Man, I don't know what you guys are all so upset about. They haven't
changed anything - so far they've just
added a lot. As far as I'm concerned, the more content the better. Don't act like these
extra features
(that likely aren't even available until after the Elite 4) are going to ruin your game - 'cause you know that's bull.
And on a totally unrelated thought - I'm beginning to think this game is going to parallel the original games
a lot - and I don't mean about content (that's a given) - I'm referring to the role it had in the series, the effect it had on future games, and most importantly how it changed the series.
There's obviously a pattern in Nintendo / Gamefreak's game releases - everyone knows that - but just to reiterate....
Generation 1
Pokemon Red/Green/Blue
Introduces the games that start the trend - 150 monsters, 8 gyms, and a goal; catch 'em all.
Pokemon Yellow
Less of a new game and more of a fun upgrade to the source material (R/G/B in this case). Changes include mostly cosmetic upgrades and nothing gameplay-changing. The game differs from the source material greatly in direct relation to the "icon" characters of that generation (in this Charizard/Venussaur/Blastoise - the starters - are replaced entirely by a new starter, but allow you to collect the others later on). The story/background of the source material is greatly expanded upon and altered in some way.
Generation 2
Pokemon Gold/Silver
Is a direct sequel the previous generation in every way. The story naturally concluded what canonically happened in the past (events of R/G/B are referred to in the past and their results are shown). An obvious connection to the previous generation's characters are implied. New evolutions are added, a new breeding mechanic is added, and plenty of graphical updates are implemented. Not to mention a fresh new set of 8 new gym leaders and 100 new Pokemon to boot. It changed the way we played Pokemon.
Pokemon Crystal
Again, a fun upgrade to the source material (G/S). Changes include mostly cosmetic upgrades (nicer, animated sprites, etc.) but nothing gameplay-changing. The game differs from the source material greatly in relation to the "icon" characters of that generation (in this case Ho-oh / Lugia, are no longer the focus and it instead shifts to a different legendary - Suicune). The story/background of the source material is greatly expanded upon and altered in some way.
Now, think of that as the first "cycle". Watch how generation 3 and 4 are (so far) paralleling the 1st and 2nd.
Generation 3
Pokemon Ruby/Sapphire
Re-introduces the franchise back to gamers who had been starved of the series for so long - 135 (pretty close to 150) monsters are added to the mix , 8 new gyms, a tons of new mechanics.
Pokemon Emerald
Fun upgrade to the source material (R/S). Changes include mostly cosmetic upgrades but nothing gameplay-changing. The game differs from the source material greatly in relation to the "icon" characters of that generation (in this case Kyogre / Groudon are no longer the focus and it instead shifts to a different legendary - Raquaza). The story/background of the source material is greatly expanded upon and altered in some way.
Pokemon FireRed/LeafGreen
A remake of the original series. The same story and events are retold but with more depth and a greater focus on connecting them to the previous generations/regions. Many new features are introduced to streamline gameplay and add new standards for the series (from item graphics to the journal). The games really ironed-out and improved the engine for this generation greatly and give it a brand new polish.
Generation 4
Pokemon Diamond/Pearl
Is a direct sequel the previous generation in every way. The story referenced and hinted at what canonically happened in the past (events of R/S/E are referred to and their effects are shown). An obvious connection to the previous generation's characters are implied. New evolutions are added, a new fighting mechanic is added, and plenty of graphical updates are implemented. Not to mention a fresh new set of 8 new gym leaders and 107 new Pokemon to boot. It changed the way we played Pokemon. Again.
Pokemon Platinum
A gorgeous, fun upgrade to the source material (D/P). Changes include mostly cosmetic upgrades (more detailed, animated sprites, etc.) but nothing gameplay-changing. The game differs from the source material greatly in relation to the "icon" characters of that generation (in this case Dialga / Palkia, are no longer the focus and it instead shifts to a different legendary - Giratina). The story/background of the source material is greatly expanded upon and altered in some way.
Pokemon HeartGold/SoulSilver
A remake of the original sequel. The same story and events are retold but with more depth and a greater focus on connecting them to the previous generations/regions (as we've seen with Arceus with the Unknown, Cynthia, and more). Many new features are introduced to streamline gameplay and add new standards for the series (Pokemon following you to better use of the touch screen). The games really ironed-out and improved the engine for this generation greatly and give it a brand new polish.
...
Sorry for the long post. But does anyone agree with me?
-Age