Pokémon Trainer: Difference between revisions

From Bulbapedia, the community-driven Pokémon encyclopedia.
Jump to navigationJump to search
Line 1: Line 1:
{{merge|Pokémon Trainer}}
:''For the character in [[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]] referred to as "Pokémon Trainer," see [[Pokémon Trainer (Super Smash Bros.)]].''
'''Trainer classes''' are the types of [[Pokémon Trainer]]s one can battle in all [[main series]] Pokémon games. They come in different varieties and sprites which describe their occupation, estimated age, and sometimes what Pokémon they train. For example, a {{tc|Psychic}} is a young adult with telekinetic powers who trains {{type|Psychic}} Pokémon. All Trainer classes have overworld or field sprites that sometimes may be used for non-Trainers. Unlike in-battle sprites, overworld sprites may be shared between multiple Trainer classes such as the {{tc|Ace Trainer}} overworld sprite, which is shared with {{tc|Dragon Tamer}}s and {{tc|Pokémon Ranger}}s. Notable Trainer classes, such as Gym Leaders, have unique sprites between each individual one. Trainer classes can be combined in certain [[Double Battle]]s; for example a {{tc|Crush Girl}} and a {{tc|Black Belt}} can team up to form a {{tc|Crush Kin}}; however, special class names are not created for Trainers involved in a [[Tag Battle]].
:''"Trainer" redirects here. For the type of [[Pokémon Trading Card Game]] card, see {{TCG|Trainer card}}.''
----
[[File:Charizard red stuff.jpg|thumb|240px|[[Generation I]] artwork of Pokémon Trainers and their Pokémon]]
A '''Pokémon Trainer''' (Japanese: '''ポケモントレーナー''' ''Pokémon Trainer'') is a person who {{pkmn2|caught|catches}}, {{pkmn|training|trains}}, cares for and {{pkmn|battle}}s with Pokémon. The majority of people within the known [[Pokémon world]] are Trainers.


