Core series: Difference between revisions
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(No need to use Japanese punctuation; side series is an uncommon term, most people know them as spin-offs (also article links there); added source for Korean name; other additions and changes.) |
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{{move|Core series}} | {{move|Core series}} | ||
[[File:RedTitle.png|thumb|The title screen of the English {{game3|Red and Blue|Pokémon Red | [[File:RedTitle.png|thumb|The title screen of the English {{game3|Red and Blue|Pokémon Red|s}}.]] | ||
The '''core series'''<ref>[ | The '''core series'''<ref>[https://iwataasks.nintendo.com/interviews/#/3ds/pokemonxy/0/1 Iwata Asks : Pokémon X & Pokémon Y : Pokémon Born Anew] (term exclusive to the Nintendo of America release of this ''Iwata Asks'')</ref> (Japanese: '''ポケットモンスターシリーズ'''<ref>[http://www.pokemon.co.jp/game-series/ ゲーム ポケットモンスターシリーズ | ポケットモンスターオフィシャルサイト]</ref> ''Pocket Monsters Series'') of the [[Pokémon games]], often referred to by fans as the '''main series''', is the game series that is always released on a [[Nintendo]] {{wp|Handheld game console|handheld}} system and developed by [[Game Freak]], which follow the now-standard model of a {{player}}'s journey through a specific [[region]] to collect all of the [[species]] of {{OBP|Pokémon|species}} there. There are currently 20 games in the series internationally, 21 in Japan (due to the exclusive release of {{game3|Red and Green|Pokémon Green|s}} there) and 11 in South Korea (due to the only games released there being {{game|Gold and Silver|s}} prior to {{game|Diamond and Pearl|s}}). | ||
Most of these games have the label ''Version'' in their English title. In | Most of these games have the label ''Version'' in their English title. In Japan, the series is called the ''Pocket Monsters Series'', as core series games contain ''Pocket Monsters'' (ポケットモンスター) in their title, whereas [[Spin-off Pokémon games|spin-off games]] use ''Pokémon'' (ポケモン) instead. | ||
==Core series model== | ==Core series model== | ||
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While there are no strict rules that make a game a core series game, and previously assumed rules are continuously broken, the games generally have a similar plot and mechanics. | While there are no strict rules that make a game a core series game, and previously assumed rules are continuously broken, the games generally have a similar plot and mechanics. | ||
The {{player}} begins the game in a small town or city, having no {{OBP|Pokémon|species}} of their own. Through a course of events, | The {{player}} begins the game in a small town or city, having no {{OBP|Pokémon|species}} of their own. Through a course of events, the player, who may choose the gender of the character (not possible prior to {{game|Crystal}} as the character will always be male), will receive a [[starter Pokémon]] from the region's [[Pokémon Professor]]; the starter Pokémon is always a choice of three, a {{t|Grass}}, {{t|Fire}}, or {{t|Water}} type, and the character who will become the player's [[rival]] will choose or already have the Pokémon whose [[type]] is {{DL|Damage modification|super effective}} against that of the player's choice. The exceptions to this are {{game|Yellow}}, in which the player starts with {{p|Pikachu}} and the rival starts with {{p|Eevee}}, and {{game|Black and White|s}}, in which the player has two rivals, who each choose one of the starter Pokémon not picked by the player. | ||
It is at this point where the storyline of all these {{pkmn|games}} diverge. The player is allowed to journey across the entire [[region]], capturing any [[wild Pokémon]] he or she chooses to, and using a [[party]] he or she assembles to take on the eight [[Gym Leader]]s of the region. Alongside encounters with both other {{pkmn|Trainer}}s and repeated interactions with their rival, the player must also stop the plans of a [[Villainous teams|villainous team]], whose plans often involve the manipulation of [[legendary Pokémon]]. | It is at this point where the storyline of all these {{pkmn|games}} diverge. The player is allowed to journey across the entire [[region]], {{pkmn2|caught|capturing}} any [[wild Pokémon]] he or she chooses to, and using a [[party]] he or she assembles to take on the eight [[Gym Leader]]s of the region. Alongside encounters with both other {{pkmn|Trainer}}s and repeated interactions with their rival, the player must also stop the plans of a [[Villainous teams|villainous team]], whose plans often involve the manipulation of [[legendary Pokémon]]. | ||
