Pokémon Gen 3 fumbled a huge plot opportunity

I would like to preemptively say I know Pokémon is an IP largely focused on kids and thus I get why they generally haven’t explored overtly heavy plots. This one was hinted at in the game, though.

Wally should have been a more central character who showed up throughout the story. As we fought Teams Aqua/Magma he could have helped defeat grunts. Around the later gyms you could have had the leaders mentioning a green-haired kid who won the badge just before you à la Blue from Gen 1. Perhaps you team up for a climactic double-battle against the respective Aqua/Magma bosses. A heartwarming journey of growth and rising to the occasion.


And all the while his personal health should have continued to deteriorate.


As you stand amongst the spider lilies of Ever Grande City you see your friend across the field. A pale, wispy shadow of himself. A strong breeze would likely blow him away. He’s come for one last battle. For old times’ sake.


And when the battle is done…..so is he. A faint smile on his lips. A “thank you…”.

And he fades away.