>>54641198I also think it’s retarded how a location based on Russia is depicted as a tropical island, but I honestly prefer it to DP’s Battle Zone. Platinum design overhaul made it feel like you were exploring new territory, not just an extension of mainland Sinnoh. It also does a much better job at selling the idea that the Battle Zone is a very rugged region that is home to only the toughest of trainers, because it’s clad with palm trees and black stone that convey a “dangerous, third-world country” sort of vibe. Besides, Stark Mountain looks fucking sick in Pt, whereas in DP it was just another generic cave. Maybe I’m just too big of an autistic sperg, but I really think Platinum did this place justice.
Granted, they could’ve went for a different aesthetic to differentiate it from the mainland, but I think that going for a tropical theme was the best option. Sinnoh already features a lengthy snow area, so I think it would be redundant to do the same thing again.