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[[File:2016 Mythical Pokémon Distributions artwork.png|thumb|350px|Artwork depicting a variety of Mythical Pokémon]]
'''Mythical Pokémon''' (Japanese: '''{{tt|幻|まぼろし}}のポケモン''' ''Illusory Pokémon'') are a group of {{OBP|Pokémon|species}} seen so rarely in the [[Pokémon world]] that some question their very existence.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20141019114239/http://www.pokemon.co.jp/ex/pokescrap2014/pokemon もらえるプレゼントを詳しく紹介｜ポケモンスクラップ　オメガルビー・アルファサファイア　幻のポケモンたちをもらおう！　キャンペーン] (Japanese, archive)</ref>

In Japanese media, Mythical Pokémon and [[Legendary Pokémon]] have always been presented as distinct groups. In non-Japanese media prior to Generation V, Mythical Pokémon and Legendary Pokémon were both considered to be Legendary Pokémon (and the term Mythical Pokémon was unused, with some fans calling Mythical Pokémon "Event Legendaries", reflecting how they usually must be obtained at an event, but they are not a subset of them<ref>[https://swordshield.pokemon.com/en-us/expansionpass/features/#legendary-pokemon | New features added in The Isle of Armor and The Crown Tundra | Pokémon Sword and Shield Offical Website]</ref>); since Generation V, the two groups are presented as distinct groups in all official media. In [[Pokémon Ranger: Guardian Signs]], Mythical Pokémon are referred to as '''rare Pokémon'''.

==Overview==
===In the core series===
Mythical Pokémon are regarded as among the rarest in [[Pokémon world]] mythology. Some are seemingly unknown to most people, while others are thought of as stuff of legends. They typically receive minimal exposure during normal gameplay, usually alluded to in vague hints. They are then revealed to players months or years after the debut of their respective [[generation]]. Upon being revealed, they are celebrated across the numerous media, often starring in {{pkmn|movie}}s and being featured prominently in {{pkmn|merchandise}}.

When they are first revealed, Mythical Pokémon cannot be obtained in the [[core series]] games in the course of normal gameplay. They can typically only be obtained by [[Mystery Gift]] (either directly, or using an [[event item]]). They are distributed to players via [[Mystery Gift]] on special occasions such as screenings of Pokémon movies, events in retail stores, online distributions, and the [[Pokémon 20th Anniversary]], or may be received via [[Spin-off Pokémon games|spin-off games]] that feature special connectivity. With few exceptions, Mythical Pokémon have never been obtainable in regular gameplay.

The [[gender]] of every Mythical Pokémon is unknown. Almost all Mythical Pokémon cannot [[Evolution|evolve]], with the exception of {{p|Meltan}}, and most cannot {{pkmn|breeding|breed}}, although {{p|Manaphy}} and {{p|Phione}} can be bred with {{p|Ditto}} to produce {{p|Phione}} {{pkmn|Egg}}s.

Much like [[starter Pokémon]] appear at the beginning of each [[regional Pokédex]] and their generation's portion of the [[National Pokédex]], Mythical Pokémon typically appear at the very end, and Legendary Pokémon immediately before them. The Mythical Pokémon {{p|Victini}} is the only exception, which appears at the start of the [[Unova Pokédex]] as #000, coming before the region's starter Pokémon in the Pokédex.

No Mythical Pokémon is required to complete the [[Pokédex]] for the [[Diploma]], except in {{g|Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire}}, which require the player to obtain {{p|Deoxys}} to complete the [[National Pokédex]] Diploma due to it being available as part of the [[Delta Episode]].

====History====
Despite the first Mythical Pokémon, Mew, being added to the original games right before release, the concept of "illusory monsters" (Mythical Monsters) already existed in [[Satoshi Tajiri]]'s pitch for [[Capsule Monsters]]. They were said to be hard to encounter, hard to catch or be impossible to catch if the player missed their chance. For example, there would be a "Green Dragon" that could only be found rarely in a specific area of a dungeon, and it would have taken around two hours to find and catch.<ref name="ref1">[http://www.glitterberri.com/pokemon-red-blue/early-concept-art/2/ GlitterBerri's Game Translations » Early Concept Art]</ref>

===Statistical average===
Considering [[List of Pokémon with form differences|alternate forms]] and [[Mega Evolution|Mega Evolutions]] as separate Pokémon, counting {{p|Arceus}} once only.
{|
|- style="vertical-align: top"
|
''Including Phione:''
{{BaseStatNoCat|
type=Pokemon|
HP=81.39 |
Attack=109.78 |
Defense=92.91 |
SpAtk=118.00 |
SpDef=99.35 |
Speed=105.52 |
Total=606.96 }}
|
''Excluding Phione:''
{{BaseStatNoCat|
type=Pokemon|
HP=81.45 |
Attack=111.14 |
Defense=93.50 |
SpAtk=119.73 |
SpDef=100.23 |
Speed=106.68 |
Total=612.73 }}
|}

====Multiple Mythical Pokémon====
Sometimes, the player is able to acquire multiple Mythical Pokémon of the same species by trading or transferring them from multiple games, or by attending multiple real-life distributions. There are other instances of multiple Mythical Pokémon:

* It is possible to acquire multiple {{p|Phione}} [[Pokémon Egg|Eggs]] by {{pkmn|breeding}} {{p|Manaphy}} with {{p|Ditto}}.
* The Pokédex states that at the end of {{p|Melmetal}}'s lifespan, its small shards left behind will eventually be reborn as {{p|Meltan}}. This indicates that multiple Meltan are born, but also there could potentially be multiple Melmetal if they [[evolution|evolve]]. Additionally, multiple Meltan are seen together in promotional videos.

