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A '''version''' of the Pokémon games is a Pokémon game which follows the now-standard model of a player's journey through a specific [[region]] to collect all of the Pokémon. Collectively, the fourteen games released with the suffix "Version" are known as the '''main series''' of Pokémon games.
The '''core series'''<ref>[https://iwataasks.nintendo.com/interviews/#/3ds/pokemonxy/0/1 Iwata Asks : Pokémon X & Pokémon Y : Pokémon Born Anew]</ref><ref>[http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/02/16/pokemons-master-speaks Pokemon's Master Speaks - IGN]</ref><ref>[https://scarletviolet.pokemon.com/en-us/news/first_partner_pokemon/ Familiar First Partner Pokémon Are Appearing in Spades! — Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet | Official Website]</ref> of [[Pokémon games]], also known as the '''core games'''<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20131008075239/http://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-news/vg_pokemonxy_gf_interview-2013-10-04/ Inside the Minds behind Pokémon!] Pokemon.com, 4 Oct 2013 (archive)</ref><ref>"''You can check the particulars of Pokémon transferred from Pokémon GO as they would appear in core Pokémon games from their status screen.''" (text shown in the mobile version of [[Pokémon HOME]] after [[transfer]]ring Pokémon from [[Pokémon GO]])</ref>, the '''main series''', or the '''Pokémon RPG series'''<ref name="English names" group="lower-alpha">,[https://youtu.be/aQ_qtyOa5Dg?t=2326 The Official Pokémon YouTube channel]: Pokémon 2018 Video Game Press Conference, 30 May 2018<br>'''Masuda:''' ''(speaking about Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!) I believe all of these things kind of illustrate how these games have evolved in somewhat of a different direction compared to the traditional main series Pokémon RPGs. And my goal for these games is really to create a Pokémon RPG for everyone. And I believe that not only have we managed to make these titles great entry games for those who are new to the Pokémon RPG series, but at the same time, really provide a new and fresh experience that long-time fans of the series will enjoy. So it's really my hope that all sorts of people will give these games a try. So that concludes my introduction today for Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!, but before I go I would like to say just one more thing. So at Game Freak we're also hard at work on another all-new core series Pokémon RPG, exclusively for Nintendo Switch.''</ref> is a series of role-playing video games released for [[Nintendo]] systems and the primary series of Pokémon games. The series began with the first installment in the [[Pokémon]] franchise, {{game|Red and Green|s}}, released for the [[Game Boy]] in {{pmin|Japan}} on [[Pokémon Day|February 27]], 1996. Core series games have only been released for {{wp|Handheld game console|handheld systems}}, though this includes the [[Nintendo Switch]], which is both a handheld and a home console.


==Version formula==
The games in this series have traditionally followed a standard model of the {{player}} who initiates their {{pkmn|journey}} through a specific [[region]] to catch and raise {{OBP|Pokémon|species}}, battle other {{pkmn|Trainer}}s, fight against [[villainous team]]s, and earn recognition (usually by collecting [[Badge]]s from [[Gym Leader]]s and becoming the {{pkmn|Champion}} of a [[Pokémon League]]).
All versions follow the same basic plot: The [[Player character|player]] grew up in a small town, and somehow meets the region's native [[Pokémon professor]], who then allows him or her to keep a [[starter Pokémon]], which is always of the {{t|Grass}}, {{t|Fire}}, or {{t|Water}}-type. The player's [[rival]], of course, has or gets the starter Pokémon whose [[type]] is [[super effective]] against that of the player's choice.


From here, the player journeys throughout the region, challenging the eight [[Pokémon Gym]]s and receiving their [[badge]]s upon defeating the [[Gym Leader]]. Usually, a [[villainous team]] will arrive to cause trouble, typically with plans to take over the world and capture [[legendary Pokémon]] to do their bidding.
The Pokémon [[Video Game Championships]] are conducted using the core series games.


After all eight Gym Leaders have been defeated, usually with each allowing for a specific [[HM]] [[move]] to be used outside of battle, the player must head to the [[Pokémon League]], where the [[Elite Four]] and [[Champion]] are waiting. After the [[Generation I]] games, as well, the pathway there will require the player to climb {{m|waterfall}}s to reach their destination.
==Terminology==
===Series title===
In English, the core series has been referred to as the '''main series''', '''Pokémon RPG series''', or '''core series''' in official marketing materials.<ref name="English names" group="lower-alpha"/> However, all Western releases of games use the abbreviation ''Pokémon'' in their titles, regardless of whether they are core series games or {{spin-off games}}.


The games technically are over once the player has become the Champion, however, their [[Pokédex]] still remains to be filled. After this has been done, of course, and the player has talked with the [[Game Freak]] employees who reside within the game, they will receive a [[diploma]]. Starting with [[Generation III]], getting all the [[Trainer card (game)|Trainer card]] stars are needed to get 100% completion of the game.
In Japanese, Korean, and formerly in Chinese, the series is called the '''Pocket Monsters Series''' (Japanese: '''ポケットモンスターシリーズ''',<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20160917190255/http://www.pokemon.co.jp/game-series/ Game Pocket Monster Series | Pocket Monster Official Site] (archive)</ref><ref>[https://www.pokemon.co.jp/game/ GAME LIST]</ref> Korean: '''포켓몬스터 시리즈''',<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20200805135605/https://pokemonkorea.co.kr/?inc=game-game_list&GameGroup=P Pokemon Official Site] (archive)</ref> Chinese: '''精靈寶可夢系列 / 精灵宝可梦系列'''<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CIVoUw0h20w&t=9m30s Nintendo HK Official Youtube channel]: Nintendo SpotLight E3 2017 (附中文字幕), 14 Jun 2017</ref>). On Game Freak's website, it is referred to as the '''main series''' ('''本編シリーズ''') instead.<ref>[https://www.gamefreak.co.jp/works/pokemon/ GAME FREAK official site]</ref> All core series games, except [[Pokémon Legends: Arceus]] and [[Pokémon Legends: Z-A]], contain the full name ''Pocket Monsters'' in their Japanese title, whereas [[side series]] and spin-off games use the abbreviation ''Pokémon'' instead. While the Japanese releases of the [[Pokémon Stadium series]] use ''Pocket Monsters'' in English subtitles, they use ''Pokémon'' in {{wp|kana}} in their Japanese names.


Versions always have a Pokémon that represents them, known as a [[version mascot]]. Since [[Generation II]], as well, this has been a legendary Pokémon that is available in the game.
===Game titles===
====Game versions====
Prior to [[Generation VI]], it was standard for the Western releases of the core series games to include the label "'''Version'''" in their title, such as "Pokémon Red '''Version'''" or "Pokémon Diamond '''Version'''". In Japanese, the word was used sporadically and inconsistently, although it was prominently featured in a title with "Pocket Monsters: Crystal '''Version'''" (Japanese: ポケットモンスタークリスタル'''バージョン'''). Game titles with the word "Version" have also been sometimes written without it in official text, such as "Pokémon Red" or "Pokémon Diamond".


==Paired versions and third versions==
The plural "'''Versions'''" when referring to multiple games has also been used occasionally.<ref group="lower-alpha">''"The Gold, Silver, and Crystal '''Versions''' of Pokémon ARE compatible with Pokémon Stadium 2™ [...]"'' (manual of Pokémon Crystal, page 1)</ref><ref group="lower-alpha">''"This Game Pak can be linked to either Pokémon Ruby or Sapphire '''Version'''. It CANNOT be linked to the Red, Blue, Yellow, Gold, Silver, or Crystal '''Versions'''."'' (manual of Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire, page 3)</ref><ref group="lower-alpha">The core series game titles released from Generation VI onwards do not include the word "Version", such as Pokémon X, Pokémon Omega Ruby, etc.</ref>
Versions are always released in pairs to start a [[generation]], then later, a third game is released that provides more features than the first two, but takes place in the same region with the same storyline with minor alterations. Most often, there are [[version-exclusive Pokémon]] that are available in one of the original two, but not in the other, with a counterpart in the other game, such as is the case with [[Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire|Ruby version]]'s {{p|Zangoose}} and [[Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire|Sapphire version]]'s {{p|Seviper}}. The third version, of course, will have some Pokémon unavailable as well, though these will often be Pokémon that were available in the other two, while the version-exclusives of the original two will often both be available in the third game. [[Generation III]] was the first generation to not only release two sets of paired versions ([[Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire]] and [[Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen]]), but also the first generation to lack a third version for a particular storyline, in this case that of [[Kanto]].


