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Core series: Difference between revisions

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The '''core series'''<ref>[https://iwataasks.nintendo.com/interviews/#/3ds/pokemonxy/0/1 Iwata Asks : Pokémon X & Pokémon Y : Pokémon Born Anew]</ref><ref>[http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/02/16/pokemons-master-speaks Pokemon's Master Speaks - IGN]</ref> of the [[Pokémon games]] or '''core games'''<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20131008075239/http://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-news/vg_pokemonxy_gf_interview-2013-10-04/ Inside the Minds behind Pokémon! | News | Pokemon.com]</ref>, commonly referred to as the '''main series''' or '''mainline games''' by fans, is the game series that is developed by [[Game Freak]] for [[Nintendo]] video game systems, which follow the standard model of a {{player}}'s journey through a specific [[region]] to catch and raise {{OBP|Pokémon|species}}, battle {{pkmn|Trainer}}s, fight [[Villainous teams|crime]], and earn recognition (usually by collecting [[Badge]]s from [[Gym Leader]]s) until they are acknowledged as the [[Pokémon Champion|strongest Trainer]]. The series has only been released for {{wp|Handheld game console|handheld systems}}, although [[Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!]] were released on the [[Nintendo Switch]] which is both a handheld and a home console.
The '''core series'''<ref>[https://iwataasks.nintendo.com/interviews/#/3ds/pokemonxy/0/1 Iwata Asks : Pokémon X & Pokémon Y : Pokémon Born Anew]</ref><ref>[http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/02/16/pokemons-master-speaks Pokemon's Master Speaks - IGN]</ref> of the [[Pokémon games]] or '''core games'''<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20131008075239/http://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-news/vg_pokemonxy_gf_interview-2013-10-04/ Inside the Minds behind Pokémon! | News | Pokemon.com]</ref>, commonly referred to as the '''main series''' or '''mainline games''' by fans, is the game series for [[Nintendo]] video game systems, which follow the standard model of a {{player}}'s journey through a specific [[region]] to catch and raise {{OBP|Pokémon|species}}, battle {{pkmn|Trainer}}s, fight [[Villainous team|crime]], and earn recognition (usually by collecting [[Badge]]s from [[Gym Leader]]s) until they are acknowledged as the [[Pokémon Champion|strongest Trainer]]. The series has only been released for {{wp|Handheld game console|handheld systems}}, though this includes the [[Nintendo Switch]] which is both a handheld and a home console.


Counting each game individually, there are currently 30 games in the series internationally, 31 in Japan, and 21 in {{pmin|South Korea}}. Counting paired individual games as a single release, there are currently 16 games in the series internationally, 17 in Japan, and 10 in South Korea.
Counting each game individually, there are currently 35 games in the series in Western regions, 36 in Japan, 26 in {{pmin|South Korea}}, and 11 in {{pmin|Greater China}}. Counting paired games as a single release, there are currently 20 games in the series in Western regions, 21 in Japan, 14 in South Korea, and 6 in Greater China.


Prior to [[Generation VI]], it was standard for the Western releases of the core series games to include the label ''Version'' in their title, although this was seldom used by the Japanese releases. In Japanese, Korean, and Chinese, the series is called the '''Pocket Monsters Series''' (Japanese: '''ポケットモンスターシリーズ'''<ref>[https://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>, Korean: '''포켓몬스터 시리즈'''<ref>[http://pokemonkorea.co.kr/?inc=game-game_list&GameGroup=P 포켓몬 공식 사이트]</ref>, Chinese: '''精靈寶可夢系列 / 精灵宝可梦系列'''<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CIVoUw0h20w&t=9m30s Nintendo SpotLight E3 2017 (附中文字幕) - YouTube]</ref>), as core series games all contain the full name ''Pocket Monsters'' in their title, whereas side series and [[Spin-off Pokémon games|spin-off games]] use the abbreviation ''Pokémon'' in the title instead. However, the Japanese releases of the [[Pokémon Stadium series]] use ''Pocket Monsters'' in English subtitles, despite the titles using ''Pokémon'' in {{wp|kana}}.
Prior to [[Generation VI]], it was standard for the Western releases of the core series games to include the label ''Version'' in their title, although this was seldom used by the Japanese releases. In Japanese, Korean, and Chinese, the series is called the '''Pocket Monsters Series''' (Japanese: '''ポケットモンスターシリーズ'''<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20160917190255/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] (archive)</ref><ref>[https://www.pokemon.co.jp/game/ GAME LIST]</ref>, Korean: '''포켓몬스터 시리즈'''<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20200805135605/https://pokemonkorea.co.kr/?inc=game-game_list&GameGroup=P 포켓몬 공식 사이트] (archive)</ref>, Chinese: '''精靈寶可夢系列 / 精灵宝可梦系列'''<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CIVoUw0h20w&t=9m30s Nintendo SpotLight E3 2017 (附中文字幕) - YouTube]</ref>). Core series games, except [[Pokémon Legends: Arceus]], all contain the full name ''Pocket Monsters'' in their Japanese title, whereas side series and [[Spin-off Pokémon games|spin-off games]] use the abbreviation ''Pokémon'' instead. While the Japanese releases of the [[Pokémon Stadium series]] use ''Pocket Monsters'' in English subtitles, they use ''Pokémon'' in {{wp|kana}} in their Japanese names.
 
