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Talking Pokémon: Difference between revisions

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'''Talking Pokémon''' are {{OBP|Pokémon|species}} who can speak a human language. The human language itself is not clearly depicted, and all people in the [[Pokémon world]] seem to speak one common language, which is always referred to just as ''human language'' (however, since [[Pokémon Diamond and Pearl Versions|Generation IV]], it is possible to collect [[foreign Pokédex entries]], and there are NPCs who speak foreign languages). While it appears that all Pokémon can understand human speech, very few can communicate with humans, except via body language. There are exceptions to this, however, depending on the version of the Pokémon world being depicted.
'''Talking Pokémon''' are {{OBP|Pokémon|species}} who can speak a human language. The human language itself is not clearly depicted, and all people in the [[Pokémon world]] seem to speak one common language, which is always referred to just as ''human language'' (however, since [[Pokémon Diamond and Pearl Versions|Generation IV]], it is possible to collect [[foreign Pokédex entries]], and there are NPCs who speak foreign languages). While it appears that all Pokémon can understand human speech, very few can communicate with humans, except via body language. There are exceptions to this, however, depending on the version of the Pokémon world being depicted.


==In the games==
==In the core series games==
===In the [[core series]] games===
===Pokémon Red, Blue, Yellow, FireRed, and LeafGreen===
In {{3v2|Red|Blue|Yellow}} and their {{game3|FireRed and LeafGreen|Generation III remakes|s}}, {{OBP|Copycat|character}}'s {{p|Doduo}} is able to speak a line of human language when approached. Also, Bill, when transformed into a Pokémon, can speak human language at [[Sea Cottage|his house]] on {{rt|25|Kanto|Cerulean Cape}}. In addition, the {{p|Marowak}}'s {{OBP|Marowak|ghost|ghost}} can talk.
In {{3v2|Red|Blue|Yellow}} and their {{game3|FireRed and LeafGreen|Generation III remakes|s}}, {{OBP|Copycat|character}}'s {{p|Doduo}} is able to speak a line of human language when approached. Also, Bill, when transformed into a Pokémon, can speak human language at [[Sea Cottage|his house]] on {{rt|25|Kanto|Cerulean Cape}}. In addition, the {{p|Marowak}}'s {{OBP|Marowak|ghost|ghost}} can talk.


===Pokémon Gold, Silver, Crystal, HeartGold, and SoulSilver===
In [[Generation II]] and their [[Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver Versions|Generation IV remakes]], a {{p|Murkrow}} owned by [[Team Rocket]] tells the {{player}} the password to the generator room in the [[Team Rocket HQ]].
In [[Generation II]] and their [[Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver Versions|Generation IV remakes]], a {{p|Murkrow}} owned by [[Team Rocket]] tells the {{player}} the password to the generator room in the [[Team Rocket HQ]].


===Pokémon Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald, Omega Ruby, and Alpha Sapphire===
In {{3v2|Ruby|Sapphire|Emerald}} and their {{pkmn|Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire|Generation VI remakes}}, [[Mr. Stone]] wants to be able to communicate with {{OBP|Pokémon|species}}, so he started a project for [[Devon Corporation]] intending to build a translation device for Pokémon; however, not much progress has been made.<!--Don't go changing this to reflect basis on real-world time. Those mentions in the games were based on the in-game time frame, which is in no way influenced by real-world time. While it's entirely possible that development has furthered as of another generation, the lack of any mention of such means there's no confirmation that development has furthered.-->
In {{3v2|Ruby|Sapphire|Emerald}} and their {{pkmn|Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire|Generation VI remakes}}, [[Mr. Stone]] wants to be able to communicate with {{OBP|Pokémon|species}}, so he started a project for [[Devon Corporation]] intending to build a translation device for Pokémon; however, not much progress has been made.<!--Don't go changing this to reflect basis on real-world time. Those mentions in the games were based on the in-game time frame, which is in no way influenced by real-world time. While it's entirely possible that development has furthered as of another generation, the lack of any mention of such means there's no confirmation that development has furthered.-->


[[Generation IV]] introduced {{p|Chatot}}, a Pokémon mentioned as being able to speak the human language through the use of its {{m|Chatter}} move.
===Pokémon Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum===
 
In {{3v2|Diamond|Pearl|Platinum}}, while {{p|Darkrai}} is not able to speak directly, it is presumed that the man inside the {{DL|Canalave City|Harbor Inn}} is an illusion created by Darkrai, through which it is able to communicate with the player during the [[Member Card]] event.
In {{3v2|Diamond|Pearl|Platinum}}, while {{p|Darkrai}} is not able to speak directly, it is presumed that the man inside the {{DL|Canalave City|Harbor Inn}} is an illusion created by Darkrai, through which it is able to communicate with the player during the [[Member Card]] event.


===Pokémon Black 2 and White 2===
In {{2v2|Black|White|2}}, if the player visits [[Lostlorn Forest]], a {{p|Zoroark}} is disguised as a {{tc|Backpacker}} who talks to the player and gives them {{TM|95|Snarl}} before dispelling its illusion and leaving. Also, in [[Pokéstar Studios]], the final film of the [[Love and Battles Series]] has a talking {{p|Smeargle}}, and the [[Timegate Traveler Series]] features a talking {{p|Ledian}}.
In {{2v2|Black|White|2}}, if the player visits [[Lostlorn Forest]], a {{p|Zoroark}} is disguised as a {{tc|Backpacker}} who talks to the player and gives them {{TM|95|Snarl}} before dispelling its illusion and leaving. Also, in [[Pokéstar Studios]], the final film of the [[Love and Battles Series]] has a talking {{p|Smeargle}}, and the [[Timegate Traveler Series]] features a talking {{p|Ledian}}.