===List of paired and third versions===
====Remake titles====
{| border=1 align="center" style="background: #fff; border:1px solid #000; border-collapse:collapse;"
{{main|Remake|section=Terminology}}
|- style="background: #C0C0FF;"
The names of remakes of core series games are generally derived from the names of the original source games, with a modifier word attached to the front. For instance, {{game|HeartGold and SoulSilver|s}} are remakes of {{game|Gold and Silver|s}}.
! colspan="2" width=66% | Paired versions
 
! width=33% | Third version
====Italicized game titles====
|- style="background: #C0C0FF;"
From [[Generation I]] to {{game|Platinum}}, the Pokémon core series game titles were usually written with no italics in the game manuals and box descriptions. From {{game|HeartGold and SoulSilver|s}} onwards, the titles have been consistently written in italics.<ref group="lower-alpha">''"You can migrate Pokémon caught in the Game Boy Advance™ Pokémon series: ''Pokémon Ruby'', ''Sapphire'', ''Emerald'', ''FireRed'', and ''LeafGreen'' versions [...]" (manual of {{game|HeartGold and SoulSilver|s}})</ref><ref group="lower-alpha">"Various language versions of ''Pokémon Black 2'', ''Pokémon White 2'', ''Pokémon Black'', and ''Pokémon White'' can communicate, battle, and trade with one another."'' (manual of Pokémon Black 2 and White 2, page 4)</ref><ref group="lower-alpha">"This is ''Pokémon Omega Ruby''. The types and likelihood of Pokémon that will appear differ from ''Pokémon Alpha Sapphire''." (back of the box of [[Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire|Pokémon Omega Ruby]])</ref> Game titles are also italicized on the [[Pokémon.com]] website<ref group="lower-alpha">"The launch of ''Pokémon Gold'' and ''Pokémon Silver'' on [[Virtual Console]] has given us the chance to take a second look at some of those classics’ most iconic, fun, and memorable events." [https://www.pokemon.com/us/strategy/ten-cant-miss-activities-in-johto-and-beyond Ten Can’t Miss Activities in Johto and Beyond - Pokémon.com]</ref> and in the creator messages from the [[Pokémon Adventures]] manga<ref group="lower-alpha">"The [[Game Boy]] games [[Pokémon Gold and Silver Versions|''Pokémon Gold'' and ''Silver'']] are now on sale!!" ([[Hidenori Kusaka]], volume 3 of Pokémon Adventures)</ref><ref group="lower-alpha">"You can play [[Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen Versions|''Pokémon FireRed'' and ''LeafGreen'']] in all sorts of ways [...]" (Hidenori Kusaka, volume 18 of Pokémon Adventures)</ref>.
! colspan="3" | [[Generation I]] (Japan)
 
|- align="center"
==Classification==
| rowspan="2" style="background: #F0C0C0;" width=33% | [[Pokémon Red and Green|Red]]
===Content model===
| rowspan="2" style="background: #C0F0C0;" width=33% | [[Pokémon Red and Green|Green]]
While there are no strict rules that make a game a core series game, and previously assumed rules are continuously broken, the games generally have a similar plot structure and {{cat|Game mechanics|mechanics}}.
| style="background: #C0C0F0;" | [[Pokémon Blue (Japanese)|Blue]]
 
|-align="center"
The {{player}} begins the game in a small town or city of a given [[region]], having no {{OBP|Pokémon|species}} of their own. Through a course of events, the player receives a [[first partner Pokémon]], usually from the region's [[Pokémon Professor]]; there are almost always three first partner Pokémon to choose from, with one {{t|Grass}} [[type]], one {{t|Fire}} type, and one {{t|Water}} type, and a character who will become the player's [[rival]] will typically choose (or already have) another member of the trio based on the player's choice.
| style="background: #F0F0C0;" | [[Pokémon Yellow|Yellow]]
 
|- style="background: #C0C0FF;"
After this point, the player begins to journey across the entire region (which contains several settlements like cities and towns, themselves usually connected by [[route]]), {{pkmn2|caught|capturing}} any [[wild Pokémon]] they choose to, and using a [[party]] they assemble to take on other [[Pokémon Trainer]]s. Most regions have eight [[Gym Leader]]s that the player must defeat in order to obtain a [[Badge]] from each one, though in games set in the [[Alola]] region, the player instead participates in the [[island challenge]], and in [[Pokémon Legends: Arceus]], they defeat five frenzied [[noble Pokémon]]. In addition to repeated interactions with their rival, the player must also stop the plans of a [[villainous team]], which often involve the manipulation of [[Legendary Pokémon]].
! colspan="3" | [[Generation I]] (US)
 
|- align="center"
After all eight Gym Leaders have been defeated or the island challenge has been completed, the player can enter the [[Pokémon League]], where the {{pkmn|Champion}} of the region awaits challengers. However, a series of Trainers known as the [[Elite Four]] must usually be defeated in succession before the Champion can be fought. The Champion is often introduced prior to the player's Pokémon League challenge, and may aid the player on their adventure. After defeating the Champion, the player becomes a Champion themself, which is usually honored by their entry into the [[Hall of Fame]]. Pokémon Legends: Arceus is the only game in the core series to not feature the Pokémon League in any form.
| style="background: #F0C0C0;" width=33% | [[Pokémon Red and Blue|Red]]
 
| style="background: #C0C0F0;" width=33% | [[Pokémon Red and Blue|Blue]]
The player's defeat of the Champion can be considered the ending of the game, as it is followed by the [[credits]] being shown. However, there is always post-game content that the player gains access to after this. Often, there is a post-game plotline and locations and facilities that could not be previously accessed become available. Since {{game|Crystal}}, there is usually at least one facility specifically dedicated to {{pkmn|battle|battling}}. The overarching goal is to obtain many species of Pokémon in order to complete the [[Pokédex]]. In the first two generations, every Pokémon species in the game has to be obtained in order to complete the Pokédex, and the player is awarded a [[diploma]] for achieving this. From [[Generation III]] to [[Generation VI]], there are two separate Pokédexes, each with their own diploma as a reward for completing them: the [[regional Pokédex]], which only contains the Pokémon native to the region the game is set in, and the [[National Pokédex]], which is unlocked in the post-game and contains every Pokémon in the game. Starting in [[Generation VII]], the games only contain a regional Pokédex, the completion of which usually rewards the player with a diploma, while the National Pokédex is confined to companion applications like [[Pokémon Bank]] and [[Pokémon HOME]].
| style="background: #F0F0C0;" | [[Pokémon Yellow|Yellow]]
 
|- style="background: #C0C0FF;"
===Release model===
! colspan="3" | [[Generation II]]
While releases continue to break patterns, the release of core series games tends to follow a pattern.
|- align="center"
 
| style="background: #E0D0C0;" width=33% | [[Pokémon Gold and Silver|Gold]]
When a [[generation]] of [[Pokémon games]] begins, a pair of games is always released. These paired versions feature virtually the same storyline as each other, but the [[Version-exclusive Pokémon|available Pokémon]] differ, and some other elements are usually slightly different. This encourages [[Trade|trading]], as it is required in order to complete the [[Pokédex]].
| style="background: #C0D0E0;" width=33% | [[Pokémon Gold and Silver|Silver]]
 
