The ideal amount of rivals in a hack?

[Skystrike]

What is, in your opinion, the line between just the right amount of rivals and too many rivals in a hack?

I've played hacks where I've felt that there were too many rivals, and hacks where there were just the right amount.

I think two to three rivals are just the right amount, considering that's how many the official games usually have (BW has three and XY has five, though four of them barely ever battle you.)

 

[tzujm33]

I dont think one needs to implement a rival at all, 1-2 are solid, but more than 2 are annoying imo. I just dont see it as that great to have someone following you from start to the Pokemon league, but others migth like this feature more.

 

[Vendily]

Personally, I lean towards one rival, maybe two. The problem with multiple rivals is that the rivals all need distinct personalities so the player doesn't mix them up. When ever I do that, I just lose interest in the game.
The other thing is not getting a break from your rival. BW has Cheren and Bianca alternate each town and they often battle you before you can get to heal. I found that so very irritating and I almost stopped playing.

 

[machomuu]

Depends on the role they play. In Pokemon, a rival is and has always been the person that competes with the player so that there can be a growth that they both mutually work towards.

Which is to say, having more rivals for the sake of having rivals is not a good idea, and similarly, if your MC has a goal that he needs to climb and work towards already and the story compels him/her to do so, having a rival (especially a childhood friend) isn't always the best idea.

If your hack is large and can have several rivals so long as they absolutely contribute to the game or story, go for it, but there's a big difference between an antagonist or an enemy and a rival. 1 is generally the best way to go, if any at all. But again, it varies.