===Pokémon Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun, and Ultra Moon===
In {{pkmn|Sun and Moon}} and {{pkmn|Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon}}, {{p|Rotom}} can speak while inhabiting the [[Rotom Pokédex]]. In Sun and Moon only, {{p|Tapu Koko}} also speaks to the player through their [[Z-Ring]] before challenging them to a battle at the end of the game. A {{p|Mimikyu}} at the [[Aether House]] tells the player it will curse them when spoken to as well. An {{p|Oranguru}} in the [[Konikoni City]] {{DL|Konikoni City|apparel shop}} also tells the player to "Gu do it!"
In {{pkmn|Sun and Moon}} and {{pkmn|Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon}}, {{p|Rotom}} can speak while inhabiting the [[Rotom Pokédex]]. In Sun and Moon only, {{p|Tapu Koko}} also speaks to the player through their [[Z-Ring]] before challenging them to a battle at the end of the game. A {{p|Mimikyu}} at the [[Aether House]] tells the player it will curse them when spoken to as well. An {{p|Oranguru}} in the [[Konikoni City]] {{DL|Konikoni City|apparel shop}} also tells the player to "Gu do it!"


===Pokémon Sword and Shield===
In {{pkmn|Sword and Shield}}, a {{p|Honedge}} in the {{DL|Wyndon|Rose of the Rondelands}} hotel will bid the player welcome if approached.
In {{pkmn|Sword and Shield}}, a {{p|Honedge}} in the {{DL|Wyndon|Rose of the Rondelands}} hotel will bid the player welcome if approached.


In Sword and Shield's [[The Crown Tundra]] {{FB|Pokémon Sword and Shield|Expansion Pass}}, {{ga|Calyrex}} is revealed to have the ability to speak through humans. It frequently takes over [[Peony]] in order to communicate with the player.
In Sword and Shield's [[The Crown Tundra]] {{FB|Pokémon Sword and Shield|Expansion Pass}}, {{ga|Calyrex}} is revealed to have the ability to speak through humans. It frequently takes over [[Peony]] in order to communicate with the player.
===Pokémon Legends: Arceus===
In [[Pokémon Legends: Arceus]], {{p|Arceus}} speaks the human language in what seems to be Early Modern English. The [[lake guardians]] also telepathically speak to the player during the game's climax. {{p|Dialga}} and {{p|Palkia}} are also capable of telepathy, although they only speak to [[Adaman]] and [[Irida]] respectively.
===Pokédex entries===
{{p|Chatot}}'s [[Pokédex]] entries state that it is being able to speak the human language. This relates to its [[signature move]] {{m|Chatter}}.


{{p|Latias}}'s [[Pokédex]] entries state that it can telepathically speak with humans.
{{p|Latias}}'s [[Pokédex]] entries state that it can telepathically speak with humans.
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The Pokédex entries for {{p|Ninetales}}, {{p|Lapras}}, {{p|Latias}}, {{p|Latios}}, {{p|Lucario}}, and {{p|Magearna}} mention their ability to understand human speech, leaving it unclear as to whether other Pokémon can understand it as well.
The Pokédex entries for {{p|Ninetales}}, {{p|Lapras}}, {{p|Latias}}, {{p|Latios}}, {{p|Lucario}}, and {{p|Magearna}} mention their ability to understand human speech, leaving it unclear as to whether other Pokémon can understand it as well.


In [[Pokémon Legends: Arceus]], {{p|Arceus}} speaks the human language in what seems to be Early Modern English. The [[lake guardians]] also telepathically speak to the player during the game's climax. {{p|Dialga}} and {{p|Palkia}} are also capable of telepathy, although they only speak to [[Adaman]] and [[Irida]] respectively.
==In the side series games==
 
===Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness===
===In the side series games===
Prior to the events of {{Pokémon XD}}, [[Dr. Kaminko]] developed a device that was meant to translate a Pokémon's speech, but it failed and was scrapped. A major post-game quest details the {{player}}'s efforts to undo its effects when it is accidentally released by [[Chobin]] and causes Pokémon around [[Orre]] to lose their voice.
Prior to the events of {{Pokémon XD}}, [[Dr. Kaminko]] developed a device that was meant to translate a Pokémon's speech, but it failed and was scrapped. A major post-game quest details the {{player}}'s efforts to undo its effects when it is accidentally released by [[Chobin]] and causes Pokémon around [[Orre]] to lose their voice.


===In the spin-off games===
==In the spin-off games==
===Hey You, Pikachu!===
In [[Hey You, Pikachu!]], the game centers around using a special device called a PokéHelper that translates certain human-language words into something wild Pikachu can understand. In this game's spiritual successor, [[Pokémon Channel]], various Pokémon appear as hosts and stars of TV shows, with their speech subtitled into the local human language.
In [[Hey You, Pikachu!]], the game centers around using a special device called a PokéHelper that translates certain human-language words into something wild Pikachu can understand. In this game's spiritual successor, [[Pokémon Channel]], various Pokémon appear as hosts and stars of TV shows, with their speech subtitled into the local human language.


===Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia===
In [[Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia]], certain Pokémon are capable of using telepathy, such as {{p|Regigigas}}.
In [[Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia]], certain Pokémon are capable of using telepathy, such as {{p|Regigigas}}.


===Pokémon Mystery Dungeon series===
In the [[Pokémon Mystery Dungeon series|Mystery Dungeon games]], all Pokémon can talk. This includes the player, who was transformed into a Pokémon. However, since there are no human characters in the Mystery Dungeon games, it is entirely possible that these Pokémon are not, in fact, speaking human language, but rather their own Pokémon language, which the player can now understand as a result of becoming a Pokémon themselves.
In the [[Pokémon Mystery Dungeon series|Mystery Dungeon games]], all Pokémon can talk. This includes the player, who was transformed into a Pokémon. However, since there are no human characters in the Mystery Dungeon games, it is entirely possible that these Pokémon are not, in fact, speaking human language, but rather their own Pokémon language, which the player can now understand as a result of becoming a Pokémon themselves.


In the PokéPark games, all Pokémon can talk. However, like in the Mystery Dungeon games, there are no human characters in the game, suggesting that the Pokémon are simply speaking Pokémon language in between each other, which the player character is able to understand due to being a Pokémon as well. This is further supported by all the Pokémon having their voices from the anime and their speech only appearing in text boxes.
===PokéPark series===
In the PokéPark games, all Pokémon can talk. However, like in the Mystery Dungeon games, there are no human characters in the game, suggesting that the Pokémon are simply speaking Pokémon language in between each other, which the player character is able to understand due to being a Pokémon as well. This is further supported by all the Pokémon having their [[Voice acting in the Pokémon games|voices]] from ''[[Pokémon the Series]]'' and their speech only appearing in text boxes.


===Detetive Pikachu series===
In {{OBP|Detective Pikachu|video game}}, the player character, [[Tim Goodman]], is partners with a talking {{OBP|Detective Pikachu|character}}. However, only the player seems to be able to hear Pikachu's talking voice. In addition, the game also features a {{OBP|Mewtwo|Detective Pikachu}}, which is able to talk via telepathy. In the sequel game, [[Detective Pikachu Returns]], Pokémon speech can also be understood via subtitles when heard from Pikachu's perspective. In addition, during the game's climax, [[Charles Merloch]] is able to speak when he fuses his mind with the body of a {{p|Deoxys}}.
In {{OBP|Detective Pikachu|video game}}, the player character, [[Tim Goodman]], is partners with a talking {{OBP|Detective Pikachu|character}}. However, only the player seems to be able to hear Pikachu's talking voice. In addition, the game also features a {{OBP|Mewtwo|Detective Pikachu}}, which is able to talk via telepathy. In the sequel game, [[Detective Pikachu Returns]], Pokémon speech can also be understood via subtitles when heard from Pikachu's perspective. In addition, during the game's climax, [[Charles Merloch]] is able to speak when he fuses his mind with the body of a {{p|Deoxys}}.


===Pokémon Masters EX===
In {{g|Masters EX}}, {{mas|Leon}}'s {{form|Calyrex|Ice Rider}} {{p|Calyrex}} briefly takes over {{mas|Sawyer}}'s body during the [[Winter Wishes]] [[story event]] to talk to Leon through him.
In {{g|Masters EX}}, {{mas|Leon}}'s {{form|Calyrex|Ice Rider}} {{p|Calyrex}} briefly takes over {{mas|Sawyer}}'s body during the [[Winter Wishes]] [[story event]] to talk to Leon through him.


==In the anime==
==In animation==
===Understanding of human language===
===In the animated series===
Although ''[[EP195|The Poké Spokesman]]'' states that Pokémon cannot directly understand human speech, this is contradicted by many other episodes before and since in the anime. Moreover, judging, for instance, from {{AP|Larvitar}} in ''[[EP258|Hatch Me If You Can]]'', they are able to do this immediately after hatching, without having to learn.
====Understanding of human language====
Although ''[[EP195|The Poké Spokesman]]'' states that Pokémon cannot directly understand human speech, this is contradicted by many other episodes before and since in ''[[Pokémon the Series]]''. Moreover, judging, for instance, from {{AP|Larvitar}} in ''[[EP258|Hatch Me If You Can]]'', they are able to do this immediately after hatching, without having to learn.


The anime generally does not focus on language problems, so as a result, there is some confusion about [[Pokémon language]] and the ability of Pokémon to understand humans. Although it is obvious that all Pokémon can understand each other, {{MTR}} in ''[[EP070|Go West Young Meowth]]'' once mentions ''Meowth language'', and Jessie in ''[[AG084|Who's Flying Now?]]'' mentions ''Chimecho language'', so it is not clear whether there is a common Pokémon language, or every species has its own.
The series generally does not focus on language problems, so as a result, there is some confusion about [[Pokémon language]] and the ability of Pokémon to understand humans. Although it is obvious that all Pokémon can understand each other, {{MTR}} in ''[[EP070|Go West Young Meowth]]'' once mentions ''Meowth language'', and Jessie in ''[[AG084|Who's Flying Now?]]'' mentions ''Chimecho language'', so it is not clear whether there is a common Pokémon language, or every species has its own.