| style="background: #D0F0F0;" | [[Pokémon Crystal|Crystal]]
Many generations feature what Game Freak internally calls an '''upper version''' (Japanese: '''{{j|アッパーバージョン}}''' ''upper version'')<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CldWM5ornc&t=94s Nintendo UK YouTube]: Pokémon Ultra Sun & Pokémon Ultra Moon Introduction – Episode 4 – A new Pokémon adventure awaits, 3 Nov 2017</ref> and what Western fans commonly refer to as a "third version", i.e., a follow-up game or pair of games released after the first games of the generation that takes place in the same [[region]] with added features. These games typically both share and lack certain regional {{OBP|Pokémon|species}} that were available in one or both of the original paired versions; thus, a {{player}} of an upper version must link together with the original pair to complete the regional Pokédex as well. On the contrary, upper versions typically contain certain Pokémon from different regions that are unavailable in the original pair, thus being more helpful in completing the [[National Pokédex]]. Until [[Generation VII]], only a single third version following an original pair was ever released at a time; [[Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon]] were the first of these games to be released as a pair. Unlike other generations, [[Generation V]] opted for a sequel story instead, while [[Generation VI]], [[Generation VIII]], and [[Generation IX]] entirely forwent follow-up games set in the same region, the latter two instead providing additional features to the original pair of games via paid {{wp|downloadable content}}.
|- style="background: #C0C0FF;"
 
! colspan="3" | [[Generation III]]
Sometimes, a secondary set of paired versions that are [[remake]]s of earlier titles may also be released. Starting from Generation VIII, singular version games with the subtitle "Legends" have been released, being original stories taking place in previously visited regions in the distant past and being single-player action RPG titles. Both Generation VIII and Generation IX have released "Legends" games, with Generation VIII releasing [[Pokémon Legends: Arceus]], a game set in [[Sinnoh]] in the past, then known as [[Hisui]], and Generation IX releasing [[Pokémon Legends: Z-A]], a game set in [[Lumiose City]] of the [[Kalos]] region.
|- align="center"
 
| style="background: #F08080;" width=33% | [[Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire|Ruby]]
===Pokémon===
| style="background: #8080F0;" width=33% | [[Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire|Sapphire]]
Most [[generation]]s introduce {{OBP|Pokémon|species}} that [[Evolution|evolve]] into or from previously released Pokémon. Each region typically has mythology related to [[Legendary Pokémon]] that reside there. All generations also introduce at least one [[Mythical Pokémon]], which are almost always [[Event Pokémon|event-exclusive]] upon being introduced but may become available through other means in later generations.
| style="background: #80F080;" | [[Pokémon Emerald|Emerald]]
 
|- align="center"
In all generations, there are some Pokémon that cannot be encountered until after the {{player}} becomes {{pkmn|Champion}}. These are often Legendary Pokémon, such as {{p|Mewtwo}}. These Pokémon may or may not be part of the game's [[regional Pokédex]].
| style="background: #F0C0C0;" width=33% | [[Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen|FireRed]]
 
| style="background: #C0F0C0;" width=33% | [[Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen|LeafGreen]]
Before the release of a new generation, new Pokémon are often used to promote the new {{pkmn|games}} by including them in the {{pkmn|anime}} or in {{spin-off games}}.<!--If/when [[User:Caciulacdlac/Pokémon that appeared before their generation]] enters the mainspace, provide a link in this paragraph.-->
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | &nbsp;
 
|- style="background: #C0C0FF;"
===Box art===
! colspan="3" | [[Generation IV]]
The box art for each game features one {{OBP|Pokémon|species}} which was introduced in that [[generation]] (or, in the case of [[remake]]s, the generation of the original games). This Pokémon is referred to by fans as a [[game mascot]], and with the exception of [[Kanto]]- and [[Hisui]]-based games, it is always the [[Legendary Pokémon]] available in that game at the climax of the storyline.
|- align="center"
 
| style="background: #D0D0F0;" width=33% | [[Pokémon Diamond and Pearl|Diamond]]
In terms of the artwork itself, the international {{game|Red and Blue|s}} and all region releases of the initial paired games of each generation from [[Generation III]] to {{Gen|VII}} use their game mascot's original [[Ken Sugimori]] artwork for their box art, whereas all other core series games use specially made artwork.
| style="background: #F0D0D0;" width=33% | [[Pokémon Diamond and Pearl|Pearl]]
 
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | &nbsp;
The titles in the Japanese games typically use some shade of red and blue for either the characters or outlines of the characters. This is most likely in reference to the first internationally released core games of Pokémon Red and Blue. The DLC Expansion Passes for Pokémon Sword and Shield use green and yellow, likely in reference to both {{game|Red and Green|s}}, along with {{game|Yellow}}.
 
==List of core series games==
{{Bulbanews|Generation I Virtual Console games released in Hong Kong, Taiwan}}
38 core series games have been released in Japanese (22 counting paired releases as single games) and 37 have been released in English, French, Spanish, German, and Italian (21 counting paired releases as single games).
 
In {{pmin|South Korea}}, 28 core series games (15 counting paired releases as single games) have been released in Korean, with the first being {{game|Gold and Silver|s}} in 2002 prior to the foundation of Nintendo of Korea and {{DL|The Pokémon Company|Pokémon Korea, Inc.|Pokémon Korea}} in 2006, followed by {{game|Diamond and Pearl|s}} in 2008. However, at least {{game|Ruby and Sapphire|s}} were released in Japanese,<ref>[https://bbs.ruliweb.com/game/81921/read/7738840 South Korean blog with official and localized Ruby and Sapphire material]</ref> hence the lack of language restrictions in the Korean [[Pal Park]].
 
In {{pmin|Greater China}}, 13 core series games (7 counting paired releases as single games) have been released in both Simplified and Traditional Chinese, with the first being {{g|Sun and Moon}} in 2016. However, the Japanese versions of {{game4|Red|Green|Blue|Yellow}} as well as of {{game2|Gold|Silver|Crystal}} were released in specific Chinese-speaking territories like Taiwan and Hong Kong.
 