===In the anime===
Mythical Pokémon typically make their {{pkmn|anime}} debut in a {{pkmn|movie}}, rather than first appearing in a normal episode. Most are held in very high regard in all forms of canon, though their status varies between the {{pkmn|games}} and anime.

In the anime, they are often only seen by special {{pkmn|Trainer}}s, such as [[Ash Ketchum]] and people who have a special connection to them. Ill-intentioned people often seek to possess them, due to their power and rarity. {{si|Tobias}} is the first {{pkmn|Trainer}} seen to own a Mythical Pokémon in the anime, using the Mythical Pokémon {{p|Darkrai}} and the Legendary Pokémon {{p|Latios}} in the [[Lily of the Valley Conference]]. Another character to own a Mythical Pokémon was {{al|Dia}}, an inhabitant of the [[Ultra Ruin]], who owns the Mythical Pokémon {{p|Zeraora}}. Ash owns a Mythical Pokémon, {{AP|Melmetal}}, which he {{pkmn2|caught}} as a [[Meltan]] in ''[[SM112|Got Meltan?]]'' after it befriended his {{AP|Rowlet}}.

==List of Mythical Pokémon==
Of the {{numpkmn}} Pokémon species, 21 are Mythical Pokémon ({{#expr:(21/{{numpkmn}}*100) round2}}%). Including Phione, there are 22 Mythical Pokémon ({{#expr:(22/{{numpkmn}}*100) round2}}%). Each [[generation]] has introduced at least one Mythical Pokémon.

===Generation I===
One Mythical Pokémon was introduced in [[Generation I]].

====Mew====
[[File:Faraway Island Mew.png|thumb|300px|[[May (game)|May]] encountering {{p|Mew}} on [[Faraway Island]]]]
{{p|Mew}} is a {{type|Psychic}} Mythical Pokémon. It is believed to contain the genetic codes of all Pokémon in its DNA. Initially thought to be extinct, a {{ka|Pokémon Mansion|scientific team}} has reported sightings of it in [[Guyana]]. {{p|Mewtwo}} was created after a series of experiments based on Mew, and is thus considered to be part of a [[Legendary duo]] with it.

Mew established the convention of Mythical Pokémon with its release in {{game|Red and Green|s}}. Its base stat total of 600 and the stat distribution of 100 to each stat also created a trend followed by several Mythical Pokémon released later in the series. Pokémon following this trend include {{p|Celebi}}, {{p|Jirachi}}, {{p|Manaphy}}, [[List of Pokémon with form differences#Shaymin|Land Forme]] {{p|Shaymin}},  and {{p|Victini}}.

Designed by [[Shigeki Morimoto]], it was initially unavailable and unknown to players, before being revealed by [[Satoshi Tajiri]] in the spring of 1996 in an issue of [[CoroCoro]]. Initially, a lottery was held to distribute the Pokémon experimentally to a limited number of players, and a [[Mew (Wizards Promo 47)|promotional card]] was included in the January issue of CoroCoro. Supposed [[Easter egg#Truck|methods]] of obtaining Mew, passed on through word-of-mouth, contributed to the success of the Pokémon series. Its success was mirrored in the west with the eventual release of {{game|Red and Blue|s}}, making Mew a prominent character of the first generation, co-starring in the first animated movie, ''[[M01|Mewtwo Strikes Back]]''.

In {{game|Emerald}}, with the [[Old Sea Chart]] [[event item]], the player can travel to [[Faraway Island]], where they can encounter a wild Mew, after they complete a game of hide-and-seek with it. This is the only time Mew has appeared in the wild (excluding [[glitch]]es).

In {{g|Sun and Moon}}, it can use a unique [[Z-Crystal]] known as the [[Mewnium Z]], which allows it to perform the [[Z-Move]] {{m|Genesis Supernova}}. In Sun and Moon, the Mewnium Z was only available through a [[Pokémon Bank]] promotion, but it is available in {{g|Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon}} by showing a Mew to a man in the Tide Song Hotel in Heahea City.
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===Generation II===
One Mythical Pokémon was introduced in [[Generation II]].

====Celebi====
[[File:Celebi Shrine.png|thumb|left|140px|{{p|Celebi}} sitting on the [[Ilex Forest shrine]]]]
{{p|Celebi}} is a {{2t|Psychic|Grass}}-type Mythical Pokémon. It is referred to as the guardian of forests, protecting and nourishing them as it [[Time travel|travels through time]].

Celebi shares a special connection with the [[Ilex Forest]] in [[Johto]] and the [[Agate Village]]'s {{DL|Agate Village|Relic Forest}} in [[Orre]], having the [[Ilex Forest shrine]] and the [[Relic Stone]] as monuments to honor it in those areas.

Introduced in {{game|Gold and Silver|s}}, Celebi was the second Mythical Pokémon to be released. Created by [[Ken Sugimori]], it was dubbed the "New Mew" soon after being revealed because of its similar size and stats with Mew, as well as the status of being the last in the [[National Pokédex]] as of its generation and being unobtainable through normal gameplay. It first became available in Nintendo Space World 2000 in Japan, with numerous other events coming in the following years worldwide.

In {{game|Crystal}}, if the player has the [[GS Ball]] [[Key Item]], they can encounter a wild Celebi in [[Ilex Forest]]. In the original [[Game Boy Color]] release of Pokémon Crystal, this item was distributed via [[Mobile System GB]] in Japan (it was not available outside of Japan). In the [[Nintendo 3DS]] [[Virtual Console]] release, the player can obtain the GS Ball in normal gameplay in [[Goldenrod City]] after entering the [[Hall of Fame]], making this the second time a Mythical Pokémon can be encountered in normal gameplay (after {{p|Deoxys}} in {{g|Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire}}).