As far as human language is concerned, {{MTR}} in the same episode was shown learning ''pronunciation'', not the language itself, which implies that all Pokémon have innate knowledge of human language, so they can understand human speech, and only have to learn how to pronounce its sounds, or be able to establish telepathic contacts to speak. Despite this, Misty in ''[[EP239|Whichever Way the Wind Blows]]'' once asked {{MTR}} to translate her words to other Pokémon, and May taught her {{TP|May|Bulbasaur}} the meaning of the word ''town'' in ''[[AG073|Grass Hysteria!]]''. Therefore, this ability of Pokémon is not well-defined in anime canon.
As far as human language is concerned, {{MTR}} in the same episode was shown learning ''pronunciation'', not the language itself, which implies that all Pokémon have innate knowledge of human language, so they can understand human speech, and only have to learn how to pronounce its sounds, or be able to establish telepathic contacts to speak. Despite this, Misty in ''[[EP239|Whichever Way the Wind Blows]]'' once asked {{MTR}} to translate her words to other Pokémon, and May taught her {{TP|May|Bulbasaur}} the meaning of the word ''town'' in ''[[AG073|Grass Hysteria!]]''. Therefore, this ability of Pokémon is not well-defined in ''Pokémon the Series'' canon.


===Talking Pokémon===
====Talking Pokémon====
While every Pokémon in the anime can understand human speech, very few can talk, although many {{pkmn2|Legendary}} and [[Mythical Pokémon]] can. In most cases though, talking Pokémon speak through telepathy.
While every Pokémon in ''[[Pokémon the Series]]'' can understand human speech, very few can talk, although many {{pkmn2|Legendary}} and [[Mythical Pokémon]] can. In most cases though, talking Pokémon speak through telepathy.


{{MTR}} is the most famous talking Pokémon, and the one that makes the most appearances. His clone in ''[[M01|Mewtwo Strikes Back]]'' and ''[[Mewtwo Returns]]'', however, cannot speak, the reason being Meowth wasn't born knowing how to speak human language; he only learned it through hard work.
{{MTR}} is the most famous talking Pokémon, and the one that makes the most appearances. His clone in ''[[M01|Mewtwo Strikes Back]]'' and ''[[Mewtwo Returns]]'', however, cannot speak, the reason being Meowth wasn't born knowing how to speak human language; he only learned it through hard work.


Although [[Ash's Pikachu]] does not speak in the regular anime, he has talked once in ''[[M20|I Choose You!]]'', when {{OBP|Ash Ketchum|M20|Ash}} seemed to die from taking the attack from various Pokémon late in the movie.
Although [[Ash's Pikachu]] does not speak in the main series, he appeared to talk once in ''[[M20|I Choose You!]]'', when {{OBP|Ash Ketchum|M20|Ash}} seemed to die from taking the attack from various Pokémon late in the movie.


{| class="roundtable sortable" style="margin:auto; text-align:center; background:#{{Dark color}}; border:3px solid #{{Black color}}" width=850px
{| class="roundtable sortable" style="margin:auto; text-align:center; background:#{{Dark color}}; border:3px solid #{{Black color}}" width=850px
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| {{MSP/HOME|0025|Pikachu}}{{MSP/HOME|0001|Bulbasaur}}{{MSP/HOME|0004|Charmander}}{{MSP/HOME|0007|Squirtle}}{{MSP/HOME|0023|Ekans}}{{MSP/HOME|0109|Koffing}}
| {{MSP/HOME|0025|Pikachu}}{{MSP/HOME|0001|Bulbasaur}}{{MSP/HOME|0004|Charmander}}{{MSP/HOME|0007|Squirtle}}{{MSP/HOME|0023|Ekans}}{{MSP/HOME|0109|Koffing}}
| {{Ash}}'s and {{TRT}}'s Pokémon
| {{Ash}}'s and {{TRT}}'s Pokémon
| Subtitles (the lines were read by the narrator in the Danish, French, Italian{{tt|*|Mediaset dub}}, Polish, and Swedish dubs, and by a different voice-over for each Pokémon in the Latin American Spanish dub; no translations at all were provided in Czech and Slovakian dubs)
| Subtitles (the lines were read by the narrator in the Danish, French, Italian (Mediaset dub), Polish, and Swedish dubs, and by a different voice-over for each Pokémon in the Latin American Spanish dub; no translations at all were provided in Czech and Slovakian dubs)
| ''[[EP017|Island of the Giant Pokémon]]''
| ''[[EP017|Island of the Giant Pokémon]]''
|-
|-
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|-
|-
| {{MSP/HOME|0931Y|Squawkabilly}}
| {{MSP/HOME|0931Y|Squawkabilly}}
| [[Lucca]]'s {{p|Squawkabilly}}
| [[Diana]]'s {{p|Squawkabilly}}
| Repeats human language
| Repeats human language
| ''[[HZ012|The Future I Choose]]''
| ''[[HZ012|The Future I Choose]]''
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In ''[[GB19|The Truth About The Mysterious Whirl Islands!!]]'', {{GnB|Gold}} and {{GnB|Chris}} encountered a talking {{p|Slowking}} living at the [[Whirl Islands]]. In the same chapter, they also encountered {{p|Lugia}}, which could talk via telepathy.
In ''[[GB19|The Truth About The Mysterious Whirl Islands!!]]'', {{GnB|Gold}} and {{GnB|Chris}} encountered a talking {{p|Slowking}} living at the [[Whirl Islands]]. In the same chapter, they also encountered {{p|Lugia}}, which could talk via telepathy.


