Pokémon 2017: Total Character Customization
Ah, it’s you!
I was just working on Pokémon 2017, and, my goodness, was I surprised!
If you haven’t read my post on Pokémon 2017, then you should probably check that out first. It’ll make more sense this way.
So, I think, the first major idea we should discuss is probably the first thing players will see in-game. The character.
Pokémon 2017 would start straight off the bat with character creation - no cut scene, no introduction, just making your avatar. My focus with character creation would be to allow the player to have complete control, creating a character with few limitations.
As a trans woman, it’s important to me to allow people of all genders to feel welcome. So, for certain, one of the first questions it would ask is what pronouns you use. He/she/they would be preloaded for certain. Perhaps an option to type in your pronouns (in a he/him/his/himself format) would be possible, with quickset options for the most common three (he/she/they/input my own). Players will be referred to by these pronouns throughout the game, and their choice of pronouns will not affect any decisions or dialogue as to bring attention to it as if it was abnormal.
The character creator that follows would likely be modeled on the Mii Maker and Bethesda’s open world RPG character creators. Emphasis would be placed on the face, but options for the body would be available as well. Options for body type, height, weight, and build (fat to muscle ratio) would be plentiful. Facial and hair options would likely follow a Mii Maker style layout, with all options being available to all characters - no gender specific options. This will allow for any player to have their character appear exactly how they want it, regardless of their pronouns. Color options for eyes and hair would be on a color wheel instead of a few selections; while skin tone options would follow a range on the human spectrum.
Players will be asked to input their name, birthday, and favorite color as well.
Upon completing character creation, players will be asked to choose a bag type - backpack, purse, messenger bag, or fanny pack. They will also be asked to choose between pants, shorts, or a skirt. At the start of the game, player characters will be wearing black bottoms (of their choice), athletic shoes, a t-shirt of their favorite color, and a bag of their favorite color. Players will not start with a hat, but hats will be available. Clothing options will be available throughout the region - much like in modern games. However, all clothing options will be available to all player characters, and color choices for clothing will be on a color wheel - rather than limited to certain colors at certain stores. Patterned clothing may or may not have several color options as well.
Although clothing will cost in-game currency, it will be price reduced, as the emphasis for currency should be on obtaining important gameplay items rather than customizing your character.
In this way, I hope that all players can enjoy their experience with Pokémon 2017, with an easy-to-use character creator and plentiful options to personalize their experience to their preferences.
What do you think? Would you do it any differently? What other ideas do you have to make this game the only Pokémon game you’ll ever need?
