Discussion: Has the competitive scene become better or worse?

[Alolan Slowpoke]

Since RBY, many, many things have changed regarding competitive Pokémon play, such as the introduction of EVs, IVs, breeding, weather, and abilities.

The question is, have the changes improved the competitive game, or has it hurt it?

 

[TerraTF]

Much better. The best part about every game is that it can significantly change the competitive scene and it does. This gen it was Mega's and a new type, last gen it was HA's, Gen 4 it was the Physical Special Split, Gen 3 it was abilities, Gen 2 it was the Special Split and new types, and Gen 1 brought about everything else including EVs and IVs.

 

[The Outrage]

Since RBY, many, many things have changed regarding competitive Pokémon play, such as the introduction of EVs, IVs, breeding, weather, and abilities.

The question is, have the changes improved the competitive game, or has it hurt it?

Those have always existed--they've just become much easier to manipulate.

 

[Wispy Willow]

For once I have to agree with Terra on this: the Special split and Dark and Steel types were good, held items were a f***ing GODSEND, the abilities were great, the Physical/Special split made it a whole lot less confusing, the Hidden abilities are the reasons I use certain 'mons, the Fairy type was OK, the Megas were good and the breeding mechanics change in X and Y was the reason I started IV breeding.

 

[Toa of Gallifrey]

Definitely for the better. Competitive play wouldn't be what it is today if it weren't for held items, abilities, new types, the physical/special split and mega evolution.

 

[Supreme Leader Palpitoad]

As I understand(and I started at competitive this gen)it s also easier to EV-train now with Hordes and ST.

 

[TerraTF]

As I understand(and I started at competitive this gen)it s also easier to EV-train now with Hordes and ST.

Easier to both EV Train and IV Breed. The competitive aspect of the game is slowly becoming more and more accessible to a larger variety of players.