In {{g|Colosseum}}, Celebi appears if the player uses a [[Time Flute]] at the [[Relic Stone]], descending from above and then flying around a [[Shadow Pokémon]] to instantly [[purification|purify]] it. In the Japanese version of the [[Pokémon Colosseum Bonus Disc]], the player can obtain Celebi after purifying all 48 Shadow Pokémon in the game.

It starred in the fourth Pokémon movie, ''[[M04|Celebi: The Voice of the Forest]]''. A Celebi also had a central role in ''[[M13|Zoroark: Master of Illusions]]''. A {{Shiny}} Celebi appeared in ''[[M23|Secrets of the Jungle]]''.
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===Generation III===
Two Mythical Pokémon were introduced in [[Generation III]].

====Jirachi====
[[File:Jirachi Encounter.png|thumb|240px|Encountering {{p|Jirachi}}]]
{{p|Jirachi}} is a {{2t|Steel|Psychic}}-type Mythical Pokémon. It is said to able to grant any wishes written on the tags on its head once awake. It only wakes up for seven days once every thousand years. If in danger, it will fight without waking up.

Jirachi was introduced in {{game|Ruby and Sapphire|s}} and it, like Mew and Celebi, is a {{type|Psychic}} Mythical Pokémon with 100 for each [[base stat]]. It was revealed in 2003 in the context of the sixth movie, ''[[M06|Jirachi: Wish Maker]]'', in which it starred. It first became available in Japan to players who pre-ordered tickets to the movie, with other limited distribution events following throughout the year. Its distribution in the west was altered, as it was included in the [[Pokémon Colosseum Bonus Disc]] in the United States and in [[Pokémon Channel]] in Europe and Australia. Unlike its predecessors, Jirachi does not have an extensive story or event in the core games, with its lore limited to a few indirect [[Mossdeep City|references]].

Jirachi is heavily connected to the real-world Japanese festival of {{wp|Tanabata}}, with several [[List of Tanabata event Pokémon|distributions]] occurring in celebration of the event.
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====Deoxys====
[[File:Ranger 3 Deoxys mission art.png|thumb|240px|left|{{p|Deoxys}} surrounded by {{OBP|Pokémon Ranger|Ranger series}}s]]
{{p|Deoxys}} is a {{type|Psychic}} Mythical Pokémon. It mutated from a space virus when exposed to a laser beam. It is able to change its form, altering its appearance and traits. The crystal on its chest acts as its brain, as well as a defense mechanism.

Although it retained a base stat total of 600, Deoxys was the first Mythical Pokémon to have a base stat distribution other than 100 in every stat. Additionally, Deoxys introduced the concept of [[List of Pokémon with form differences|Formes]] which altered the distribution of stats.

In spite of being included in the preceding games, {{game|Ruby and Sapphire|s}}, Deoxys was first made available in {{game|FireRed and LeafGreen|s}}. Officially revealed in late 2003 as a leading character in ''[[M07|Destiny Deoxys]]'', players were first able to capture Deoxys by use of the [[AuroraTicket]], which provided access to Birth Island, where it appears in-game.

While Deoxys originally had little impact on the story of [[Generation III]], {{pkmn|Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire}} introduced the [[Delta Episode]], a mission following the {{player}}'s first completion of the [[Hoenn League]] in which the player must stop a meteor from hitting the planet by destroying it with a befriended {{p|Rayquaza}}, revealing a Deoxys within. This marked the first time a Mythical Pokémon was available in-game without the need to attend an event or use a download code.

Contrary to its classification in Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, [http://www.pokemoncenter.com/info/Pokemon_Characters PokémonCenter.com] as well as the [[Scholastic]] book ''[[Official Guide to Legendary and Mythical Pokémon]]'' call Deoxys a Legendary Pokémon rather than a Mythical Pokémon.
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===Generation IV===
Four Mythical Pokémon were introduced in [[Generation IV]] (five including {{p|Phione}}).

====Manaphy and Phione====
{{main|Sea guardians}}
[[File:Manaphyphione.png|thumb|200px|right|Artwork of {{p|Manaphy}} and {{p|Phione}} from {{game|Diamond and Pearl|s}}]]
{{p|Manaphy}} is a {{type|Water}} Mythical Pokémon, and {{p|Phione}} is a {{type|Water}} Pokémon. Manaphy are born on cold seafloors, also swimming great distances to return to their birthplace, and are born with a wondrous power to bond with any kind of Pokémon. Phione live in warm seas, using the inflation sac on their heads to search for food and to drift in packs, always returning to the place of their birth. Together, these two Pokémon species make up a Mythical duo of a parent and child.

Manaphy and Phione have the unique ability among Mythical Pokémon to [[Pokémon breeding|breed]] with {{p|Ditto}} in captivity to produce Phione. Phione,  cannot, however, [[evolution|evolve]] into Manaphy. The only legitimate way to obtain a Phione in-game is to breed a Manaphy or another Phione. Phione is the weaker of the two Pokémon, having 80 distributed into each stat instead of 100. It is impossible to get a Manaphy Egg through this method.

Phione's status as a Mythical Pokémon is disputed, with even official sources contradicting one another. Further information can be found [[Phione (Pokémon)#Mythical status|here]].

