The general consensus among the international community is that games and anime belong to completely different canons, never crossing each other by any means. Although this could sound as a reasonable conclusion, given the anime is a derivative product with different writers from the source material, reality is a bit more complex.
With time, Pokémon grew as a franchise, and the anime production became more central to its popularity. Because of that, authors had less and less liberty on the world they wanted to depict, and some form of story-checking from The Pokémon Company existed for sure since the first series — well known are the issues Takeshi Shudō, chief writer of the original series, had with the anime production committee.
As a result, in the last few generations Mythical Pokémon started to be relegated to their own movies — having little to none information in-game. Because these Pokémon are designed for their theatrical debut, it makes you wonder if part of the narrative Game Freak creative team originally thought for them was passed to the movie writers — and ultimately didn’t make it to the main canon because of the recent lack of dedicated in-game events. Indeed, production committees from Game Freak have been reported to work along the movies’ writers up to the Pokémon designs.
In a 2016 Game Informer interview, Junichi Masuda has spoken on the relation between the games and the animated series:
GI: “Speaking of the movies and consequently the TV show, do the cartoons and the movies and the video games overlap? Is that all one Pokémon world, or are they two separate universes?”
Masuda: “Basically it’s the same place. Looking at it as a parallel world, or in some select spots being a parallel world might be more accurate.”
Masuda’s answer is really interesting: rather than abruptly separating the two canons, he states that games and anime worlds are “basically the same place”, and although they are considered different realities, they are “parallel worlds in select spots”.
In other words, the way Game Freak views it, the games and the anime are different worlds — but they do have a common set of rules and they can overlap in certain spots. So, even if the exact events depicted in the animated series and in the movies are not canon to the videogames, similar scenarios could have possibly taken place in the main setting.
This naturally brings the question: what aspects of the anime can be considered canon to the games, if there are any? This article will go over every reference to the animated show and the movies present in-game, working as a basis to future analysis — particularly regarding Mythical Pokémon.
Pokémon Yellow, and Pokémon Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee!
Pokémon Yellow Version: Special Pikachu Edition [ポケットモンスターピカチュウ — Pocket Monsters Pikachu] is a title released on Game Boy on September 12, 1998 (Japan). It was a game highly based on the previous iterations — Pokémon Red and Green, and Pokémon Blue — which borrowed various elements from the successful Pokémon animated series.
With the formal introduction of the Multiverse in Generation VI, and the fact Pokémon Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee! carried with them many of these references, we can consider this version as canon as other Generation I games.
The main character of the game, while based on Red from the previous instalments, borrows some elements from his anime counterpart — the most obvious being the starter Pokémon, which can only be a Pikachu unable to evolve. Because of this choice, the rival initial Pokémon was changed too: he has an Eevee, a creature Gary Oak was revealed to own in the anime only more than a year after the release of Yellow [EP116].
As a matter of fact, the playable character for Pokémon Yellow was never addressed as “Red” specifically. On the contrary, the Japanese guidebook confirms his name is “イエロー” (Yellow), while the rival changes to “ブルー“ (Blue). The Pokémon: Official Nintendo Player’s Guide for Yellow, instead, names the main character and the rival “Ash” and “Gary Oak” respectively, confirming the closer affinity to their animated versions at least as perceived in licensed media.
The three Kanto’s starter Pokémon can be obtained in the game through NPCs based on original anime characters, who played a role in the meeting between Ash and his Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle.
Bulbasaur can be obtained in Cerulean City, from a girl named Melanie — based on the homonymous character appeared in EP010. Like in the anime, she takes care of injured Pokémon — and she’s currently housing an Oddish [also present in the episode] and a Sandshrew.
Charmander is given away from a Trainer on Route 24 based on the anime character Damian from EP011. Contrary to the series, he seems to regret not having trained his Pokémon properly.
“I’m not good at raising Pokémon. I should release my Charmander because I haven’t raised it well… If you promise me you’ll care for it, it’s yours.”
Squirtle is given to the player from an Officer Jenny in Vermillion City — referencing the one appeared in EP012 who was troubled by the Squirtle Squad raids. This event is slightly expanded in the Let’s Go titles, with Squirtle actively disturbing the Officer like its anime counterpart.
Speaking of which, Yellow is the only game along the Generation VII revival to depict police officers as Jenny from the anime, and even if they’re never referenced by name the same goes for Nurses Joy — who are now accompanied by a Chansey.
The characters of Jessie and James from Team Rocket also debut in Yellow, obviously based on the anime recurring antagonists. Like in the animated series, they have an Ekans and a Koffing which evolve in later battles, but Meowth is considered a normal Pokémon: it doesn’t talk and it takes part in the fight. This was later changed in Let’s Go, where the Scratch Cat doesn’t directly battle and just stays out of its Poké Ball — but it’s still unable to speak human language. Team Rocket’s Meowth was also officially distributed in Japan, much later on, for Black 2 and White 2 cartridges.
Other minor NPCs were added referencing anime characters-of-the-day. On Route 6, a Jr. Trainer♂ and a Jr. Trainer♀ with Weepinbell and Cubone respectively are based on Joe and Giselle from EP009.
“I’m doing this out of love. Leave me alone!”
“Now I understand, Pokémon isn’t about calculated numbers.”
