It is actually unbelievable that Pokémon is turning thirty today. Most of us were young when we first saw that pixelated Professor Oak on a screen that didn't even have a backlight. Fast forward to 2026, and here I am, still staying up way too late for 1:00 am battles on my Switch against players in Japan and South Korea on Pokémon UNITE. 🎮
The hype for Pokémon Day is massive this time. Everyone is waiting for the official video to drop. It is usually a cheeky 2026 Pokémon Presents where they reveal everything for the year. We already know they have built a permanent park called PokéPark Kanto in Tokyo. It just opened a few weeks ago and it is basically a massive forest where you can actually spot Pokémon in the wild. Plus, they finally confirmed that FireRed and LeafGreen are hitting the Switch eShop this Friday. If you want a hit of pure nostalgia, that is your weekend sorted.
Why I’m Still Here (My Poké-Story)
I’ve been down the rabbit hole for years now. I’ve honestly lost count of how many hours I’ve put in. I’ve watched the Detective Pikachu movie 11.5 times. Don't ask about the half, I just couldn't finish the last sit-through! One of the best parts was seeing how many stills from that movie turned into many legendary memes. I still see that iconic shot of Pikachu squinting through his magnifying glass all over my feed whenever someone is trying to "investigate" something. Plus, who could forget when they broke the internet by "leaking" the movie, only for it to be a clip of Pikachu dancing for over an hour? I must have watched that loop for way longer than I should admit.
I am still pretty gutted that the movie sequel got cancelled. It is a massive shame, but while I wait for some better news, I’ve got a decent collection of collectibles keeping me busy. Thanks to my friend Rafael who knows my obsession with Pikachu, and managed to 3D print a custom figure for me, which is easily the coolest thing on my shelf. I am also still grinding on Pokémon UNITE almost every week. For those who play, aren’t you excited about the solo mode coming this month?
I’ve also been hooked on the Pokémon TCG Pocket app during my lunch breaks. It is the perfect way to collect cards without breaking the bank. Even though PSA-graded gems actually outperform gold or Bitcoin, I am sticking to digital packs for now. My absolute favourite is the Charizard ex immersive card. When you long press it, the animation is incredible, making it feel like the artwork is coming to life! Plus, the Paldean Wonders expansion just dropped this week, bringing even more Paldean characters into the game.
We Just Never Grew Out Of It
It is pretty amazing when you think about it. Most hobbies from our childhood have completely faded away, but for a lot of us, we just never grew out of this one. For the kids today, it is a brand new adventure. For us, it is about keeping that sense of discovery alive, as long as there are weird and wonderful monsters to find, we will keep showing up to catch them.
These Fun Facts Might Win Your Next Pub Quiz
Pikachu is actually a Squirrel: Everyone calls him a mouse, but his creator actually based him on a squirrel. Look at the tail and the way he stores food in his cheeks. It makes way more sense. (even though I remember peple talking about the golden brushtail possum looks more like a real-life Pikachu!⚡)
The Voice Legend: Ikue Ōtani has been the voice of Pikachu for nearly thirty years. Every "Pika Pika" you have ever heard is her. Talk about a steady job.
The Forbidden Evolution: There was almost a third evolution after Raichu called Gorochu. He had massive fangs and horns, but the devs binned him because he looked a bit too mean.
Football Star: Japan actually made Pikachu their official mascot for the 2014 World Cup. He even had his own jersey and everything.
A Literal Giant: Pikachu is one of the only fictional characters with a permanent spot in those massive New York parades. Seeing a ten metre tall yellow mouse floating over the city is a pretty wild sight that never gets old.
My Forever Home Region
Even with Marvel Rivals and Overwatch taking over my screen these days, nothing beats the world of Pokémon. It is the perfect escape where courage and loyalty actually matter. It taught me that being different is not a flaw because every single existence has its own value and place. No matter how much I grow up, I am never leaving.