Manaphy was first made available to those who pre-ordered tickets for ''[[M09|Pokémon Ranger and the Temple of the Sea]]'' in Japan. Anyone who pre-ordered tickets received a voucher which could be redeemed from June 17 to August 31, 2006, to access {{ga|Pokémon Ranger}}'s [[Ranger Net]] mission, "Recover the Precious Egg!". Once completed, a Manaphy Egg could be transferred to {{game|Diamond and Pearl|s}} and hatched. Pokémon Ranger's sequel games, [[Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia]] and [[Pokémon Ranger: Guardian Signs]] have similar downloadable missions where Manaphy Eggs can be transferred to not only Diamond and Pearl but {{g|Platinum}} and {{g|HeartGold and SoulSilver}} as well. Manaphy has since been released through distribution as most other Mythical Pokémon.
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====Darkrai====
[[File:Darkrai Newmoon Island.png|thumb|240px|left|{{p|Darkrai}} on [[Newmoon Island]]]]
{{p|Darkrai}} is a {{type|Dark}} Mythical Pokémon. It chases people and Pokémon away from its territory by causing them to experience deep, nightmarish slumbers. However, it is merely protecting itself, and means no harm. It is particularly active on moonless nights.

Darkrai is heavily connected with the {{status|sleep}} [[status condition]], as reflected by its [[signature Ability]], {{a|Bad Dreams}}, and its [[signature move]] {{m|Dark Void}}. It also learns related moves, such as {{m|Nightmare}}. From [[Generation VII]] onward, Dark Void fails if used by any other Pokémon.

Darkrai has appeared with an antagonistic role in [[Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Time and Explorers of Darkness]] and [[Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Sky]], specifically as an enemy of the Legendary Pokémon {{p|Cresselia}}. In {{game|Diamond and Pearl|s}}, and {{game|Platinum}}, the player must also cure {{tc|Sailor}} [[Eldritch]]'s son of a nightmare using a [[Lunar Wing]] from Cresselia. The two Pokémon's relationship is further cemented in the anime episode ''[[DP104|Sleepless in Pre-Battle!]]'', in which Cresselia is revealed to actively drive Darkrai away from [[Canalave City]]. Collectively, the two Pokémon are known by a fan designator, the {{DL|Legendary duo|lunar duo}}.

Darkrai was officially revealed February 2007, and was first made available to those who owned Pokémon Diamond and Pearl and watched ''[[M10|Pokémon: The Rise of Darkrai]]'' in Japan from release to September 9, 2007. Other distributions were made available afterwards. Notably, in {{game|Platinum}}, an event gave the [[Member Card]] to players over [[Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection]], activating an in-game event which allowed for capture of Darkrai on [[Newmoon Island]].
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====Shaymin====
[[File:Shaymin Gracideas.png|thumb|240px|{{p|Shaymin}} in a field of [[Gracidea]] flowers]]
{{p|Shaymin}} is a {{type|Grass}} Mythical Pokémon. Shaymin live in flower patches and avoid detection by curling up to look like a flowering plant. Shaymin are able to dissolve toxins in the air to transform ruined land into a lush field of flowers. When sensing gratitude, the flowers all over its body burst into bloom.

When exposed to the blooming [[Gracidea|Gracidea flower]] during the daytime, Shaymin becomes Sky Forme Shaymin. Sky Forme has altered stats from its original Land Forme and takes on the {{t|Flying}} type as a secondary type. Shaymin will revert to its Land Forme at night, while {{status|frozen}} or, before [[Generation VII]], when deposited into the [[Pokémon Storage System]].

Shaymin was officially revealed in February 2008 as a star of ''[[M11|Giratina and the Sky Warrior]]'', and in early June 2008, its Sky Forme was revealed. Shaymin was first made available to owners of Pokémon {{game|Diamond and Pearl|s}} during the theatrical showing of the movie in Japan from July 19 to September 30, 2008. Other distributions were later made available, but a notable distribution occurred for North American and PAL players from September 28 to November 8, 2009, through the distribution of the [[List of Key Items in Generation IV|Key Item]] [[Oak's Letter]]. This item allowed players to access [[Seabreak Path]] and capture a Shaymin in [[Flower Paradise]].
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====Arceus====
[[File:Arceus ruins art.png|thumb|left|240px|{{p|Arceus}} at the [[Sinjoh Ruins]]]]
{{p|Arceus}} is a {{type|Normal}} Mythical Pokémon. According to mythology, Arceus emerged from an Egg before the universe even existed, then shaped the world with its 1,000 arms.

Arceus is said to have created the regions of [[Sinnoh]] and [[Ransei]], and may have created the entire [[Pokémon universe]]. According to legend, Arceus also created two [[Legendary trio]]s. First, it created the [[creation trio]]: Dialga, Palkia, and Giratina, to balance time, space, and antimatter. Then, it created the [[lake guardians]]: {{p|Uxie}}, {{p|Mesprit}}, and {{p|Azelf}}, and created spirit, and has since been residing in the [[Hall of Origin]], which will connect to [[Spear Pillar]] when the Azure Flute is played there. As their creator, it is both trios' [[trio master]]. It is unique in this regard, as it is the only Mythical Pokémon to be the master of a Legendary trio, and the only Pokémon to be the master of two.

Arceus is often referenced in [[Sinnoh myths|Sinnoh's mythology]] as the "Original One". Both [[Canalave City]]'s [[Canalave Library|library]] and the [[Plate]]s scattered across Sinnoh describe Arceus' creation of the universe. It receives more exposure in-game than Mythical Pokémon traditionally find. It is the titular character of the upcoming {{g|Legends: Arceus}}, and a major focus of the [[Generation V]] [[Spin-off Pokémon games|spin-off game]] {{g|Conquest}}.