Finally, there’s a Youngster with a Sandshrew on Route 9 based on A.J. from EP008.
“I’ll restart my 100-win streak with Sandshrew.”
Small changes to Trainers’ teams and wild Pokémon were also made to better line up with the anime. For example, Giovanni now uses a Persian, and Pidgeotto are catchable in Viridian Forest like Ash did in EP003.
The personalities of some characters were also changed to match with the anime. For instance, Brock mentions he wants to become a Pokémon Breeder:
“There are all kinds of trainers in the world! Some raise Pokémon for fights. Some see them as pets. I’m in training to become a Pokémon breeder.”
This was later carried in Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee!, with the addition he has actually postponed his dream in order to train:
“I’ve chosen to postpone my dream of becoming a Pokémon Breeder just for a little bit longer. Right now I’m more interested in training to grow strong enough to one day face and defeat you!”
This reference was further reiterated in the Johto remakes, as Brock can offer the player to trade a Rhyhorn for a Bonsly — a Pokémon he owned in the anime at the time of the games’ release.
Brock running gag in the anime of constantly being rejected by girls was also referenced in Kanto iterations on Switch:
“The girls at that Gym all turned me away for some reason, though… Actually, have some Pewter Crunchies! I’d brought them as a gift to the Gym here.”
Professor Oak characterization was also expanded in those games, borrowing from the anime his passion for poetry, as demonstrated by the book he wrote we can interact with in his laboratory.
Finally, the same titles also confirmed the names of the three Beauties in Cerulean Gym are Daisy, Lily, and Violet — the same of Misty’s sisters in the anime.
Tie-in animated series
Starting from 2013, an increasing number of tie-in animated series have been produced. These short specials are completely unrelated to the main anime, and are instead more faithful adaptations of the games’ canon.
Pokémon Origins (2013) closely adapts the plot of Pokémon Red and Green, as addressed in the official trailer’s description.
Pokémon Origins tells the story of the very first Pokémon video games, Pokémon Red Version and Pokémon Blue Version. Follow Red as he travels through the Kanto region, encounters Team Rocket, battles his rival, and challenges the Pokémon League!
More accurately, this later reveal to be a retelling of the original titles set in the Mega Timeline, as Red will be able to Mega Evolve his Charizard in PO04. More broadly, the series hints Mr. Fuji played a role in Mega Stone research while working on Mewtwo — and also confirms the female NPC in his house is named Reina [レイナ]. Giovanni’s characterization is also expanded, and it is revealed he used to be a Pokémon Trainer since childhood, and started his journey with a Charmander.
Pokémon Generations (2016) showcases some iconic moments from Generations I to VI. Similarly to Origins, this series is advertised as a retelling of key scenes from the games, portrayed under a new perspective.
The new animated series Pokémon Generations revisits each generation of the Pokémon video game series to shed new light on some timeless moments. From the earliest days in the Kanto region to the splendor of the Kalos region, go behind the scenes and witness Pokémon history with new eyes.
As the series doesn’t really take the Multiverse in account, it should be noted different episodes could belong to different continuities — something evident looking at PG07 and PG08, adapting events from Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire respectively. With Generations I, II, IV, and V not having any counterpart in the Mega Timeline at the time the series was produced, this should be particularly kept in mind to avoid unbiased assumptions.
Among the other things, PG01 is revelatory in regard of Red’s journey, confirming the Trainer traveled across all regions from Kanto to Kalos, evidently continuing his adventure after leaving Mt. Silver. In the same episode we see Landorus hiding in Relic Castle, hinting to some sort of connection between the two, and Zygarde Complete Form assembled in Terminous Cave, possibly to move all its cells at once to Alola.
Some characters had their role expanded, Looker the obvious example. Generations confirms he played a role in both the investigations of the Team Rocket’s casino criminal enterprise in Generation I and Giovanni’s disappearance in Generation II. Likewise, Gabby and Ty are shown in the attempt of uncovering the events of the Delta Episode surrounding Deoxys.
Finally, some bits of the original worldbuilding are briefly strengthened by the series, with PG06 stating Johto was “at constant warring” at the time the Brass Tower was destroyed.
Pokémon Evolutions (2021) is much similar to Generations. It showcases some iconic moments from Generations I to VIII, and the official website confirms the setting to be the same regions’ explored in the core titles.
The Pokémon world has a wide variety of regions filled with interesting people and wonderful Pokémon. Pokémon Evolutions, a new, limited animated series, will take you on a tour of the regions that have been explored in the core Pokémon video game series.
Like the previous series, different episodes could belong to different timelines — even taking a step further, as PE08 undoubtably takes place in the Let’s Go Timeline. As it focuses more on characters, there isn’t much to address besides what we can infer from their psychology. PE07, however, does confirm the rain which stopped the fire burning the Brass Tower was actually generated by Lugia.
Successive series stand out from the predecessors, as they focus more on telling parallel stories taking place in the same setting of the games rather than adapting specific events.
Pokémon: Twilight Wings (2020) serves as a prequel to Sword and Shield main storyline, showing highlights of the everyday life of some major characters in Galar. Japanese descriptions for the episodes officially confirm the setting to be in the same continuity of the games.
