Pokémon

Definition

Pokémon refers to a media franchise created by Satoshi Tajiri and Ken Sugimori that began in 1996 with video games and quickly expanded to include an animated television series, trading card games, movies, and merchandise. The franchise's core concept revolves around fictional creatures called Pokémon, which trainers capture, train, and battle against each other, fostering themes of friendship, competition, and adventure. This expansive universe is a prime example of how one idea can be transformed into multiple forms of storytelling and brand engagement.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pokémon started as a pair of video games for the original Game Boy and has since grown into one of the highest-grossing media franchises globally.
2. The Pokémon animated series premiered in 1997 and became immensely popular, introducing audiences to Ash Ketchum and his quest to become a Pokémon Master.
3. The trading card game was launched in 1996 and has sparked competitive tournaments worldwide, further engaging fans and enhancing the franchise's community aspect.
4. In addition to games and shows, Pokémon has expanded into various forms of media including movies, manga, toys, and even mobile applications like Pokémon GO, which introduced augmented reality gameplay.
5. Pokémon's ability to adapt and evolve across different platforms is a key factor in its longevity and relevance in the ever-changing landscape of children's entertainment.

Review Questions

• How does Pokémon exemplify the concept of transmedia storytelling within its franchise?
  • Pokémon showcases transmedia storytelling by presenting its narrative across multiple platforms, including video games, television shows, trading cards, and films. Each medium contributes unique aspects to the overall Pokémon universe while maintaining consistent characters and themes. This strategy allows fans to engage with the franchise in diverse ways, deepening their connection with the content and encouraging exploration across different formats.
• Discuss how Pokémon’s brand extension strategy has contributed to its success and relevance in children’s entertainment.
  • Pokémon’s brand extension strategy has played a crucial role in its success by branching out from initial video games into various forms of media and merchandise. By leveraging its established characters and themes across animated series, movies, trading cards, and toys, Pokémon has created a cohesive universe that appeals to children of all ages. This extensive reach not only maintains interest among existing fans but also attracts new audiences through diverse entry points.
• Evaluate the impact of fandom on the ongoing evolution of the Pokémon franchise in relation to shifting paradigms in children's entertainment.
  • Fandom significantly impacts the evolution of the Pokémon franchise by fostering an engaged community that actively participates in shaping its future. Fans generate their own content such as fan art, videos, and even tournaments that highlight the depth of the Pokémon universe. This active participation not only strengthens their connection to the franchise but also pushes creators to adapt and innovate in response to fan interests, ensuring Pokémon remains relevant amid shifting paradigms in children's entertainment.

Related terms

Transmedia: A storytelling technique that involves telling a single narrative or story across multiple platforms and formats, engaging the audience in different ways.

Brand Extension: The practice of using an established brand name to launch new products or services in different categories to increase market presence.

Fandom: A community of enthusiastic fans who share a common interest in a particular cultural phenomenon, often creating their own content and connections around it.