===Pokémon Gotta Catch 'Em All===
===Pokémon: Yeah! I Got Pokémon!===
[[Shu]] can understand his Pokémon's language by using a special headset device called an [[Income]].
[[Shu]] can understand his Pokémon's language by using a special headset device called an [[Income]].


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===Pokémon Zensho===
===Pokémon Zensho===
In ''[[PZ04|Vermilion City]]'', {{zensho|Satoshi}} encountered and {{pkmn2|caught}} a talking {{p|Nidoran♂}}, who soon turned out to be [[Bill]], who had accidentally gotten himself fused with a Nidoran♂ during an experiment. Afterwards, Satoshi helped Bill to become normal again.
In [[PZ04]], {{zensho|Satoshi}} encountered and {{pkmn2|caught}} a talking {{p|Nidoran♂}}, who soon turned out to be [[Bill]], who had accidentally gotten himself fused with a Nidoran♂ during an experiment. Afterwards, Satoshi helped Bill to become normal again.


In ''[[PZ07|Saffron City]]'', [[Sabrina]] was revealed to own a unique telepathic {{p|Lapras}} that could communicate with humans. After Satoshi had helped her save Lapras from [[Team Rocket]], she entrusted Lapras to him as a sign of gratitude.
In [[PZ07]], Satoshi and [[Sabrina]] met a talking {{p|Lapras}} at the [[Silph Co.]] while rescuing the company from [[Team Rocket]]. After Satoshi had defeated [[Giovanni]], Lapras started traveling with him.


===Pokémon Newspaper Strip===
===Pokémon Newspaper Strip===
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* The move {{m|Mirror Move}}, named ''Parrot Mimicry'' in Japanese, is based on ability of these birds to repeat human speech.
* The move {{m|Mirror Move}}, named ''Parrot Mimicry'' in Japanese, is based on ability of these birds to repeat human speech.
* In an interview with NintendoLife<ref>[https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2013/09/interview_junichi_masuda_and_hironobu_yoshida_discuss_pokemon_x_and_y_mega_evolutions_and_the_2ds NintendoLife Interview]<br>Junichi Masuda: ''Well… Now I have to think of something that, you know, won’t be used by competitors! [laughs] But one thing that I wanted to put in that didn’t quite make it was a translating machine for Pokémon cries, to find out what they’re saying. So you have this machine, and when a Pokémon cries out something, text would appear telling you exactly what that Pokémon is saying.''<br>Hironobu Yoshida: ''Really? I never knew!''<br>Junichi Masuda: ''Yes, I really wanted to put that in, but then thinking about the amount of text that we would have to include, with now over 600 Pokémon, it would be a really big task. This could be something that might appear in future games, but it sadly didn’t make X and Y.''</ref>, [[Junichi Masuda]] mentions that a Pokémon cry translation machine was considered for {{g|X and Y}}. However, it was scrapped due to the amount of text that would be needed to support the over 600 species of Pokémon at the time.
* In an interview with NintendoLife<ref>[https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2013/09/interview_junichi_masuda_and_hironobu_yoshida_discuss_pokemon_x_and_y_mega_evolutions_and_the_2ds NintendoLife Interview]<br>Junichi Masuda: ''Well… Now I have to think of something that, you know, won’t be used by competitors! [laughs] But one thing that I wanted to put in that didn’t quite make it was a translating machine for Pokémon cries, to find out what they’re saying. So you have this machine, and when a Pokémon cries out something, text would appear telling you exactly what that Pokémon is saying.''<br>Hironobu Yoshida: ''Really? I never knew!''<br>Junichi Masuda: ''Yes, I really wanted to put that in, but then thinking about the amount of text that we would have to include, with now over 600 Pokémon, it would be a really big task. This could be something that might appear in future games, but it sadly didn’t make X and Y.''</ref>, [[Junichi Masuda]] mentions that a Pokémon cry translation machine was considered for {{g|X and Y}}. However, it was scrapped due to the amount of text that would be needed to support the over 600 species of Pokémon at the time.
*In ''Pokémon the Animation'', when Meowth translates what Pikachu was saying, Jessie and James express surprise at his being able to do so, with his explaining he "practiced hard to do that", implying that each species of Pokémon has its own language, and that not all Pokémon understand each other.<ref>https://cindysuke.tumblr.com/post/34817930237/the-facts-about-pokemon-world-lol</ref>


==References==
==References==

Latest revision as of 22:19, 7 September 2024

Talking Pokémon are Pokémon who can speak a human language. The human language itself is not clearly depicted, and all people in the Pokémon world seem to speak one common language, which is always referred to just as human language (however, since Generation IV, it is possible to collect foreign Pokédex entries, and there are NPCs who speak foreign languages). While it appears that all Pokémon can understand human speech, very few can communicate with humans, except via body language. There are exceptions to this, however, depending on the version of the Pokémon world being depicted.