The Pokémon Video Game Championships are conducted using the core series games.


==Classification==
==Classification==
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The {{player}} begins the game in a small town or city of a given [[region]], having no {{OBP|Pokémon|species}} of their own. Through a course of events, the player 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 typically choose (or already have) the Pokémon whose [[type]] is [[super effective]] against that of the player's choice, although some exceptions to this pattern exist.
The {{player}} begins the game in a small town or city of a given [[region]], having no {{OBP|Pokémon|species}} of their own. Through a course of events, the player 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 typically choose (or already have) the Pokémon whose [[type]] is [[super effective]] against that of the player's choice, although some exceptions to this pattern exist.


After this point, the player begins to journey across the entire region (each with their own cities and towns, themselves connected by [[route]]), {{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 (except in Alola where the player battle in Trials instead) 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]], which often involve the manipulation of [[Legendary Pokémon]].
After this point, the player begins to journey across the entire region (each with their own cities and towns, themselves connected by [[route]]), {{pkmn2|caught|capturing}} any [[wild Pokémon]] they choose to, and using a [[party]] they assemble to take on the eight [[Gym Leader]]s (except in Alola where the player battle in Trials instead) 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 team]], which 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 the player continues their 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 {{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 III]], 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]].
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 III]], another for completing the [[National Pokédex]]. Another task was added in [[Generation III]] in order to fully complete the game: fully [[Trainer Card level|leveling up]] the {{ga|Trainer Card}}.


Another element that characterizes a core series game is that the geography of regions includes at least one [[water route]], a mountain, several [[cave]]s, a [[forest]], as well as a final route leading up to the Pokémon League called [[Victory Road]].
Another element that characterizes a core series game is that the geography of regions includes at least one [[water route]], a mountain, several [[cave]]s, a [[forest]], as well as a final route leading up to the Pokémon League called [[Victory Road]].
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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 the [[Game-exclusive Pokémon|available Pokémon]] differ, and some other elements are usually slightly different. This encourages [[Trade|trading]], as it is required in order to complete the [[regional Pokédex]].
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 the [[Game-exclusive Pokémon|available Pokémon]] differ, and some other elements are usually slightly different. This encourages [[Trade|trading]], as it is required in order to complete the [[regional Pokédex]].


Most generations feature an "upper version"<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CldWM5ornc Nintendo UK YouTube]: Pokémon Ultra Sun & Pokémon Ultra Moon Introduction – Episode 4 – A new Pokémon adventure awaits</ref> title—often referred to by fans as a "third version" or a "sister game"—a follow-up game or pair of games released after the first games of the generation that takes place in the same [[region]] with added features. These games typically both share and lack certain regional {{OBP|Pokémon|species}} that were available in one or both of the original paired versions; thus, a {{player}} of an upper version must link together with the original pair to complete the regional Pokédex as well. On the contrary, upper versions typically contain certain Pokémon from different regions that are unavailable in the original pair, thus being more helpful in completing the [[National Pokédex]]. Until [[Generation VII]], only a single third version following an original pair was ever released at a time; [[Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon]] were the first games to be released as a pair. Unlike other generations, [[Generation V]] opted for a sequel story instead, and [[Generation VI]] entirely forewent follow-up games set in the same region.
Most generations feature an "upper version"<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CldWM5ornc Nintendo UK YouTube]: Pokémon Ultra Sun & Pokémon Ultra Moon Introduction – Episode 4 – A new Pokémon adventure awaits</ref> title—often referred to by fans as a "third version"—a follow-up game or pair of games released after the first games of the generation that takes place in the same [[region]] with added features. These games typically both share and lack certain regional {{OBP|Pokémon|species}} that were available in one or both of the original paired versions; thus, a {{player}} of an upper version must link together with the original pair to complete the regional Pokédex as well. On the contrary, upper versions typically contain certain Pokémon from different regions that are unavailable in the original pair, thus being more helpful in completing the [[National Pokédex]]. Until [[Generation VII]], only a single third version following an original pair was ever released at a time; [[Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon]] were the first of these games to be released as a pair. Unlike other generations, [[Generation V]] opted for a sequel story instead, while [[Generation VI]] and [[Generation VIII]] entirely forwent follow-up games set in the same region, the latter instead providing added features to the original pair of games via {{wp|downloadable content}} in an expansion pass.


