Pokémon

Pokémon (ポケモン, Pokemon) is a media franchise managed by The Pokémon Company, founded by Nintendo, Game Freak, and Creatures. The franchise encompasses video games, trading card games, animated television series and films, comic books (manga), and various merchandise.

The core concept of Pokémon revolves around fictional creatures called "Pokémon," which humans ("Pokémon Trainers") capture and train to battle each other. These battles are primarily for sport and skill, though narrative conflicts often arise within the stories. The Pokémon themselves possess diverse abilities and can "evolve" into stronger forms.

The Pokémon franchise began with the release of the Pokémon Red and Pokémon Green video games for the Game Boy in Japan in 1996 (later released internationally as Pokémon Red and Pokémon Blue). The popularity of the video games quickly expanded to other media, establishing a global phenomenon.

Key elements of the Pokémon universe include:

• Pokémon Types: Pokémon are classified into types (e.g., Fire, Water, Grass, Electric), each with strengths and weaknesses against other types, influencing battle strategy.

• Pokémon Training: Trainers nurture and train Pokémon to improve their abilities and teach them new moves.

• Pokémon Evolution: Many Pokémon can evolve into new, more powerful forms through various means, such as leveling up, using special items, or trading.

• Pokémon Battles: Battles are turn-based, where trainers strategically select moves for their Pokémon to use against opponents.

• Pokémon Collection ("Gotta Catch 'Em All!"): A central theme of the franchise is collecting as many different Pokémon species as possible, encouraging exploration and completion.

The Pokémon franchise is considered one of the most successful media franchises of all time, appealing to a wide audience across different age groups and cultures. It continues to expand with new video games, animated series, and merchandise, maintaining its global presence and influence in popular culture.