So far, the Pokémon 30th anniversary has been going pretty well. We got confirmation of the Generation 10 pair of games (Winds & Waves)and a 30th-anniversary release for the Pokémon TCG, among other announcements. Among many other facets of the series, fans are looking far and wide for any connection to the Kanto region, up to and including the re-release of Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen earlier this year.
It remains the most popular Generation by a long shot, and like a Siren’s song, it can call people back to the series at will. The Pokémon Company has often used Kanto smartly over the years because of its staying power, and there’s a reason for that. Generation 1 came out of the gate swinging across multiple forms of media, and still does to this day.
Thanks to a reveal on X, we now know that there’s going to be another Pokémon release coming this August. If you’re a hardcore fan, it’s one you’ll want to keep an eye on.
Out on August 25, the Pokémon Deluxe Character Guide is currently up for pre-order from Pokémon Pikachu Press at Amazon and Target. Described as a “celebration of 30 years of Pokémon history,” this 336-page guide covers every region, from Kanto to Paldea. That includes all 1025 currently known Pokémon, before the release of Winds & Waves.
Here’s a breakdown of how comprehensive this one is: “Learn details and discover facts about over 1,000 Pokémon—with notable featured Pokémon highlighted along the way. Organized by region, this guide is in Pokédex order. Journey from Kanto to Paldea and beyond to find information on every Pokémon discovered, beginning with Bulbasaur (#0001) and ending with Pecharunt (#1025)! Start your adventure with a dedicated chapter on Pikachu, then travel through each region. No matter your level of experience, this book will help you see Pokémon in a whole new way.”
There are two possible versions you can pick up: the Deluxe Character Guide ($59.99) and the Deluxe Character Guide + Limited Edition Box Set Collection ($199.99).
Here’s what you get for that enhanced price point:
- Certificate of Authenticity placed in a customized envelope featuring Pikachu.
- Two collectible video game prints printed on premium art paper and housed in a unique video game-inspired folio.
- Two collectible animation prints housed in a unique animation-inspired folio.
- Exclusive premium Pokémon Trading Card Game playmat (24″ x 14″) featuring Pikachu and over 130 other Pokémon.
The TCG playmat alone might eventually sell for the price of the entire Limited Edition, if it’s in truly limited supply. Thankfully, there’s a sample image of the contents so you can judge it for yourself.
All-encompassing Pokémon stories and media are a perfect way to get anyone back into the series, since they don’t isolate anyone. While it would be a hefty price of entry just to thumb through Kanto Pokémon, the option is there if you want it.
Expect a lot more merch to drop for the Pokémon 30th anniversary in the future. It’s not even halfway through the year yet, and there’s more to come.
- Created by
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Satoshi Taijiri, Ken Sugimori, Junichi Masuda
- Latest Film
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Pokémon the Movie: Secrets of the Jungle