In the core series games

Pokémon Red, Blue, Yellow, FireRed, and LeafGreen

In Red, Blue, and Yellow and their Generation III remakes, Copycat's Doduo is able to speak a line of human language when approached. Also, Bill, when transformed into a Pokémon, can speak human language at his house on Cerulean Cape. In addition, the Marowak's ghost can talk.

Pokémon Gold, Silver, Crystal, HeartGold, and SoulSilver

In Generation II and their Generation IV remakes, a Murkrow owned by Team Rocket tells the player the password to the generator room in the Team Rocket HQ.

Pokémon Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald, Omega Ruby, and Alpha Sapphire

In Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald and their Generation VI remakes, Mr. Stone wants to be able to communicate with Pokémon, so he started a project for Devon Corporation intending to build a translation device for Pokémon; however, not much progress has been made.

Pokémon Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum

In Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum, while Darkrai is not able to speak directly, it is presumed that the man inside the Harbor Inn is an illusion created by Darkrai, through which it is able to communicate with the player during the Member Card event.

Pokémon Black 2 and White 2

In Black 2 and White 2, if the player visits Lostlorn Forest, a Zoroark is disguised as a Backpacker who talks to the player and gives them TM95 (Snarl) before dispelling its illusion and leaving. Also, in Pokéstar Studios, the final film of the Love and Battles Series has a talking Smeargle, and the Timegate Traveler Series features a talking Ledian.

Pokémon Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun, and Ultra Moon

In Sun and Moon and Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon, Rotom can speak while inhabiting the Rotom Pokédex. In Sun and Moon only, Tapu Koko also speaks to the player through their Z-Ring before challenging them to a battle at the end of the game. A Mimikyu at the Aether House tells the player it will curse them when spoken to as well. An Oranguru in the Konikoni City apparel shop also tells the player to "Gu do it!"

Pokémon Sword and Shield

In Sword and Shield, a Honedge in the Rose of the Rondelands hotel will bid the player welcome if approached.

In Sword and Shield's The Crown Tundra Expansion Pass, Calyrex is revealed to have the ability to speak through humans. It frequently takes over Peony in order to communicate with the player.

Pokémon Legends: Arceus

In Pokémon Legends: Arceus, Arceus speaks the human language in what seems to be Early Modern English. The lake guardians also telepathically speak to the player during the game's climax. Dialga and Palkia are also capable of telepathy, although they only speak to Adaman and Irida respectively.

Pokédex entries

Chatot's Pokédex entries state that it is being able to speak the human language. This relates to its signature move Chatter.

Latias's Pokédex entries state that it can telepathically speak with humans.

The Pokédex entries for Ninetales, Lapras, Latias, Latios, Lucario, and Magearna mention their ability to understand human speech, leaving it unclear as to whether other Pokémon can understand it as well.

In the side series games

Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness

Prior to the events of Pokémon XD, Dr. Kaminko developed a device that was meant to translate a Pokémon's speech, but it failed and was scrapped. A major post-game quest details the player's efforts to undo its effects when it is accidentally released by Chobin and causes Pokémon around Orre to lose their voice.

In the spin-off games

Hey You, Pikachu!

In Hey You, Pikachu!, the game centers around using a special device called a PokéHelper that translates certain human-language words into something wild Pikachu can understand. In this game's spiritual successor, Pokémon Channel, various Pokémon appear as hosts and stars of TV shows, with their speech subtitled into the local human language.

Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia

In Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia, certain Pokémon are capable of using telepathy, such as Regigigas.

Pokémon Mystery Dungeon series

In the Mystery Dungeon games, all Pokémon can talk. This includes the player, who was transformed into a Pokémon. However, since there are no human characters in the Mystery Dungeon games, it is entirely possible that these Pokémon are not, in fact, speaking human language, but rather their own Pokémon language, which the player can now understand as a result of becoming a Pokémon themselves.

PokéPark series

In the PokéPark games, all Pokémon can talk. However, like in the Mystery Dungeon games, there are no human characters in the game, suggesting that the Pokémon are simply speaking Pokémon language in between each other, which the player character is able to understand due to being a Pokémon as well. This is further supported by all the Pokémon having their voices from Pokémon the Series and their speech only appearing in text boxes.

Detetive Pikachu series

In Detective Pikachu, the player character, Tim Goodman, is partners with a talking Detective Pikachu. However, only the player seems to be able to hear Pikachu's talking voice. In addition, the game also features a Mewtwo, which is able to talk via telepathy. In the sequel game, Detective Pikachu Returns, Pokémon speech can also be understood via subtitles when heard from Pikachu's perspective. In addition, during the game's climax, Charles Merloch is able to speak when he fuses his mind with the body of a Deoxys.

Pokémon Masters EX

In Pokémon Masters EX, Leon's Ice Rider Calyrex briefly takes over Sawyer's body during the Winter Wishes story event to talk to Leon through him.

In animation

In the animated series

Understanding of human language

Although The Poké Spokesman states that Pokémon cannot directly understand human speech, this is contradicted by many other episodes before and since in Pokémon the Series. Moreover, judging, for instance, from Larvitar in Hatch Me If You Can, they are able to do this immediately after hatching, without having to learn.

