A "Pokémon" fan on Reddit asked if the Pokémon protagonist would finally be able to swim freely in future games like "Winds and Waves."
The conversation gained momentum after fans compared movement systems in recent titles, including "Pokémon Legends: Arceus" and "Pokémon Scarlet and Violet," where players are still unable to actively swim in open water environments.
Current Water Traversal Systems Draw Criticism
In modern "Pokémon" games, water traversal has been handled in limited or indirect ways. In "Legends: Arceus," players who enter deep water are simply forced back to shore with a brief animation, while "Scarlet and Violet" avoid swimming mechanics entirely by resetting the player or transitioning them to rideable Pokémon.
Fans argue that these systems reduce immersion, particularly in regions where large lakes, rivers, and oceans play a major role in map design and exploration.
The Reddit discussion has intensified as upcoming titles such as "Pokémon Legends: Z-A" hint at expanded exploration features, including possible underwater environments.
Community Split on Swimming Mechanics
The "Pokémon" community remains divided on how swimming should be implemented—if at all.
Some players argue that swimming should stay tied to Pokémon-based traversal, such as HM Surf or HM Dive, maintaining the franchise's identity by relying on partner Pokémon rather than direct player movement.
Others believe swimming could be introduced as a natural extension of modern exploration systems, allowing trainers to move through water using upgrades, equipment, or rideable mechanics.
Suggested ideas include wetsuits, flotation devices, surfboards, or expanded mount systems similar to those already used for land traversal in recent games.
Players Want a Modern Alternative to HMs
A key concern among fans is avoiding a return to the older Hidden Machine (HM) system, which forced players to assign specific moves to their Pokémon just for traversal purposes.
Many players now prefer modernized systems, where exploration is integrated through Pokémon abilities, mounts, or environmental tools without limiting party flexibility.
Some fans have proposed hybrid systems that combine Pokémon abilities with overworld mechanics, allowing certain moves to influence exploration without restricting gameplay progression.
Water Exploration Still Has Room to Evolve
Although no official announcements confirm swimming mechanics for future titles, speculation continues to grow as new trailers and gameplay previews hint at expanded exploration systems.
Whether through direct swimming, Pokémon-assisted traversal, or new movement upgrades, fans agree that water-based exploration remains one of the franchise's most underdeveloped mechanics.
