APokemonfan theory might explain why Pokemon level up more easily in later installments as compared to earlier ones. Though potentially at odds with thePokemonseries' convoluted timeline, it is a simple and logical explanation that works well on its own terms.
While the franchise is best known for battles between Trainers, those can’t happen until players level up their Pokemon. In the series' earliest games, there wasn’t much of an alternative to grinding; if players' Pokemon were underleveled, the player would need to fight Pokemon in the grass for a long time to get stronger. Newer games introduce a number of conveniences that make training easier. For instance,Pokemon SwordandShieldfeatures anautomatic experience share systemthat gives every party member experience without the need to participate in battle.
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The theory, put forward by Reddit user JonSnowgaryen, suggests that training Pokemon becomes easier as Trainers share knowledge with each other over time. Particularly for Pokemon that have only been recently discovered, it’s not hard to imagine there would be a relative lack of information about raising them. Even if Pokemon aren’t new, they may take on new forms over time, such asMimikyu learning to socialize by disguising as Pikachu. The rise of the Internet in-universe would allow Trainers to exchange tips easily for the first time.
There is one issue with the theory.Pokemon Omega RubyandAlpha Sapphireemploy the universal EXP Share, although they take place about a decade before games likePokemon BlackandWhite, which do not. Recent series installments clarify that Pokemon games take place along a split timeline. Namely, ifthe ancient war fromPokemon X and Ydoes not take place, then Mega Evolution never exists, andPokemon RubyandSapphirehappen instead ofOmega RubyandAlpha Sapphire. Perhaps in the Mega Evolution timeline, Internet technology advanced faster, letting Trainers share knowledge earlier.
This theory has some validation beyond the series' level-up system. Outside ofPokemon Yellow’s Pikachu, there was no way to gauge a Pokemon’s friendship level in the first generation games. In every game since, Pokemon have Friendship statistics that change based on the player’s actions. Plus, modern games let players take care of Pokemon in ways that were previously unfeasible. For example,Pokemon SwordandShieldplayers cancook curry with Pokemon while camping.
HardcorePokemonfans know that leveling up is only the first of many steps toward creating a strong Pokemon. In order to draw outthe maximum power of juggernauts like Gardevoir, Trainers must optimize Effort Values, ensure thePokemonhas the proper Nature, and more. While Trainers sharing advice may make leveling up easier, players still have to go the extra mile to assemble a team worthy of a Champion.
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