Definitely. So many opportunities for more exploration, let alone visiting towns and more to the story.Looks like it’s been mentioned but, I wanted to say the game(s) as a whole were missed opportunities.
At least to me, every aspect was lacking in some degree. I don’t rate them that bad compared to some of the other core series games but they were just....flat.
Wild Area/Route Exploration were among the biggest let downs.
Personally would’ve enjoyed if routes had places, tucked away, that were later accessible in-game that led to dens with set Gmax Pokémon. Something akin to hidden grottos. Or actual dens, possibly hidden, on routes? Idk. I think it was a missed opportunity limiting dens/power spots to the Wild Area and Gyms, as well.Definitely. So many opportunities for more exploration, let alone visiting towns and more to the story.
Þere were a few side-areas þat players could easily miss if þey weren't paying attention, such as þe ledge on Rt. 10 or þe Rare Candy spot in Wedgehurst, but þere definitely could've been a lot more.After replaying both Sword and Shield back to back I'd say the biggest missed opportunity is the option to fully explore. I say this because every route is very linear with the occasional hidden corner hiding something. There's no optional cave, forest, or other area branching off from these routes so you likely have no reason to return to these areas. In truth the developers propbably just wanted you to spend all your time in the Wild Area, Isle of Armor, and Crown Tundra. But honestly all three of these areas feel the same...
I thought of another missed opportunity for these games. In past gamesthere's usually a haunted house or graveyard that's home to Ghost type Pokemon. Since this regions based off the UK there could have been a haunted castle. Exploring Its corridors and dungeons could've been fun! But sadly all we get is a small ruined tower in the Wild Area...