『ポケットモンスター ソード・シールド』の世界を舞台にしたアニメ「薄明の翼」第1話「手紙」。
The 1st episode “Letter” of the anime “Twilight Wings”, set in the world of “Pokemon Sword and Shield”.
Pokémon: Hisuian Snow (2022) is a side-story set slightly before the times of Pokémon Legends: Arceus, following the story of an original character and his fateful encounter with a Zorua. Both the English and the Japanese official websites confirm the setting to be the same explored in-game.
The Hisui region was originally explored in the Pokémon Legends: Arceus video game and represents the Sinnoh region of old — before the existence of Pokémon Trainers and Pokémon Leagues. “Pokémon: Hisuian Snow” is a story that takes place during this ancient age when the relationship between people and Pokémon was very different. Aboard a boat bound for the Hisui region, the protagonist Alec reminisces about the first time his father took him there. Over the span of three episodes, “Pokémon: Hisuian Snow” will go into detail about Alec’s stories from the past.
Finally, Pokémon: Paldean Winds (2023) follows the adventures of three students at Naranja Academy. While not adding much to the overall scenario, it is still addressed as taking place in the same setting of Scarlet and Violet in the Japanese official website.
『ポケットモンスター スカーレット・バイオレット』の舞台、パルデア地方で繰り広げられるオリジナルストーリー。
An original story that unfolds in the Paldea region, the setting of “Pokémon Scarlet and Violet”.
A distinctive trait of these series is that Pokémon are portrayed making realistic, animalistic cries — contrary to the creatures repeating their names like in the original anime.
As revealed in 2017 by Junichi Masuda to Game Informer, Pokémon saying their names in the anime was a decision made by the production committee and was never intended by Game Freak. As such, in the Japanese draft of core titles, Pokémon just make animal-like sounds, like in the tie-in series.
“They actually had [Pikachu’s] voice actress, Ms. Ikue Ōtani, do a take on the voice and they showed us a clip of it and we listened to the sound of it saying its name over and over in a really cute way. We weren’t really sure about it, but it worked out.”
The place in the main canon of these series is debatable, but as they’re meant to be faithful adaptations or to expand the games established narrative, it’s fair to assume them as canonical to some extent at least. And even if some nuances may point otherwise, we have to remember Game Freak approach to timeline is a lot malleable — and by their own admission some details could contradict one another if looked too closely.
The introduction of the Multiverse in Generation VI, however, allows us to reconcile some of these discrepancies: games and tie-in series do belong to the same canon, but they are slightly different takes of the same events that could diverge slightly from one version to another. This is why, for example, the main character from Black and White never shows up in the games’ sequels, while Hilbert appears in the White 2-based episode of Generations. Or again, why Giovanni’s characterization differs from Origins and Generations: while in the former the Team Rocket leader has a change of heart seeing Red and Charizard working together — reminiscent of his first journey with a Charmander — this can’t happen in the latter, as Red here took Bulbasaur as a starter.
One peculiar case is given by the Mega Evolution Specials. These four episodes were originally made to introduce the character of Alain and set the narrative for later events in the XY Series of the main anime — and, in fact, Pokémon here repeat their names like the regular animated series. Normally, there wouldn’t be any reason to consider these as part of the games’ canon. But fact is, there are evidences this is one of the “spots games and anime overlap”.
In Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, a secret dialogue can be unlocked at Mossdeep Space Center if the player talks to Steven Stone while having in their party Steven’s Shiny Beldum:
“Hm… You know, seeing that white beauty there that you travel with… I’m reminded of the Legendary Pokémon Rayquaza, said to descend at the Sky Pillar. I once had a chance to see it face to face. Although, it was a long time ago now… The young man who battled against Rayquaza beside me… I wonder whatever happened to him and that black Charizard of his… Well, regardless — you must go to the Sky Pillar and see what waits for you there. I don’t know what you’ll find. Be careful.”
A similar dialogue is also present in Pokémon Masters EX:
“I did battle a Rayquaza once before, though. If not for the help of a certain formidable Trainer, I would have been in deep trouble. That battle remains burned into my memory to this day. I can still see it clearly in my mind — that Trainer standing defiantly before the might of Rayquaza.”
This sets the events of the Mega Evolutions Specials as canonical in the games too, as weird as it may sound. This would mean Alain exists in the main canon, at least in some form, as he’s even directly referenced by Steven in his dialogue. A long time prior to the Hoenn remakes events, Mega Rayquaza descended on the region and was challenged by the Hoenn’s Champion and the Charizard’s Trainer.
It’s unclear if Primal Groudon and Primal Kyogre awoke too like in the anime, but the presence of Rayquaza seems to imply so. However, we know for certain the Groudon and Kyogre we battle in the games were sealed in the Seafloor Cavern/Mt. Chimney since millennia ago, and they could’ve been awoken only due to Team Magma/Aqua’s efforts. The only possible explanation to this is the Groudon and Kyogre seen in the Specials were different specimens from the ones residing in Hoenn, drawn to the region by Lysandre’s Giant Rock. We don’t know if this 巨石 [Megalith] exists in the games’ canon too, but it could explain the presence of other Super-Ancient Pokémon in Hoenn — as it’s described as a rock imbued with “natural energy”, on which Primal Reversion is based on.
Does Ash exists in the games?