==List of Trainer classes==
==Background==
{{main|:Category:Trainer classes}}
Many Trainers leave home at about the age of ten, sometimes accompanied with a [[starter Pokémon]] obtained from a [[Pokémon Professor]], such as {{prof|Oak}}. Many will travel around one or more [[region]]s, doing such things as gathering information for a [[Pokédex]], perfecting their technique, collecting [[Badge]]s, and working to become a [[Pokémon Master]]. No matter what their specialties or aims, there is one code that they all follow - when two Trainers make eye contact, they must have a battle.
{| style="margin:auto;"
[[File:SugimoriTrainers.png|thumb|left|Trainers from different classes: A {{tc|Team Rocket Grunt|Rocket Grunt}}, a {{tc|Lass}}, and a {{tc|Bug Catcher}}]]
| style="vertical-align:top" |
Pokémon Trainers come in all sorts of [[Trainer class|classes]]: {{tc|Youngster}}s tend to stay close to home, and {{tc|Bug Catcher}}s swarm about the {{t|Bug}}-filled forests; {{tc|Hiker}}s traverse mountains and [[cave]]s, {{tc|Fisherman|Fishermen}} are rarely far from water, and {{tc|Ace Trainer}}s aspire to compete in the [[Pokémon League]]. A Trainer's class may reflect their Pokémon of choice, the areas they prefer, their technique, and their level of skill; however, even within each class, Trainers may vary greatly.
{| class="roundy" style="margin:auto; background: #{{red color}}; {{roundy}} border: 5px solid #{{blue color}};"
[[File:Ash Unova Pokédex.png|thumb|240px|right|A Pokédex and set of Poké Balls for a Trainer in the Pokémon Black & White anime]]
|-
Many towns have a [[Gym]] run by a strong and experienced Trainer known as a [[Gym Leader]]. Other Trainers may challenge a Gym Leader, and if the Gym Leader is defeated in battle, he or she awards them a Pokémon League [[Badge]]. However, in the Pokémon anime, the Gym Leader may award the Trainer a Badge for other reasons, since the Badge is a symbol of the Trainer's skill. For example, [[Ash Ketchum]] won several of his early Badges by refusing to take an unfair advantage or going out of his way to save a Gym, which proved himself as an exceptional Trainer outside of battle.
! [[Generation I|{{color|FFF|Generation I}}]]
|- style="margin:auto;"
|
{| border="1" style="border: 1px solid #{{red color}}; border-collapse: collapse; background: white; margin: auto;" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="2"
|- style="margin:auto; background:#{{blue color}};"
! Trainer class
|-
| {{tc|Beauty}}
|-
| {{tc|Biker}}
|-
| {{tc|Bird Keeper}}
|-
| {{tc|Black Belt|Blackbelt}}
|-
| [[Giovanni|Boss]]{{tt|*|Unnamed until Generation III}}
|-
| {{tc|Bug Catcher}}
|-
| {{tc|Burglar}}
|-
| {{pkmn|Champion}}{{tt|*|Unnamed until Generation II}}
|-
| {{tc|Channeler}}
|-
| {{tc|Ace Trainer|Cooltrainer}}
|-
| {{tc|Cue Ball}}
|-
| [[Elite Four]]{{tt|*|Unnamed until Generation II}}
|-
| {{tc|Engineer}}
|-
| {{tc|Fisherman}}
|-
| {{tc|PI|Gambler}}
|-
| {{tc|Gentleman}}
|-
| {{tc|Hiker}}
|-
| {{tc|Camper|Jr. Trainer♂}}
|-
| {{tc|Picnicker|Jr. Trainer♀}}
|-
| {{tc|Juggler}}
|-
| {{tc|Lass}}
|-
| [[Gym Leader|Leader]]{{tt|*|Unnamed until Generation II}}
|-
| {{tc|Poké Maniac|PokéManiac}}
|-
| {{tc|Psychic}}
|-
| [[Rival]]{{tt|*|Unnamed until Generation III}}
|-
| {{tc|Rocker}}
|-
| {{tc|Team Rocket Grunt|Rocket}}
|-
| {{tc|Sailor}}
|-
| {{tc|Scientist}}
|-
| {{tc|Super Nerd}}
|-
| {{tc|Swimmer}}
|-
| {{tc|Tamer}}
|-
| {{tc|Youngster}}
|- style="margin:auto; background:#{{blue color}};"
! Beta Trainer classes
|-
| {{DL|Glitch Trainer|Chief}}
|}
|}
| style="vertical-align:top" |<!--Gen II-->
{| class="roundy" style="margin:auto; background: #{{gold color}}; {{roundy}} border: 5px solid #{{silver color}};"
|-
! [[Generation II|{{color|fff|Generation II}}]]
|- style="margin:auto;"
|
{| border="1" style="border: 1px solid #{{gold color}}; border-collapse: collapse; background: white; margin: auto;" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="2"
|- style="margin:auto; background:#{{silver color}};"
