Critical Analysis of Alolan Forms in Pokémon Sun and Moon
When The New Pokémon: Sun and Moon rolled out with its Alolan forms, the decision to alter certain Pokémon's appearances and abilities brought about both excitement and confusion among fans. The Alolan forms, ranging from the radiant Alolan Raichu to the oddly designed Alolan Sandshrew, sparked mixed reactions. In this article, we delve into the pros and cons of these forms, providing a comprehensive critique.
Introduction to Alolan Forms
The Alolan forms were introduced as a twist for Pokémon that lived in the tropical region of Alola. These forms aimed to showcase how Pokémon adapt to different environments. However, the changes were not uniformly well-received. From inconsistent type assignments to visually unappealing redesigns, several aspects of the Alolan forms have generated controversy.
Consistency and Aesthetic Concerns
One of the first criticisms leveled at the Alolan forms is the apparent inconsistency in which Pokémon are given these special regional forms. For instance, the choice to give some Pokémon such as Alolan Raichu and Alolan Vulpix unusual types (Psychic and Fire, respectively) while others like Marowak became Ghost-type posed questions about the rationale behind these changes. The inconsistency cuts deep into the overall narrative and lore of the Pokémon universe.
Exacerbating the issue is the appearance of some of these forms. Take Alolan Sandshrew, for example. Being partially Steel-type and having a design that looks like a poorly executed Ice/Steel hybrid does little to enhance the experience. Similarly, Alolan Marowak’s transition into a Ghost-type Pokémon, coupled with the loss of its Ground-type attributes, appears to be a haphazard decision at best.
Specific Alolan Forms: A Case-by-Case Analysis
Alolan Raichu: This form deviates from the traditional Electric type to include Psychic, which is conceptually interesting. However, the redesign of the Pokémon does not meet the same level of satisfaction. The changes, while creative, feel more like an attempt to differentiate rather than an enhancement.
Alolan Rattata and Alolan Raticate: The decision to have Rattata always on hind legs seems more stylistic than practical. These Alolan versions, along with other forms such as Alolan Meowth, have a more fitting transition to Dark-type traits. However, the official artwork for Alolan Raticate has faced criticism for its less flattering representation.
Alolan Sandshrew and Sandslash: The Alolan forms for these Pokémon are fraught with issues. Introducing them as an Ice/Steel combination on top of rugs of bad design decisions such as altering them to be part Steel type for no apparent reason has made fans question the logic behind these changes.
Alolan Vulpix and Ninetales: The inclusion of "Keokeo," the Alolan name for Vulpix, suggests a step towards differentiation. Nonetheless, giving Alolan Ninetales a Fairy-type while Vulpix remains true to its original belongs falls into the confusing category.
Alolan Diglett and Dugtrio: These forms are generally well-received. The rationale behind their new metallic-fiber "hair" aligns with the altered soil composition in Alola, justifying their change to a Steel-type Pokémon.
Alolan Geodude, Graveler, and Golem: These forms are praised for their dramatic yet rationale type-shift. From Rock to Rock/Electric, their transformation is both believable and aligns with the environmental changes they underwent.
Alolan Grimer and Muk: The transformation from Dark/Poison to Dark/Electric is also commendable. The explanation of living oil spills as a Dark/Poison type makes sense within the lore.
Alolan Exeggutor: The clear rationale for Exeggutor's transformation from Psychic to Dragon type is evident. Its adaptation to a more life-saturated tropical environment is a compelling narrative point.
Alolan Marowak: The transition to a Ghost-type, while perhaps justified, is marred by an unnecessary loss of its Ground-type attributes and moves, creating an illogical and unsatisfactory redesign.
Conclusion
The Alolan forms introduced in Pokemon Sun and Moon offer a mix of innovative narrative opportunities and underwhelming redesigns. While some forms, such as those of Alolan Geodude and Grimer, successfully integrate environmental changes with type shifts, others, like Alolan Marowak’s transition, highlight the pitfalls of inconsistent design choices and logic. Overall, the Alolan forms are a mixed bag, showcasing both the potential and the pitfalls of regional variation in the Pokémon universe.