I'm not sure if this has been discussed, but by recognizing how primal this topic is I apologize, it probably has.
So, we've all played the Pokemon games (I hope) and we've all beaten the Elite four at one time or another and have returned to Pallet Town, New Bark Town, et cetera. And so, on beginning the game will new players begin from different places?
An origin town here an origin town there?
If the game is started this way we could have "locals" from the area to rely on for direction.
This way there could be people familiar with different areas.
I hope you catch my drift.
People beginning from different parts of maps.
I know this is no virtual reality but I do think it would be neat.
And might there be benefits for being from your town.

And so if the game does start like this and a high leveled individual returns to their hometown well experienced and catches the eye of a novice, what now?
As we all know the tradition is you catch the eye of another trainer, game on.
So maybe there could be a level allowance, what I mean is not only that Pokemon have levels but the trainers as well, independently of there Pokemon, perhaps.
The "allowance" would allow the trainer of a given level only to challenge trainers within a 5 level range, so IF trainers were to have levels, a level 50 trainer could not challenge a level 5 trainer.
The previously stated "allowance" would restrict the level 50 trainer to challenge trainers only from Level 45 to 55.
I know this could be a potential bar on opportunities to gain experience, but I think it would only be fair.
Now, again if a level 50 trainer is carrying Pokemon of lesser levels, that wouldn't be fair either but things will be settled in due time.

I do realize the amount of work required, but before throwing ideas down the drain, just consider them. ;]