Arceus' [[signature Ability]], {{a|Multitype}}, allows it to [[List of Pokémon with form differences#Arceus|change its form]] and [[type]] depending on which plate it [[held item|holds]]. This will also change the type of its [[signature move]], {{m|Judgment}}.

Arceus was officially revealed on February 14, 2009, and first made available to players on July 18 of that year, the day when ''[[M12|Arceus and the Jewel of Life]]'' premiered in Japan. Arceus was revealed to international audiences on August 3, 2009.
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===Generation V===
Four Mythical Pokémon were introduced in [[Generation V]].

====Victini====
[[File:Victini-Liberty Garden Island.png|thumb|200px|{{p|Victini}} on [[Liberty Garden]]]]
{{p|Victini}} is a {{2t|Psychic|Fire}}-type Mythical Pokémon. It is said that this Pokémon brings victory and that trainers with Victini always win, regardless of the type of encounter. It creates an unlimited supply of energy inside its body, which it shares with those who touch it. When it shares the energy it creates, that being's entire body will be overflowing with power.

Victini is notable for appearing before the starter Pokémon of its [[Generation V|debut generation]], giving it the [[List of Pokémon by Unova Pokédex number|Unova Pokédex number]] #000, a first in the Pokémon series.

Victini was revealed in a preview for [[M14|the fourteenth Pokémon movie]] which was shown at the end of ''[[M13|Zoroark: Master of Illusions]]''. It was made available in-game by use of the [[Liberty Pass]], an [[event item]] which was distributed across varying time periods worldwide. The Liberty Pass allowed players to travel to [[Liberty Garden]]. Once there, the player would be challenged by members of [[Team Plasma]] and could find Victini in the basement of the lighthouse.
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====Keldeo====
[[File:Keldeo event art.png|thumb|200px|left|Artwork of {{p|Keldeo}}'s Ordinary Form]]
{{p|Keldeo}} is a {{2t|Water|Fighting}}-type Mythical Pokémon and the fourth member of the [[Swords of Justice]]. Its initial appearance in {{game|Black and White|s}} as well as the default in [[Pokémon Black and White Versions 2|Black 2 and White 2]] is its Ordinary Form. In Black 2 and White 2, Keldeo has a [[List of Pokémon with form differences#Keldeo|second form]], its Resolute Form. After triggering an event in the [[Pledge Grove]], the other Swords of Justice—{{p|Cobalion}}, {{p|Virizion}}, and {{p|Terrakion}}—will teach Keldeo {{m|Secret Sword}}. It will remain in its Resolute Form as long as it knows Secret Sword.

In [[The Crown Tundra]], Keldeo can be found in [[Ballimere Lake]] after completing [[Sonia]]'s sidequest to catch the other three Swords of Justice. Placing the other Swords of Justice in the player's party and cooking [[curry]] on the small island in the middle of the lake with the cooking pot on it will cause a wild Keldeo to appear, making it the third Mythical Pokémon available in regular gameplay without an event.

Keldeo debuted in the fifteenth Pokémon film ''[[M15|Kyurem VS. The Sword of Justice]]'', along with the other Swords of Justice.
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====Meloetta====
[[File:Meloetta formes.png|thumb|200px|{{p|Meloetta}}'s two Formes]]
{{p|Meloetta}} is a Mythical Pokémon with two different Formes, Aria Forme and Pirouette Forme. Aria Forme is {{2t|Normal|Psychic}}-type while Pirouette Forme is {{2t|Normal|Fighting}}-type. Legend says that it once played a song and danced so lightly, it filled people's hearts with joy. However, when sorrow darkened the world, it lost the melody. At the same time, its red shoes were lost somewhere. Using {{m|Relic Song}} changes its form.

Upon entering the cafe in [[Castelia City]] in the [[core series]] {{pkmn|games}}, a guitarist, who knows of the story, remembers Meloetta's melody. Upon playing it, Meloetta remembers the song that it had danced to.

Meloetta made its anime debut in [[PK23]]. It debuted on TV in its Aria Forme in ''[[BW082|An Epic Defense Force!]]'' and its Pirouette Forme debuted in  ''[[BW087|Expedition to Onix Island!]]''.
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====Genesect====
[[File:Genesect promotional art.png|thumb|left|200px|{{p|Genesect}} using {{m|Techno Blast}}]]
{{p|Genesect}} is a {{2t|Bug|Steel}}-type Mythical Pokémon. Originally an ancient insect Pokémon who was feared as the strongest of hunters more than 300 million years ago, Team Plasma revived it from a [[Fossil]] and altered it with cybernetic upgrades in an attempt to create the strongest Pokémon in existence. It uses special [[Drive]]s to make variations to its signature move, {{m|Techno Blast}}.

Genesect had its anime debut in a group called the [[Genesect Army]] that had escaped from Team Plasma's [[P2 Laboratory]]. They were first seen in {{an|N}}'s visions in ''[[BW110|The Name's N!]]'', and later on starred in the sixteenth Pokémon movie ''[[M16|Genesect and the Legend Awakened]]'', in which they battled Mewtwo in [[New Tork City]].
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===Generation VI===
Three Mythical Pokémon were introduced in [[Generation VI]].

====Diancie====
[[File:Diancie movie artwork.png|thumb|240px|{{p|Diancie}} running from thieves]]
{{p|Diancie}} is a {{2t|Rock|Fairy}}-type Mythical Pokémon. While never shown in the games, it is said to be the result of a {{p|Carbink}} that underwent a mutation. It can create diamonds to protect itself.

