20 interesting facts about Pokémon

The world of Pokémon is brimming with secrets and fascinating details often overlooked. This article unveils 20 intriguing Pokémon facts you might find captivating.

The First Pokémon Wasn't Pikachu
A Fact About Spoink
Anime or Game?
Popularity
A Pokémon That Changes Gender
An Interesting Fact About Banette
Pink Delicacy
No Deaths
Capumon
A Fact About Drifloon
A Fact About Cubone
A Fact About Yamask
A Bit About Satoshi Tajiri
Pokémon Are Intelligent Beings
Society and Rituals
The Oldest Sport
Arcanine and Its Legendary Status
The Rarest Type
Pokémon GO
A Fact About Phantump

The First Pokémon Wasn't Pikachu

Many assume Pikachu or Bulbasaur was the first Pokémon created, but the truth is surprising. The creators revealed that Rhydon was the very first character designed.

A Fact About Spoink

Spoink's adorable appearance hides a fascinating detail. Its spring-like legs are crucial to its survival. Each jump accelerates its heartbeat; stopping means its heart stops.

Anime or Game?

Contrary to popular belief, the Pokémon video game predates the anime. The game launched in 1996, with the anime following in 1997. The anime's design influenced subsequent game iterations.

Popularity

Pokémon games are global phenomena. For example, Pokémon Omega Ruby/Alpha Sapphire (2014) sold 10.5 million copies worldwide, while Pokémon X/Y (2012) reached 13.9 million.

A Pokémon That Changes Gender

Azurill possesses the unique ability to change gender. A female Azurill has a 33% chance of evolving into a male.

An Interesting Fact About Banette

Banette, a Ghost-type Pokémon, absorbs negative emotions like anger and resentment. However, it stores these emotions for later use, making it a complex character. Its origin as a discarded doll fuels its vengeful quest.

Pink Delicacy

Beyond battles, Pokémon have culinary uses. In early games, Slowpoke tails were a highly valued and expensive delicacy.

No Deaths

Surprisingly, no Pokémon die in battles. Fights end with unconsciousness or trainer surrender, avoiding fatalities.

Capumon

"Pokémon" wasn't the original name; it was "Capumon," short for "Capsule Monsters." The name was later changed to the now-iconic "Pokémon."

A Fact About Drifloon

Drifloon, a Ghost-type balloon Pokémon, is formed from accumulated souls. Its body expands as it collects more souls, eventually exploding with a screech. It targets children for companionship, preferring lighter ones.

A Fact About Cubone

Cubone's mask is its mother's skull, a poignant detail to its backstory. Under a full moon, it howls in grief, the skull vibrating and emitting a mournful sound.

A Fact About Yamask

Yamask, a Ghost-type Pokémon, was once human and retains memories of its past life. Wearing its mask allows its deceased personality to take control.

A Bit About Satoshi Tajiri

Pokémon creator Satoshi Tajiri was a childhood naturalist, whose passion for insects and video games shaped his iconic creation.

Pokémon Are Intelligent Beings

Many Pokémon understand human speech and communicate among themselves. Gastly and Team Rocket's Meowth are notable exceptions, capable of speaking human languages.