! Trainer class
|-
| {{tc|Boarder}}
|-
| {{tc|Camper}}
|-
| {{tc|Firebreather}}
|-
| {{tc|Guitarist}}
|-
| [[Kimono Girl]]
|-
| {{tc|Medium}}
|-
| {{tc|Officer}}
|-
| {{tc|Picnicker}}
|-
| {{tc|Pokéfan}}
|-
| [[Pokémon Trainer]]
|-
| {{tc|Executive|Rocket Executive}}
|-
| {{tc|Team Rocket Grunt|Rocket Grunt}}
|-
| {{tc|Sage}}
|-
| {{tc|School Kid|Schoolboy}}
|-
| {{tc|Skier}}
|-
| {{tc|Swimmer|Swimmer♀}}
|-
| {{tc|Teacher}}
|-
| {{tc|Twins}}
|- style="margin:auto; background:#{{crystal color}};"
! Introduced in {{v2|Crystal}}
|-
| [[Eusine|Mysticalman]]
|}
|}
| style="vertical-align:top" |
{| class="roundy" style="margin:auto; background: #{{ruby color}}; {{roundy}} border: 5px solid #{{sapphire color}};"
|-
! [[Generation III|{{color|FFF|Generation III}}]]
|- style="margin:auto;"
|
{| border="1" style="border: 1px solid #{{ruby color}}; border-collapse: collapse; background: white; margin: auto;" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="2"
|- style="margin:auto; background:#{{sapphire color}};"
! Trainer class
|-
| {{tc|Aqua Admin}}
|-
| [[Archie|Aqua Leader]]
|-
| {{tc|Aroma Lady}}
|-
| {{tc|Battle Girl}}
|-
| {{tc|Bug Maniac}}
|-
| {{tc|Collector}}
|-
| {{tc|Dragon Tamer}}
|-
| {{tc|Expert}}
|-
| {{tc|Hex Maniac}}
|-
| {{tc|Interviewers|Interviewer}}
|-
| {{tc|Kindler}}
|-
| {{tc|Lady}}
|-
| {{tc|Magma Admin}}
|-
| [[Maxie|Magma Leader]]
|-
| {{tc|Ninja Boy}}
|-
| {{tc|Old Couple}}
|-
| {{tc|Parasol Lady}}
|-
| {{tc|Pokémon Ranger}}
|-
| {{tc|Pokémon Breeder}}
|-
| {{tc|Rich Boy}}
|-
| {{tc|Ruin Maniac}}
|-
| {{tc|Sis and Bro}}
|-
| {{tc|Sr. and Jr.}}
|-
| {{tc|Team Aqua Grunt}}
|-
| {{tc|Team Magma Grunt}}
|-
| {{tc|Triathlete}}
|-
| {{tc|Tuber}}
|-
| [[Winstrate family|Winstrate]]
|-
| {{tc|Young Couple}}
|- style="margin:auto; background:#{{firered color}};"
! Introduced in {{v2|FireRed and LeafGreen|s}}
|-
| {{tc|Cool Couple}}
|-
| {{tc|Crush Girl}}
|-
| {{tc|Crush Kin}}
|-
| {{tc|Painter}}
|-
| {{tc|Executive|Team Rocket Admin}}
|-
| {{tc|Team Rocket Grunt}}
|- style="margin:auto; background:#{{emerald color}};"
! Introduced in {{v2|Emerald}}
|-
| [[Arena Tycoon Greta|Arena Tycoon]]
|-
| [[Dome Ace Tucker|Dome Ace]]
|-
| {{tc|Factory Head}}
|-
| [[Palace Maven Spenser|Palace Maven]]
|-
| [[Pike Queen Lucy|Pike Queen]]
|-
| [[Pyramid King Brandon|Pyramid King]]
|-
| {{tc|Tower Tycoon|Salon Maiden}}
|- style="margin:auto; background:#{{colosseum color}};"
! Introduced in {{pkmn|Colosseum}}
|-
| {{tc|Area Leader}}
|-
| {{tc|Athlete}}
|-
| {{tc|Bandana Guy}}
|-
| {{tc|Bodybuilder}}
|-
| {{tc|Chaser}}
|-
| [[Nascour|Cipher]]
|-
| {{tc|Cipher Admin}}
|-
| [[Evice|Cipher Head]]
|-
| {{tc|Cipher Peon}}
|-
| [[Agnol|Deep King]]
|-
| {{tc|Fun Old Lady}}
|-
| {{tc|Fun Old Man}}
|-
| {{tc|Glasses Man}}
|-
| [[Greevil|Grand Master]]
|-
| {{tc|Guy}}
|-
| {{tc|Hunter}}
|-
| {{tc|Lady in Suit}}
|-
| {{tc|Miror B.Peon}}
|-
| {{tc|Mt.BtlMaster}}
|-
| {{tc|Mystery Troop}}
|-
| {{tc|Myth Trainer}}
|-
| {{tc|Navigator}}
|-
| [[Justy|Pregymleader]]
|-
| {{tc|Rider}}
|-
| [[Cail|Rogue]]
|-
| {{tc|Roller Boy}}
|-
| {{tc|Shady Guy}}
|-
| {{tc|St.Performer}}
|-
| {{tc|Supertrainer}}
|-
| {{tc|Team Snagem}}
|-
| [[Gonzap|Snagem Head]]
|-
| {{tc|VR Trainer}}
|-
| {{tc|Worker}}
|- style="margin:auto; background:#{{xd color}};"
! Introduced in {{pkmn|XD: Gale of Darkness}}
|-
| {{tc|Casual Dude}}
|-
| {{tc|Casual Guy}}
|-
| [[Exol|Cipher Cmdr]]
|-
| {{tc|Curmudgeon}}
|-
| [[Greevil|Grand Master]]
|-
| [[Chobin|Kaminko Aide]]
|-
| {{tc|Newscaster}}
|-
| [[Robo Groudon]]
|-
| {{tc|Sim Trainer}}
|-
| [[Naps|Spy]]
|-
| [[Zook|Thug]]
|-
| [[Miror B.#In Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness|Wanderer]]
|}
|}
| style="vertical-align:top" |
{| class="roundy" style="margin:auto; background: #{{diamond color}}; {{roundy}} border: 5px solid #{{pearl color}};"
|-
! [[Generation IV|{{color|FFF|Generation IV}}]]
|- style="margin:auto;"
|
{| border="1" style="border: 1px solid #{{diamond color}}; border-collapse: collapse; background: white; margin: auto;" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="2"