After all eight Gym Leaders have been defeated, the player can enter the [[Pokémon League]], where the [[Elite Four]] and {{pkmn|Champion}} await challengers. The Champion of the region is often introduced prior to the player's Pokémon League challenge, and may aid the player as he or she continues his or her adventure. | After all eight Gym Leaders have been defeated, the player can enter the [[Pokémon League]], where the [[Elite Four]] and {{pkmn|Champion}} await challengers. The Champion of the region is often introduced prior to the player's Pokémon League challenge, and may aid the player as he or she continues his or her adventure. | ||
Though the game can be considered over as soon as the player has defeated the Champion, there is still post-game content. Often there is a post-game plotline and locations and facilities that could not be previously accessed. | Though the game can be considered over as soon as the player has defeated the Champion, there is still post-game content. Often there is a post-game plotline and locations and facilities that could not be previously accessed. Since Pokémon Crystal, there is usually at least one facility specifically dedicated to {{pkmn|battle|battling}}. The overarching goal is the completion of the [[Pokédex]]; after this has been done, the player will receive a [[diploma]] for completing the [[regional Pokédex]] and, starting in [[Generation II]], another for completing the [[National Pokédex]]. Another task was added in [[Generation III]] in order to fully complete the game: obtaining all {{ga|Trainer Card}} [[Trainer stars|stars]]. | ||
===Geography=== | ===Geography=== | ||
Within each region, there are various cities and towns, ranging from Kanto's 10 to Unova's | Within each [[region]], there are various cities and towns, ranging from [[Kanto]]'s 10 to [[Unova]]'s 21 (including both [[Black City]] and [[White Forest]]). These cities and towns are connected by [[route]]s. Every game has included at least one [[water route]], a mountain, [[cave]]s, and a [[forest]]. The route leading up to the Pokémon League in each region is called [[Victory Road]]. | ||
===Pokémon=== | ===Pokémon=== | ||
Most | Most [[generation]]s introduce {{OBP|Pokémon|species}} that [[Evolution|evolve]] into or from previously released Pokémon. [[Legendary Pokémon]] with myths specific to the region are almost always included, and frequently appear in [[Legendary duo|duos]] and [[Legendary trio|trios]]. | ||
In all generations, there are some Pokémon that cannot be encountered until after the player enters the [[Hall of Fame]]. These may be legendary Pokémon, such as {{p|Mewtwo}}, or simply Pokémon that are not part of the game's [[regional Pokédex]]. | In all generations, there are some Pokémon that cannot be encountered until after the {{player}} enters the [[Hall of Fame]]. These may be legendary Pokémon, such as {{p|Mewtwo}}, or simply Pokémon that are not part of the game's [[regional Pokédex]]. | ||
Before the release of a new generation, new Pokémon are often used to promote the new games by including them in the anime or in [[Spin-off Pokémon games|spin-off games]].<!--If/when [[User:Caciulacdlac/Pokémon that appeared before their generation]] enters the mainspace, provide a link in this paragraph.--> | Before the release of a new generation, new Pokémon are often used to promote the new {{pkmn|games}} by including them in the {{pkmn|anime}} or in [[Spin-off Pokémon games|spin-off games]].<!--If/when [[User:Caciulacdlac/Pokémon that appeared before their generation]] enters the mainspace, provide a link in this paragraph.--> | ||
====Mascots==== | ====Mascots==== | ||
{{main|Version mascot}} | {{main|Version mascot}} | ||
The | The box art for each game features one {{OBP|Pokémon|species}} which was introduced in that [[generation]] (or, in the case of [[remake]]s, the generation of the original games). This Pokémon is referred to by fans as a [[version mascot]], and with the exception of [[Generation I]] and its {{game3|FireRed and LeafGreen|remakes|s}}, it is always the [[legendary Pokémon]] available in that game at the climax of the storyline. | ||
===Release model=== | ===Release model=== | ||
