Pokémon: Iconic Starters Return

The first Pokémon starters are preparing to make their grand return in a new anniversary collection designed for longtime fans. To mark the 30th anniversary of the Pokémon franchise, Japanese company RE-MENT has unveiled a series of figures showcasing Charmander, Bulbasaur and Squirtle, the three iconic starters from Pokémon Red and Green. The new range, titled Hajimari no Bōken Pokémon Journey with You! Anniversary - The Dawn of Adventure, will take the form of blind boxes and feature miniature scenes inspired by the earliest generations of games.

The collection will bring together the starter trios from the first three generations, featuring the starter Pokémon from Pokémon Red and Green, Pokémon Gold and Silver, and Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire. Each sculpture depicts the creatures in a setting reminiscent of their region of origin, spanning the landscapes of Kanto, Johto and Hoenn. The concept clearly aims to tap into players’ nostalgia while offering a carefully crafted collectible faithful to the spirit of adventure that accompanied the saga’s beginnings on handheld consoles.

Each blind box in this first wave will be sold for 2,090 yen, or approximately 13 dollars, with a release scheduled for November 2. RE-MENT will then continue the celebration with two more series. The collection A New Journey Begins, expected on November 16, will spotlight the starters from the fourth, fifth and sixth generations, from Pokémon Diamond and Pearl, Pokémon Black and White, and Pokémon X and Y. A third wave, The Road to Tomorrow, will arrive on November 30 with the starters from Pokémon Sun and Moon, Pokémon Sword and Shield, and Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.

This spotlight on the historic starters comes as the next generation of Pokémon games is also preparing to make headlines. Pokémon Winds and Pokémon Waves have been announced for next year, featuring a new region inspired by the archipelagos of Southeast Asia. Players are expected to discover three new starters there: Growt, a Grass-type Pokémon with a strong personality; Pombom, a Fire-type puppy; and Gecqua, a Water-type Pokémon described as intelligent. With islands to explore, underwater areas and new challenges, this generation could mark another important step forward for the franchise.