|- style="margin:auto; background:#{{pearl color}};"
! Trainer class
|-
| {{tc|Artist}}
|-
| {{tc|Belle & Pa}}
|-
| {{tc|Cameraman}}
|-
| {{tc|Clown}}
|-
| {{tc|Commander}}
|-
| {{tc|Cowgirl}}
|-
| {{tc|Cyclist}}
|-
| {{tc|Double Team}}
|-
| {{tc|Galactic Grunt}}
|-
| [[Cyrus|Galactic Boss]]
|-
| {{tc|Idol}}
|-
| {{tc|Jogger}}
|-
| {{tc|Poké Kid}}
|-
| {{tc|Rancher}}
|-
| {{tc|Reporter}}
|-
| {{tc|Socialite}}
|-
| {{tc|Veteran}}
|-
| {{tc|Waiter}}
|-
| {{tc|Waitress}}
|-
| {{tc|Worker}}
|- style="margin:auto; background:#{{pbr color}};"
! Introduced in {{pkmn|Battle Revolution}}
|-
| {{tc|Beginning Trainer}}
|-
| {{tc|Bug-Catching Man}}
|-
| {{tc|Challenger}}
|-
| {{tc|Close Siblings}}
|-
| {{tc|Colosseum Leader}}
|-
| {{tc|Colosseum Master}}
|-
| {{tc|Cool Beauty}}
|-
| {{tc|Cute Maniac}}
|-
| {{tc|Electrifying Guy}}
|-
| {{tc|Future Girl}}
|-
| {{tc|Girl In Love}}
|-
| {{tc|Hardheaded Girl}}
|-
| {{tc|High-Tech Maniac}}
|-
| {{tc|Hiking Club Member}}
|-
| {{tc|Hiking Girl}}
|-
| {{tc|Icy Guy}}
|-
| {{tc|Joe's Groupie}}
|-
| {{tc|Leader-in-Training}}
|-
| {{tc|Little Queen}}
|-
| {{tc|Lone Wolf}}
|-
| {{tc|Mature Couple}}
|-
| {{tc|May-December Couple}}
|-
| {{tc|Muddy Boy}}
|-
| {{tc|New Star}}
|-
| {{tc|Ordinary Guy}}
|-
| {{tc|Ordinary Lady}}
|-
| {{tc|Passionate Man}}
|-
| {{tc|Passionate Rider}}
|-
| {{tc|Picnic Girl}}
|-
| {{tc|Pikachu Fan}}
|-
| {{tc|Poison Tongue Boy}}
|-
| {{tc|Pokétopia Master}}
|-
| {{tc|Sashay Fan Club}}
|-
| {{tc|Sci-Fi Maniac}}
|-
| {{tc|Shocking Girl}}
|-
| {{tc|Sightseer}}
|-
| {{tc|Steel Spirit}}
|-
| {{tc|Stubborn Boy}}
|-
| {{tc|Swimming Champ}}
|-
| {{tc|Swimming Club Member}}
|-
| {{tc|Three Brothers}}
|-
| {{tc|Three Sisters}}
|-
| {{tc|Tomboy}}
|-
| {{tc|Traveling Guy}}
|-
| {{tc|Traveling Lady}}
|-
| {{tc|Twin Brothers}}
|-
| {{tc|Twin Sisters}}
|-
| {{tc|Youthful Couple}}
|- style="margin:auto; background:#{{platinum color}};"
! Introduced in {{v2|Platinum}}
|-
| {{tc|Maid}}
|-
| [[Arcade Star Dahlia|Arcade Star]]
|-
| [[Castle Valet Darach|Castle Valet]]
|-
| [[Hall Matron Argenta|Hall Matron]]
|- style="margin:auto; background:#{{heartgold color}};"
! Introduced in {{v2|HeartGold and SoulSilver|s}}
|-
| [[Li|Elder]]
|}
|}
| style="vertical-align:top;" |
{| class="roundy" style="margin:auto; background: #{{black color}}; {{roundy}} border: 5px solid #{{white color}};"
|-
! [[Generation V|{{color|FFF|Generation V}}]]
|- style="margin:auto;"
|
{| border="1" style="border: 1px solid #{{black color}}; border-collapse: collapse; background: white; margin: auto;" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="2"
|- style="margin:auto; background:#{{white color}};"
! Trainer class
|-
| {{tc|Backers}}
|-
| {{tc|Baker}}
|-
| {{tc|Backpacker}}
|-
| {{tc|Clerk}}
|-
| {{tc|Dancer}}
|-
| {{tc|Depot Agent}}
|-
| {{tc|Doctor}}
|-
| [[Game_Freak#In_the_games|GAME FREAK]]
|-
| {{tc|Hooligans}}
|-
| {{tc|Hoopster}}
|-
| {{tc|Infielder}}
|-
| {{tc|Janitor}}
|-
| {{tc|Linebacker}}
|-
| [[Charles|Motorcyclist]]
|-
| {{tc|Musician}}
|-
| {{tc|Nurse}}
|-
| {{tc|Nursery Aide}}
|-
| {{tc|Pilot}}
|-
| {{tc|Preschooler}}
|-
| {{tc|The Riches}}
|-
| {{tc|Smasher}}
|-
| {{tc|Striker}}
|-
| {{tc|Subway Boss}}
|-
| {{tc|Team Plasma Grunt}}
|- style="margin:auto; background:#{{black 2 color}};"
! Introduced in {{v2|Black and White|s|2}}
|-
| {{tc|Boss Trainer}}
|-
| {{tc|Junior Representative}}
|-
| {{tc|Master Representative}}
|-
| {{tc|Senior Representative}}
|-
| {{tc|World Champion}}
|-
| {{tc|World Finalist}}
|-
| {{tc|World Runner-up}}
|-
! [[Pokéstar Studios Trainers]]
|-
| {{tc|Actor}}
|-
| {{tc|Actress}}
|-
| {{tc|A-list Actor}}
|-
| {{tc|Big Star}}
|-
| {{tc|Celebrity}}
|-
| {{tc|Chic Actress}}
|-
| {{tc|Child Star}}
|-
| {{tc|Comedian}}
|-
| {{tc|Fine Actor}}
|-
| {{tc|Movie Star}}
|-
| {{tc|New Actress}}
|-
| {{tc|Star Actor}}
|-
| {{tc|Suit Actor}}
|-
| {{tc|Unique Star}}
|-
| {{tc|Veteran Actor}}
|-
| {{tc|Veteran Star}}
|}
|}
|}