While releases continue to break patterns, there is an overall model that the release of new core series games follows. | While releases continue to break patterns, there is an overall model that the release of new core series games follows. | ||
When a [[generation]] of Pokémon games begins, a pair of games is always released. These paired versions feature virtually the same storyline as each other, but | When a [[generation]] of [[Pokémon games]] begins, a pair of games is always released. These paired versions feature virtually the same storyline as each other, but each [[version-exclusive Pokémon]] differ, and some other elements are usually slightly different. This encourages [[Trade|trading]], as it is required in order to complete the [[Pokédex]]. | ||
A solitary version is later released with several minor storyline tweaks, but taking place in the same [[region]] and following the same basic storyline. Like the paired versions before it, it will always lack some of the Pokémon | A solitary version is later released with several minor storyline tweaks, but taking place in the same [[region]] and following the same basic storyline. Like the paired versions before it, it will always lack some of the {{OBP|Pokémon|species}} but will also contain some of those [[species]] missing from either of them; thus, a {{player}} of the solitary version must link together with the paired versions to complete the Pokédex as well. | ||
Sometimes, a | Sometimes, a secondary set of paired versions may be released. These paired versions are usually [[remake]]s of earlier titles and are not accompanied by a solitary version, since the latter's additions and changes are taken into consideration. [[Generation V]] broke with tradition by releasing {{game3|Black and White|a second pair of games|s 2}} as a sequel to the {{game3|Black and White|primary paired versions|s}} instead of a remake. | ||
New generations are typically announced and marketed every three to four years. | New generations are typically announced and marketed every three to four years. | ||
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==In other languages== | ==In other languages== | ||
{{langtable|color={{Pokémon color}}|bordercolor={{Pokémon color dark}} | {{langtable|color={{Pokémon color}}|bordercolor={{Pokémon color dark}} | ||
|ko=포켓몬스터 시리즈 ''Pocket Monsters | |ko=포켓몬스터 시리즈<ref>[http://pokemonkorea.co.kr/game/game_list.asp?GameGroup=P 포켓몬 공식 사이트]</ref> ''Pocket Monsters Series'' | ||
}} | }} | ||
Revision as of 16:30, 3 November 2013
It has been suggested that this article be moved to Core series. Please discuss whether or not to move it on its talk page. |
The core series[1] (Japanese: ポケットモンスターシリーズ[2] Pocket Monsters Series) of the Pokémon games, often referred to by fans as the main series, is the game series that is always released on a Nintendo handheld system and developed by Game Freak, which follow the now-standard model of a player's journey through a specific region to collect all of the species of Pokémon there. There are currently 20 games in the series internationally, 21 in Japan (due to the exclusive release of Pokémon Green there) and 11 in South Korea (due to the only games released there being Pokémon Gold and Silver prior to Pokémon Diamond and Pearl).
Most of these games have the label Version in their English title. In Japan, the series is called the Pocket Monsters Series, as core series games contain Pocket Monsters (ポケットモンスター) in their title, whereas spin-off games use Pokémon (ポケモン) instead.
Core series model
Content model
While there are no strict rules that make a game a core series game, and previously assumed rules are continuously broken, the games generally have a similar plot and mechanics.
The player begins the game in a small town or city, having no Pokémon of their own. Through a course of events, the player, who may choose the gender of the character (not possible prior to Pokémon Crystal as the character will always be male), will receive a starter Pokémon from the region's Pokémon Professor; the starter Pokémon is always a choice of three, a Grass, Fire, or Water type, and the character who will become the player's rival will choose or already have the Pokémon whose type is super effective against that of the player's choice. The exceptions to this are Pokémon Yellow, in which the player starts with Pikachu and the rival starts with Eevee, and Pokémon Black and White, in which the player has two rivals, who each choose one of the starter Pokémon not picked by the player.