The series generally does not focus on language problems, so as a result, there is some confusion about Pokémon language and the ability of Pokémon to understand humans. Although it is obvious that all Pokémon can understand each other, Meowth in Go West Young Meowth once mentions Meowth language, and Jessie in Who's Flying Now? mentions Chimecho language, so it is not clear whether there is a common Pokémon language, or every species has its own.

As far as human language is concerned, Meowth in the same episode was shown learning pronunciation, not the language itself, which implies that all Pokémon have innate knowledge of human language, so they can understand human speech, and only have to learn how to pronounce its sounds, or be able to establish telepathic contacts to speak. Despite this, Misty in Whichever Way the Wind Blows once asked Meowth to translate her words to other Pokémon, and May taught her Bulbasaur the meaning of the word town in Grass Hysteria!. Therefore, this ability of Pokémon is not well-defined in Pokémon the Series canon.

Talking Pokémon

While every Pokémon in Pokémon the Series can understand human speech, very few can talk, although many Legendary and Mythical Pokémon can. In most cases though, talking Pokémon speak through telepathy.

Meowth is the most famous talking Pokémon, and the one that makes the most appearances. His clone in Mewtwo Strikes Back and Mewtwo Returns, however, cannot speak, the reason being Meowth wasn't born knowing how to speak human language; he only learned it through hard work.

Although Ash's Pikachu does not speak in the main series, he appeared to talk once in I Choose You!, when Ash seemed to die from taking the attack from various Pokémon late in the movie.

Pokémon Method of communication Featured episode
Meowth Meowth Human speech Most episodes from Pokémon Emergency! to The Rainbow and the Pokémon Master!
PikachuBulbasaurCharmanderSquirtleEkansKoffing Ash's and Team Rocket's Pokémon Subtitles (the lines were read by the narrator in the Danish, French, Italian (Mediaset dub), Polish, and Swedish dubs, and by a different voice-over for each Pokémon in the Latin American Spanish dub; no translations at all were provided in Czech and Slovakian dubs) Island of the Giant Pokémon
Gastly Gastly Human speech The Ghost of Maiden's Peak
Lapras Santa Claus's Lapras Telepathy Holiday Hi-Jynx
Mewtwo Mewtwo Telepathy Mewtwo Strikes Back
Mewtwo Returns
Mewtwo Strikes Back—Evolution
Getting More Than You Battled For!
Lugia Lugia Telepathy The Power of One
Slowking Slowking Human speech The Power of One
Entei Entei (as an embodiment of Molly's wishes) Human speech (the English dub added an echo filter to imply that Entei's capacity for speech was actually telepathy, while the Japanese version had it speaking normally) Spell of the Unown: Entei
PidgeyRattataOddish Pidgey, Rattata, and Oddish Flashback. Speech understood from the perspective of Simon. The Poké Spokesman
Ninetales Ninetales Spoke through an illusionary girl named Lokoko Just Waiting On a Friend
Larvitar Ash's Larvitar Human speech (while in the Unown Dimension) Address Unown
Jirachi Jirachi Telepathy Jirachi: Wish Maker
Ralts Max's Ralts Telepathy Do I Hear a Ralts?
Lucario Lucario Telepathy Lucario and the Mystery of Mew
Manaphy Manaphy Able to say a few words such as "happy" and "I love you" Pokémon Ranger and the Temple of the Sea
Chatot Chatot Repeats human language Several episodes
Darkrai Darkrai Telepathy The Rise of Darkrai
Shaymin Shaymin Telepathy Giratina and the Sky Warrior
Arceus Arceus Human speech Arceus and the Jewel of Life
Zorua Zorua Telepathy Zoroark: Master of Illusions
Yamask Yamask Spoke through Cilan while possessing him with its mask A Night in the Nacrene City Museum!
ZekromReshiram Zekrom
Reshiram 		Telepathy White—Victini and Zekrom
Black—Victini and Reshiram
CobalionTerrakionVirizionKyuremKeldeo Kyurem
Swords of Justice
including Keldeo 		Telepathy Kyurem VS. The Sword of Justice
GenesectGenesectGenesectGenesectGenesectMewtwo Genesect Army
Mewtwo 		Telepathy Genesect and the Legend Awakened
Zoroark Zoroark Spoke by changing its form into a Nurse Joy The Island of Illusions!
DiancieCarbinkXerneas Diancie
Carbink servants (Merrick & Dace)
Xerneas 		Telepathy Diancie and the Cocoon of Destruction
Meowth Mirror World counterpart of Meowth Human speech The Cave of Mirrors!
Hoopa Hoopa Telepathy, human speech Hoopa and the Clash of Ages
Volcanion Volcanion Telepathy Volcanion and the Mechanical Marvel
DiggersbyPangoroDelphoxFroakieChesnaught Diggersby
Pangoro
Delphox
Froakie
Chesnaught 		Human speech during Pikachu and Meowth's dream created by Darkrai Dream a Little Dream from Me!
Zygarde Zygarde Cores Squishy and Z2 Telepathy Throughout Pokémon the Series: XYZ
Rotom Rotom Pokédex Human speech (through the Pokédex's functions) Throughout Pokémon the Series: Sun & Moon
Naganadel Naganadel Telepathy The Prism Between Light and Darkness!
Kartana Kartana Reverse human speech Living on the Cutting Edge!
Rotom Rotom Phones Human speech (through the smartphone's functions) Throughout Pokémon Journeys: The Series
Lugia Lugia Telepathy Legends? Go! Friends? Go!
This Could be the Start of Something Big!
ZarudeZarude Zarude Speech understood from the perspective of the Zarude and Koko Secrets of the Jungle
Meowth Alternate World counterpart of Meowth Human speech The Gates of Warp!
Showdown at the Gates of Warp!
Squawkabilly Diana's Squawkabilly Repeats human language The Future I Choose

