Time moves forward, and with each new Pokemon generation, we’re greeted with fresh mechanics and modern features. But not without unnecessary sacrifice.
Over the decades, the series has evolved into a sprawling digital world of creatures, strategy, and adventure. Yet behind all the new additions lie beloved features that fans can’t seem to let go of.
These aren’t just gimmicks or one-off novelties; they're fan-favorite systems that gave the Pokemon universe charm, depth, and identity. Even as the franchise barrels toward the future, players still look back fondly, reminiscing about the features that made their journeys unforgettable.
1. DexNav
Take the DexNav, for instance. Introduced in Pokemon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire in 2014, it was a game-changing feature in the best way possible. This nifty tool allowed players to sneak up on specific Pokemon in tall grass, hunting down monsters with hidden abilities, special moves, and even boosted stats.
For shiny hunters, it was like finding a treasure map; the more Pokemon you chained, the higher the odds of discovering that elusive sparkle. It gave a sense of purpose to every route and patch of grass, transforming the wild from a random encounter zone into a strategic hunting ground. It wasn’t just efficient. It was addictive.
2. Following Pokemon (The Right Way)
Speaking of personal touches, few features rival the joy of Following Pokemon when done correctly. Let’s Go Pikachu and Eevee style, where your Pokemon of choice didn’t just trail behind like an afterthought.
They interacted with the world, reacted to your actions, and found hidden items. From the fluttering wings of a Charizard to the joyful bounce of a Togepi, these moments weren’t just aesthetic. They deepened the bond between Trainer and Pokemon. It was a silent but powerful storytelling tool, reminding us that we didn’t walk alone on this journey.
3. Apricorn Balls
Then there were Apricorn Balls, first forged in the Johto region. Crafted from Apricorns, these Poké Balls weren’t just functional; they were stylish, symbolic, and free to make if you had the resources.
Want to catch a ghost-type in a Moon Ball or an electric rodent in a Fast Ball? You could. It added a layer of customization and flair, making your collection truly yours.
Nowadays, we see players hunting for aesthetically pleasing Pokémon and Pokemon pairings on social media. That sense of style? It started with Apricorns and a feature we miss.
4. Pokemon Contest
For players wanting a break from battling and badges, Pokemon Contests were a delightful detour. First appearing in Ruby and Sapphire, contests offered an entirely different competition arena, focusing on Beauty, Coolness, Toughness, and more.
They encouraged players to explore move combos, dress up their Pokemon, and dazzle the audience. It added a bit of sparkle and min-maxing to those who wanted something beyond brute force.
Imagine how fun it would be if modern contests included scored battles, where style and strategy worked in tandem. This feature is begging to return with a fresh coat of glitter.
5. Diving Underwater
Let’s not forget the Diving feature, the undersea exploration mechanic introduced in Hoenn. Venturing underwater wasn’t just a gimmick, it was a serene, visually rich experience.
The sudden hush of the music, the flickering light beams from the surface, and the shadows of aquatic Pokemon swimming nearby created a magical escape.
Much like Tears of the Kingdom’s vast underground world, the underwater routes added an entire dimension to exploration. Bring that back with today’s graphics; fans will swim in joy.
6. Trainer Rematches
On immersion, Trainer Rematches, especially with the help of the VS Seeker, offered endless replay value. With one simple click, you could light up a route full of battle-hungry Pokemon Trainers ready for a rematch.
No grinding through wild Pokemon. No pacing back and forth for a random encounter. Just straight-up combat, tailored to your needs.
It was a subtle but masterful feature that let players control the flow of their experience, helping with EV training, experience farming, or just flexing a new team.
7. Turning Off The Exp Share
A more strategic inclusion was the option to turn off the Exp Share. While automatic experience distribution can make leveling easier, it removes a layer of difficulty and pacing that Pokemon veterans often crave.
Disabling it gives players full control over their party’s progression. It’s about crafting the challenge that fits your playstyle. Some players want a casual cruise, others a rugged climb. Choice is key.
8. Secret Bases
If there was ever a place where creativity and customization peaked, it was in Secret Bases. These hidden hideouts allowed you to decorate with plushes, flags, and furniture, turning a chunk of rock or a plain tree into a personal paradise.
You could even add battle rules and share your base with others. It was Pokemon's version of a gamer tag, part hideout, part calling card. Secret Bases were a player's voice in a series that often lacks persistent personalization, expressed in soft rugs and Pokemon dolls.
9. Exploring The Map By Soaring The Skies
Then came the ability to control flight. In Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, we were gifted with the Soar Above the Map feature using Latios or Latias. Gone was the bland fly cutscene. Instead, we had complete control to glide through Hoenn’s skies, with weather effects and floating islands.
You could even encounter legendary Pokemon while flying. It was cinematic, breathtaking, and a taste of what Pokemon exploration could become. A proper 3D overworld traversal system that begged to be expanded.
10. Pokémon World Tournament
Of course, no list would be complete without the legendary Pokemon World Tournament, a highlight of Black 2 and White 2. This feature brought together iconic Trainers from every generation, Gym Leaders, Elite Four members, and Champions for a battle of legends.
It wasn’t just fan service. It celebrated the franchise’s legacy, offering tough AI battles and dream matchups that spanned decades. It’s still one of the most requested returning features, and for good reason: it gave the player a sense of scale, history, and competition that transcended any single game.
Looking ahead, hope remains high. With the upcoming release of Pokemon Legends ZA and the Nintendo Switch 2, fans are again holding their breath.
Could we see the return of some of these beloved features? Imagine gliding over Lumiose City, diving beneath the waters of Kalos, crafting stylish Poké Balls, or battling Cynthia and Red in a revamped World Tournament.
The future is as unpredictable as a wild encounter, but one thing is sure. Some Pokemon features aren’t just missed. They’re longed for. And with any luck, they’ll return to the adventure once more.