Pokémons

Pokémon are fictional creatures that inhabit the Pokémon world. The term Pokémon is used for both singular and plural, though some writers use Pokémons in the plural. The franchise centers on capturing and training these creatures to battle other Pokémon. It was created by Satoshi Tajiri and Ken Sugimori and is managed by The Pokémon Company, a collaboration among Nintendo, Game Freak, and Creatures. The concept debuted in 1996 with the release of Pokémon Red and Green in Japan, later localized worldwide.

Core games are role-playing games in which players collect Pokémon, build teams, and compete in battles to become Pokémon Champion. The gameplay emphasizes exploration, collection, and strategic combat that relies on type matchups (for example fire is strong against grass but weak against water). Pokémon can evolve into more powerful forms, increasing stats and sometimes gaining new types or abilities.

Beyond mainline titles, the franchise includes a trading card game, spin-off video games, and many mobile and augmented reality titles, including Pokémon GO released in 2016, which uses location-based gameplay to catch wild Pokémon in the real world. The franchise also spans an animated series, films, manga, merchandise, and extensive fan communities.

As one of the best-selling media franchises in the world, Pokémon has had a significant cultural impact, popularizing creature-collection and competitive gaming. Its ongoing releases continue to expand the roster of species and regions, with new generations introducing additional mechanics and stories.