Developed for the Nintendo 3DS, Pokemon Art Academy took advantage of the handheld’s staple touchscreen controls and camera so that players could take reference photos. However, with the 3DS ceasing production in 2020, Nintendo is putting all its weight behind the Switch. Given that the Pokemon series has evolved drastically since 2014, and the expanded functionality of the Switch itself, there’s an excellent opportunity to port or remaster Pokemon Art Academy.
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Transitioning From 3DS To Switch
Thanks to the Switch having its own touchscreen, one of the integral mechanics behind Pokemon Art Academy is already covered in the transition between 3DS to Switch. However, unlike the 3DS, the Switch does not have a camera. This could easily be replaced by allowing players to access Nintendo’s online services and download references or photos they needed. One possible solution would be to integrate the game with Pokemon Home, allowing players to select stored Pokemon as virtual models in lieu of taking real-life photos.
With the core mechanics addressed, a potential port of Pokemon Art Academy could then capitalize on the functionality the Switch offers to expand upon the original game. A larger touchscreen would give players more area to draw with, and the Switch could serve as a tablet should it be connected to a TV, akin to how modern digital artists operate. Moreover, additional functions such as using Joy-Cons as individual controllers means that two or more players could work together on an art piece, and motion controls could influence new mechanics for a Free Paint mode with expanded drawing tools and art styles.
More Pokemon to Draw
When Pokemon Art Academy was released, the series was in the midst of its sixth generation, and the game reflected this with additional lessons unlocked after the first 40 to teach players how to draw Mega Evolutions. Though Mega Evolutions have been placed on the back burner, this doesn’t mean that a spin-off art game would need to ignore them. Furthermore, with an additional two generations since then and a ninth now on the way, Pokemon Art Academy would have a breadth of content to figuratively and literally draw from.
For example, the introduction of new regional variations and evolutions could help educate players on how to adapt lessons they’ve learned from drawing one Pokemon form to another. A great example of this could be Meowth, already popularized thanks to the anime, as it brings three different forms to draw and a unique branching evolution. On top of this, Dynamax would help players learn about light and shading, since Dynamaxed Pokemon are lit from below instead of traditionally from above. Gigantamax forms would also add variety to the regional forms and evolutions that also exist.
Unlike other Pokemon games, Pokemon Art Academy should also take the opportunity to go beyond just being a port, and instead capitalize on current expectations of ongoing updates. In order to keep things fresh and interesting, a remaster should regularly update and keep pace with the Pokemon series, such as when Pokemon Scarlet and Violet are released. The game could also include additional courses, possibly as DLC, to explore other spin-off games such as Pokemon Mystery Dungeon or Pokemon Legends.
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Art Academy’s Potential on The Switch
The original series that Pokemon crossed over with, Art Academy, had a successful tenure on the DS and the Wii U for certain regions. This transition from DS to Wii U demonstrates that developer Headstrong Games is familiar with adapting its format between platforms, suggesting moving to the Switch would not be impossible. However, with the Wii U and DS no longer a focus for Nintendo, there have been no further entries into the Art Academy series since.
If Headstrong Games are no longer in a position to lead a new Pokemon Art Academy, Game Freak could go with a different developer to helm the project. Given the vast amount of Pokemon fan art out there, Game Freak would be wise to embrace this passion and help foster players’ artistic interests. Though the original sales of Pokemon Art Academy might not justify a physical release, Game Freak would be more than capable of releasing the game digital-only, similar to Pokemon Unite, initially offering the game for free with additional purchases for more complex courses and lessons.
Game Freak has two options: while it might not want to or be capable of remastering Pokemon Art Academy, it could port the game so fans can still enjoy the experience, capitalizing on fans’ support for Pokemon. The necessary changes it would need are minimal, and arguably the Switch could prove a better console for players to use in their artwork compared to the 3DS. The only challenge would be finding a development studio prepared to take the project on, perhaps Sabec Limited off the back of games like Paint, or Collecting Smiles following Colors Live.
Pokemon Art Academy is available now for the Nintendo 3DS.
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