Sometimes, a secondary set of paired versions that are [[remake]]s of earlier titles may also be released.
Sometimes, a secondary set of paired versions that are [[remake]]s of earlier titles may also be released.
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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]].
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}} becomes {{pkmn|Champion}}. 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 {{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.-->
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.-->
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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 [[game mascot]], and with the exception of [[Kanto]]-based games, it is always the [[Legendary Pokémon]] available in that game at the climax of the storyline.
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 [[game mascot]], and with the exception of [[Kanto]]-based games, it is always the [[Legendary Pokémon]] available in that game at the climax of the storyline.


In terms of the artwork itself, the international {{game|Red and Blue|s}} and all releases of the initial paired games of each generation from [[Generation III]] onward use their game mascot's original [[Ken Sugimori]] artwork for their box art, whereas all other core series games use specially made artwork.
In terms of the artwork itself, the international {{game|Red and Blue|s}} and all region releases of the initial paired games of each generation from [[Generation III]] to {{Gen|VII}} use their game mascot's original [[Ken Sugimori]] artwork for their box art, whereas all other core series games use specially made artwork.
 
The titles in the Japanese games always use some shade of red and blue for either the characters or outlines of the characters. This is most likely in reference to the first internationally released core games of Pokémon Red and Blue. The DLC Expansion Passes for Pokémon Sword and Shield use Green and Yellow, likely in reference to both Pokémon Red and Green, along with Pokémon Yellow.


==List of core series games==
==List of core series games==
In {{pmin|South Korea}}, only {{game|Gold and Silver|s}} were released prior to the foundation of Nintendo of Korea and Pokémon Korea in 2006. The first core series game release after this was {{game|Diamond and Pearl|s}} in 2008.
In {{pmin|South Korea}}, only {{game|Gold and Silver|s}} were released prior to the foundation of Nintendo of Korea and Pokémon Korea in 2006. The first core series game release after this was {{game|Diamond and Pearl|s}} in 2008.
In {{pmin|Greater China}}, the first core series game release was [[Pokémon Sun and Moon]] in 2016.


{| class="roundy" style="margin:auto; background-color:#e6e6ff; border: 3px solid #88a; white-space:nowrap"
{| class="roundy" style="margin:auto; background-color:#e6e6ff; border: 3px solid #88a; white-space:nowrap"
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| style="background:#{{red color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{red color}}|{{color2|{{red color dark}}|Pokémon Red and Blue Versions|Red}}}}
| style="background:#{{red color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{red color}}|{{color2|{{red color dark}}|Pokémon Red and Blue Versions|Red}}}}
| style="background:#{{blue color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{blue color}}|{{color2|{{blue color dark}}|Pokémon Red and Blue Versions|Blue}}}}
| style="background:#{{blue color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{blue color}}|{{color2|{{blue color dark}}|Pokémon Red and Blue Versions|Blue}}}}
| colspan="2" style="background:#{{yellow color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{yellow color}}|{{color2|{{yellow color dark}}|Pokémon Yellow Version|Yellow}}}}
| colspan="2" style="background:#{{yellow color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{yellow color}}|{{color2|{{yellow color dark}}|Pokémon Yellow Version|Yellow: Special Pikachu Edition}}}}
|-
|-
! style="background:#{{johto color}}; padding:5px" | {{color2|000|Generation II}}
! style="background:#{{johto color}}; padding:5px" | {{color2|000|Generation II}}
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| style="background:#{{Let's Go Eevee color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{Let's Go Eevee color}}|{{color2|{{Let's Go Eevee color dark}}|Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!|Let's Go, Eevee!}}}}
| style="background:#{{Let's Go Eevee color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{Let's Go Eevee color}}|{{color2|{{Let's Go Eevee color dark}}|Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!|Let's Go, Eevee!}}}}
|-
|-
! style="background:#{{galar color}}; {{roundybl|5px}} padding:5px" | {{color2|000|Generation VIII}}
! rowspan="3" style="background:#{{galar color}}; {{roundybl|5px}} padding:5px" | {{color2|000|Generation VIII}}
| style="background:#{{sword color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{sword color}}|{{color2|{{sword color dark}}|Pokémon Sword and Shield|Sword}}}}
| style="background:#{{sword color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{sword color}}|{{color2|{{sword color dark}}|Pokémon Sword and Shield|Sword}}}}
| style="background:#{{shield color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{shield color}}|{{color2|{{shield color dark}}|Pokémon Sword and Shield|Shield}}}}
| style="background:#{{shield color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{shield color}}|{{color2|{{shield color dark}}|Pokémon Sword and Shield|Shield}}}}
|-
| style="background:#{{brilliant diamond color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{brilliant diamond color}}|{{color2|{{brilliant diamond color dark}}|Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl|Brillant Diamond}}}}
| style="background:#{{shining pearl color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{shining pearl color}}|{{color2|{{shining pearl color dark}}|Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl|Shining Pearl}}}}
|-
| colspan="2" style="background:#{{legends arceus color light}}" | {{colorswatch|{{legends arceus color}}|{{color2|{{legends arceus color dark}}|Pokémon Legends: Arceus|Legends: Arceus}}}}
|}
|}


