As I sit here in 2026, reflecting on my countless matches in Pokemon Unite, one persistent thought continues to nag at me. I've meticulously analyzed the roster, tracked every license release, and the conclusion is inescapable: the game's representation across Pokemon generations has become profoundly skewed. While my love for the strategic, fast-paced gameplay remains undiminished, the over-saturation of Pokemon from the Galar region (Generation 8) and the puzzling absence of any Paldean (Generation 9) representatives is a growing point of contention. It feels like we're stuck in a time loop from the game's 2021 launch era, even as the wider Pokemon world has moved on. The initial logic of featuring then-current Gen 8 'mons has long since expired, and the continued focus on them is creating a noticeable generational gap in the Unite roster that's hard to ignore.

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Let's break down the current state of affairs with some hard data. The generational distribution, as it stands, tells a story of dramatic imbalance:

  • Kanto (Gen 1): 15 Pokemon 👑

  • Johto (Gen 2): 5 Pokemon

  • Hoenn (Gen 3): 3 Pokemon 😟

  • Sinnoh (Gen 4): 4 Pokemon

  • Unova (Gen 5): 2 Pokemon 😟

  • Kalos (Gen 6): 7 Pokemon

  • Alola (Gen 7): 7 Pokemon

  • Galar (Gen 8): 8 Pokemon (and counting!)

  • Paldea (Gen 9): 0 Pokemon ❌

This snapshot reveals the core issue. While Kanto's dominance is almost a given in any Pokemon crossover, Galar has steadily climbed to become the second most-represented generation. This wouldn't be a problem in isolation, but the pace of their inclusion is what's concerning. The cycle feels relentless. It started at launch with Cinderace, Cramorant, and Eldegoss, giving Gen 8 an early lead. Then came Greedent, solidifying that position. After a brief respite with some Kalos additions, we've been hit with a veritable Galar blitz: Urshifu (which I firmly count as two distinct fighters), the spectral dragon Dragapult, and now, the legendary Zacian. Persistent leaks from sources like ElChicoEevee even suggest Inteleon is waiting in the wings, which would push Galar's count to nine. Meanwhile, entire regions are languishing with only a handful of representatives.

The most glaring omission, however, is Paldea. Scarlet and Violet have been out for years now. They shattered sales records, becoming the fastest-selling games in Nintendo's entire history, not just within the Pokemon franchise. The Paldea region is brimming with fan-favorite designs and mechanically unique Pokemon that seem tailor-made for Unite's arena. Yet, here we are, with not a single one in sight. I'm not arguing that Galar Pokemon are inherently unworthy or that they're "taking spots" from others, but the timing of this sustained Galar push is perplexing. The Pokemon Company is famously protective of its brand synergy, so the decision to not capitalize on Gen 9's massive popularity within Unite is a strategic mystery. Any of the Paldean starters—the floral magician Meowscarada, the fiery croc Skeledirge, or the agile duck Quaquaval—would be instant hits. Beyond them, the potential is staggering:

Potential Paldean Additions Likely Role Why They'd Fit
Tinkaton Attacker / Speedster Giant hammer gameplay writes itself; unique Fairy/Steel typing.
Annihilape All-Rounder Perfect evolution of the Primeape rage mechanic into a powerful Unite presence.
Ceruledge / Armarouge Attacker Signature moves like Bitter Blade and psychic flames offer distinct skill shots.
Kingambit Defender / All-Rounder A commanding presence with a great evolution line from Pawniard and Bisharp.
Baxcalibur All-Rounder A pseudo-legendary with immense physical power and a great design.
Houndstone Defender Ghost-type tank with a signature move (Last Respects) that could have unique scaling.

A special occasion like Pokemon Day would be the perfect launchpad for the first Paldean Pokemon, but leaks indicate that slot went to another Galar legend, Zacian. The opportunity feels missed.

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This focus also exacerbates the neglect of other underrepresented generations. Look at Unova and Hoenn—regions with deep rosters and beloved Pokemon—stuck with just two and three representatives, respectively. For Unova, the choices are endless and exciting: the duelist Escavalier, the intimidating Krookodile, or even the meme-worthy but surprisingly strategic Garbodor. Personally, I'd love to see the glacial might of Beartic, the high-tech menace of Genesect, or Bisharp, whose evolution into the Paldean Kingambit could beautifully bridge two generations in one release. Hoenn is a treasure trove of iconic Pokemon begging for a Unite license: the colossal laziness of Slaking could make for a hilarious yet powerful mechanic, the sonic boomburst of Exploud, the armored titan Aggron, the mischievous Banette, the psychic meteor Metagross, or the dragon-dance sweeper Salamence. While leaks hint at future additions like Chandelure (Unova) and Tropius (Hoenn), it feels like dipping a toe in an ocean of potential. The developers have never promised a perfectly even spread, and I understand that popular Pokemon and those with clear MOBA kits will always be prioritized. However, as a dedicated player, the current trajectory is making the roster feel increasingly repetitive and disconnected from the evolving Pokemon universe. The well of compelling Galar designs isn't infinite, while the untapped potential of Generations 3, 5, and especially 9, is vast and growing with each passing year. My message to the Unite team is simple: it's time to change gears. Let's celebrate the rich history of all Pokemon generations and finally welcome the new champions from Paldea to the arena. The Aeos Island map is ready for them, and so are we.