The anime protagonist was originally conceived as a counterpart to Red and Green’s playable character, and we’ve already discussed his closer relation to “Yellow”. However, with time and the increasing popularity of the anime, Ash Ketchum [サトシ, Satoshi] started to grow more and more further from Red and ultimately became a completely different character.
Although his journey through the various regions and the specific events narrated in the anime strictly belong to a separate narrative from the games, since Generation VII it has been hinted the existence of a character based on Ash in the main canon too. For instance, in (Ultra) Sun and (Ultra) Moon, a picture of Ash can be seen in the Thrifty Megamart in Ula’ula.
Likewise, Ash-Greninja [サトシゲッコウガ] is the official name of the form Greninja assumes after Battle Bond activates, confirming the name of the anime protagonist is the same in the games. The only way to obtain Greninja with this ability is through the Sun and Moon Demo, where it has “Ash” as its Original Trainer.
Then there are Cap Pikachu [キャップをかぶったピカチュウ]. These peculiar Pikachu forms based on Ash’s main companion. They are all male, have access to the exclusive Z-move 10,000,000 Volt Thunderbolt, they can’t evolve — possibly suggesting the Pikachu we use in Yellow retroactively belongs to this subspecies — and have their own Pokédex entries.
General
This form of Pikachu is somewhat rare. It wears the hat of its Trainer, who is also its partner.
This Pikachu is wearing its Trainer’s cap. Since the cap’s not the right size, the fit is a bit loose.
Original Cap
This Pikachu wears its partner’s cap, which is brimming with memories of traveling through many different regions.
This Pikachu is wearing its Trainer’s cap. The cap is proof that the two travelled across many regions together.
Hoenn, Sinnoh, Unova, Kalos, and Alola Cap
This Pikachu wears its partner’s cap, which is brimming with memories of traveling through the Hoenn/Sinnoh/Unova/Kalos/Alola region.
This Pikachu is wearing its Trainer’s cap. The cap is proof that the two travelled throughout the Hoenn/Sinnoh/Unova/Kalos/Alola region together.
Partner Cap
This Pikachu wears its partner’s cap, which is brimming with memories of when they first met.
This Pikachu is wearing its Trainer’s cap. The cap is a precious symbol of a fateful encounter.
World Cap
This Pikachu wears its partner’s cap, which is brimming with memories of traveling through different regions.
This Pikachu is wearing its Trainer’s cap. The cap is a precious symbol that travels across different regions with Pikachu.
Each time they were distributed, they always had “Ash” as OT, the Pikashunium Z [サトピカZ, Satopika Z] also being named after him. This also confirms Ash, in-game, travelled across every main region up to Alola at least.
Finally, numerous Ash’s Pokémon were also officially distributed since Generation IV. Here a list of confirmed Ash’s Pokémon in-games:
- Generation IV Ash’s Pikachu
- Generation V Ash’s Pikachu
- Generation VI Ash’s Pikachu
- Ash’s Charizard
- Ash’s Pidove
- Ash’s Scraggy
- Ash’s Journey Team [Dracovish, Dragonite, Lucario, Sirfetch’d, Gengar]
Again, and to be completely clear: this doesn’t mean the exact events of the anime happened in the games, just that a version of Ash exists in the main canon. He, however, could have a completely different story — not much differently than characters in the anime having divergent backstories from the games’ counterparts they’re based on.
Movies’ references in the games
As pointed out in the introduction, Pokémon Movies tend to be more attentive to detail and more aware of the general narrative context the franchise is set in — and that’s because, especially in later generations, they are written around a Mythical Pokémon often designed solely to advertise the film itself. It’s only natural, then, that screenwriters are in closer communication with the games creative team than regular writers of the animated show — and with the recent lack of in-game events surrounding Mythicals, it’s possible some of the original narrative remained relegated in their respective theatrical stories.
But again, Game Freak approach to the animated canon seems to be a lot less strict than we usually think, and the games actually present tons of references to movies’ settings and characters, both in the form of direct dialogues, and event distributions with a diegetic OT. Let’s scan through them one by one.
01) Mewtwo Strikes Back / 22) Mewtwo Strikes Back — Evolution
As the story of Mewtwo and Mew is already well explored in the games, there’s not much to say about the first movie.
One interesting detail is that in Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee! the machine in which Mewtwo was incubated was likely designed after the imagery firstly created in the movie — the addition of a room in front of the main structure with four minor tubes even implying Ai and the Kanto starters from The Birth of Mewtwo were cloned during the first period of experimentation.
A Mewtwo based on the 22nd movie was distributed for the Let’s Go titles with the OT: はかせ [Professor], a reference to Dr. Fuji. Naturally, this isn’t the same Mewtwo we can catch in the games: as it was distributed in the West with the OT: Giovanni, it could possibly be a specimen subdued by the Team Rocket leader in a different universe, much like the one owned by Rainbow Rocket Giovanni.
Although a Mew based on the movie was distributed in Japan, the OT was “20TH (player)”, so this was merely promotional. Still, you could argue this distribution existed nonetheless, and the Pokémon could be the Mew from which the Professor’s Mewtwo was born.
02) The Power of One
There’s not much to say about this movie, as Lugia, Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres are already sufficiently explored in games.
