Pokémon Boss Eyes Century of Gaming Legacy
Pokémon, the iconic franchise that has enthralled gamers since its 1996 debut, could be poised to entertain for another 50 to 100 years, according to The Pokémon Company CEO Tsunekazu Ishihara. Speaking to BBC News, Ishihara expressed confidence that continued innovation could secure the series’ place in gaming history well into the next century. As Pokémon nears its 30th anniversary, this bold claim highlights its evolution from a humble Game Boy title into one of the world’s most valuable media empires.
Launched on Nintendo’s Game Boy with Pokémon Red and Green, the series pioneered a unique blend of collecting, battling, and trading creatures that captivated players globally. Those early games, constrained by the Game Boy’s modest hardware, still managed to craft an expansive world that redefined handheld gaming. Today, Pokémon spans video games, anime, films, toys, and a trading card game that’s recently exploded in popularity—though not without attracting scalpers and counterfeit woes. Ishihara credits the franchise’s longevity to its ability to “enrich both the real and virtual worlds,” a vision brought to life by the augmented reality hit Pokémon GO.
Yet challenges persist. The trading card game’s resurgence has seen resellers snap up rare packs, driving up prices and frustrating collectors. The company has also fought legal battles to protect its intellectual property, including a recent lawsuit against the makers of Palworld for alleged patent infringement. Despite these hurdles, Pokémon’s private company status—unlike publicly traded giants like Nintendo—allows it to reinvest all profits back into the franchise, fostering a laser focus on its future. This dedication resonates with a multigenerational fanbase, evident at events like the Pokémon International Championships, where thousands gather to celebrate their shared love.
Looking ahead, the departure of Ash and Pikachu from the anime in 2023 has sparked curiosity, while rumours swirl of 30th-anniversary plans—perhaps remakes of the original Game Boy classics. For Ishihara, complacency is the only threat to Pokémon’s enduring legacy.
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