Pokémon is turning 20 this year, and Nintendo is pulling out all the stops. Pokémon Red and Green were released in Japan on February 27, 1996, with the American Red and Blue released two years later on September 28, 1998. Since then, Pokémon has gone on to make more than 50 games, an anime running for about 19 years, 18 movies, and has made more than $37 billion world wide. So when one of your biggest franchises is about to turn 20, you celebrate. 2016 is going to be the year of the Pokémon.
Nintendo began their #Pokemon20 campaign, where they ask fans to tell them their favorite Pokémon memory on Twitter, Instagram, and Youtube. It’s a great way for both old fans and new fans alike to reminisce about what got them into Pokémon in the first play and why the love the franchise. It’s also a good way for Nintendo to spread the word about upcoming events, games, and merchandise for the fans.
Starting in February, Nintendo will have something every month for Pokémon fans starting with the Monthly Mystical Pokémon Distributions. Each month, you will be able to download a legendary Pokémon you couldn’t normally get without either hacking or waiting for a special event beginning with the original legendary Pokémon, Mew. Also on February 27, a new New Nintendo 3DS special edition is coming out. The bundle includes both original Pokémon Red and Blue preinstalled and 2 cover plates featuring Charizard and Blastoise.
For all of you trading card enthusiast, there are going to be some new expansions coming; we have Pokémon TCG: Generations, focusing on the original 151 Pokémon, and we have the Mythical Pokémon Collection. These packs come with come with a specific Legendary Pokémon, plus booster packs of generations. We also have other 20th anniversary merchandise such as hats, mugs, and even a special edition Pokémon Trainer Red: Champion Ver. figure.
And finally, we have two new games set to release this year: Pokémon Go, and Pokken Tournament, along with the release of the first 3 Pokémon movies digitally remastered. So there you have it, a jam packed Pokémon jamboree. How do you plan to celebrate the 20th anniversary? What got you into Pokémon in the first place? Whether you are a new comer or a long time fan, young or old, it’s a good time to love Pokémon. Train on Trainers, train on!