In the manga

Magical Pokémon Journey and Pokémon Chamo-Chamo ☆ Pretty ♪

Some Pokémon, such as Clefairy and Squirtle, can speak human language, although most Pokémon language is translated for the reader's ease (indicated by a different font in the speech bubbles). They are easily understood by humans just the same.

Pokémon Adventures

Red, Green & Blue arc

In ...But Fearow Itself!, when Bill was accidentally fused with a Rattata, he was still able to talk and ask Red to aid him in reversing the transformation.

Yellow arc

In The Might of... Metapod?!, Yellow was able to use her powers to read the mind of Lance's Dragonite and hear its thoughts.

FireRed & LeafGreen arc

In Red, Green, Blue and Mewtwo Too, Mewtwo revealed to Red that it had gained the ability to talk via telepathy after leaving Blaine in Heckled by Hitmontop, although it usually only lets its voice be heard by people whom it trusts.

In Distant Relation Deoxys, Organism No. 2 was revealed to be able to use its Psychic powers to make its words appear on electronic screens, such as those on Pokédexes.

Emerald arc

In Gotcha Where I Wantcha, Glalie, it was revealed that Latios and Latias are also able to speak via telepathy.

Black & White arc

In The Shadow Triad, the Swords of Justice and Keldeo were revealed to be able to speak telepathically, although it was later revealed that humans can only hear this speech under certain conditions, such as by being at the Abyssal Ruins.

Black 2 & White 2 arc

In Dream World, Black's Reshiram was able to speak telepathically while inside the Pokémon Dream World.

X & Y arc

In Quilladin Stands, Xerneas was revealed to be able to use telepathy to communicate with humans as well.

Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun & Ultra Moon arc

In The Final Match and a Surprising Finale!, the Rotom that Moon had brought with her to Alola was revealed to have entered her new Pokédex and become the Rotom Pokédex. Through the Pokédex, Rotom had gained the ability to speak human language.

Sword & Shield arc

In PASS38, Calyrex was revealed to be able to possess people and talk through them, doing so with Peony.

Pokémon Gold & Silver: The Golden Boys

In The Truth About The Mysterious Whirl Islands!!, Gold and Chris encountered a talking Slowking living at the Whirl Islands. In the same chapter, they also encountered Lugia, which could talk via telepathy.

Pokémon: Yeah! I Got Pokémon!

Shu can understand his Pokémon's language by using a special headset device called an Income.

Pokémon Pocket Monsters

All the Pokémon in Pokémon Pocket Monsters can talk, except for Red's Pikachu.

Pokémon Zensho

In PZ04, Satoshi encountered and caught a talking Nidoran♂, who soon turned out to be Bill, who had accidentally gotten himself fused with a Nidoran♂ during an experiment. Afterwards, Satoshi helped Bill to become normal again.

In PZ07, Satoshi and Sabrina met a talking Lapras at the Silph Co. while rescuing the company from Team Rocket. After Satoshi had defeated Giovanni, Lapras started traveling with him.

Pokémon Newspaper Strip

In the Pokémon Newspaper Strip, several strips are centered around Pokémon talking to each other. However, humans only hear Pokémon repeating their names (such as "Pika Pikachu!") and can't understand their speech.

Trivia

  • The move Mirror Move, named Parrot Mimicry in Japanese, is based on ability of these birds to repeat human speech.
  • In an interview with NintendoLife[1], Junichi Masuda mentions that a Pokémon cry translation machine was considered for Pokémon X and Y. However, it was scrapped due to the amount of text that would be needed to support the over 600 species of Pokémon at the time.
  • In Pokémon the Animation, when Meowth translates what Pikachu was saying, Jessie and James express surprise at his being able to do so, with his explaining he "practiced hard to do that", implying that each species of Pokémon has its own language, and that not all Pokémon understand each other.[2]

References

  1. ↑ NintendoLife Interview
    Junichi Masuda: Well… Now I have to think of something that, you know, won’t be used by competitors! [laughs] But one thing that I wanted to put in that didn’t quite make it was a translating machine for Pokémon cries, to find out what they’re saying. So you have this machine, and when a Pokémon cries out something, text would appear telling you exactly what that Pokémon is saying.
    Hironobu Yoshida: Really? I never knew!
    Junichi Masuda: Yes, I really wanted to put that in, but then thinking about the amount of text that we would have to include, with now over 600 Pokémon, it would be a really big task. This could be something that might appear in future games, but it sadly didn’t make X and Y.
  2. ↑ https://cindysuke.tumblr.com/post/34817930237/the-facts-about-pokemon-world-lol
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