Above the level of Gym Leaders are the [[Elite Four]] Trainers and [[Pokémon Champion|Pokémon League Champion]]. There are also a special class of Trainers known as the [[Frontier Brain]]s, but they are unique to {{game|Emerald}}, {{game|Platinum}}, and {{game|HeartGold and SoulSilver|s}} and part of a privately owned institution known as the [[Battle Frontier]], and so may not be recognized by the League. These Trainers are considered the cream of the crop, and can only be challenged if a Trainer has met requirements such as winning eight Badges. Should a Trainer defeat other Trainers at this level, it is not uncommon for him or her to be offered a place in these high ranks.
However, just as there are many Trainers with noble goals and lawful methods, there are also corrupt Trainers, including a number of [[villainous teams]]. These Trainers often use powerful Pokémon to take what they want and further their plans.
==Super Smash Bros. Brawl==
{{main|Pokémon Trainer (Super Smash Bros.)}}
There is a {{player|playable character}} called "{{sbw|Pokémon Trainer|Pokémon Trainer}}" in the game [[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]. His appearance is based on {{ga|Red}}'s [[Generation III]] design, and he uses {{p|Squirtle|me}}{{p|Ivysaur|mb}}{{p|Charizard|ers}} of the [[evolution]] families of the [[Kanto]] {{pkmn2|starter}}s to battle against the others.
==As a Trainer class==
[[File:Red HGSS battle.png|thumb|220px|The Trainer class as it appears in-battle]]
In the games, Pokémon Trainer (rendered as "{{PK}}{{MN}} Trainer") is used as the Trainer class for certain storyline characters. These opponents tend to be the most powerful non-arena Trainers the player will face, notably including [[rival]]s (except {{ga|Blue}} and {{ga|Silver}}, who are instead outright referred to as rivals), {{ga|Red}} from {{game|Gold and Silver|s}}, {{v2|Crystal}}, and {{2v2|HeartGold|SoulSilver}}, {{Steven}} from {{game|Emerald}}, the Stat Trainers in {{game|Platinum}}, and [[Cynthia]] from {{2v2|Black|White}}. [[N]] and [[Colress]] also use this class until they are revealed to be members of Team Plasma. This class is used for every opponent in link battles and the [[Pokémon World Tournament]].
==Trivia==
* For ''[[DP005|Gettin' Twiggy With It!]]'', [[Professor Oak's lecture]] is about the Pokémon Trainer. He writes this [[Pokémon senryū]] about it: さあ10さい ぼくもわたしも トレーナー ''Sā jussai, boku mo watashi mo torēnā.'' "Ah, the age 10; we will all be Trainers."
* It is stated in the anime that a person may not become a Trainer until the age of 10, however this is not the case in other media as some trainers are obviously below the minimum age, such as the Trainer classes {{tc|Twins}}, {{tc|Tuber}}, and {{tc|Preschooler}}. Some [[Preschooler]]s in the [[Battle Subway]] emphasize the fact that they are four years old.
==In other languages==
{{langtable|color=CCCCFF|bordercolor=CCBBFF
|zh_yue=寵物小精靈訓練員 ''Chungmat-siujingling Fanlinyuen''
|zh_cmn=神奇寶貝訓練家{{tt|*|Taiwan}}/神奇宝贝训练家{{tt|*|Mainland China (old)}} ''Shénqí-baǒbeì Xùnliànjiā''<br>精灵宝可梦训练家{{tt|*|Mainland China (new)}} ''Jīnglíng-Pokémon Xùnliànjiā''
|da=Pokémon-træner
|fi=Pokémon-kouluttaja
|fr_eu=Dresseur Pokémon
|de=Pokémon-Trainer
|gr=Εκπαιδευτής Pokémon
|id=Pelatih Pokémon
|it=Allenatore di Pokémon
|ko=포켓몬 트레이너 Pocketmon Trainer
|no=Pokémon trener
|pl=Trener Pokémonów
|pt_br=Treinador Pokémon
|es_eu=Entrenador Pokémon
|sv=Pokémon-tränare
|ru=Тренер покемонов
|ro=Antrenor Pokémon}}
==See also==
* [[Trainer class]]
{{league}}<br>
{{TrainerNav|Normal|kanto=yes|johto=yes|hoenn=yes|sinnoh=yes|unova=yes}}
{{Project CharacterDex notice|tc}}
{{Project CharacterDex notice|tc}}


