Build Your Own Pokémon Region: A Step-by-Step Guide

Professor Oak's Introduction

"Ah, one of the most exciting moments in a Trainer's journey—earning rewards for their victories! In most regions, Gym Leaders award Badges, but some regions have unique prizes like special items, TMs, or even new battle mechanics. What will your Trainers earn as proof of their strength? Let's design the rewards that symbolize success in your region!"

1. Gym Badges: The Classic Proof of Victory

Badges are the most common reward given after defeating a Gym Leader. Each Badge is unique, often reflecting the Gym's Pokémon type, theme, or the Leader's personality.

➡ Examples of Unique Badges:

Cascade Badge (Misty, Water-type) – Looks like a droplet of water.

Volcano Badge (Blaine, Fire-type) – Resembles flames.

Icicle Badge (Candice, Ice-type) – A sharp, ice-like design.

Fairy Badge (Valerie, Fairy-type) – Shaped like butterfly wings.

Try This!  What does each Badge look like, and how does it represent the Gym?

Will Badges have a hidden function (e.g., unlocking doors, boosting stats, allowing Pokémon to obey)?

➡ Example: A Thunder Badge shaped like a lightning bolt that glows when held near Electric-type Pokémon.

2. Alternative Rewards: Beyond Badges

Not every region follows the traditional 8-Badge system. Some regions offer different types of rewards after a battle.

➡ Examples of Alternative Gym Rewards:

TMs or TRs – Special moves given after Gym battles (e.g., TM34 Shock Wave from Wattson).

Exclusive Items – Alola's Trials reward Z-Crystals instead of Badges.

New Abilities – Some games unlock Riding Pokémon, Mega Evolution, or Terastallization after key battles.

Try This!  Does your region have traditional Badges, or something new?

Will Trainers earn items, abilities, or even Pokémon after winning?

➡ Example: Instead of Badges, Trainers earn "Spirit Tokens," which unlock hidden powers in their Pokémon.

3. Elite Four & Champion Rewards

Defeating the Elite Four and Champion is the greatest challenge in a region, so the rewards should feel special and legendary.

➡ Examples of Final Rewards:

Hall of Fame Induction – The Trainer's team is recorded in history.

Champion's Mark – Some regions give a special item (e.g., Kalos' Champion's Ribbon).

Exclusive Pokémon – Some Champions reward the player with a rare Legendary or Shiny Pokémon.

Try This! What do Trainers earn for beating the Champion?

Is there a special title, item, or battle privilege given to new Champions?

➡ Example: New Champions gain access to an exclusive island where Legendary Pokémon can be found.

4. Special Battle Achievements

Aside from Badges and the League, Trainers can earn other achievements in their journey. These could be tied to side quests, secret Trainers, or unique battle challenges.

➡ Examples of Special Achievements:

Battle Frontier Symbols – Earned by defeating special Battle Masters.

Ribbons – Given for completing contests, special battles, or legendary encounters.

Champion Seals – A mark of honor for Trainers who complete difficult challenges.

Try This! Are there extra achievements or rare items only the best Trainers can earn?

Can Trainers earn customized titles or Trainer outfits after victories?

➡ Example: Trainers who win a secret tournament receive a "Legend's Badge," proving their status as an elite warrior.

Your Turn: Design Your Region's Rewards!

Use these questions to shape how Trainers prove their strength:

1️⃣ What do Gym Leaders reward Trainers with? (Badges, special items, new abilities?)
2️⃣ What do the Badges look like, and do they have special functions?
3️⃣ Does your region have a unique alternative to Badges? (Z-Crystals, Tokens, Ribbons?)
4️⃣ What is the ultimate reward for becoming Champion?
5️⃣ Are there hidden achievements or secret battle prizes?

"Excellent work! Now your Trainers will have something to strive for as they battle their way to the top. Next, let's explore the wild Pokémon that inhabit your region!"