Pokémon

Pokémon is a media franchise created by Satoshi Tajiri and Ken Sugimori, launched by Nintendo, Game Freak, and Creatures in 1996. The term is a portmanteau of the words “Pocket” and “Monsters,” reflecting its original concept of capturing and training fantastical creatures within their “pockets.” In the Pokémon universe, Pokémon are various species of creatures that possess unique abilities and traits, and they can be captured using Poké Balls, trained to battle each other, and evolve into different forms.

The franchise’s core activities involve players taking on the role of Pokémon Trainers, catching Pokémon, battling other Trainers, and completing a Pokédex—a comprehensive encyclopedia of Pokémon species. Pokémon is also known for various video games, trading card games, animated television series, movies, merchandise, and more, making it one of the most successful entertainment franchises globally. The overarching theme emphasizes friendship, teamwork, and the journey of growth and adventure through bonds shared between Trainers and their Pokémon.