Pokemon Fan Creates Regional Variant and Evolution for Torkoal

gamerant.com:

A Pokemon fan has shared a unique regional variant for Torkoal, as well as an evolution for it. The interesting Pokemon regional design would change the Pokemon's typing to Fire/Water or Water/Rock, according to the artist.

Pokemon regional variants offer fans an exciting alternate take on existing and loved Pokemon designs. While some Pokemon regional variants are better received than others, the concept provided a neat way to refresh older Pokemon without radically changing their existing evolutionary lines. However, there's less than 60 regional forms available in the games at this time, so fans often step up and share new concepts that could fit those who don't have one yet.

Such is the case with Dude0720, who shared their unique form for Torkoal. Torkoal's usual coal-infused concept is instead replaced with a hot spring, with steam from water emerging from it instead of the usual coal smoke. Torkoal is wearing a pair of towels and looks quite content. The Torkoal regional form can evolve into a Pokemon the artist has called Toruana. Toruana is significantly bigger than its predecessor, and the hot spring has opened up into one continuous pool, looking inviting for Pokemon or people to rest in. Both Torkoal and Toruana also have markings on their legs to make it look like they're wearing flip-flops.

Pokemon fans have been extremely receptive to the concepts, especially since this is Dude0720's first regional variant design. Pokemon fans were quick to offer ideas for its Pokedex entry and how it might be utilized in the Pokemon world. One fan imagined that Torkoal would evolve into Toruana when the small holes in its shell further fractured, causing a large opening to form in the shell. Another suggested the idea of going on a Pokemon Safari tour while resting in the hot spring on Toruana's back, providing a relaxing and exciting experience all at once. Additional names were also offered for the evolution, like Tortuzzi, referencing Jacuzzi hot tubs.

Torkoal has