Farewell to Pokemon Let's Go Johto

I am bidding adieu to my hopes for a new installment in the Pokemon Let's Go series. The signs have been apparent for some time now, and despite anticipation building up to today's Pokemon Presents event, it appears that Let's Go Johto remains just beyond our grasp. While Pokemon boasts a diverse array of spin-offs, it seems unlikely that Let's Go will be expanding its threadbare tapestry any further.

One of the primary hindrances to the future of Let's Go lies in its association with Pokemon Go. Although I personally view Let's Go as a charming reimagining of the original Gen 1 games, featuring a warmer aesthetic and playful reinterpretation of familiar characters and challenges, its inception was always tied to its role as a companion to Pokemon Go. However, the mobile gaming landscape has evolved, and Pokemon Go, once a global phenomenon, now struggles to maintain its former prominence. While the Pokemon brand still carries weight, it's difficult to justify Let's Go as a Nintendo Switch title solely on the basis of its association with a mobile game that has lost its luster.

Nevertheless, Let's Go doesn't necessarily need to rely so heavily on its connection to Pokemon Go. While some players transitioned from Pokemon Go to Let's Go as their introduction to the franchise, it's time for Pokemon to recognize its status as the world's most popular media franchise. A potential Let's Go 2 doesn't need to integrate with our Pokemon Go collections or require a compatible accessory; it can simply stand as a remake of Johto, featuring the iconic catching mechanics, vibrant aesthetics, and emphasis on capturing and collecting Pokemon.

Nintendo faces limitations in developing Pokemon spin-offs, often outsourcing them to other studios. While fans eagerly await new entries in series like Pokemon Conquest and crave additional content for games like New Pokemon Snap, Let's Go fails to bring significant innovation to the table. Many view it as a diluted version of the Pokemon experience, particularly given the existence of remakes like HeartGold and SoulSilver. Despite this, Let's Go has garnered a dedicated following due to the nostalgia and accessibility it offers to both seasoned players and newcomers alike. However, it's becoming increasingly evident that Nintendo may not share the same sentiment.

Unless, of course, one considers the possibility of a resurgence with the release of the rumored Switch 2. The motion controls inherent to this hypothetical console could provide an ideal platform for showcasing Let's Go's gameplay mechanics. Historically, consoles featuring motion capabilities tend to emphasize them upon launch before gradually tapering off in subsequent releases, making Let's Go a potentially fitting candidate for such a showcase.

The recent announcement of a vague 2025 release date for Pokemon Legends raises speculation that it could serve as a launch title for the Switch 2, potentially overshadowing the prospects of Let's Go 2. However, given Pokemon's propensity for innovation and experimentation, one cannot entirely discount the possibility of a Let's Go sequel emerging as a surprise reveal at an event like Summer Game Fest.

In conclusion, while uncertainties loom regarding the future of the Let's Go series, I find myself oscillating between optimism and skepticism. As we eagerly anticipate potential developments, the only question that remains is: Marill or Togepi?