Pokémon

Since 1996, children and adults alike have adored Pokémon, a franchise that spans video games, animation, and trading cards. Originally conceptualized by Japanese video game designer Satoshi Tajiri, the game was first released on Game Boy with the name “Pocket Monsters.”

Taking place in a universe where humans and creatures known as Pokémon co-exist, players navigate the world as Pokémon trainers, finding and training Pokémon, and battling with them against other trainers. Each Pokémon is based on a real or mythical creature, adding to their intrigue, but also their familiarity. Pokémon’s charming character design and family-friendly content has added to its popularity.  

The franchise’s influence on pop culture continues to be far-reaching, even touching uncommon industries like aviation where special Pokémon livery adorned flights were once operated by All Nippon Airways. This global popularity across media is celebrated by fans worldwide, setting the benchmark for monster-taming games internationally.