Something interesting to note is that a connection between Lugia and the Legendary Birds exists in the main canon too, as confirmed in X and Y: the Sea’s Spirit Den in which the birds reside is originally 海神の穴 [Watatsumi’s Den], with Watatsumi being a Kami of the Sea: a clear reference to Pokémon Silver’s mascot.
03) Spell of the Unown: Entei
The movie introduces the Unown World, a parallel plane of existence in which the Symbol Pokémon reside. This was later hinted to exist in the games by the Mystery Files, possibly related to the Ultra Space:
“またタマゴが発見されていないポケモンのため、一部の研究者からは「ウルトラビーストと関係があるのでは？」との新説も出てきている。”
“Also, since Eggs have not been observed in this Pokémon, some researchers have come up with a new theory that they might be related to Ultra Beasts.”
04) Celebi: The Voice of the Forest
Although not much is to say about this movie, in Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee! we can see Sam’s sketchbook in Oak’s Laboratory.
If this means Professor Oak time-travelled in his youth, however, it’s up to interpretation.
05) Heroes: Latios & Latias
A Latias based on the 5th movie was distributed for Sword and Shield with the OT: アルトマーレ [Alto Mare]. This may suggest the city exists in the games too, and Latias [and possibly Latios] could be important to the town’s culture. The Legendary Pokémon are not one-of-a-kind, so this could be a different Latias than the one in Hoenn.
06) Jirachi: Wish Maker
A Jirachi based on the 6th movie was distributed for Sword and Shield with the OT: ネガイボシ [Wishing Star]. However, Forina is not mentioned and could just not exist in the games. As Jirachi only awakens once in 1000 years, this is probably meant to be the same specimen you can obtain through Channel/Colosseum, or a Pokémon from a different continuity altogether.
Butler and Diane appear in Sinnoh as Ace Trainers on Route 229. They share a similar backstory to the movie, as reiterated by Diane upon her defeat:
“I grew up together with Butler and my team, right from my childhood. All our memories, we’ve always shared them.”
07) Destiny Deoxys
Although a Deoxys based on the movie was distributed in Japan, its OT was “10th” [due to the fact the Darkrai movie was just coming out], so this was merely promotional. Still, you could argue this distribution existed nonetheless, and the fact it holds a Never-Melt Ice is a reference to movie Deoxys being found at the North Pole.
Rebecca appears in Sinnoh as an Ace Trainers on Route 224. She has a similar personality to the movie, as highlighted by her dialogues:
“I constantly analyze Pokémon and various battles on my laptop.”
08) Lucario and the Mystery of Mew
A Mew based on the 8th movie was distributed back in Generation III with the OT: ハドウ [Aura]. Neither the Kingdom of Rota nor the Tree of Beginning are referenced, and they could just not exist in the games — but the connection between this Mew and Aura is made explicit. So, it may even be a different specimen from the one found in Guyana.
Similar to Mew, Legendary Titans based on the movie were also distributed in Generation III with the OT: ハドウ [Aura]. The existence of these Titans could suggest they were actually guardians of something similar to the Tree of Beginning.
It’s also interesting to note in the same Game Informer interview Masuda talked about the anime canon, he answered to a question about past wars in the Pokémon World referencing the 8th movie — possibly suggesting the Kingdom of Rota long-standing belligerent past is one of the “spots games and anime overlap” — he further states on his personal blog close relations between Game Freak and the movie production existed in this particular case.
GI: “So, there isn’t war in the world of Pokémon where armies of Pokémon are fighting for the ideals of their leaders?”
Masuda: “Long ago, there may have been wars. Actually, if you look at one of the movies featuring the character Lucario, there are maybe some hints about the past of the Pokémon world.”
09) Pokémon Ranger and the Temple of the Sea
A Manaphy based on the 9th movie was distributed back in Generation IV with the OT: 水の民 [People of the Water], suggesting this tribal society existed in the games. It’s unclear if specific location like Samiya and the Sea Crown are also meant to be taken at face value, but the fact Manaphy holds a King’s Rock could hint as such. Possibly, this was later retconned with the mysterious 海の民 [People of the Sea] introduced in Generation VII, which is said to have travelled across regions from all over the world and possess a deep knowledge of the world.
Lizabeth appears in Sinnoh as a Swimmer on Route 220. She’s implied to be part of the Marina Group in games too:
“I may not look it now, but I’m a star. I’m always with my Pokémon.”
Finally, Legends: Arceus referenced the movie with the Path of Solitude, as Manaphy and Phione opponents are Chatot and Parasect respectively — same Pokémon used by the Phantom in the film.
10) The Rise of Darkrai
Dialga and Palkia based on the 10th movie were distributed back in Generation IV with the OT: アラモス [Alamos]. This may suggest the city exists in the games too, Dialga and Palkia having some sort of connection to the settlement and maybe appearing there before the events of their games. However, it’s not established the town is in Sinnoh, nor to have some relation with Darkrai.
Although a Darkrai based on the movie was distributed in Japan, the OT was えいがかん [Movie], so this was merely promotional. Still, you could argue this distribution existed nonetheless, and as it learns both Spacial Rend and Roar of Time it could be related to a clash Dialga and Palkia had in Alamos. In Korea and in the West, there were instead distributions of Darkrai with OT: ALAMOS/아라모스, but you could consider this as a subsidiary choice.
