hawaiian term for fire | Fire/Poison |
Geography and Landscape
- Lush green mountains and valleys
- Sun-drenched beaches and coastlines
- Ancient temples and ruins
- Volcanic landscapes
Battle Mechanics
- Z-moves: super powerful moves used in battle against other trainers
- Trading between Pokémon games: share Pokémon with other trainers and interact in new ways