Diancie appeared in ''[[M17|Diancie and the Cocoon of Destruction]]'', where it is the princess of the [[Diamond Domain]]. It is given the objective to create a new Heart Diamond for the domain, as the current one is faltering, and seeks Xerneas and its Fairy Aura to gain the power to do so. It is sought after by multiple thieves who desire its diamonds and ultimately gains the power to make a Heart Diamond in an attempt to protect its friends from Yveltal. It appears with three [[Carbink servants]] and an elder Carbink named Dace.

It is the only Mythical Pokémon with the ability to [[Mega Evolution|Mega Evolve]], which allows it to transform into Mega Diancie.
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====Hoopa====
[[File:M18 Hoopa distribution artwork.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Obtaining {{p|Hoopa}} on a [[New Nintendo 3DS]] via [[Mystery Gift]]]]
{{p|Hoopa}} is a Mythical Pokémon that has two Formes. Hoopa Confined, the Mischief Pokémon, is a {{2t|Psychic|Ghost}}-type Pokémon, while Hoopa Unbound, the Djinn Pokémon, is a {{2t|Psychic|Dark}}-type Pokémon. It is said to be able to be able to use its gold rings to warp space in order to take things it likes and carry them away into alternate dimensions. It is also said to have carried away an entire castle in an attempt to steal all of its treasure according to some legends. Using an item known as a [[Prison Bottle]], Hoopa Confined can transform into Hoopa Unbound and remain so for three days, after which it transforms back to Hoopa Confined. It will also transform back if deposited in the PC. Hoopa Unbound was first introduced in {{g|Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire}}. {{m|Hyperspace Fury}} fails if used by any Pokémon other than Hoopa Unbound, such as if used by Hoopa Confined.

Hoopa appeared in ''[[M18|Hoopa and the Clash of Ages]]'' in both its Confined and Unbound forms.
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====Volcanion====
[[File:Volcanion movie artwork.png|thumb|200px|{{p|Volcanion}}]]
{{p|Volcanion}} is a {{2t|Fire|Water}}-type Mythical Pokémon. It uses steam from arms on its back to disappear in fog and blow away mountains. It lives in mountains uninhabited by humans. According to the editor of the [[Lumiose Press]], Volcanion may have an organ unique to it inside its body that is hot enough to instantly vaporize water into steam to use in attacks. There is also a report that suggests that Volcanion may have used its power to destroy a mountain range where Kalos was founded.

It made its anime debut in ''[[M19|Volcanion and the Mechanical Marvel]]'', in which it went on a mission to rescue {{p|Magearna}} from a power-hungry man named [[Alva]]. It initially did not trust humans, but it changed its mind after seeing how Ash was determined to protect Magearna.
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===Generation VII===
Five Mythical Pokémon were introduced in [[Generation VII]].

====Magearna====
[[File:801Magearna.png|thumb|left|200px|{{p|Magearna}}]]
{{p|Magearna}} is a {{2t|Steel|Fairy}}-type Mythical Pokémon. It was made by humans 500 years ago. Its body is entirely metallic and contains tricky machinery and a secret hidden inside. Its core, known as a Soul-Heart, is its true body.

It was first revealed in the March 2016 issue of CoroCoro. It is available via [[List of QR Code in-game event Pokémon in Generation VII#QR Code Magearna|QR code distribution]] for [[Pokémon Sun and Moon]] and [[Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon]], making it the only Mythical Pokémon available through an indefinitely active event.

Magearna has a [[List of Pokémon with form differences#Magearna|second form]] known as its Original Color form. The difference in this form is purely cosmetic; it is gold and red. This form existed in the Generation VII games but was not distributed until [[Generation VIII]], where it can be received as a reward for completing the [[National Pokédex]] in [[Pokémon HOME]].

It acted as one of the main stars of ''[[M19|Volcanion and the Mechanical Marvel]]''. In the film, it is said to have been created by a brilliant scientist named [[Nikola]] five centuries ago. In the present day, it was kidnapped by [[Alva]], a corrupt minister of the [[Azoth Kingdom]] who sought to use Magearna's powers for his own selfish purposes.
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====Marshadow====
[[File:Marshadow Z Move artwork.png|thumb|right|200px|{{p|Marshadow}} using its exclusive [[Z-Move]], {{m|Soul-Stealing 7-Star Strike}}]]
{{p|Marshadow}} is a {{2t|Fighting|Ghost}}-type Mythical Pokémon. Its very existence is the stuff of legends, as very few people have ever seen it. Marshadow is known to travel through the shadows of humans and Pokémon in order to become stronger by copying the power of movements within said shadows. It has a form-like transformation known as Zenith Marshadow which is triggered when its fighting spirit starts burning.

It can utilize a unique Z-Crystal, the [[Marshadium Z]], which allows it to use the Z-Move [[Soul-Stealing 7-Star Strike]]. This Z-Crystal came with a promotional Marshadow in Pokémon Sun and Moon but is also available in Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon by showing Marshadow to a man in the Tide Song Hotel in Heahea City.

Marshadow was officially revealed on April 7, 2017.

Marshadow appeared in ''[[M20|I Choose You!]]'' where it acted as a guide to Ash and his friends.
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====Zeraora====
[[File:Fula City Zeraora.png|thumb|left|200px|{{p|Zeraora}} using {{m|Plasma Fists}}]]
{{p|Zeraora}} is an {{type|Electric}} Mythical Pokémon introduced in {{g|Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon}}. Zeraora can channel a powerful magnetic field trough the electric currents located in its paw-pads. The magnetic field allows it to levitate and fly through the sky and travel as fast as a lightning strike.

It was revealed on April 8, 2018.