Finally, Legends: Arceus also referenced the movie with the Path of Solitude, as Darkrai opponent is a Lickilicky with Hyper Beam — same Pokémon used by Baron Alberto in the film.
11) Giratina and the Sky Warrior
A Regigigas based on the 11th movie was distributed back in Generation IV with the OT: テンイむら [Ten’i]. This is particularly relevant, because the name of the village Regigigas slept nearby was never actually spoken in the movie — so this distribution is the only way to found it out. Ten’i likely exists in the games’ canon too, and the fact multiple Regigigas are present in the world is already established in-game by Palmer.
Although a Shaymin based on the movie was distributed in Japan, the OT was えいがかん [Movie], so this was merely promotional. Still, you could argue this distribution existed nonetheless, and it could possibly be tied to the Ten’i Regigigas. On the other hand, there’s no hint to a possible involvement of Giratina in these events.
Finally, Legends: Arceus also referenced the movie with the Path of Solitude, as Shaymin opponent is a Magnezone — same Pokémon used by Zero in the film.
12) Arceus and the Jewel of Life
In games, the Spiky-eared Pichu you can obtain in HeartGold and SoulSilver is said to have travelled across time thanks to Celebi. This was later referenced in the 12th movie with this form appearing in Sinnoh’s distant past. Although the region ancient culture is depicted a lot differently in-games [especially after Legends: Arceus], and the rules of time-travel differ from games and anime, it’s still possible this Pichu comes from a Michina-like settlement of a distant past. This could also explain why it holds a Zap Plate when obtained.
Although an Arceus based on the movie was distributed in Japan, the OT was えいがかん [Movie], so this was merely promotional. Still, you could argue this distribution existed nonetheless, and as it learns both Spacial Rend, Roar of Time, and Shadow Force it could be related to a similar clash the three Pokémon of Myth had in the movie.
In the West, there were instead distributions of Arceus with OT: MICHINA, but you could consider this as a subsidiary choice. In a similar way, Scarlet and Violet further hinted to the existence of the ancient town with a South Korean distribution of a Pichu seemingly based on the one in the movie, with the OT: 미케나 [Michina].
At the same time a Bronzong with OT: 기신 [Marcus] was also gifted to Korean players, which may suggest a similar character may have existed in the games — but again this is not a Japanese distribution, and we have to take it with more than the usual grain of salt.
Although the Jewel of Life is never mentioned in-game, Arceus’ ability to condense its power in orbs was established in Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Sky with the Space Globe, and further explored in Legends: Arceus.
13) Zoroark: Master of Illusions
A Celebi based on the movie was distributed with the OT: えいがかん [Movie]. This event is undoubtedly canon, as when transferred to Black and White it triggers a unique cutscene in Castelia City that allows the player to obtain a male Zorua based on the movie counterpart.
Later, an NPC dialogue confirms a connection between Celebi and Zorua exists in games’ canon too. This Mythical Pokémon is, however, likely the same one revered in Johto, as in HeartGold and SoulSilver it can trigger the Ilex Forest Shrine event.
“It looks like Zorua and Celebi are really good friends!”, and: “Zorua had been waiting for Celebi here.”
Shiny Raikou, Entei, and Suicune were distributed with the OT: クラウン [Crown], confirming Crown City exists in the games. These events are also undoubtedly canon, as when transferred in Black and White they trigger a unique cutscene in Lostlorn Forest, and a special encounter with a female Zoroark based on the movie counterpart. After catching or defeating it, an NPC dialogue confirms the events of the movie happened in the games, to a certain degree at least:
“Zoroark really reacted strongly to the Pokémon you have with you… There must be some history there. A quarrel, or something.”
A Scizor based on the one owned by Goone was distributed for Generation IV games. The OT: グーン [Goon] suggests the character exists in the games’ canon — possibly hinting Grings Kodai exists too.
14) White — Victini and Zekrom / Black — Victini and Reshiram
A Victini based on the 14th movies was distributed back in Generation V with the OT: アイント [Eind], hinting Eindoak Town exists in the games too.
This was later expanded when a Special Home based on Eindoak Town was made available for the Dream World, also showing the Sword of the Vale. When this is unlocked, a Victini can be seen lingering in the Isle of Dreams.
This is relevant because, as Fennel puts it, Game Sync can retrieve memories of sleeping Pokémon using Dream Mist. In other words, the Special Home is a reminiscence of Victini’s memories through the sleeping realm — suggesting the Kingdom of the Vale had a role in Unova’s history [although with a different timeline than the movies, which contradicts the established chronology].
Reshiram and Zekrom based on the ones Ash befriended in the 14th movies were distributed in Generation V with the OT: サトシ [Satoshi]. Although the two dragons are unique beings, the way they handled this distribution leaves no contradictions. It’s in fact made clear, in line with the film being released in two versions, this Pokémon came from different universes than the one they’re received on: Ash’s Zekrom appearing on the White movie is only available for Pokémon Black, while Ash’s Reshiram featuring in the Black movie can only be obtained in Pokémon White.
A Shiny Golurk based on the one owned by Juanita and a Shiny Hydreigon based on the one owned by Carlita were distributed for Generation V games. The OTs: ジャンタ [Janta] and カリータ [Karita] suggest the characters exist in the games’ canon too.
