I expect the core three (Satoshi Tajiri, Junichi Masuda, & Ken Sugmori) to retire together or within months of each other soon after Gen 7's release. They've progressively had less responsibilities in game development (of their own volition) in recent years, grooming their successors. We've gotten hints like Yusuke Ohmura being heavily involved with art direction from BW on & Shigeru Omori handpicked as director for Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire by Masuda himself. I can't recall the context, but I remember initial discussion about "Pokemon Rainbow" included something hinting toward a "final game" -- but I could be misremembering. With Iwata's passing and recent infrastructure changes as Nintendo that looks like the company could be steering towards a sales-motivated direction instead of the innovative-focused one they've had for years, there could be other reasons why they step out beyond the fact that 20 years is as good a time as any to hand over the reigns to someone else. It's possible the re-release of RBY was also the beginning commencement of their departures.

Sugimori has said he wants the series to revert to simplicity design-wise and Masuda's focus is on a bigger platform to get players out of their houses more. Design-wise, Ohmura's contributions are promising (XY legends) & Omori has shown he's capable of great ideas like DexNav.

I think it's time the series changes hands because I think the series needs it. We've had some great ideas but the last three generations generally do not rank as most user's favorite from what I've observed. What I don't anticipate is the end of Pokemon -- no chance the franchise ends regardless who's in charge.

What do you think /vp/? Are you ready for a fresh direction or do you fear the series will lose guidance?