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Several pieces of content in the core series Pokémon games depend on the games having a timeline, but a complete timeline cannot be drawn from the games themselves. On May 7, 2014, [[Game Freak]] employee [[Toshinobu Matsumiya]]'s Twitter account posted a timeline of the core series Pokémon games;<ref>[https://archive.is/D9iPz archive.is] (archived from [https://twitter.com/matsumiyan/status/464052839870787584 the original])</ref> the tweet was subsequently deleted.
Several pieces of content in the core series Pokémon games depend on the games having a timeline, but a complete timeline cannot be drawn from the games themselves. On May 7, 2014, [[Game Freak]] employee [[Toshinobu Matsumiya]]'s Twitter account posted a timeline of the core series Pokémon games;<ref>[https://archive.is/D9iPz archive.is] (archived from [https://twitter.com/matsumiyan/status/464052839870787584 the original])</ref> the tweet was subsequently deleted.


The plot of {{game|Ruby and Sapphire|s}} and {{game|Red and Green|s}} are contemporaneous. They are then followed by the equally contemporaneous plot of {{game|Gold and Silver|s}} and {{game2|Diamond|Pearl|Platinum}}, which are set three years later. {{game|Black and White|s}} are set an unspecified amount of time after those games. [[Pokémon Black and White Versions 2|Pokémon Black 2 and White 2]] are set two years after those games, and are contemporaneous with {{g|X and Y}}. {{g|Sun and Moon}} and {{g|Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon}} take place two years after the events of Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 and at least 10 years after the events of Pokémon Emerald.
The plot of {{game|Ruby and Sapphire|s}} and {{game|Red and Green|s}} are contemporaneous. They are then followed by the equally contemporaneous plot of {{game|Gold and Silver|s}} and {{game2|Diamond|Pearl|Platinum}}, which are set three years later. {{game|Black and White|s}} are set an unspecified amount of time after those games.<ref name="Gen4-5 gap" group="note"/> [[Pokémon Black and White Versions 2|Pokémon Black 2 and White 2]] are set two years after those games, and are contemporaneous with {{g|X and Y}}. {{g|Sun and Moon}} and {{g|Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon}} take place two years after the events of Pokémon Black 2 and White 2<ref>Pokémon Sun and Moon [[Grimsley]] [https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/settei settei]</ref> and at least 10 years after the events of Pokémon Emerald.<ref group="note" name="Anabel"/>


It is unknown if the aforementioned timeline also applies to all solitary versions and [[remake]]s. Furthermore, [[Zinnia]] suggests that there are {{wp|Multiverse|alternate universes}}.
It is unknown if the aforementioned timeline also applies to all solitary versions and [[remake]]s. Furthermore, [[Zinnia]] suggests that there are {{wp|Multiverse|alternate universes}}.
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{{wp|Topaz}}, {{wp|tourmaline}}, {{wp|Moonstone (gemstone)|moonstone}}, and {{wp|emerald}} (by virtue of Delta Emerald) are all names of minerals, while the rest are names of colors. Additionally, {{wp|vermilion}}, {{wp|crimson}}, and {{wp|Scarlet (color)|scarlet}} are all shades of red.
{{wp|Topaz}}, {{wp|tourmaline}}, {{wp|Moonstone (gemstone)|moonstone}}, and {{wp|emerald}} (by virtue of Delta Emerald) are all names of minerals, while the rest are names of colors. Additionally, {{wp|vermilion}}, {{wp|crimson}}, and {{wp|Scarlet (color)|scarlet}} are all shades of red.