15) Kyurem VS. The Sword of Justice
Not much is to say about this movie. As Kyurem Absofusion is shown to work in a completely different way from the games, it’s safe to assume its involvement with the story is limited to the anime.
Although a Keldeo based on the movie was distributed in Japan, the OT was しょこたん [Shokotan], so this was merely promotional. This was the only way to get a Keldeo in Japan back in Generation V, so you can consider this as the canon specimen caught by the player, but it shows no other connections to the theatrical counterpart.
16) Genesect and the Legend Awakened
Although a Shiny Genesect based on the 16th movie was distributed for Generation V games with the OT: えいがかん [Movie], which may lead to think this as merely promotional, the existence of the red Mythical Pokémon in the canon is hinted both by a dedicated C-Gear skin and by the fact a Pokémon HOME challenge specifically asks to catch it.
Other Genesect with OTs: プラズマ [Plasma] and Ｐ２ラボ [P2 Laboratory] were also distributed, which it’s coherent with the game narrative and it’s also a possible reference to the Genesect Army shown in the movie — suggesting the existence of multiple specimens brought back to life by Team Plasma.
A Mewtwo based on the 16th movie was distributed back in Generation V with the OT: Ｐヒルズ [P Hills], suggesting Pokémon Hills exist in the games too. The existence of a second Mewtwo is, however, highly debatable in the main canon: apparently, the only reason this Mewtwo was made a different character by the movie production committee was due to copyright issues with Takeshi Shudo’s estate.
Chances are, in-game this is the same Mewtwo born in Kanto — we know it had to travel around the world before setting in Kalos Unknown Dungeon, so it’s definitely possible it stayed in Unova for a while.
17) Diancie and the Cocoon of Destruction
Although a Diancie based on the movie was distributed in Japan, the OT was “Universe”, so this was merely promotional. This was the only way to get a Diancie in Japan back in Generation VI, so you can consider this as the canon specimen caught by the player, but it really shows no other connections to the theatrical counterpart.
However, Carbink Ultra Sun Pokédex entry does mention the existence of a “kingdom of jewels” and a “queen” worshipped by the Pokémon — confirming the canonicity of Diancie’s domain:
Some say that deep beneath the surface of the world, a pack of Carbink live with their queen in a kingdom of jewels.
A Darkrai with the OT: ふしぎのくに [Wonderland] was distributed for Generation VI games as a reference to the short “Pokémon: Pikachu, What’s This Key?” released with the 17th movie. This could suggest both Klefki and the Mythical Pokémon Jirachi, Manaphy, Darkrai, and Victini can access to personal pocket dimensions — possibly tied to the Dream World realm.
18) Hoopa and the Clash of Ages
Between Generation VI and VII several Legendary and Mythical Pokémon based on the 18th movie were distributed with the OT: デセルシティ [Dahara City]. This both hints the city may exist in the games’ continuity— but it’s not known if it’s located in Kalos, given the name and the inspiration it could as well be in a fictional “Middle East” — and that something like the Clash of Ages occurred there too.
Although a Hoopa based on the movie was distributed in Japan, the OT was “Mighty”, so this was merely promotional. Still, you could argue this distribution existed nonetheless, and the presence of Hoopa in a Middle East-based city is coherent with the narrative and also easily explains where all the Legendaries from the Clash of Ages came from.
19) Volcanion and the Mechanical Marvel
A Volcanion based on the 19th movie was distributed back in Generation VI with the OT: ネーベル [Nebel], hinting the Nebel Plateau exists in the games too — possibly being the name of the unknown mountain region the Mythical Pokémon is said to reside in.
Although a Magearna based on the movie was distributed worldwide through QR Code, the OT is the Player’s one, so no additional context is delivered to us. This was the only way to get a Magearna back then, so you can consider this as the canon specimen caught by the player, but it really shows no other connections to the theatrical counterpart. The Azoth Kingdom is never referenced in games, and that’s probably because in the main scenario Kalos was already a unified kingdom when Magearna was crafted.
A Shiny Gengar based on the one owned by Alva and a Shiny Gardevoir based on the one owned by Kimia were distributed for Generation VI games. The OTs: ジャービス [Jarvis] and キミア [Kimia] suggest the characters exist in the games’ canon too. Again, the Azoth Kingdom is never hinted to exist in the main narrative, so they could have a totally different role.
20) I Choose You!
Both Marshadow and Ho-Oh based on the 20th movie were distributed in Generation VII with the OT: テンセイざん [Mount Tensei]. This may suggest the mountain exists in the games, and possibly hints to a connection between the Mythical and the Legendary Pokémon — mirroring Marshadow’s role in the movie.
A Lucario based on the one owned by Sorrel and a Piplup based on the one owned by Verity were distributed for Generation VII games. The OTs: ソウジ [Souji] and マコト [Makoto] suggest the characters exist in the games’ canon too.
21) The Power of Us
Both Zeraora and Lugia based on the 21st movie were distributed in Generation VII with the OT: フウラシティ [Fula City]. This may hint to the town existing in the games, with both Zeraora and Lugia being related to it. Contrary to Marshadow and Ho-Oh, however, drawing a connection between the two is a bit of a stretch even relying entirely on the movie’s script.