[[Category:Lists]]
[[Category:Pokémon world]]
[[Category:Trainer classes|*]]
[[Category:Terminology]]
[[Category:Trainer classes]]
 
[[pt:Treinador Pokémon]]
 
[[it:Allenatore]]


[[es:Clases de Entrenadores]]
[[de:Pokémon-Trainer]]
[[it:Classe allenatore]]
[[es:Entrenador Pokémon]]
[[ja:ポケモントレーナー一覧]]
[[ja:ポケモントレーナー]]
[[pl:Trener Pokémon]]

Revision as of 19:30, 3 April 2013

For the character in Super Smash Bros. Brawl referred to as "Pokémon Trainer," see Pokémon Trainer (Super Smash Bros.).
"Trainer" redirects here. For the type of Pokémon Trading Card Game card, see Trainer card.

File:Charizard red stuff.jpg
Generation I artwork of Pokémon Trainers and their Pokémon

A Pokémon Trainer (Japanese: ポケモントレーナー Pokémon Trainer) is a person who catches, trains, cares for and battles with Pokémon. The majority of people within the known Pokémon world are Trainers.

Background

Many Trainers leave home at about the age of ten, sometimes accompanied with a starter Pokémon obtained from a Pokémon Professor, such as Oak. Many will travel around one or more regions, doing such things as gathering information for a Pokédex, perfecting their technique, collecting Badges, and working to become a Pokémon Master. No matter what their specialties or aims, there is one code that they all follow - when two Trainers make eye contact, they must have a battle.

Trainers from different classes: A Rocket Grunt, a Lass, and a Bug Catcher

Pokémon Trainers come in all sorts of classes: Youngsters tend to stay close to home, and Bug Catchers swarm about the Bug-filled forests; Hikers traverse mountains and caves, Fishermen are rarely far from water, and Ace Trainers aspire to compete in the Pokémon League. A Trainer's class may reflect their Pokémon of choice, the areas they prefer, their technique, and their level of skill; however, even within each class, Trainers may vary greatly.

A Pokédex and set of Poké Balls for a Trainer in the Pokémon Black & White anime

Many towns have a Gym run by a strong and experienced Trainer known as a Gym Leader. Other Trainers may challenge a Gym Leader, and if the Gym Leader is defeated in battle, he or she awards them a Pokémon League Badge. However, in the Pokémon anime, the Gym Leader may award the Trainer a Badge for other reasons, since the Badge is a symbol of the Trainer's skill. For example, Ash Ketchum won several of his early Badges by refusing to take an unfair advantage or going out of his way to save a Gym, which proved himself as an exceptional Trainer outside of battle.

Above the level of Gym Leaders are the Elite Four Trainers and Pokémon League Champion. There are also a special class of Trainers known as the Frontier Brains, but they are unique to Pokémon Emerald, Pokémon Platinum, and Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver and part of a privately owned institution known as the Battle Frontier, and so may not be recognized by the League. These Trainers are considered the cream of the crop, and can only be challenged if a Trainer has met requirements such as winning eight Badges. Should a Trainer defeat other Trainers at this level, it is not uncommon for him or her to be offered a place in these high ranks.

However, just as there are many Trainers with noble goals and lawful methods, there are also corrupt Trainers, including a number of villainous teams. These Trainers often use powerful Pokémon to take what they want and further their plans.

Super Smash Bros. Brawl

Main article: Pokémon Trainer (Super Smash Bros.)

There is a playable character called "Pokémon Trainer" in the game Super Smash Bros. Brawl. His appearance is based on Red's Generation III design, and he uses members of the evolution families of the Kanto starters to battle against the others.

