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Why Have Pokemon Games Lasted More Than Two Decades?

Game Magazine Editorial Team·~3 min read·2026-09-11

The Pokemon series began in 1996, and every new release still becomes a major event. There are a few clear reasons it keeps resonating across generations.

This article provides general game information. Check the official channel for the latest details about a specific game.

Read in another language: 日本語 · 한국어

A simple but addictive collect-and-train loop

The core appeal of catching and raising Pokemon has barely changed since the beginning, and that consistency is exactly what makes it intuitive and endlessly replayable.

The generation that grew up with it keeps coming back

Many players who were kids in the '90s still pick up new entries as adults, which keeps the fanbase renewing itself across generations.

Expansion far beyond the games themselves

The anime, trading card game, and merchandise have kept expanding the brand outside of gaming, making it a familiar IP even to people who have never played the games.

The social fun of trading and battling with friends

Rather than being a purely solo experience, trading and battling with friends was built in as a core mechanic from early on, naturally creating community around the games.

FAQ

What order should I play the games in?

Each entry has its own self-contained story, so starting with the newest release works perfectly fine.

Can adults enjoy it too?

With its collecting, training, and strategy elements, it is well known for keeping adult players engaged just as much as younger ones.

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