23) Secrets of the Jungle
Zarude, Dada Zarude and Shiny Celebi based on the 23rd movie were distributed in Sword and Shield with the OT: オコヤのもり [Forest of Okoya].
Although secondary to the main canon, the movie locations were also referenced two more times in spin-offs. In Pokémon Masters EX, Team Rocket is brought to Pasio by a Celebi:
“Hold on — where are we?! How in the world did we end up here?!” “That’s right! We saw a Celebi! I think it flew off toward the forest.”
Japanese dialogues confirm this is the same Shiny Celebi from Okoya:
“Not today, I’m afraid. We’re trying to cut down on costs until we get to the jungle, remember?”
[Player’s dialogue: “What jungle?”] “Some jungle we heard about near a different town.
The “different town” in the original draft is more specifically “ミリーファタウン”, Milyfa Town — the city settled near the Forest of Okoya in the movie.
Even more explicit are the references made in New Pokémon Snap. On the wall of Professor Mirror’s laboratory we can see different pictures directly from the movie’s setting:
Loading screen notes also confirm Okoya to be in an unknown place outside the Lental region:
“Landscape photos taken by Rita can be seen in the lab. They don’t appear to be photos of Lental, but it’s not clear where exactly they were taken.”
Indeed, the references are mutual: Rita and Phil from New Pokémon Snap also make a cameo in Milyfa Town. To be clear again, this doesn’t mean the movie is canon to Snap or to the main narrative, just that similar events happened in both.
Finally, a character similar to Koko is also suggested to exist by Dada Zarude Pokédex entry:
This Zarude left its pack to raise a human child. The cloth Zarude would wrap the child with has a comforting scent that calmed the child’s crying.
Other references
A couple of Pokédex entries make reference to the anime too. For example, Rowlet Ultra Moon entry established it uses Trainer’s pocket or bag as a nest, referencing Ash’s Rowlet personality.
It feels relaxed in tight, dark places and has been known to use its Trainer’s pocket or bag as a nest.
Kangaskhan Shield entry speaks of records of a lost human child being raised by a childless Kangaskhan, referencing the character of Tommy appeared in EP034.
There are records of a lost human child being raised by a childless Kangaskhan.
Scarlet and Violet Pokédex has also some images referencing the anime. Meowth attempts a sneak attack on Pikachu in clear allusion to Team Rocket. Dragonite departs from a lighthouse as a nod to EP013. Cyndaquil faces a Skarmory in reference to EP152.
Generation II games and their remakes have a bunch of references to the main anime as well:
- The GS Ball than can be used in Crystal to summon Celebi was firstly introduced in the anime [EP081].
- On the Lake of Rage, an NPC reference the existence of a Pink Butterfree, like the one shown in EP021: “Come to think of it, I’ve seen a pink Butterfree.”
- Mr. Mime can now be found on Route 21, referencing Delia’s Mr. Mime.
- Some teams were slightly changed in HeartGold and SoulSilver to reference the anime [e.g.: Red’s Pikachu having Ash’s Pikachu moveset; Clair using Gyarados].
- In the remakes, if a Togepi is interacted inside Cerulean Gym it will start crying, referencing Misty’s Togepi.
The Vertress Conference from the Black & White Series is featured in Black 2 and White 2 as a downloadable tournament in the PWT. The characters of Trip, Stephan, Cameron, and Virgil with their respective teams can be fought, confirming they have a game counterpart.
The Village of Dragons, an anime-exclusive location from which Iris is from, is mentioned in the games both by Drayden in the Unova’s sequels and by an Ace Trainer in X and Y Lumiose City Museum — but contrary to the anime, the games make clear the town exists outside the Generation V region, with Pokémon Adventures making the case of being just an alternative name for Blackthorn City .
“Ah yes… I was thinking about the past. I traveled all over the world looking for a successor. I even went to remote places such as the Village of Dragons. That’s where I met you, Iris.”
“Dragon Tail knocks the target away while doing damage to it. My partner learned the move in the Village of Dragons, so please feel free to use it.”
In Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, if the player chooses Turtwig, Dawn post-game team is entirely based on the one of her anime counterpart — with the only exception of Pachirisu being replaced with Bellossom.
Among the other references Legends: Arceus made with the Path of Solitude, we also have Onix as Pikachu opponent, a possible nod to the battle in EP005.
Many event distributions with diegetic OTs have also been released, referencing the anime outside movies. The majority of them consists in iconic Pokémon owned by Ash’s travelling companions.
- Iris’s Axew
- Cilan’s Pansage
- Serena’s Pancham
- Serena’s Fennekin
- Lillie’s Alolan Vulpix
- Kiawe’s Turtonator
- Mallow’s Steenee
- Professor Oak’s Rotom
Liko’s Sprigatito was also officially distributed with a diegetic OT, hinting a similar character may exist in the games as well.
Finally, Tornadus and Thundurus with the OT: ミロスとう [Milos] were distributed back in Generation V. This is a reference to Milos Island, an anime-exclusive location debuted in BW056, in which it’s said the Forces of Nature have manifested their influence since times of yore.
Interestingly enough, the island is said to be off the coastline of Driftveil City, and the in-game Unova’s map actually shows a small unexplorable island in that position.