5 Things Pokémon Go Does Better Than the Mainline Games

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Pokémon Go is typically considered as less prominent than console or PC video games due to being a mobile game. Compared to video games that sell millions of copies, it’s rare for mobile games to achieve notable popularity. However, this isn’t the goal for most mobile games. But Pokémon Go managed to stand out as one of the few exceptions, garnering an extraordinary level of fame. At its peak in 2016, it boasted a massive user base of over 232 million monthly users. To put that into perspective, even Fortnite, one of the most renowned video games, reached only 126 million players by November 2024.

When it comes to Pokémon Go, its gameplay mechanics make it more reasonable to compare it to its console versions, such as the mainline Pokémon titles. Although the gameplay styles differ in many aspects, the mobile game from Niantic excels in areas where the video games fall short.

1. Catching Pokémon

As a devoted fan, I must admit that capturing Pokémon in the real world with Pokémon Go offers an exciting twist compared to the traditional games. In these mainline titles, you often find yourself battling Pokémon first, trying to weaken them or inflict status effects like sleep, before attempting a catch. This process can be tiresome at times.

Thankfully, in Pokémon Go, all that’s required is a simple throw of a Pokéball and perhaps dropping a berry for good measure. Even though it may take several tries with different types of berries and balls to successfully capture a tricky Pokémon, the simplicity of the process makes it much more enjoyable. No more tedious battles – just catch and explore!

2. Battling

In Pokémon Go, the combat system has been refined for a smoother and more rapid experience. While it may diminish some strategic depth compared to the main games, this app is intended to be faster-paced, and the combat aspect is where this concept truly excels. Players need to strategize when to use shields and charged attacks, maintaining a tactical edge, but the continuous tapping ensures that players remain actively engaged throughout the battle. It requires both quick reflexes and smart decision-making, offering an intriguing twist that sets it apart from the traditional turn-based combat of the main series. Pokémon Go offers a different, action-packed combat experience that may not appeal to everyone, but it certainly adds an engaging new layer to the strategy missing in mainline games, pushing players to think on their toes rather than having plenty of time to ponder their moves.

3. Playing with Friends

Playing Pokémon games with friends is usually not as enjoyable due to limited multiplayer features, mainly consisting of battles. While Pokémon Scarlet and Violet tried to introduce multiplayer, it didn’t gain much traction or offer substantial benefits. Contrastingly, Pokémon Go excels in friend-based gameplay. Even without engaging in complex activities, you can stroll with friends searching for the same Pokémon. Additionally, you can join forces in the game for raids, which are more frequent and arguably superior to regular game raids. Furthermore, constant gift exchanging, effortless trading, and additional features make interacting with friends even more rewarding in Pokémon Go.

4. Exploration

In essence, playing Pokémon games revolves around the adventure of discovery. As a fledgling Pokémon trainer, these games motivate you to venture out into your virtual environment and gain knowledge about the various creatures that reside there. This exploration is vital for progression within the game, as well as being a crucial element in its design, with a focus on filling up the Pokédex. However, what makes this experience particularly delightful is the literal exploration aspect, rather than just digital. With Pokémon Go, your in-game travel mirrors real-world wandering, and it’s often how you come across unique, elusive Pokémon.

5. Shinies

One of the most enjoyable aspects in nearly every Pokémon game is discovering the shiny Pokémons. The thrill of capturing a shiny is unparalleled in any video game, providing a surge of dopamine and making that particular Pokémon a favorite instantly. Although finding such rare, exciting Pokémons should be challenging, it could be slightly more common in the mainline games, where you often have only a 1 out of 4096 chance. However, the rate increases to approximately 1 out of 450 in Pokémon Go. Although you can’t continuously hunt for things as you can in mainline games, you do amass more shinies overall. This includes special events like Community Day, Spotlight Hour, and Go Fest, where shinies are particularly prevalent.

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2025-09-03 19:47