As a Trainer class

The Trainer class as it appears in-battle

In the games, Pokémon Trainer (rendered as "PKMN Trainer") is used as the Trainer class for certain storyline characters. These opponents tend to be the most powerful non-arena Trainers the player will face, notably including rivals (except Blue and Silver, who are instead outright referred to as rivals), Red from Pokémon Gold and Silver, Crystal, and HeartGold and SoulSilver, Steven from Pokémon Emerald, the Stat Trainers in Pokémon Platinum, and Cynthia from Black and White. N and Colress also use this class until they are revealed to be members of Team Plasma. This class is used for every opponent in link battles and the Pokémon World Tournament.

Trivia

  • For Gettin' Twiggy With It!, Professor Oak's lecture is about the Pokémon Trainer. He writes this Pokémon senryū about it: さあ10さい ぼくもわたしも トレーナー Sā jussai, boku mo watashi mo torēnā. "Ah, the age 10; we will all be Trainers."
  • It is stated in the anime that a person may not become a Trainer until the age of 10, however this is not the case in other media as some trainers are obviously below the minimum age, such as the Trainer classes Twins, Tuber, and Preschooler. Some Preschoolers in the Battle Subway emphasize the fact that they are four years old.

In other languages

Language Title
Chinese Cantonese 寵物小精靈訓練員 Chungmat-siujingling Fanlinyuen
Mandarin 神奇寶貝訓練家*/神奇宝贝训练家* Shénqí-baǒbeì Xùnliànjiā
精灵宝可梦训练家* Jīnglíng-Pokémon Xùnliànjiā
Denmark Flag.png Danish Pokémon-træner
Finland Flag.png Finnish Pokémon-kouluttaja
France Flag.png European French Dresseur Pokémon
Germany Flag.png German Pokémon-Trainer
Greece Flag.png Greek Εκπαιδευτής Pokémon
Indonesia Flag.png Indonesian Pelatih Pokémon
Italy Flag.png Italian Allenatore di Pokémon
South Korea Flag.png Korean 포켓몬 트레이너 Pocketmon Trainer
Norway Flag.png Norwegian Pokémon trener
Poland Flag.png Polish Trener Pokémonów
Brazil Flag.png Brazilian Portuguese Treinador Pokémon
Romania Flag.png Romanian Antrenor Pokémon
Russia Flag.png Russian Тренер покемонов
Spain Flag.png European Spanish Entrenador Pokémon
Sweden Flag.png Swedish Pokémon-tränare

See also


RosaChallenge.png The Pokémon League VSMarshal.png
Participation
TrainerBattleGym Leaders
GymsBadgesReferee
Championship matches
Elite FourOrange League
Champion League
Pokémon League Conferences
IndigoSilverEver GrandeLily of the Valley
VertressLumioseManalo
Regional Pokémon Leagues
IndigoOrange*JohtoHoennSinnoh
UnovaKalosAlolaGalarPaldea
Areas of jurisdiction
Pokémon League Reception GateHall of Fame
Palace of VictoryCerulean Cave
Others
Pokémon AssociationPIA
World Coronation Series
(Masters Eight Tournament)



Trainer classes in the Pokémon core series
Kanto Ace Trainer*BeautyBikerBird KeeperBlack Belt*Bug CatcherBurglarCamper*ChampionGSCFRLGHGSSPE
ChannelerElite FourGSCFRLGHGSSPEEngineerFishermanGamer*GentlemanGym Leader*GSCFRLGHGSSPE
HikerJugglerLassPicnicker*Poké Maniac*Pokémon Trainer*GSCPEPsychicRivalFRLGRockerRoughneck*
SailorScientistSuper NerdSwimmerTamerTeam Rocket Boss*FRLGHGSSPETeam Rocket Grunt*Youngster
BoarderHGSSDouble TeamHGSSFirebreatherGSCHGSSGuitaristGSCHGSSMediumGSCHGSS
PokéfanGSCHGSSSchool Kid*GSCHGSSSkierHGSSTeacherGSCHGSSTwinsGSCFRLGHGSS
Cool CoupleFRLGCrush KinFRLGSis and BroFRLGYoung CoupleFRLGHGSS
Coach TrainerPEKarate MasterPEPunk GuyPETeam RocketPETeam Rocket AdminPE
Master TrainersPE
Unused Trainer class:
ChiefRGBY
Johto Ace Trainer*BeautyBikerBird KeeperBlack Belt*BoarderBug CatcherBurglarCamper
ChampionExecutive*FirebreatherFisherman*GentlemanGuitaristHikerJugglerKimono GirlLass
LeaderMediumPicnickerPokéfanPoké Maniac*PKMN TrainerPoliceman*PsychicRivalHGSSSage
SailorSchool Kid*ScientistSkierSuper NerdSwimmerTeacherTeam Rocket Grunt*TwinsYoungster
Mystery Man*CHGSSDouble TeamHGSSElderHGSSPasserbyHGSSYoung CoupleHGSS
Battle Frontier only:HGSS

