Pokémon turns 21 years old in the US

21 years ago, Pokémon Red & Blue were released in the United States, becoming a cultural phenomenon along with the 1997 anime.

On September 28th, 1998, Pokémon Red & Blue released in the United States. Two years after Japan’s release of Pokémon Red & Green, Pokémon would eventually become a worldwide phenomenon. Along with the anime and the trading cards, Pokémania started with news channels talking about the craze that Pokémon brought to millions of kids in America. The series’ mascot, Pikachu, would become a pop culture icon and be featured in many US events such as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade.

Back to where it all began. ❤️?

Pokémon Red and Pokémon Blue made their North American debut on this day in 1998!

Which year did you play the very first Pokémon adventure, Trainers? pic.twitter.com/n4qdHQNudN

— Pokémon (@Pokemon) September 28, 2019

With future generations coming along, Pokémon remains a substantial Nintendo property to this day. Along with the main series, spinoffs ranging from Mystery Dungeon, Stadium, Coliseum, and many more, there are different types of games we can enjoy from Pokémon. There is no doubt that Pokémon brought together many people, creating long-lasting friendships whether at school, conventions, or casually strolling at a park playing Pokémon Go.

There are now over 1000 types of Pokémon in the series. From Kanto to the Galar region, we are facing the eighth generation with the release of Pokémon Sword & Shield coming this November.

We must pass on the question to you: what year did you start your very first journey in the Pokémon world? Whether you first played Red, Blue, Gold, Silver, and so on, it is never too late to begin your Pokémon journey regardless of who you are. We aim to be the very best like no one ever was, and we are still aiming for that goal as long as the series remains.