{| class="roundy" style="margin:auto; background-color:#e6e6ff; border: 3px solid #88a; white-space:nowrap"
!
! colspan="2" style="background:#ccf; {{roundytl|5px}}" | Original versions
! colspan="2" style="background:#ccf" | Upper versions and expansions
! colspan="2" style="background:#ccf; {{roundytr|5px}}" | Remakes
|-
! rowspan="2" style="background:#{{kanto color light}}; {{roundytl|5px}}" | {{color2|000|Generation I}}<br/><small>(Japan)</small>
| rowspan="2" style="background:#{{red color light}}; width: 20%" | {{colorswatch|{{red color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Red and Green Versions|Red}}}}
| rowspan="2" style="background:#{{green color light}}; width: 20%" | {{colorswatch|{{green color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Red and Green Versions|Green}}}}
| colspan="2" style="background:#{{blue color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{blue color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Blue Version (Japanese)|Blue}}}}
|-
| colspan="2" style="background:#{{yellow color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{yellow color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Yellow Version|Pikachu}}}}
|-
! style="background:#{{kanto color}}" | {{color2|000|Generation I}}<br/><small>(West)</small>
| style="background:#{{red color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{red color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Red and Blue Versions|Red}}}}
| style="background:#{{blue color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{blue color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Red and Blue Versions|Blue}}}}
| colspan="2" style="background:#{{yellow color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{yellow color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Yellow Version|Yellow: Special Pikachu Edition}}}}
|-
! style="background:#{{johto color}}; padding:5px" | {{color2|000|Generation II}}
| style="background:#{{gold color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{gold color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Gold and Silver Versions|Gold}}}}
| style="background:#{{silver color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{silver color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Gold and Silver Versions|Silver}}}}
| colspan="2" style="background:#{{crystal color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{crystal color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Crystal Version|Crystal}}}}
|-
! style="background:#{{hoenn color}}; padding:5px" | {{color2|000|Generation III}}
| style="background:#{{ruby color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{ruby color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire Versions|Ruby}}}}
| style="background:#{{sapphire color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{sapphire color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire Versions|Sapphire}}}}
| colspan="2" style="background:#{{emerald color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{emerald color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Emerald Version|Emerald}}}}
| style="background:#{{firered color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{firered color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen Versions|FireRed}}}}
| style="background:#{{leafgreen color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{leafgreen color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen Versions|LeafGreen}}}}
|-
! style="background:#{{sinnoh color}}; padding:5px" | {{color2|000|Generation IV}}
| style="background:#{{diamond color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{diamond color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Diamond and Pearl Versions|Diamond}}}}
| style="background:#{{pearl color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{pearl color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Diamond and Pearl Versions|Pearl}}}}
| colspan="2" style="background:#{{platinum color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{platinum color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Platinum Version|Platinum}}}}
| style="background:#{{heartgold color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{heartgold color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver Versions|HeartGold}}}}
| style="background:#{{soulsilver color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{soulsilver color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver Versions|SoulSilver}}}}
|-
! rowspan="2" style="background:#{{unova color}}; padding:5px" | {{color2|000|Generation V}}
| style="background:#{{black color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{black color}}|{{color2|FFFFFF|Pokémon Black and White Versions|Black}}}}
| style="background:#{{white color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{white color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Black and White Versions |White}}}}
|-
| style="background:#{{black 2 color light}}; width: 20%" | {{colorswatch|{{black 2 color}}|{{color2|FFFFFF|Pokémon Black and White Versions 2|Black 2}}}}
| style="background:#{{white 2 color light}}; width: 20%" | {{colorswatch|{{white 2 color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Black and White Versions 2|White 2}}}}
|-
! style="background:#{{kalos color}}; padding:5px" | {{color2|000|Generation VI}}
| style="background:#{{x color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{x color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon X and Y|X}}}}
| style="background:#{{y color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{y color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon X and Y|Y}}}}
!
!
| style="background:#{{omega ruby color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{omega ruby color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire|Omega Ruby}}}}
| style="background:#{{alpha sapphire color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{alpha sapphire color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire|Alpha Sapphire}}}}
|-
! style="background:#{{alola color}}; padding:5px" | {{color2|000|Generation VII}}
| style="background:#{{sun color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{sun color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Sun and Moon|Sun}}}}
| style="background:#{{moon color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{moon color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Sun and Moon|Moon}}}}
| style="background:#{{ultra sun color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{ultra sun color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon|Ultra Sun}}}}
| style="background:#{{ultra moon color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{ultra moon color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon|Ultra Moon}}}}
| style="background:#{{Let's Go Pikachu color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{Let's Go Pikachu color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!|Let's Go, Pikachu!}}}}
| style="background:#{{Let's Go Eevee color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{Let's Go Eevee color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!|Let's Go, Eevee!}}}}
|-
! rowspan="2" style="background:#{{galar color}}; padding:5px" | {{color2|000|Generation VIII}}
| style="background:#{{sword color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{sword color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Sword and Shield|Sword}}}}
| style="background:#{{shield color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{shield color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Sword and Shield|Shield}}}}
| style="background:#{{Isle of Armor color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{Isle of Armor color}}|{{color2|000000|The Isle of Armor}}}}
| style="background:#{{Crown Tundra color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{Crown Tundra color}}|{{color2|000000|The Crown Tundra}}}}
| style="background:#{{brilliant diamond color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{brilliant diamond color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl|Brilliant Diamond}}}}
| style="background:#{{shining pearl color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{shining pearl color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl|Shining Pearl}}}}
|-
| colspan="2" style="background:#{{legends arceus color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{legends arceus color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Legends: Arceus|Legends: Arceus}}}}
|-
|-
! rowspan="2" style="background:#{{paldea color}}; {{roundybl|5px}} padding:5px" | {{color2|000|Generation IX}}
| style="background:#{{scarlet color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{scarlet color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Scarlet and Violet|Scarlet}}}}
| style="background:#{{violet color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{violet color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Scarlet and Violet|Violet}}}}
| style="background:#{{Teal Mask color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{Teal Mask color}}|{{color2|000000|The Teal Mask}}}}
| style="background:#{{Indigo Disk color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{Indigo Disk color}}|{{color2|000000|The Indigo Disk}}}}
|-
| colspan="2" style="background:#{{unknown color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{unknown color}}|{{color2|000000|Pokémon Legends: Z-A|Legends: Z-A}}}}
|-
|}
|}


{{games}}
===Trademarks===
[[Category:Pokémon meta]]
[[Nintendo]], [[Creatures, Inc.|Creatures]], and [[Game Freak]] have trademarked several titles with the {{wp|Japan Patent Office}} which have not currently been used but which fit the naming scheme of the core series games. The following information comes from the [https://www.j-platpat.inpit.go.jp/ Japan Platform for Patent Information]:
[[Category:Games]]
{| class="wikitable sortable"
! English || Japanese || Application no. || Registration no.
|-
| Pocket Monsters Topaz || {{j|ポケットモンスタートパーズ}} || 2002-063587 || 4677891
|-
| Pocket Monsters Tourmaline || {{j|ポケットモンスタートルマリン}} || 2002-063588 || 4684698
|-
| Pocket Monsters Amethyst || {{j|ポケットモンスターアメジスト}} || 2002-063589 || 4677892
|-
| Pocket Monsters Moonstone || {{j|ポケットモンスタームーンストーン}} || 2002-063590 || 4684699
|-
| Pocket Monsters White Gold || {{j|ポケットモンスターホワイトゴールド}} || 2002-063591 || 4677893
|-
| Pocket Monsters Yellow || {{j|ポケットモンスター{{ruby|黄|き}}}} || 2008-093268 || 5222903
|-
| Pocket Monsters Black || {{j|ポケットモンスター{{ruby|黒|くろ}}}} || 2008-093269 || 5222904
|-
| Pocket Monsters Brown || {{j|ポケットモンスター{{ruby|茶|ちゃ}}}} || 2008-093270 || 5222905
|-
| Pocket Monsters White || {{j|ポケットモンスター{{ruby|白|しろ}}}} || 2008-093271 || 5222906
|-
| Pocket Monsters Gray/Grey || {{j|ポケットモンスター{{ruby|灰|はい}}}} || 2008-093272 || 5222907
|-
| Pocket Monsters Vermilion || {{j|ポケットモンスター{{ruby|朱|しゅ}}}} || 2008-093273 || 5222908
|-
| Pocket Monsters Purple || {{j|ポケットモンスター{{ruby|紫|むらさき}}}} || 2008-093274 || 5222909
|-
| Pocket Monsters Crimson || {{j|ポケットモンスター{{ruby|紅|くれない}}}} || 2008-093275 || 5222910
|-
| Pocket Monsters Scarlet || {{j|ポケットモンスター{{ruby|緋|ひ}}}} || 2008-093276 || 5222911
|-
| Gray<ref group="lower-alpha">[https://www.j-platpat.inpit.go.jp/c1800/TR/JP-2008-094459/0549E54F3F3E9B7792E34AB965204599B35C94ED6B3ECB167B5A4B75449BFE5B/40/en Specifically trademarked with this English spelling]</ref> || {{j|グレー}} || 2008-094459 || 5406253
|-
| Pocket Monsters Red || {{j|ポケットモンスターレッド}} || 2009-060068 || 5341298
|-
| Pocket Monsters Green || {{j|ポケットモンスターグリーン}} || 2009-060069 || 5293290
|-
| Pocket Monsters Blue || {{j|ポケットモンスターブルー}} || 2009-060070 || 5307992
|-
| Pocket Monsters Yellow || {{j|ポケットモンスターイエロー}} || 2009-060071 || 5341299
|-
| Pocket Monsters Brown || {{j|ポケットモンスターブラウン}} || 2009-060073 || 5307993
|-
| Pocket Monsters Gray/Grey || {{j|ポケットモンスターグレー}} || 2009-060075 || 5341302
|-
| Pocket Monsters Vermilion || {{j|ポケットモンスターヴァーミリオン}} || 2009-060076 || 5307994
|-
| Pocket Monsters Purple || {{j|ポケットモンスターパープル}} || 2009-060077 || 5307995
|-
| Pocket Monsters Crimson || {{j|ポケットモンスタークリムゾン}} || 2009-060078 || 5341303
|-
| Pocket Monsters Scarlet || {{j|ポケットモンスタースカーレット}} || 2009-060079 || 5341304
|-
| Delta Emerald<ref>[http://blog.esuteru.com/archives/7702200.html はちま起稿]</ref> || {{j|デルタエメラルド}} || 2014-035118 || 5701924
|}
 