Zeraora was again made available for a limited time to celebrate the release of [[The Isle of Armor]] {{FB|Pokémon Sword and Shield|Expansion Pass}} for [[Pokémon Sword and Shield]]. If one million players defeated Zeraora in [[Max Raid Battle]]s on the [[Isle of Armor]], players would get a commemorative {{Shiny}} Zeraora in [[Pokémon HOME]]. 

Zeraora appeared in ''[[M21|The Power of Us]]''.
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====Meltan and Melmetal====
[[File:Melmetal and Meltan.png|thumb|right|200px|{{p|Meltan}} and {{p|Melmetal}}]]
{{p|Meltan}} is a {{type|Steel}} Mythical Pokémon introduced in [[Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!]]. It first appeared in [[Pokémon GO]] on September 21, 2018, by way of large numbers of {{p|Ditto}} disguised as Meltan. Meltan's identity was revealed on September 25, 2018. On October 24, 2018, it was revealed that Meltan can [[evolution|evolve]] into another Steel-type Mythical Pokémon, {{p|Melmetal}}.

Meltan is known to be curious and expressive. It is instinctively drawn to metal that it could absorb, as well as other Meltan, in order to combine and form Melmetal. Melmetal was worshiped in ancient times for creating metal.

Meltan can be caught when opening the [[Mystery Box]] in Pokémon GO, which causes many Meltan to spawn around the player for a limited time. Meltan can only evolve into Melmetal in Pokémon GO, requiring 400 Meltan Candies.

Meltan is the only Pokémon, and by extension the only Mythical Pokémon, that is only obtainable in Pokémon GO. Melmetal was once the same, but has since been distributed as a gift in [[Pokémon HOME]] given for transferring Pokémon from GO using the [[GO Transporter]], this gift is a special Melmetal capable of Gigantamaxing in [[Pokémon Sword and Shield]].

A group of {{OBP|Meltan|recurring}} first appeared in ''[[SM106|Evolving Research!]]''. In ''[[SM112|Got Meltan?]]'', one of them was {{pkmn2|caught}} by {{Ash}}. In ''[[SM138|Final Rivals!]]'', Ash's Meltan evolved into {{AP|Melmetal}} by combining with the other Meltan.
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===Generation VIII===
Unlike previous generations, there were no new Mythical Pokémon in the game data of [[Pokémon Sword and Shield]] when the games were released. However, a new Mythical Pokémon was added to the game in update 1.2.0.
====Zarude====
[[File:Forest of Okoya Zarude.png|thumb|left|200px|{{p|Zarude}}]]
{{p|Zarude}} is a {{2t|Dark|Grass}}-type Mythical Pokémon. It can use  the vines from its body for a variety of purposes such as healing. It is known to live in packs, residing in dense forests. Zarude has a quick wit which its uses in battle along with its claws and other means of attacking.

{{p|Zarude}} was officially revealed on [[Pokémon Day]] 2020. Its silhouette was officially teased by [[The Pokémon Company International]] and [[CoroCoro]].

Zarude was heavily featured in ''[[M23|Secrets of the Jungle]]''.
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==Trivia==
* If {{p|Phione}} is not considered a Mythical Pokémon:
** {{p|Manaphy}} is the only Mythical Pokémon that can breed; as such, it is also the only Mythical Pokémon that is not a member of the {{egg3|Undiscovered}}.
** {{p|Keldeo}} has the lowest base stat total at of all of the fully evolved Mythical Pokémon at 580.
* Every Mythical Pokémon along with [[Special Pokémon]] in [[List of Pokémon by Alola Pokédex number (Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon)|Alola Pokédex]] is marked by a special golden background in its [[Pokédex]] page instead of a regular blue one.
* Mythical Pokémon are almost always unavailable in a regular playthrough of the main series Pokémon games. The only Pokémon to lose this exclusivity are {{p|Deoxys}}, in {{game|Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire|s}}, {{p|Celebi}}, in the [[Virtual Console]] release of {{game|Crystal}}, and {{p|Keldeo}}, in [[The Crown Tundra]].
* {{p|Meltan}} is the only Mythical Pokémon that is capable of [[evolution]].
* {{p|Melmetal}} is the only Mythical Pokémon that has a [[Gigantamax]] form.
* {{p|Diancie}} is the only Mythical Pokémon that is capable of [[Mega Evolution]].
* Excluding {{p|Arceus}}'s alternate forms, there are no {{t|Ground}}-, {{t|Ice}}-, {{t|Poison}}-, or {{t|Dragon}}-type Mythical Pokémon.
* All Mythical Pokémon only have a single possible Ability in each form.
* In {{game2|Diamond|Pearl|Platinum}}, {{p|Dialga}} and {{p|Palkia}} are referred to as "mythical Pokémon" (Japanese: 神話のポケモン ''mythical Pokémon''). However, this predates the use of the term Mythical Pokémon in English and has a different Japanese name.
* [[Generation VIII]] is the only generation in which a new Mythical Pokémon was not present in the debut [[core series]] games' data at launch.
* [[Pokédex]] entries for {{p|Dratini}} state that it was believed to be a mythical Pokémon until it was caught by a {{tc|fisher|fisherman}}.
* {{p|Mew}}'s Pokédex entry in {{eng|Pokémon Stadium}} uses the words 'mythical Pokémon' in its English entry prior to the term being officially used outside Japan.
* {{p|Lugia}} and {{p|Ho-Oh}} were treated similarly to Mythical Pokémon in the core [[Generation III]] games and Diamond, Pearl and Platinum. They cannot be obtained through normal gameplay in these games, nor are they required to complete any Pokédex. Lugia and Ho-Oh have been treated the same as other [[Legendary Pokémon]] in all games starting with {{g|HeartGold and SoulSilver}}.
* Even though {{p|Rotom}} is not a {{pkmn2|Legendary}} or Mythical Pokémon, it is mentioned in the list of Sinnoh's Legendary and Mythical Pokémon from [[Charon]]'s notebook in the chapter ''[[PS430|Unplugging Rotom (Heat, Wash, Mow, Fan, Frost)]]'' from the [[Pokémon Adventures]] manga.
* In the Japanese version of the [[Generation IV]] games, [[Professor Rowan]] refers to {{p|Uxie}}, {{p|Mesprit}}, and {{p|Azelf}} as Mythical Pokémon (Japanese: まぼろしのポケモン), at the [[Canalave Library]]. This was translated as "mirage Pokémon" in English. However, he also refers to them as a Legendary Pokémon later, at [[Lake Verity]].