Contrary to what is sometimes reported, the name '''WaterBlue''' was not trademarked by Nintendo, Creatures, or Game Freak. According to the Japan Platform for Patent Information, '''ウォーターブルー''' and '''WATER BLUE''' (application number 2010-060625, registration number 5386853) are trademarks of {{wp|Meiji Seika}}, a Japanese pharmaceutical company. However, [[Game Freak]]'s [[Junichi Masuda]] did mention "WaterBlue" in 2004 on a blog post explaining the company's choice of {{game|FireRed and LeafGreen|s|"FireRed" and "LeafGreen"}} as both Japanese and international titles for the remakes of {{2v2|Red|Green}}.<ref>[https://www.gamefreak.co.jp/blog/dir/?p=109 増田部長のめざめるパワー]</ref><ref>[https://www.gamefreak.co.jp/blog/dir_english/?p=25 HIDDEN POWER of masuda]</ref>
Contrary to what is sometimes reported, the name '''WaterBlue''' was not trademarked by Nintendo, Creatures, or Game Freak. According to the Japan Platform for Patent Information, '''ウォーターブルー''' and '''WATER BLUE''' (application number 2010-060625, registration number 5386853) are trademarks of {{wp|Meiji Seika}}, a Japanese food and pharmaceutical company. However, [[Game Freak]]'s [[Junichi Masuda]] did mention "WaterBlue" in 2004 on a blog post explaining the company's choice of {{game|FireRed and LeafGreen|s|"FireRed" and "LeafGreen"}} as both Japanese and international titles for the remakes of {{2v2|Red|Green}}.<ref>[https://www.gamefreak.co.jp/blog/dir/2004/08/index.html 増田部長のめざめるパワー]</ref><ref>[https://www.gamefreak.co.jp/blog/dir_english/2004/08/index.html HIDDEN POWER of masuda]</ref>


==Connectivity==
==Connectivity==
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* '''[[Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire Special Demo Version]]''': Allows players to receive a {{p|Steelix}} and/or a {{p|Glalie}} with their respective [[Mega Stone]]s in Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire.
* '''[[Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire Special Demo Version]]''': Allows players to receive a {{p|Steelix}} and/or a {{p|Glalie}} with their respective [[Mega Stone]]s in Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire.
* '''[[Pokémon Sun and Pokémon Moon Special Demo Version]]''': Allows players to receive a {{p|Greninja}} with the Ability {{a|Battle Bond}} in Pokémon Sun and Moon.
* '''[[Pokémon Sun and Pokémon Moon Special Demo Version]]''': Allows players to receive a {{p|Greninja}} with the Ability {{a|Battle Bond}} in Pokémon Sun and Moon.
* '''[[Pokémon HOME]]''': Allows players to store their Pokémon from Generation VI and VII games, and can transfer Pokémon from Pokémon Bank and Pokémon GO to its own storage.
* '''[[Pokémon HOME]]''': Allows players to store their Pokémon from Generation VIII games, and can transfer Pokémon from Pokémon Bank, Pokémon Let's Go, and Pokémon GO to its own storage.


Additionally, some spin-off games allow players to receive special Pokémon:
Additionally, some spin-off games allow players to receive special Pokémon:
* '''[[Pokémon Pikachu 2 GS]]''': Allows players to convert [[watts]] accumulated by walking into items to be sent to the Generation II games.
* '''[[Pokémon Channel]]''': In the European and Australian versions of the game, it allows players to receive a gift {{p|Jirachi}} in the Generation III core series games.
* '''[[Pokémon Channel]]''': In the European and Australian versions of the game, it allows players to receive a gift {{p|Jirachi}} in the Generation III core series games.
* '''[[Pokémon Ranger]]''' series: Allows players to receive a special {{p|Manaphy}} Egg in the Generation IV core series games.
* '''[[Pokémon Ranger]]''' series: Allows players to receive a special {{p|Manaphy}} Egg in the Generation IV core series games.
* '''[[Pokémon GO]]''': Allows players to transfer Generation I Pokémon caught in this game to [[Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!]] and (in the future) Pokémon HOME.
* '''[[Pokéwalker]]''': Allows players to store their Pokémon from Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver to gain experience by walking. Additionally, Pokémon caught in the Pokéwalker can be transferred to Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver.
* '''[[Pokémon GO]]''': Allows players to transfer Generation I Pokémon caught in this game to [[Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!]]. Allows players to transfer most Pokémon caught in this game to Pokémon HOME via the [[GO Transporter]].
* '''[[Pokémon Pass]]''': Allows players to receive [[serial code]]s for a {{Shiny}} {{p|Pikachu}} or a Shiny {{p|Eevee}} in [[Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!]].
* '''[[Pokémon Pass]]''': Allows players to receive [[serial code]]s for a {{Shiny}} {{p|Pikachu}} or a Shiny {{p|Eevee}} in [[Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!]].


