During the 30th anniversary of the Pokémon franchise, Tsunekazu Ishihara, President and CEO of The Pokémon Company, reflected on the development challenges faced by the original Pokémon games: Red and Green. Ishihara highlighted that these games required substantial trial and error over six years and emphasized the limited resources available at the time. Despite early uncertainties about whether the games would connect with international audiences, the core themes of friendship and nature ultimately defined the franchise. As speculation rises regarding the next mainline Pokémon game, Ishihara assures that these fundamental gameplay elements will continue to be a driving force in future projects.

What lessons did Pokémon's development history teach us about game design?

The development history of Pokémon underscores the importance of having a strong foundational idea along with patience and innovation in game design. Unlike the rapid development cycles prominent today, the intricate process behind the original games highlights the value of careful planning and player connection, which can lead to lasting success.

The Pokémon franchise debuted in Japan in 1996, quickly becoming a cultural phenomenon that emphasizes capturing, raising, and battling creatures. It has since expanded into various media, including trading card games, an animated series, and merchandise. The timing of this reflection on the franchise's origins coincides with the anticipation of new game announcements, making it a significant period for longtime fans.