The 2002 trademarks were filed around the same time as trademarks for {{game5|Ruby|Sapphire|Emerald|Diamond|Pearl}}, and are all the English names of minerals written in {{wp|katakana}} ({{wp|topaz}}, {{wp|tourmaline}}, {{wp|amethyst}}, {{wp|Moonstone (gemstone)|moonstone}}, and {{wp|Colored gold#White gold|white gold}}). The 2008 trademarks were filed alongside trademarks for {{game2|Red|Green|Blue}}, and are all the Japanese names of colors written with a single {{wp|kanji}}. The 2009 trademarks were filed alongside trademarks for Black, White, and Scarlet, and are all the English names of colors written in katakana. Of these, {{wp|vermilion}}, {{wp|crimson}}, and {{wp|Scarlet (color)|scarlet}} are shades of red.
 
{{game|FireRed and LeafGreen|s}} and Pokémon Diamond and Pearl were planned alongside Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20231206075640/https://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2017/08/14/why-ruby-and-sapphire-were-the-most-challenging-pokemon-to-make.aspx Game Informer interview from August 14, 2017]</ref> Despite being released after Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen and before Pokémon Diamond and Pearl, Pokémon Emerald was trademarked earlier than Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire.<ref>[https://www.j-platpat.inpit.go.jp/c1800/TR/JP-2002-050145/26314A9E0BC78B5B0D7F8543A61BB8312D62E79E37F94E8E848334A9E2BD2AD9/40/en Emerald trademark]</ref><ref>[https://www.j-platpat.inpit.go.jp/c1800/TR/JP-2002-060454/F17938D242934C819A212E530954DBD72B7206BDDA3B708142623200C37F6B04/40/en Ruby trademark]</ref><ref>[https://www.j-platpat.inpit.go.jp/c1800/TR/JP-2002-060455/D8C3113D5A2C217CBCD881B0E3F7C0F43725A74E85D4A59F489447EBF2709D8A/40/en Sapphire trademark]</ref>
 
Contrary to what is sometimes reported, an equivalent to Blue matching the pattern of FireRed and LeafGreen was not trademarked by Nintendo, Creatures, or Game Freak. However, Game Freak's [[Junichi Masuda]] mentioned {{j|「ＷＡＴＥＲ　ＢＬＵＥ」}} in Japanese and "WaterBlue" in English on an August 2004 blog post explaining the company's choice of "FireRed" and "LeafGreen" as both the Japanese and international titles for the remakes of {{game|Red and Green|s}}.<ref>[https://www.gamefreak.co.jp/blog/dir/2004/08/index.html Junichi Masuda's old official blog (Japanese)]</ref><ref>[https://www.gamefreak.co.jp/blog/dir_english/2004/08/index.html Junichi Masuda's old official blog (English)]</ref>
 
The Delta Emerald trademark has been commonly misreported as "Pokémon Delta Emerald", but this latter name was not trademarked. The name might suggest a relation to the [[Delta Episode]] in {{g|Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire}}, which features references to Pokémon Emerald.
 
[[Tsunekazu Ishihara]] and Junichi Masuda have explained why upper version counterparts to {{game|Black and White|s}}<ref>[https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ds/interview/irej/vol1/index.html Iwata Asks about Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 (Nintendo)]</ref><ref>[https://iwataasks.nintendo.com/interviews/ds/pokemon-black2-white2/0/0/ Iwata Asks about Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 (Nintendo of America)]</ref><ref>[https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Iwata-Asks/Iwata-Asks-Pokemon-Black-Version-2-and-Pokemon-White-Version-2/Iwata-Asks-Pokemon-Black-Version-2-and-Pokemon-White-Version-2/1-Two-Sequels-Two-Years-Later/1-Two-Sequels-Two-Years-Later-663651.html Iwata Asks about Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 (Nintendo of Europe)]</ref><ref name="DrLava">[https://lavacutcontent.com/masuda-ohmori-pokemon-gray/ Dr. Lava's translation of a Spanish Official Nintendo Magazine interview from late 2016]</ref><ref>[https://old.reddit.com/r/pokemon/comments/6ucln2/ama_with_game_informer_magazine_about_their_trip/dlrpo58/ Reddit AMA by Game Informer on their visit to Game Freak from August 2017]</ref> or {{g|X and Y}}<ref name="DrLava"/> did not materialize. In the case of the hypothetical Pokémon Gray or Grey Version, Game Freak decided to instead develop {{B2W2}} to surprise fans (though Black 2 and White 2 were later considered upper versions in some promotional material for the [[Pokémon Sword and Shield Expansion Pass]]), while the potential Pokémon Z was passed over in favor of {{g|Sun and Moon}} being designed for the [[Pokémon 20th Anniversary]] as another surprise.
 
{{wp|Eurogamer}} published an article in early June 2017 describing a "clerical error" by [[The Pokémon Company]], which initially listed {{g|Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon}} as Nintendo Switch titles alongside being [[Nintendo 3DS]] titles during their announcement.<ref>[https://www.eurogamer.net/pokken-tournament-headed-to-nintendo-switch Eurogamer (June 6, 2017)]</ref>
 
==Connectivity==
Certain [[demo]]s of core series games allow players to receive special Pokémon and [[item]]s:
* '''[[Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire Special Demo Version]]''': Allows players to receive a {{p|Steelix}} and/or a {{p|Glalie}} with their respective [[Mega Stone]]s in {{g|Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire}}.
* '''[[Pokémon Sun and Pokémon Moon Special Demo Version]]''': Allows players to receive a {{p|Greninja}} with the Ability {{a|Battle Bond}} in {{g|Sun and Moon}}.
 
