The Comprehensive Guide to Pokémon

Pokémon, short for 'Pocket Monsters', was created by Satoshi Tajiri in 1996. Inspired by his childhood insect collecting, the franchise began as a video game for the original Game Boy.

In Pokémon games, players assume the role of Pokémon trainers. Their goal is to capture and train Pokémon to battle others, aiming to become the Pokémon Champion by defeating the Elite Four.

There are 18 different Pokémon types such as Fire, Water, and Grass, each with strengths and weaknesses creating a dynamic battle system inspired by rock-paper-scissors.

Shiny Pokémon, introduced in Generation II, have a different coloration than their regular counterparts and are extremely rare, with about a 1 in 4,000 chance of encountering one in most games.

Many Pokémon evolve into a new species when certain conditions are met, like leveling up or using a special stone. This concept mirrors the metamorphosis of real-world organisms.

Legendary and Mythical Pokémon are ultra-rare and often tied to the game's lore. They're typically encountered only once per game and are central to the plot.

Pokémon has become a global phenomenon, influencing various mediums and industries. It holds the record for the highest-grossing media franchise ever, surpassing heavyweights like Star Wars and Marvel.