Line 159: Line 172:
* [[Spin-off Pokémon games]]
* [[Spin-off Pokémon games]]
** [[Pokémon Mystery Dungeon series]]
** [[Pokémon Mystery Dungeon series]]
** [[Pokémon Ranger series]]
** [[Pokémon Rumble series]]
** [[Pokémon Rumble series]]
** [[Pokémon Stadium series]]
** [[Super Smash Bros. series]]
* [[Pokémon Stadium series]]
 
==Notes==
{{#tag:references|
{{#tag:ref|Pokémon Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun, and Ultra Moon are known to be set 10-20 years after the Generation I core series games and Pokémon Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald.<ref name="Anabel" group="note"/><ref name="Porygon" group="note"/> Due to the known durations between other games, it can be calculated that Pokémon Black and White are set 3-13 years after Pokémon Gold, Silver, Crystal, Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum|name="Gen4-5 gap"}}
{{#tag:ref|{{p|Porygon}}'s Pokémon Sun, Ultra Sun, and Ultra Moon Pokédex entries state that it was created 20 years ago. Since Porygon exists in the Generation I games, they cannot be set more than 20 years earlier than the games in which the Pokédex entries appear.|name="Porygon"}}
{{#tag:ref|In {{g|Sun and Moon}}, it is mentioned that [[Anabel]] fell through an [[Ultra Wormhole]] 10 years ago. Since she appeared in Pokémon Emerald before falling through the wormhole, Pokémon Sun and Moon cannot be set less than 10 years after Pokémon Emerald.|name="Anabel"|group="note"}}
|group="note"}}


==References==
==References==
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[[fr:Jeux principaux]]
[[fr:Jeux principaux]]
[[it:Serie principale]]
[[it:Serie principale]]
[[zh:精灵宝可梦系列]]
[[zh:宝可梦系列]]

Revision as of 20:23, 28 February 2021

The core series[1][2] of the Pokémon games or core games[3], commonly referred to as the main series or mainline games by fans, is the game series for Nintendo video game systems, which follow the standard model of a player's journey through a specific region to catch and raise Pokémon, battle Trainers, fight crime, and earn recognition (usually by collecting Badges from Gym Leaders) until they are acknowledged as the strongest Trainer. The series has only been released for handheld systems, though this includes the Nintendo Switch which is both a handheld and a home console.

Counting each game individually, there are currently 35 games in the series in Western regions, 36 in Japan, 26 in South Korea, and 11 in Greater China. Counting paired games as a single release, there are currently 20 games in the series in Western regions, 21 in Japan, 14 in South Korea, and 6 in Greater China.

Prior to Generation VI, it was standard for the Western releases of the core series games to include the label Version in their title, although this was seldom used by the Japanese releases. In Japanese, Korean, and Chinese, the series is called the Pocket Monsters Series (Japanese: ポケットモンスターシリーズ[4][5], Korean: 포켓몬스터 시리즈[6], Chinese: 精靈寶可夢系列 / 精灵宝可梦系列[7]). Core series games, except Pokémon Legends: Arceus, all contain the full name Pocket Monsters in their Japanese title, whereas side series and spin-off games use the abbreviation Pokémon instead. While the Japanese releases of the Pokémon Stadium series use Pocket Monsters in English subtitles, they use Pokémon in kana in their Japanese names.

The Pokémon Video Game Championships are conducted using the core series games.

Classification

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 of a given region, having no Pokémon of their own. Through a course of events, the player 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 typically choose (or already have) the Pokémon whose type is super effective against that of the player's choice, although some exceptions to this pattern exist.

