5 Gigantamax forms Niantic should have introduced in Pokemon GO before Kanto starters

With the buzz surrounding Gigantamax Pokemon finally coming to Pokemon GO, many players are thrilled about the upcoming six-star Max Battles. Gigantamax Charizard, Venusaur, and Blastoise - the iconic Kanto starters - are at the forefront of this update, which will be available starting October 26, 2024. But as exciting as these classic favorites are, Niantic may have missed a great opportunity to showcase other unique Gigantamax forms before the Kanto trio.

That said, here are five Gigantamax forms that should have taken the spotlight in Pokemon GO before the Kanto starters.

Note: This article is subjective and solely reflects the writer's opinions.

Five Gigantamax forms that should have been introduced in Pokemon GO

1) Gigantamax Pikachu

Gigantamax Pikachu as seen in the anime (Image via The Pokemon Company)

It’s hard to imagine a list like this without Pikachu. As the mascot of the entire franchise, Pikachu is instantly recognizable to Pokemon fans worldwide. Moreover, its Gigantamax form is a nostalgic throwback to Pikachu’s original chubbier design from Generation One.

In the anime, Pikachu has been Ash’s loyal companion from the very first episode, making it one of the most beloved and iconic Pokemon of all time. Introducing Gigantamax Pikachu first, before the Kanto starters, would have been an ideal way to build excitement around the Gigantamax feature and celebrate Pikachu’s role as the face of Pokemon.

Also read: Pokemon GO Gigantamax debut officially announced

2) Gigantamax Melmetal

Gigantamax Melmetal (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Melmetal may not have the same nostalgic roots as other Generation One Pokemon, but it made appearances in the anime where it became a crucial part of Ash’s Manalo-Conference-winning team. Its powerful Steel typing and connection to Pokemon GO make it a perfect candidate for an early Gigantamax debut in the game.

Bringing Gigantamax Melmetal into Pokemon GO before the Kanto starters would have honored its origins in the mobile platform while delighting players who remember how special its role in the anime was.

Also read: All Gigantamax Pokemon featured in the Pokemon GO cinematic trailer

3) Gigantamax Meowth

Gigantamax Meowth as seen in the anime (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Meowth’s long-standing role in the Pokemon anime as part of Team Rocket makes it one of the most recognizable non-starter Pokemon. The mischievous, talking Meowth has been a staple of the anime since its early days, providing comic relief alongside Jessie and James. Its Gigantamax form, with its exaggerated length and gleaming gold coin, would have been a fun addition to Pokemon GO.

Meowth’s deep ties to the anime and its quirky Gigantamax form could have offered something different and nostalgic, appealing to fans who grew up watching Team Rocket’s endless schemes to catch Pikachu.

Also read: 7 Gigantamax Pokemon with the worst designs, ranked

4) Gigantamax Snorlax

Gigantamax Snorlax as seen in the anime (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Snorlax is another beloved Pokemon with a strong presence in the games as well as the anime. In the original Pokemon series, Snorlax’s role as a roadblock, along with its powerful, laid-back demeanor, cemented its status as a fan favorite. Ash’s Snorlax was also a standout in several battles throughout his journey.

The Gigantamax version, with a sprawling tree growing on its belly, would have been a perfect candidate to showcase before the Kanto starters. Snorlax’s iconic laziness and impressive raw power in Pokemon GO would have been a unique yet challenging Gigantamax to beat. The sheer nostalgia surrounding this Pokemon alone could have drawn in long-time fans.

Also read: 5 Gigantamax forms Pokemon GO should debut first

5) Gigantamax Gengar

Gigantamax Gengar as seen in the anime (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Gengar’s long history in the anime and its popularity among fans make it an ideal candidate for an early Gigantamax introduction. Its ghostly and mischievous nature has made it one of the most iconic Pokemon in both the show and the games.

Gengar has appeared in multiple episodes and series and was a key part of Ash’s team in Pokemon Journeys, helping him win the World Coronation Series.

Its Gigantamax form, with a massive mouth ready to swallow everything, is both creepy and captivating, making it a standout choice for Pokemon GO. Introducing Gengar before the Kanto starters would have been a nostalgia-inducing move, reminding players of Gengar’s deep roots in this long-running franchise.

Also read: 5 mistakes Niantic should avoid with Gigantamax in Pokemon GO

While the Kanto starters are undoubtedly fan favorites, Niantic could have built more excitement by first releasing Gigantamax forms that evoke strong feelings of nostalgia and anime impact.

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Edited by Niladri Roy