Aroma LadyArtistBattle GirlCameramanClownCollectorCowgirlCyclistDragon TamerIdol
JoggerLadyNinja BoyParasol LadyPIPoké KidPKMN BreederPKMN RangerRancherReporter
Rich BoyRoughneckRuin ManiacSocialiteTuberVeteranWaiterWaitressWorker
Arcade StarCastle ValetFactory HeadHall MatronTower Tycoon

Hoenn Ace Trainer*Aqua AdminSEASAqua LeaderSEASAroma LadyBattle GirlBeautyBird KeeperBlack Belt
Bug CatcherBug ManiacCamperChampionCollectorDragon TamerElite FourExpertFisherman
GentlemanGuitaristHex ManiacHikerInterviewers*KindlerLadyLassLeaderMagma AdminREOR
Magma LeaderREORNinja BoyOld CoupleParasol LadyPicnickerPoké Fan*Poké Maniac*Pokémon Breeder*
Pokémon Ranger*Pokémon Trainer*PsychicRich BoyRuin ManiacSailorSchoolkid*Sis & Bro*Swimmer
Team Aqua GruntSEASTeam Magma GruntREORTeammates*TriathleteTuberTwinsWinstrateYoung CoupleYoungster
Ace DuoORASBrains & BrawnORASBackpackerORASDelinquentORASFairy Tale GirlORASFare PrinceORAS
Free DiverORASLeadersORASLorekeeperORASMysterious SistersORASProprietorORASRotation GirlORAS
Scuba DiverORASSecret Base ExpertORASSecret Base TrainerORASSootopolitanORASStreet ThugORAS
Battle Frontier only:E
Arena TycoonDome AceFactory HeadPalace MavenPike QueenPyramid KingSalon Maiden
Battle Institute and Battle Maison only:ORAS
ArtistBattle ChatelaineButlerChefFurisode GirlGarçonGardenerMadameMaidMonsieurOwnerPreschooler
Punk GirlPunk GuyRising StarRoller SkaterSchoolboySchoolgirlScientistTouristVeteranWaitressWorker
Sinnoh Ace TrainerAroma LadyArtistBattle GirlBeautyBird KeeperBlack BeltBug CatcherCameramanCamperChampion
ClownCollectorCommanderCowgirlCyclistDouble TeamDragon TamerElite FourFisher*GentlemanGuitarist
Gym Leader*HikerIdolInterviewersJoggerLadyLassMadame*Ninja BoyParasol LadyPicnickerPIPoké Fan*
Poké KidPokémon Breeder*Pokémon Ranger*Pokémon Trainer*Police Officer*PsychicRancherRanchers*
ReporterRich BoyRoughneckRuin ManiacSailorSchool KidScientistSkierSwimmerTeam Galactic Boss*
Team Galactic Grunt*Tower TycoonTuberTwinsVeteranWaiterWaitressWorkerYoung CoupleYoungster
Arcade StarPtCastle ValetPtFactory HeadPtHall MatronPtMaidPtGAME FREAK'sBDSP
Unova Ace TrainerArtistBackersBackpackerBakerBattle GirlBikerBlack BeltChampionClerk
CyclistDancerDepot AgentDoctorElite FourFishermanGAME FREAKGentlemanGym Leader*
HarlequinHikerHooligansHoopsterInfielderJanitorLadyLassLinebackerMaidMotorcyclistMusician
NurseNursery AideParasol LadyPilotPokéfanPKMN BreederPKMN RangerPokémon Trainer*Policeman
PreschoolerPsychicRich BoyRoughneckSchool KidScientistSmasherSocialiteStrikerSubway Boss
SwimmerTeam PlasmaTeam Plasma GruntThe RichesBWTwinsVeteranWaiterWaitressWorkerYoungster
BeautyB2W2Boss TrainerB2W2GuitaristB2W2
Pokéstar Studios only:B2W2
A-list ActorActorActressBig StarCelebrityChic ActressChild StarComedian
Fine ActorMovie StarNew ActressStar ActorSuit ActorUnique StarVeteran Star
Pokémon World Tournament only:B2W2
Junior RepresentativeMaster RepresentativeSenior Representative
World ChampionWorld FinalistWorld Runner-up
Blueberry Academy only:SV
BB League ChampionBB League Elite FourBlueberry Academy Director
DirectorInstructorLeague ClubStudentTop Champion
Project CharacterDex logo.png This Trainer Class article is part of Project CharacterDex, a Bulbapedia project that aims to write comprehensive articles on each character found in the Pokémon games.