What do you think is the ´objectively´ best Pokémon-design? This is not about what you like best yourself, although I understand that this will play a role.
Every generation counts, and it is not about what generation is the overall best. A very ´weak´ gen can still have the best design. As always, arguments are welcome!
I would like to start with Volcarona. I think this design is pretty underrated, although it is loved by some. It´s design is very creative, while also being grounded. No unnacessary details, just a very intimidating moth that is good looking, and has an interesting typing and stats. Pretty much perfect.
It blends perfectly those 2-3 concepts (frog, reptile, plant bulbs) but it feels organic, believable in its environment. I can dream of venturing into a forest in the Poke-world and find multiple roaming around.
It makes sense because we know about animals that engage in symbiotic relationships with plants, it requires just a little bit more of suspension of disbelief.
It is a starter, and feels kinda different when compared to the more “average” varieties of non-starter pokemon. You can immediately tell that this is no ordinary oddish or venonat, since it has a TON of personality. Still, it doesn’t appear to be too out of the ordinary: it doesn’t play football, it doesn’t have a job or walk on 2 legs. It is a pokemon, rare, special, powerful but still a Pokemon indeed.
It is goofy due to its proportions (it’s still cool to catch, own and flex in battle though!), but doesn’t feel made to sell merchandise, a meme for 5 yo kids, or gimmicky: you quickly understand it’s a creature with latent potential.
The usage of its dorsal plant is extremely intelligent, since the natural progression of bulb → blossom → huge “rafflesia” is already in everyone’s cultural baggage.
And Not only is it excellent work on its own, but the evolution line as a whole works really well. Venusaur is without any doubt the perfect evolution for Bulbasaur, enhancing its features without messing up the design. You would recognize those silhouettes among hundreds of others.
Hi, this is my first comment and I think it’s one of the hardest to answer . Of the older generations, Lugia has a design that’s perhaps simple but impeccable, and of the newer and latest additions, maybe Mimikyu. It’s very difficult to make a decision
One of my favourite designs is Poliwhirl. It has that understated simplicity of the early generations but still feels totally original. It’s easy to see why it was one of the original mascots for the franchise. I hate Poliwrath though!
Not for me lol.
Never even liked it as a kid, still dont like it today, nothing about the design appeals to me.
I cant really pick one there are a lot of really good designs.
Ninetales
Arbok
Arcanine
Talonflame
Would all be my pics. All of them are super clean on design, no unnecessary flourishes or proportions that dont make sense. The fact that they are all relatable to real creatures in their realism helps for me personally.
Although I’m too old to feel any nostalgic sentiment towards Lucario, it’s perfectly understandable how he is a fan favourite from kids today. Uber tier design, and the megas go even harder
very iconic, most pokemon looking pokemon. Also an early design. Almost picked to be mascot, but a little too on the girly side to have mass appeal I think. Probably a good idea. I like clefairy.
I think mewtwo has it in the bag. Its cool, mysterious and has unique looks to it without being overly busy. It retains the iconic shape from mew’s tail but has a two toned color approach. Looks very alien. No complaints. 10/10 design. Iconic pokemon.
I can’t narrow down to overall so will give generation wise
Gen 1 - Bulbasaur
Gen 2 - Espeon & Lugia (both are close enough)
Gen 3 - Almost every pokemon But my personal favorite is Surskit (I don’t know how many of you guys love it)
Gen 4 - Mostly previous upgradations and for me I feel Mamoswine
Gen 5 - Oshawott is my personal favourite here but not best design so scratch it. Volcarona and Scolipede are tied for best
Gen 6 - Xerneas
Gen 7 - Rowlet, Mimikyu and Vikavolt
Gen 8 - Drakloak (greatest middle evo)
Gen 9 - Ceruledge
Just my opinions on these. The best could be from any of the Gen 3 mons though because it is the gen where designs are nailed…
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. Of the older generations, Lugia has a design that’s perhaps simple but impeccable, and of the newer and latest additions, maybe Mimikyu. It’s very difficult to make a decision 
