2. Tera Types

The most recent battle gimmick from Scarlet and Violet is incredibly silly, at least visually. When a Pokémon uses its Tera Type, it gains a giant, unwieldy crystal crown that represents a different element sitting on its head. But the actual tactical utility of Tera Types is one of the best gimmicks in the series.

Using a Tera Type allows you to overwrite a Pokémon’s base typing so it has an entirely different set of strengths and weaknesses. It’s not limited to any specific type or combination, and that makes it one of the most versatile and strategic gimmicks the series has ever done. It allows you to mix up play styles to subvert expectations and accommodate for a Pokémon’s inherent weaknesses. The possibilities offered by Tera Types are incredibly open-ended compared to every other gimmick’s, and that’s what makes it one of the best core mechanics a Pokémon game has ever offered. Even if your Pokémon have to wear a silly little (big) hat to make it work.