First of all, I'm gonna say some things about Pokemon, as I'm a huge fan about it:
I have to disagree there. Minus the engine improvements that comes with each generation, each new generation after the first two started becoming more and more linear, to the point where you can't even branch out anymore, because they're always railroading you to specific areas. They're TRYING to get more intense with the stories, but...it's still basically the same thing. This isn't to say the games are bad, but they've definitely been going downhill since Gen 3, where they started to strip the player's exploration freedom.
Lol, Pokemon has no story AT ALL. I mean, is always the same. Even from the first game, you could tell that the story wasn't very well developed. However, I agree with you in some things.
bull. every game for the most part has been linear. and even then, the players freedom has been the same. you can still pass through a town just like before in previous gens.
I completey disagree with you at this. In gen 1, after reaching Cerulean, you could visit Vermilion, Saffron, Lavender, Fuchsia and Celadon. And you could win the gyms in the order you wanted. Except for gyms 7 and 8.
Gen 2. After passing Goldenrod, you could go to Mahogany, Ecruteak and and Olivine.That's for Jhoto. Then, in Kanto, you could go anywhere, even thought the Digglet Cave was closed, you could take the surf route. With that said, you could defeat gym leaders in the order you wanted.