Each of the [[side series]] games allow players to transfer their Pokémon and items to and from the core series or receive Pokémon and items to bring back to core series games:
* '''[[Pokémon Stadium]]''': Allows players to transfer their Pokémon from the [[Generation I]] core series games to battle in 3D.
* '''[[Pokémon Stadium 2]]''': Allows players to transfer their Pokémon from the Generation I and [[Generation II]] core series games to battle in 3D.
* '''[[Pokémon Box Ruby & Sapphire]]''': Allows players to store their Pokémon from the [[Generation III]] core series games.
* '''[[Pokémon Colosseum]]''' and '''[[Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness]]''': Can trade Pokémon with the Generation III core series games.
* '''[[Pokémon Battle Revolution]]''': Allows players to transfer their Pokémon from the [[Generation IV]] core series games to battle in 3D.
* '''[[My Pokémon Ranch]]''': Allows players to store their Pokémon from {{game|Diamond and Pearl|s}} (and from {{game|Platinum}} in Japan).
* '''[[Pokéwalker]]''': Allows players to store their Pokémon from {{game|HeartGold and SoulSilver|s}} to gain experience by walking. Additionally, Pokémon caught in the Pokéwalker can be transferred to Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver.
* '''[[Pokémon Dream World]]''': Allows players to send Pokémon caught in this game to the [[Generation V]] core series games.
* '''[[Pokémon Dream Radar]]''': Allows players to send Pokémon caught in this game to {{B2W2}}.
* '''[[Poké Transporter]]''': Allows players to transfer their Pokémon from the Generation V games, and the Generation I and II games on [[Nintendo 3DS]] [[Virtual Console]], to Pokémon Bank.
* '''[[Pokémon Bank]]''': Allows players to store their Pokémon from [[Generation VI]] and [[Generation VII]] core series games.
* '''[[Pokémon HOME]]''': Allows players to store their Pokémon from core series [[Nintendo Switch]] games, and can also receive transferred Pokémon from Pokémon Bank and {{g|GO}}.
 
Some {{spin-off games}} allow players to receive items or special Pokémon in the core series:
* '''[[Pokémon Pikachu 2 GS]]''': Allows players to convert [[Watt]]s accumulated by walking into items to be sent to the Generation II games.
* '''[[Pokémon Channel]]''': In the European and Australian versions of the game, it allows players to receive a gift {{p|Jirachi}} in the Generation III core series games.
* '''[[Pokémon Ranger series]]''': Allows players to receive a special {{p|Manaphy}} Egg and other special Pokémon in the Generation IV core series games through [[Ranger Net]] missions.
* '''[[Pokémon GO]]''': Allows players to transfer Generation I Pokémon, [[Alolan form]]s, {{p|Meltan}}, and {{p|Melmetal}}<ref>[https://www.pokemon.co.jp/ex/pika_vee/pokemongo/connect_en.html] How to transfer Pokémon from Pokémon GO to Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee!</ref> caught in this game to {{LGPE}}. Allows players to transfer most Pokémon caught in this game to Pokémon HOME via the [[GO Transporter]].
* '''[[Pokémon Pass]]''': Allows players to receive [[serial code]]s for certain [[event Pokémon]].
 
==Timeline==
{{main|History of the Pokémon world}}
 
==See also==
* [[Spin-off Pokémon games]]
** [[Pokémon Mystery Dungeon series]]
** [[Pokémon Ranger series]]
** [[Pokémon Rumble series]]
** [[Super Smash Bros. series]]
* [[Pokémon Stadium series]]
 
==Notes==
<references group="lower-alpha" />
 
==References==
{{reflist}}
 
==External links==
* [https://www.pokemon.co.jp/game/ The Pokémon Company website game list]: has "Pocket Monsters Series" filter <small>(Japanese)</small>
** [https://web.archive.org/web/20160917190255/http://www.pokemon.co.jp/game-series/ The Pokémon Company "Pocket Monsters Series" page] (archive) <small>(Japanese)</small>
** [https://web.archive.org/web/20200420161310/https://www.pokemon.co.jp/game/title/series/ The Pokémon Company "Pocket Monsters Series" product list] (archive) <small>(Japanese)</small>
* [http://pokemonkorea.co.kr/game/category/1 Pokémon Korea website section] <small>(Korean)</small>
* [http://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-video-games/all-pokemon-games/ The Pokémon Company International website all-games section]
* [https://www.nintendo.co.jp/software/feature/pokemon.html Nintendo subsite for Pokémon games] <small>(Japanese)</small>
 
{{Core series}}
{{Project Games notice}}
 
[[Category:Game series]]
 
[[de:Spiele#Hauptspiele]]
[[fr:Jeux principaux]]
[[it:Serie principale]]
[[zh:宝可梦系列]]

Latest revision as of 00:38, 21 August 2024

The core series[1][2][3] of Pokémon games, also known as the core games[4][5], the main series, or the Pokémon RPG series[a] is a series of role-playing video games released for Nintendo systems and the primary series of Pokémon games. The series began with the first installment in the Pokémon franchise, Pokémon Red and Green, released for the Game Boy in Japan on February 27, 1996. Core series games have only been released for handheld systems, though this includes the Nintendo Switch, which is both a handheld and a home console.

The games in this series have traditionally followed a standard model of the player who initiates their journey through a specific region to catch and raise Pokémon, battle other Trainers, fight against villainous teams, and earn recognition (usually by collecting Badges from Gym Leaders and becoming the Champion of a Pokémon League).

The Pokémon Video Game Championships are conducted using the core series games.

Terminology

Series title

In English, the core series has been referred to as the main series, Pokémon RPG series, or core series in official marketing materials.[a] However, all Western releases of games use the abbreviation Pokémon in their titles, regardless of whether they are core series games or spin-off games.

In Japanese, Korean, and formerly in Chinese, the series is called the Pocket Monsters Series (Japanese: ポケットモンスターシリーズ,[6][7] Korean: 포켓몬스터 시리즈,[8] Chinese: 精靈寶可夢系列 / 精灵宝可梦系列[9]). On Game Freak's website, it is referred to as the main series (本編シリーズ) instead.[10] All core series games, except Pokémon Legends: Arceus and Pokémon Legends: Z-A, contain the full name Pocket Monsters in their Japanese title, whereas side series and spin-off games use the abbreviation Pokémon instead. While the Japanese releases of the Pokémon Stadium series use Pocket Monsters in English subtitles, they use Pokémon in kana in their Japanese names.

Game titles

Game versions

Prior to Generation VI, it was standard for the Western releases of the core series games to include the label "Version" in their title, such as "Pokémon Red Version" or "Pokémon Diamond Version". In Japanese, the word was used sporadically and inconsistently, although it was prominently featured in a title with "Pocket Monsters: Crystal Version" (Japanese: ポケットモンスタークリスタルバージョン). Game titles with the word "Version" have also been sometimes written without it in official text, such as "Pokémon Red" or "Pokémon Diamond".

The plural "Versions" when referring to multiple games has also been used occasionally.[b][c][d]

Remake titles

Main article: Remake → Terminology

The names of remakes of core series games are generally derived from the names of the original source games, with a modifier word attached to the front. For instance, Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver are remakes of Pokémon Gold and Silver.

Italicized game titles

From Generation I to Pokémon Platinum, the Pokémon core series game titles were usually written with no italics in the game manuals and box descriptions. From Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver onwards, the titles have been consistently written in italics.[e][f][g] Game titles are also italicized on the Pokémon.com website[h] and in the creator messages from the Pokémon Adventures manga[i][j].

Classification

Content model

While there are no strict rules that make a game a core series game, and previously assumed rules are continuously broken, the games generally have a similar plot structure and mechanics.

The player begins the game in a small town or city of a given region, having no Pokémon of their own. Through a course of events, the player receives a first partner Pokémon, usually from the region's Pokémon Professor; there are almost always three first partner Pokémon to choose from, with one Grass type, one Fire type, and one Water type, and a character who will become the player's rival will typically choose (or already have) another member of the trio based on the player's choice.

After this point, the player begins to journey across the entire region (which contains several settlements like cities and towns, themselves usually connected by route), capturing any wild Pokémon they choose to, and using a party they assemble to take on other Pokémon Trainers. Most regions have eight Gym Leaders that the player must defeat in order to obtain a Badge from each one, though in games set in the Alola region, the player instead participates in the island challenge, and in Pokémon Legends: Arceus, they defeat five frenzied noble Pokémon. In addition to repeated interactions with their rival, the player must also stop the plans of a villainous team, which often involve the manipulation of Legendary Pokémon.