After this point, the player begins to journey across the entire region (each with their own cities and towns, themselves connected by route), capturing any wild Pokémon they choose to, and using a party they assemble to take on the eight Gym Leaders (except in Alola where the player battle in Trials instead) 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, which 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 the player continues their 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 III, another for completing the National Pokédex. Another task was added in Generation III in order to fully complete the game: fully leveling up the Trainer Card.

Another element that characterizes a core series game is that the geography of regions includes at least one water route, a mountain, several caves, a forest, as well as a final route leading up to the Pokémon League called Victory Road.

Release model

While releases continue to break patterns, the release of core series games tends to follow a pattern.

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 the available Pokémon differ, and some other elements are usually slightly different. This encourages trading, as it is required in order to complete the regional Pokédex.

Most generations feature an "upper version"[8] title—often referred to by fans as a "third version"—a follow-up game or pair of games released after the first games of the generation that takes place in the same region with added features. These games typically both share and lack certain regional Pokémon that were available in one or both of the original paired versions; thus, a player of an upper version must link together with the original pair to complete the regional Pokédex as well. On the contrary, upper versions typically contain certain Pokémon from different regions that are unavailable in the original pair, thus being more helpful in completing the National Pokédex. Until Generation VII, only a single third version following an original pair was ever released at a time; Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon were the first of these games to be released as a pair. Unlike other generations, Generation V opted for a sequel story instead, while Generation VI and Generation VIII entirely forwent follow-up games set in the same region, the latter instead providing added features to the original pair of games via downloadable content in an expansion pass.

Sometimes, a secondary set of paired versions that are remakes of earlier titles may also be released.

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 becomes Champion. 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.

Box art

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 game mascot, and with the exception of Kanto-based games, it is always the Legendary Pokémon available in that game at the climax of the storyline.

In terms of the artwork itself, the international Pokémon Red and Blue and all region releases of the initial paired games of each generation from Generation III to VII use their game mascot's original Ken Sugimori artwork for their box art, whereas all other core series games use specially made artwork.

The titles in the Japanese games always use some shade of red and blue for either the characters or outlines of the characters. This is most likely in reference to the first internationally released core games of Pokémon Red and Blue. The DLC Expansion Passes for Pokémon Sword and Shield use Green and Yellow, likely in reference to both Pokémon Red and Green, along with Pokémon Yellow.

List of core series games

In South Korea, only Pokémon Gold and Silver were released prior to the foundation of Nintendo of Korea and Pokémon Korea in 2006. The first core series game release after this was Pokémon Diamond and Pearl in 2008.

In Greater China, the first core series game release was Pokémon Sun and Moon in 2016.

Original versions Upper versions
Generation I
(Japan)
Generation I
(International)
Generation II
Generation III
Generation IV
Generation V
Generation VI
Generation VII
Generation VIII

Timeline

Main article: History of the Pokémon world

Several pieces of content in the core series Pokémon games depend on the games having a timeline, but a complete timeline cannot be drawn from the games themselves. On May 7, 2014, Game Freak employee Toshinobu Matsumiya's Twitter account posted a timeline of the core series Pokémon games;[9] the tweet was subsequently deleted.

The plot of Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire and Pokémon Red and Green are contemporaneous. They are then followed by the equally contemporaneous plot of Pokémon Gold and Silver and Pokémon Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum, which are set three years later. Pokémon Black and White are set an unspecified amount of time after those games.[note 1] Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 are set two years after those games, and are contemporaneous with Pokémon X and Y. Pokémon Sun and Moon and Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon take place two years after the events of Pokémon Black 2 and White 2[10] and at least 10 years after the events of Pokémon Emerald.[note 2]

It is unknown if the aforementioned timeline also applies to all solitary versions and remakes. Furthermore, Zinnia suggests that there are alternate universes.

Unused trademarks

Nintendo, Creatures, and Game Freak have trademarked several titles in the Japan Patent Office which have not currently been used but which fit the naming scheme of the core series games. The following information comes from the Japan Platform for Patent Information (Japanese, English):

