What Part of Pokémon is Canon?
The Pokémon franchise has been a beloved part of many people’s childhoods and adult lives, with a vast array of games, anime, manga, and other media. With so many different storylines and plot points, it can be difficult to keep track of what is considered canon and what is not. In this article, we’ll explore what part of Pokémon is considered canon and what is not.
Pokémon Games
The mainline Pokémon games are generally considered to be canon, as they follow a continuous storyline and have a cohesive narrative. The games are developed by Game Freak and published by The Pokémon Company, and are considered the primary source of canon in the Pokémon universe.
- Kanto, Johto, Hoenn, and Sinnoh: These regions are considered canon and are part of the mainline games.
- Unova, Kalos, and Alola: These regions are also considered canon and are part of the mainline games.
- Galar: This region is part of the mainline games and is considered canon.
Pokémon Anime
The Pokémon anime series, which has been running for over 20 years, is also considered canon, although it is not as tightly tied to the games as the games are to each other. The anime series is produced by OLM, Inc. and is broadcast in many countries around the world.
- Pokémon Indigo League: This season is considered canon and sets the stage for the rest of the series.
- Pokémon Adventures: This manga series is also considered canon and is based on the anime series.
Pokémon Movies
The Pokémon movies are also considered canon, although they are not as closely tied to the games and anime series as the games and anime series are to each other. The movies are produced by OLM, Inc. and are released in theaters around the world.
- Pokémon: The First Movie: This movie is considered canon and introduces the concept of the Legendary Birds.
- Pokémon 4Ever: This movie is also considered canon and introduces the concept of the Time-Traveling Pokémon.
- Pokémon: Lucario and the Mystery of Mew: This movie is considered canon and introduces the concept of the Aura Pokémon.
Pokémon Side Series
The Pokémon side series, including spin-off games and anime series, are not considered canon. These series are designed to be standalone and do not fit into the mainline narrative.
- Pokémon Ranger: This spin-off game is not considered canon and is designed to be a standalone game.
- Pokémon Mystery Dungeons: This spin-off game series is not considered canon and is designed to be a standalone series.
- Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness: This spin-off game is not considered canon and is designed to be a standalone game.
What is Not Canon?
- Pokémon Trading Card Game: The Pokémon Trading Card Game is not considered canon and is designed to be a standalone game.
- Pokémon Books and Comics: The Pokémon books and comics are not considered canon and are designed to be standalone stories.
- Fan Fiction: Fan fiction is not considered canon and is created by fans of the series.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Pokémon franchise has a vast array of different storylines and plot points, and it can be difficult to keep track of what is considered canon and what is not. The mainline Pokémon games, anime series, and movies are generally considered to be canon, while the side series and spin-off games are not. It’s important to remember that what is considered canon is subjective and can vary depending on the individual.