==In other languages==
{{langtable|color={{Pokémon color light}}|bordercolor={{Pokémon color}}
|ja=幻のポケモン ''Illusory Pokémon''
|zh_yue=幻之寶可夢 ''Waahn-jī Pokémon'' {{tt|*|Games}}<br>夢幻小精靈 ''Muhngwaahn Síujīnglìhng'' {{tt|*|BW125, M03, M19}}<br>夢幻的寵物小精靈 ''Muhngwaahn-dīk Chúngmaht Síujīnglìhng'' {{tt|*|M15, PK24, PS001}}<br>夢幻之寵物小精靈 ''Muhngwaahn-jī Chúngmaht Síujīnglìhng'' {{tt|*|M02}}<br>幻之寵物小精靈 ''Waahn-jī Chúngmaht Síujīnglìhng'' {{tt|*|PK26, M12 Manga, DPPt Pokédex}}<br>傳說小精靈 ''Chyùhnsyut Síujīnglìhng'' {{tt|*|M18}}
|zh_cmn=幻之寶可夢 / 幻之宝可梦 ''Huàn-zhī Pokémon'' {{tt|*|Games}}<br>夢幻神奇寶貝 ''Mènghuàn Shénqíbǎobèi'' {{tt|*|M18, M19 & Adventures chapter 29 (Taiwan)}}<br>夢幻的神奇寶貝 / 梦幻的神奇宝贝 ''Mènghuàn-de Shénqíbǎobèi'' {{tt|*|PK24, PS002, DPPt Pokédex (Taiwan) & M02 Manga (Mainland China)}}<br>夢幻之神奇寶貝 ''Mènghuàn-zhī Shénqíbǎobèi'' {{tt|*|M02, M15 (Taiwan)}}<br>幻影般的神奇寶貝 ''Huànyǐngbān-de Shénqíbǎobèii'' {{tt|*|M03 (Taiwan)}}<br>梦幻宝可梦 ''Mènghuàn Pokémon'' {{tt|*|Adventures chapter 29 (Mainland China)}}<br>梦幻的精灵宝可梦 ''Mènghuàn de jīnglíng Pokémon'' {{tt|*|M02 Poster}}''
|cs=Mýtický Pokémon
|da=Mytisk Pokémon
|nl=Mythische Pokémon
|fi=Myyttinen Pokémon
|fr=Pokémon fabuleux
|de=Mysteriöse Pokémon
|el=Μυθικό Pokémon ''Mythikó Pokémon''
|hi=रहस्यमय पोकेमोन {{tt|''Rahasyamey Pokémon''|Mysterious Pokémon}} {{tt|*|Hungama dub}}<br>फंतासी पोकेमोन ''Fantasy Pokémon'' {{tt|*|M01 (Hungama dub)}}
|hu=Mítikus Pokémon
|it=Pokémon misterioso
|ko=환상의 포켓몬 ''Hwansang-ui Pokémon''
|no=Mytisk Pokémon
|ms=Pokémon Mistikal
|pl=Mityczny Pokémon
|pt=Pokémon mítico
|ru=Мифический Покемон ''Mificheskiy Pokémon''
|es_la=Pokémon mítico
|es_eu=Pokémon singular<br>Pokémon mítico <ref name="ref2">[https://pokemongolive.com/post/kantotourcontestrules Pokémon GO Kanto Tour Contest Rules]</ref>
|sv=Mytisk Pokémon
|th=โปเกมอนมายา ''Pokémon maya''
|vi=Pokémon huyền ảo
}}

''Rare Pokémon''
{{langtable|color={{Pokémon color light}}|bordercolor={{Pokémon color}}
|ja=まぼろしのポケモン ''Illusory Pokémon''
|fr=Pokémon rare
|de=Illusion-Pokémon
|it=Pokémon raro
|es=Pokémon poco común
}}

==See also==
* [[Legendary Pokémon]]
* [[Event Pokémon]]
* [[History of the Pokémon world]]
* [[Sinnoh myths]]
* [[Myths and legends involving Legendary Pokémon]]
* {{cat|Episodes in which a Mythical Pokémon appears}}
* {{cat|Trainers with Mythical Pokémon}}

==References==
{{reflist}}
{{-}}
{{Mythical Pokémon}}

[[Category:Lists of Pokémon]]
[[Category:Pokémon world]]
[[Category:Terminology]]
[[Category:Mythical Pokémon|*]]

[[de:Mysteriöse Pokémon]]
[[es:Pokémon singular]]
[[fr:Pokémon fabuleux]]
[[it:Pokémon misteriosi]]
[[ja:幻のポケモン]]
[[zh:幻之宝可梦]]