It is at this point where the storyline of all these games diverge. The player is allowed to journey across the entire region, capturing any wild Pokémon he or she chooses to, and using a party he or she assembles to take on the eight Gym Leaders of the region. Alongside encounters with both other Trainers and repeated interactions with their rival, the player must also stop the plans of a villainous team, whose plans often involve the manipulation of legendary Pokémon.
After all eight Gym Leaders have been defeated, the player can enter the Pokémon League, where the Elite Four and Champion await challengers. The Champion of the region is often introduced prior to the player's Pokémon League challenge, and may aid the player as he or she continues his or her adventure.
Though the game can be considered over as soon as the player has defeated the Champion, there is still post-game content. Often there is a post-game plotline and locations and facilities that could not be previously accessed. Since Pokémon Crystal, there is usually at least one facility specifically dedicated to battling. The overarching goal is the completion of the Pokédex; after this has been done, the player will receive a diploma for completing the regional Pokédex and, starting in Generation II, another for completing the National Pokédex. Another task was added in Generation III in order to fully complete the game: obtaining all Trainer Card stars.
Geography
Within each region, there are various cities and towns, ranging from Kanto's 10 to Unova's 21 (including both Black City and White Forest). These cities and towns are connected by routes. Every game has included at least one water route, a mountain, caves, and a forest. The route leading up to the Pokémon League in each region is called Victory Road.
Pokémon
Most generations introduce Pokémon that evolve into or from previously released Pokémon. Legendary Pokémon with myths specific to the region are almost always included, and frequently appear in duos and trios.
In all generations, there are some Pokémon that cannot be encountered until after the player enters the Hall of Fame. These may be legendary Pokémon, such as Mewtwo, or simply Pokémon that are not part of the game's regional Pokédex.
Before the release of a new generation, new Pokémon are often used to promote the new games by including them in the anime or in spin-off games.
Mascots
- Main article: Version mascot
The box art for each game features one Pokémon which was introduced in that generation (or, in the case of remakes, the generation of the original games). This Pokémon is referred to by fans as a version mascot, and with the exception of Generation I and its remakes, it is always the legendary Pokémon available in that game at the climax of the storyline.
Release model
While releases continue to break patterns, there is an overall model that the release of new core series games follows.
When a generation of Pokémon games begins, a pair of games is always released. These paired versions feature virtually the same storyline as each other, but each version-exclusive Pokémon differ, and some other elements are usually slightly different. This encourages trading, as it is required in order to complete the Pokédex.
A solitary version is later released with several minor storyline tweaks, but taking place in the same region and following the same basic storyline. Like the paired versions before it, it will always lack some of the Pokémon but will also contain some of those species missing from either of them; thus, a player of the solitary version must link together with the paired versions to complete the Pokédex as well.
Sometimes, a secondary set of paired versions may be released. These paired versions are usually remakes of earlier titles and are not accompanied by a solitary version, since the latter's additions and changes are taken into consideration. Generation V broke with tradition by releasing a second pair of games as a sequel to the primary paired versions instead of a remake.
New generations are typically announced and marketed every three to four years.
List of core series games
Paired versions | Solitary versions | ||
---|---|---|---|
Generation I | Japan | ||
International | |||
Generation II | |||
Generation III | |||
Generation IV | |||
Generation V | |||
Generation VI |
In other languages
|
Trivia
- Only the international Pokémon Red and Blue and all versions of Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire, Pokémon Diamond and Pearl, Pokémon Black and White, and Pokémon X and Y use their version mascot's original Ken Sugimori artwork for their box art. All other games use specially made artwork.
References
- ↑ Iwata Asks : Pokémon X & Pokémon Y : Pokémon Born Anew (term exclusive to the Nintendo of America release of this Iwata Asks)
- ↑ ゲーム ポケットモンスターシリーズ | ポケットモンスターオフィシャルサイト
- ↑ 포켓몬 공식 사이트