Pokemon plushies are popular among fans. (Bennett Cohen)
By Bennett Cohen
Whether they’ve played it, watched it or simply seen it around campus, most students know Pokemon.
The multimedia franchise is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. While opinions differ about its current direction, its global fan base remains deeply passionate. Here are 10 reasons Pokemon continues to endure.
The Pokemon
From Pikachu and Jigglypuff to Blacephalon and Munkidori, some Pokemon are more popular than others. With more than 1,000 species, even the most niche creatures have devoted fans. Some are cool. Some are cute. Some are just plain weird. There’s something for everyone.
Character designs
Pokemon’s colorful character designs have long been a strength. That includes both the creatures themselves and the trainers. Player and non-player characters alike feature iconic looks that remain recognizable across generations.
Environments
Even when graphics fall short, the games show careful attention to setting. Pokemon regions draw inspiration from real-world locations while adding fantastical elements, such as forest villages with bioluminescent mushrooms.
Storylines
Recent generations have embraced more complex storytelling. Characters feel more fully realized than in earlier entries, and the narratives carry greater emotional depth. Some stories bring joy. Others bring tears.
Music
Music helps define Pokemon’s tone. Longtime composers Gō Ichinose and Junichi Masuda shaped much of the series’ sound, while contributors such as Ed Sheeran and Toby Fox have added to newer soundtracks. Without its music, Pokemon wouldn’t feel the same.
Collecting
Collecting remains central to the franchise. Each game includes hundreds of Pokemon to obtain, along with rare “shiny” variants. The Pokemon Trading Card Game extends that appeal into the physical world.
Merchandise
The franchise’s merchandise spans life-size plush dolls, keychains, backpacks, clothing and accessories. Even obscure Pokemon sometimes receive official products, delighting longtime fans.
Official art
Official artwork continues to evolve. While Ken Sugimori originally defined the series’ visual style, multiple artists now contribute to card illustrations and character renderings, producing a wide range of distinctive designs.
Gameplay gimmicks
Each generation introduces new gameplay mechanics. From Mega Evolution and Z-Moves to Gigantamax and Terastallization, these features keep the games feeling fresh. Some mechanics even return in later titles.
The community
Community has always been central to Pokemon. Trading is encouraged — and often required — to complete the Pokedex. The fan base includes artists, programmers, musicians and more. Creative fan works provide entertainment beyond official releases.
