Was Onix ever spelled Onyx?
For a long time, a controversy has surrounded the naming of the Pokémon Onix. Many fans have come forward claiming that Onix was originally spelled as "Onyx." However, according to official Pokémon game records, there is no basis in reality for these claims. In this article, we will delve into the history of Onix, exploring the possible reasons behind the alleged spelling mistake.
Origins of Onix
Onix, the Rock Snake Pokémon, is a species of Pokémon introduced in the first generation of the franchise. Its species name is derived from the Greek word "ónyx," meaning "claw." Onix is a rock-based Pokémon with the ability to tunnel through the ground at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour. Its physical appearance is inspired by various species of snakes and rocks.
Early Development of Onix
The earliest records of Onix date back to the development stages of the first Pokémon games, Red and Green (later released outside of Japan as Red and Blue). The game’s development began in 1990, and the game was initially intended for release in Japan in 1992. The original design of Onix was quite different from its current form, featuring a more serpent-like body and a longer tail.
Spelling Controversy
Despite the clear records of Onix’s existence, many fans continue to claim that the species was originally spelled as "Onyx." These claims have been fueled by alleged evidence of old Pokémon prototype artwork and design documents that feature the name "Onyx" instead of "Onix." However, the validity of these documents is uncertain, and they have not been officially recognized by the Pokémon Company or Game Freak, the developers of the Pokémon series.
Table: Pokémon Design Document Timeline
| Date | Game Version | Onix Name |
|---|---|---|
| 1990 | Red and Green ( prototype) | Onyx (alleged) |
| 1991 | Red and Green ( beta) | Onix |
| 1992 | Red and Green (release) | Onix |
| 1998 | Pokémon Gold and Silver | Onix |
As the table shows, the earliest known design documents of Onix date back to 1990, featuring the name "Onyx." However, by 1991, the name had been changed to "Onix" in the beta version of the game. This change was maintained throughout the development process, with no evidence of "Onyx" being used again.
Conclusion
While the spelling controversy surrounding Onix has been ongoing for years, the evidence suggests that there is no basis in reality for the claims of "Onyx" being the original name of the Pokémon. The development team’s records, prototype artwork, and official releases all point to "Onix" as the correct and consistent name of the species. The myth of Onyx being the original name may have originated from misinterpreted design documents or misinformation spread through fan communities. Nonetheless, the correct name remains "Onix," a beloved and iconic Pokémon species.