Published Mar 4, 2026, 11:30 AM EST

Should Pokémon walk on two legs? What is best, power or cuteness?

The big Pokémon debate: Bipedal or quadrupedal?

Graphic by Polygon I images: OLM/The Pokémon Company/Nintendo

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Having strong opinions about Pokémon is almost a requirement to be a part of the fandom — even the most neutral fans can at least vehemently explain why their favorite Pokémon is the best. These opinions came out in full force upon the announcement of the new starter Pokémon for Winds and Waves , with much of the discourse focused on one issue in particular: if the precious Pombon would remain on all four throughout its evolutionary line, or stand up on two legs (limbs?) like all of its predecessors except one.

It turns out that many of us here at Polygon have very strong opinions when it comes to bipedal versus quadrupedal Pokémon, so two of us decided to settle it in the only possible way: a Pokémon duel.…