  • Pocket Monsters: Topaz (Japanese: ポケットモンスタートパーズ) [application number 2002-063587, registration number 4677891]
  • Pocket Monsters: Tourmaline (Japanese: ポケットモンスタートルマリン) [application number 2002-063588, registration number 4684698]
  • Pocket Monsters: Moonstone (Japanese: ポケットモンスタームーンストーン) [application number 2002-063590, registration number 4684699]
  • Pocket Monsters: Brown (Japanese: ポケットモンスター茶) [application number 2008-093270, registration number 5222905]
  • Pocket Monsters: Grey (Japanese: ポケットモンスター灰) [application number 2008-093272, registration number 5222907]
  • Pocket Monsters: Vermilion (Japanese: ポケットモンスター朱) [application number 2008-093273, registration number 5222908]
  • Pocket Monsters: Purple (Japanese: ポケットモンスター紫) [application number 2008-093274, registration number 5222909]
  • Pocket Monsters: Crimson (Japanese: ポケットモンスター紅) [application number 2008-093275, registration number 5222910]
  • Pocket Monsters: Scarlet (Japanese: ポケットモンスター緋) [application number 2008-093276, registration number 5222911]
  • Delta Emerald[11] (Japanese: デルタエメラルド) [application number 2014-035118, registration number 5701924]

Topaz, tourmaline, moonstone, and emerald (by virtue of Delta Emerald) are all names of minerals, while the rest are names of colors. Additionally, vermilion, crimson, and scarlet are all shades of red.

Contrary to what is sometimes reported, the name WaterBlue was not trademarked by Nintendo, Creatures, or Game Freak. According to the Japan Platform for Patent Information, ウォーターブルー and WATER BLUE (application number 2010-060625, registration number 5386853) are trademarks of Meiji Seika, a Japanese food and pharmaceutical company. However, Game Freak's Junichi Masuda did mention "WaterBlue" in 2004 on a blog post explaining the company's choice of "FireRed" and "LeafGreen" as both Japanese and international titles for the remakes of Red and Green.[12][13]

Connectivity

In addition to the core series games, each of the side series games allow players to transfer their Pokémon to and from the core series:

Additionally, some spin-off games allow players to receive special Pokémon:

See also

Notes

  1. ↑ Pokémon Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun, and Ultra Moon are known to be set 10-20 years after the Generation I core series games and Pokémon Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald.[note 2][note 3] Due to the known durations between other games, it can be calculated that Pokémon Black and White are set 3-13 years after Pokémon Gold, Silver, Crystal, Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 In Pokémon Sun and Moon, it is mentioned that Anabel fell through an Ultra Wormhole 10 years ago. Since she appeared in Pokémon Emerald before falling through the wormhole, Pokémon Sun and Moon cannot be set less than 10 years after Pokémon Emerald.
  3. ↑ Porygon's Pokémon Sun, Ultra Sun, and Ultra Moon Pokédex entries state that it was created 20 years ago. Since Porygon exists in the Generation I games, they cannot be set more than 20 years earlier than the games in which the Pokédex entries appear.

References

  1. ↑ Iwata Asks : Pokémon X & Pokémon Y : Pokémon Born Anew
  2. ↑ Pokemon's Master Speaks - IGN
  3. ↑ Inside the Minds behind Pokémon! | News | Pokemon.com
  4. ↑ 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 (archive)
  5. ↑ GAME LIST
  6. ↑ 포켓몬 공식 사이트 (archive)
  7. ↑ Nintendo SpotLight E3 2017 (附中文字幕) - YouTube
  8. ↑ Nintendo UK YouTube: Pokémon Ultra Sun & Pokémon Ultra Moon Introduction – Episode 4 – A new Pokémon adventure awaits
  9. ↑ archive.is (archived from the original)
  10. ↑ Pokémon Sun and Moon Grimsley settei
  11. ↑ Pokemon Delta Emerald Trademark Surfaces - IGN
  12. ↑ 増田部長のめざめるパワー
  13. ↑ HIDDEN POWER of masuda

External links


Generation I: Red & Green • Blue (JP) • Red & Blue • Yellow
Generation II: Gold & Silver • Crystal
Generation III: Ruby & Sapphire • FireRed & LeafGreen • Emerald
Generation IV: Diamond & Pearl • Platinum • HeartGold & SoulSilver
Generation V: Black & White • Black 2 & White 2
Generation VI: X & Y • Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire
Generation VII: Sun & Moon • Ultra Sun & Ultra Moon
Let's Go, Pikachu! & Let's Go, Eevee!‎
Generation VIII: Sword & Shield (The Isle of Armor / The Crown Tundra)
Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl • Legends: Arceus
Generation IX: Scarlet & Violet (The Teal Mask / The Indigo Disk)
Legends: Z-A
Pokémon game templates


Project Games logo.png This game-related article is part of Project Games, a Bulbapedia project that aims to write comprehensive articles on the Pokémon games.
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