Highlights

• New fan-created Pokemon forms are inspired by the Tapu guardians from Pokemon Sun and Moon, incorporating their unique designs creatively.
• Alola introduced regional forms and Z-moves, adding depth to gameplay and expanding the Pokemon universe with new features and concepts.
• The Tapu guardians in Pokemon Sun and Moon, each representing an island in Alola, inspired the fan's new forms for Haxorus and other Pokemon.

A talented Pokemon fan has created new forms for Haroxus and three other Pokemon based on the Tapu guardians. In nine generations, Pokemon introduced players to different Pokemon and regions. Alola stands out in the Pokemon universe for having references beyond Asia, such as being Hawaii-based and offering new features that became famous among fans.

Setting for Pokemon Sun and Moon, Alola introduced Pokemon regional forms, a concept that has been present in Pokemon games ever since. Another Gen 7 feature was the addition of Z-moves, a different mechanic in which Pokemon can access a new power with the help of Z-Crystals. The Alola Pokedex also introduced Pokemon fans to 81 new Pokemon, including the Legendaries Solgaleo and Lunala, and the group known as the Ultra Beasts. Alola is a Pokemon region with many peculiarities. Using an iconic group of Gen 7 Pokemon as inspiration, a talented Pokemon fan gave new looks to four Pokemon.

Reddit user Kampy5567 created new forms for Haxorus and three other Pokemon inspired by the Tapu guardians. One of the best Gen 5 Pokemon, Haxorus has received a makeover worthy of its status, changing the design of its fangs and tail with colors inspired by Tapu Koko. The legs of the unusual Gaganacl, which is made of sedimentary rock and salt rock, are yellow, and the structures that form its body have Tapu Bulu's design. Exploud has a horn on its head and blades on its arms, and its colors represent those of Tapu Fini. Dusknoir's body is colored different shades of pink and has a sort of tentacle under its arms, both references to Tapu Lele.

Who Are the Pokemon That Defend the Islands of Alola?

Known as guardian deities, the Tapu are the Legendary Pokemon featured in Pokemon Sun and Moon. Each Tapu is responsible for one of Alola's islands, and their appearances are inspired by different things. The powerful Tapu Koko guards Melemele Island, and its appearance is vaguely reminiscent of a roster. Tapu Lele, the protector of Akala Island, resembles a butterfly, and the guardian of Ula'ula Island, Tapu Bulu, reminds a bull. With a design vaguely resembling a swordfish, Tapu Fini watches over Poni Island.

The designs created by the OP are striking because they naturally incorporate the designs of the Tapu guardians, and for having lore that contextualizes the fan art. According to the artist, their artwork is based on the idea of the Tapu choosing their wardens, and blessing them with new forms to defend Alola. Pokemon fans can also check out the publication for other details such as stats, the quartet's moveset, and the fact that they can use the power of Pokemon's Z-Moves.