Pokémon Red, Blue & Yellow – Generation I Origins of Kanto
Pokémon Red and Blue, localizations of Japan’s Red and Green, released internationally between 1998–1999, starting the Pokémon gaming franchise.- Pokémon Yellow: Special Pikachu Edition, inspired by the anime, released internationally between 1999–2000 with Pikachu as the starter.
- Introduced the original 151 Pokémon and the Kanto region.
- Encouraged trading between versions via Game Link Cable to complete the Pokédex.
🎮 The beginning of a phenomenon
The first Pokémon titles — *Pokémon Red*, *Blue*, and *Yellow* — marked the birth of a franchise that would become a cultural icon. Originally on the Game Boy, these adventures took players to the Kanto region and introduced all 151 original Pokémon.
🔄 Version differences & trading
*Red* and *Blue* each featured exclusive species, encouraging players to trade via the Game Link Cable. This social mechanic became a hallmark of the series.
⚡ Pikachu takes the lead
*Pokémon Yellow* reimagined the journey with Pikachu as the starter, following the player on-screen — a nod to the anime’s Ash and Pikachu dynamic.
🌍 Global impact
Within months, these games became a worldwide sensation, laying the foundation for Pokémon’s dominance in gaming, TV, films, and merchandise.
Pokémon Generation I Box Arts
🏆 The core adventure
Players journeyed through Kanto, battling Gym Leaders to earn badges and ultimately challenge the Elite Four. Along the way, they discovered the evolution mechanic, where certain Pokémon transform into stronger forms.
🔗 Link Cable connectivity
The Game Link Cable allowed trading and battling between Game Boys, fostering community and friendly competition.
📺 Beyond the games
The success of Generation I spawned sequels, spin‑offs, and a long‑running anime series, cementing Pokémon’s place in pop culture.
Pokémon Generation I introduced players to the strategic turn-based battle system. Trainers select moves for their Pokémon, considering type advantages and status effects to outsmart opponents — a mechanic that became a cornerstone of the series.
Explore the Kanto region — from bustling cities to mysterious caves — encountering wild Pokémon, battling trainers, and uncovering hidden items. The pixel art and world design made exploration an adventure in itself.