After all eight Gym Leaders have been defeated or the island challenge has been completed, the player can enter the Pokémon League, where the Champion of the region awaits challengers. However, a series of Trainers known as the Elite Four must usually be defeated in succession before the Champion can be fought. The Champion is often introduced prior to the player's Pokémon League challenge, and may aid the player on their adventure. After defeating the Champion, the player becomes a Champion themself, which is usually honored by their entry into the Hall of Fame. Pokémon Legends: Arceus is the only game in the core series to not feature the Pokémon League in any form.

The player's defeat of the Champion can be considered the ending of the game, as it is followed by the credits being shown. However, there is always post-game content that the player gains access to after this. Often, there is a post-game plotline and locations and facilities that could not be previously accessed become available. Since Pokémon Crystal, there is usually at least one facility specifically dedicated to battling. The overarching goal is to obtain many species of Pokémon in order to complete the Pokédex. In the first two generations, every Pokémon species in the game has to be obtained in order to complete the Pokédex, and the player is awarded a diploma for achieving this. From Generation III to Generation VI, there are two separate Pokédexes, each with their own diploma as a reward for completing them: the regional Pokédex, which only contains the Pokémon native to the region the game is set in, and the National Pokédex, which is unlocked in the post-game and contains every Pokémon in the game. Starting in Generation VII, the games only contain a regional Pokédex, the completion of which usually rewards the player with a diploma, while the National Pokédex is confined to companion applications like Pokémon Bank and Pokémon HOME.

Release model

While releases continue to break patterns, the release of core series games tends to follow a pattern.

When a generation of Pokémon games begins, a pair of games is always released. These paired versions feature virtually the same storyline as each other, but the available Pokémon differ, and some other elements are usually slightly different. This encourages trading, as it is required in order to complete the Pokédex.

Many generations feature what Game Freak internally calls an upper version (Japanese: アッパーバージョン upper version)[11] and what Western fans commonly refer to as a "third version", i.e., a follow-up game or pair of games released after the first games of the generation that takes place in the same region with added features. These games typically both share and lack certain regional Pokémon that were available in one or both of the original paired versions; thus, a player of an upper version must link together with the original pair to complete the regional Pokédex as well. On the contrary, upper versions typically contain certain Pokémon from different regions that are unavailable in the original pair, thus being more helpful in completing the National Pokédex. Until Generation VII, only a single third version following an original pair was ever released at a time; Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon were the first of these games to be released as a pair. Unlike other generations, Generation V opted for a sequel story instead, while Generation VI, Generation VIII, and Generation IX entirely forwent follow-up games set in the same region, the latter two instead providing additional features to the original pair of games via paid downloadable content.

Sometimes, a secondary set of paired versions that are remakes of earlier titles may also be released. Starting from Generation VIII, singular version games with the subtitle "Legends" have been released, being original stories taking place in previously visited regions in the distant past and being single-player action RPG titles. Both Generation VIII and Generation IX have released "Legends" games, with Generation VIII releasing Pokémon Legends: Arceus, a game set in Sinnoh in the past, then known as Hisui, and Generation IX releasing Pokémon Legends: Z-A, a game set in Lumiose City of the Kalos region.

Pokémon

Most generations introduce Pokémon that evolve into or from previously released Pokémon. Each region typically has mythology related to Legendary Pokémon that reside there. All generations also introduce at least one Mythical Pokémon, which are almost always event-exclusive upon being introduced but may become available through other means in later generations.

In all generations, there are some Pokémon that cannot be encountered until after the player becomes Champion. These are often Legendary Pokémon, such as Mewtwo. These Pokémon may or may not be part of the game's regional Pokédex.

Before the release of a new generation, new Pokémon are often used to promote the new games by including them in the anime or in spin-off games.

Box art

The box art for each game features one Pokémon which was introduced in that generation (or, in the case of remakes, the generation of the original games). This Pokémon is referred to by fans as a game mascot, and with the exception of Kanto- and Hisui-based games, it is always the Legendary Pokémon available in that game at the climax of the storyline.

In terms of the artwork itself, the international Pokémon Red and Blue and all region releases of the initial paired games of each generation from Generation III to VII use their game mascot's original Ken Sugimori artwork for their box art, whereas all other core series games use specially made artwork.

The titles in the Japanese games typically use some shade of red and blue for either the characters or outlines of the characters. This is most likely in reference to the first internationally released core games of Pokémon Red and Blue. The DLC Expansion Passes for Pokémon Sword and Shield use green and yellow, likely in reference to both Pokémon Red and Green, along with Pokémon Yellow.

List of core series games

Bulbanews

38 core series games have been released in Japanese (22 counting paired releases as single games) and 37 have been released in English, French, Spanish, German, and Italian (21 counting paired releases as single games).

In South Korea, 28 core series games (15 counting paired releases as single games) have been released in Korean, with the first being Pokémon Gold and Silver in 2002 prior to the foundation of Nintendo of Korea and Pokémon Korea in 2006, followed by Pokémon Diamond and Pearl in 2008. However, at least Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire were released in Japanese,[12] hence the lack of language restrictions in the Korean Pal Park.

In Greater China, 13 core series games (7 counting paired releases as single games) have been released in both Simplified and Traditional Chinese, with the first being Pokémon Sun and Moon in 2016. However, the Japanese versions of Pokémon Red, Green, Blue, and Yellow as well as of Pokémon Gold, Silver, and Crystal were released in specific Chinese-speaking territories like Taiwan and Hong Kong.

Original versions Upper versions and expansions Remakes
Generation I
(Japan)
Generation I
(West)
Generation II
Generation III
Generation IV
Generation V
Generation VI
Generation VII
Generation VIII
Generation IX

Trademarks

Nintendo, Creatures, and Game Freak have trademarked several titles with the Japan Patent Office which have not currently been used but which fit the naming scheme of the core series games. The following information comes from the Japan Platform for Patent Information:

English Japanese Application no. Registration no.
Pocket Monsters Topaz ポケットモンスタートパーズ 2002-063587 4677891
Pocket Monsters Tourmaline ポケットモンスタートルマリン 2002-063588 4684698
Pocket Monsters Amethyst ポケットモンスターアメジスト 2002-063589 4677892
Pocket Monsters Moonstone ポケットモンスタームーンストーン 2002-063590 4684699
Pocket Monsters White Gold ポケットモンスターホワイトゴールド 2002-063591 4677893
Pocket Monsters Yellow ポケットモンスター黄(き) 2008-093268 5222903
Pocket Monsters Black ポケットモンスター黒(くろ) 2008-093269 5222904
Pocket Monsters Brown ポケットモンスター茶(ちゃ) 2008-093270 5222905
Pocket Monsters White ポケットモンスター白(しろ) 2008-093271 5222906
Pocket Monsters Gray/Grey ポケットモンスター灰(はい) 2008-093272 5222907
Pocket Monsters Vermilion ポケットモンスター朱(しゅ) 2008-093273 5222908
Pocket Monsters Purple ポケットモンスター紫(むらさき) 2008-093274 5222909
Pocket Monsters Crimson ポケットモンスター紅(くれない) 2008-093275 5222910
Pocket Monsters Scarlet ポケットモンスター緋(ひ) 2008-093276 5222911
Gray[k] グレー 2008-094459 5406253
Pocket Monsters Red ポケットモンスターレッド 2009-060068 5341298
Pocket Monsters Green ポケットモンスターグリーン 2009-060069 5293290
Pocket Monsters Blue ポケットモンスターブルー 2009-060070 5307992
Pocket Monsters Yellow ポケットモンスターイエロー 2009-060071 5341299
Pocket Monsters Brown ポケットモンスターブラウン 2009-060073 5307993
Pocket Monsters Gray/Grey ポケットモンスターグレー 2009-060075 5341302
Pocket Monsters Vermilion ポケットモンスターヴァーミリオン 2009-060076 5307994
Pocket Monsters Purple ポケットモンスターパープル 2009-060077 5307995
Pocket Monsters Crimson ポケットモンスタークリムゾン 2009-060078 5341303
Pocket Monsters Scarlet ポケットモンスタースカーレット 2009-060079 5341304
Delta Emerald[13] デルタエメラルド 2014-035118 5701924

The 2002 trademarks were filed around the same time as trademarks for Pokémon Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald, Diamond, and Pearl, and are all the English names of minerals written in katakana (topaz, tourmaline, amethyst, moonstone, and white gold). The 2008 trademarks were filed alongside trademarks for Pokémon Red, Green, and Blue, and are all the Japanese names of colors written with a single kanji. The 2009 trademarks were filed alongside trademarks for Black, White, and Scarlet, and are all the English names of colors written in katakana. Of these, vermilion, crimson, and scarlet are shades of red.

Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen and Pokémon Diamond and Pearl were planned alongside Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire.[14] Despite being released after Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen and before Pokémon Diamond and Pearl, Pokémon Emerald was trademarked earlier than Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire.[15][16][17]

Contrary to what is sometimes reported, an equivalent to Blue matching the pattern of FireRed and LeafGreen was not trademarked by Nintendo, Creatures, or Game Freak. However, Game Freak's Junichi Masuda mentioned 「ＷＡＴＥＲ　ＢＬＵＥ」 in Japanese and "WaterBlue" in English on an August 2004 blog post explaining the company's choice of "FireRed" and "LeafGreen" as both the Japanese and international titles for the remakes of Pokémon Red and Green.[18][19]

The Delta Emerald trademark has been commonly misreported as "Pokémon Delta Emerald", but this latter name was not trademarked. The name might suggest a relation to the Delta Episode in Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, which features references to Pokémon Emerald.

Tsunekazu Ishihara and Junichi Masuda have explained why upper version counterparts to Pokémon Black and White[20][21][22][23][24] or Pokémon X and Y[23] did not materialize. In the case of the hypothetical Pokémon Gray or Grey Version, Game Freak decided to instead develop Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 to surprise fans (though Black 2 and White 2 were later considered upper versions in some promotional material for the Pokémon Sword and Shield Expansion Pass), while the potential Pokémon Z was passed over in favor of Pokémon Sun and Moon being designed for the Pokémon 20th Anniversary as another surprise.

Eurogamer published an article in early June 2017 describing a "clerical error" by The Pokémon Company, which initially listed Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon as Nintendo Switch titles alongside being Nintendo 3DS titles during their announcement.[25]

Connectivity

Certain demos of core series games allow players to receive special Pokémon and items:

Each of the side series games allow players to transfer their Pokémon and items to and from the core series or receive Pokémon and items to bring back to core series games:

Some spin-off games allow players to receive items or special Pokémon in the core series:

Timeline

Main article: History of the Pokémon world

See also

Notes

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 ,The Official Pokémon YouTube channel: Pokémon 2018 Video Game Press Conference, 30 May 2018
    Masuda: (speaking about Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!) I believe all of these things kind of illustrate how these games have evolved in somewhat of a different direction compared to the traditional main series Pokémon RPGs. And my goal for these games is really to create a Pokémon RPG for everyone. And I believe that not only have we managed to make these titles great entry games for those who are new to the Pokémon RPG series, but at the same time, really provide a new and fresh experience that long-time fans of the series will enjoy. So it's really my hope that all sorts of people will give these games a try. So that concludes my introduction today for Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!, but before I go I would like to say just one more thing. So at Game Freak we're also hard at work on another all-new core series Pokémon RPG, exclusively for Nintendo Switch.
  2. ↑ "The Gold, Silver, and Crystal Versions of Pokémon ARE compatible with Pokémon Stadium 2™ [...]" (manual of Pokémon Crystal, page 1)
  3. ↑ "This Game Pak can be linked to either Pokémon Ruby or Sapphire Version. It CANNOT be linked to the Red, Blue, Yellow, Gold, Silver, or Crystal Versions." (manual of Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire, page 3)
  4. ↑ The core series game titles released from Generation VI onwards do not include the word "Version", such as Pokémon X, Pokémon Omega Ruby, etc.
  5. ↑ "You can migrate Pokémon caught in the Game Boy Advance™ Pokémon series: Pokémon Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald, FireRed, and LeafGreen versions [...]" (manual of Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver)
  6. ↑ "Various language versions of Pokémon Black 2, Pokémon White 2, Pokémon Black, and Pokémon White can communicate, battle, and trade with one another." (manual of Pokémon Black 2 and White 2, page 4)
  7. ↑ "This is Pokémon Omega Ruby. The types and likelihood of Pokémon that will appear differ from Pokémon Alpha Sapphire." (back of the box of Pokémon Omega Ruby)
  8. ↑ "The launch of Pokémon Gold and Pokémon Silver on Virtual Console has given us the chance to take a second look at some of those classics’ most iconic, fun, and memorable events." Ten Can’t Miss Activities in Johto and Beyond - Pokémon.com
  9. ↑ "The Game Boy games Pokémon Gold and Silver are now on sale!!" (Hidenori Kusaka, volume 3 of Pokémon Adventures)
  10. ↑ "You can play Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen in all sorts of ways [...]" (Hidenori Kusaka, volume 18 of Pokémon Adventures)
  11. ↑ Specifically trademarked with this English spelling

References

  1. ↑ Iwata Asks : Pokémon X & Pokémon Y : Pokémon Born Anew
  2. ↑ Pokemon's Master Speaks - IGN
  3. ↑ Familiar First Partner Pokémon Are Appearing in Spades! — Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet | Official Website
  4. ↑ Inside the Minds behind Pokémon! Pokemon.com, 4 Oct 2013 (archive)
  5. ↑ "You can check the particulars of Pokémon transferred from Pokémon GO as they would appear in core Pokémon games from their status screen." (text shown in the mobile version of Pokémon HOME after transferring Pokémon from Pokémon GO)
  6. ↑ Game Pocket Monster Series | Pocket Monster Official Site (archive)
  7. ↑ GAME LIST
  8. ↑ Pokemon Official Site (archive)
  9. ↑ Nintendo HK Official Youtube channel: Nintendo SpotLight E3 2017 (附中文字幕), 14 Jun 2017
  10. ↑ GAME FREAK official site
  11. ↑ Nintendo UK YouTube: Pokémon Ultra Sun & Pokémon Ultra Moon Introduction – Episode 4 – A new Pokémon adventure awaits, 3 Nov 2017
  12. ↑ South Korean blog with official and localized Ruby and Sapphire material
  13. ↑ はちま起稿
  14. ↑ Game Informer interview from August 14, 2017
  15. ↑ Emerald trademark
  16. ↑ Ruby trademark
  17. ↑ Sapphire trademark
  18. ↑ Junichi Masuda's old official blog (Japanese)
  19. ↑ Junichi Masuda's old official blog (English)
  20. ↑ Iwata Asks about Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 (Nintendo)
  21. ↑ Iwata Asks about Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 (Nintendo of America)
  22. ↑ Iwata Asks about Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 (Nintendo of Europe)
  23. ↑ 23.0 23.1 Dr. Lava's translation of a Spanish Official Nintendo Magazine interview from late 2016
  24. ↑ Reddit AMA by Game Informer on their visit to Game Freak from August 2017
  25. ↑ Eurogamer (June 6, 2017)
  26. ↑ [1] How to transfer Pokémon from Pokémon GO to Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Pokémon: Let's Go, Eevee!

External links

Core series games and DLC
Pokémon games

Core series • Side series • Spin-off series • Pokémon mini • Individual spin-offs • Betas • Demos

Project Games logo.png This game-related article is part of Project Games, a Bulbapedia project that aims to write comprehensive articles on the Pokémon games.
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