TL;DR
Pokémon turns 30 in 2026, marking three decades since the original Game Boy games launched in Japan. From trading cards and the anime to global tournaments and collectables, Pokémon has remained popular through nostalgia, innovation and multi-generational appeal.

In 1996, a pair of Game Boy games launched in Japan and quietly changed pop culture forever. Thirty years later, Pokémon remains one of the most recognisable entertainment brands in the world, spanning video games, trading cards, animation, films and collectables.

As Pokémon celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2026, fans across Australia and around the globe are reflecting on how it all began and why we’re still trying to catch ’em all.

When Did Pokémon Start?

Pokémon was first released in Japan on 27 February 1996 as Pokémon Red and Green for the Nintendo Game Boy. Created by Satoshi Tajiri and developed by Game Freak, the concept was inspired by Tajiri’s childhood hobby of collecting insects.

The idea was simple but revolutionary: explore the world, catch creatures, train them, and trade with friends using a link cable. That trading element helped turn Pokémon into a social experience, something that quickly spread beyond Japan.

By the late 1990s, Pokémon had arrived in Australia alongside the anime series and the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG). School playgrounds quickly became battlegrounds for card trades and Game Boy duels.

How Pokémon Became a Global Obsession

Pokémon’s rise wasn’t just about the games.

The anime series introduced iconic characters like Ash Ketchum and Pikachu to mainstream audiences. The trading card game became a worldwide craze. Feature films, merchandise, toys and collectibles followed.

By the early 2000s, Pokémon had cemented itself as more than a trend; it was a cultural movement.

Then came reinvention. Every few years, a new generation of Pokémon launched with a new region, new starters and fresh gameplay mechanics. From Johto and Hoenn to Galar and Paldea, each era brought in new fans while keeping long-time players engaged.

In 2016, Pokémon GO sparked a global resurgence, bringing augmented reality gaming into everyday life. Parks, beaches and city streets across Australia filled with players chasing rare spawns.

Few franchises have successfully reinvented themselves across three decades; Pokémon is one of them.

The Evolution of Pokémon Over 30 Years

Over 30 years, Pokémon has evolved dramatically:

• Over 1,000 Pokémon species introduced
  

• Mainline games across multiple Nintendo consoles
  

• Competitive global tournaments
  

• A thriving TCG scene
  

• Expanding digital and mobile experiences
  

Graphics have improved, battle systems have deepened, and storytelling has matured but the core formula remains unchanged: exploration, collection and connection.

That consistency is one of the biggest reasons Pokémon continues to resonate across generations.

Why Is Pokémon Still So Popular After 30 Years?

Pokémon’s longevity comes down to five key factors:

1. Nostalgia

Many Australian fans who grew up with Pokémon in the late ’90s are now adults rediscovering the franchise.

2. Multi-Generational Appeal

Parents who played Pokémon Red and Blue are now introducing their kids to Scarlet and Violet.

3. Collectibility

From trading cards to figures and buildable models, Pokémon has always encouraged collecting.

4. Community

Whether it’s competitive battling, trading cards or local events, Pokémon thrives on social interaction.

5. Constant Reinvention

New games, regions and mechanics keep the franchise feeling fresh.

Few brands manage to balance tradition and innovation as effectively as Pokémon.

How Fans Are Celebrating the 30th Anniversary

The 30th anniversary isn’t just about looking back; it’s about celebrating in personal ways.

Fans are:

• Replaying classic games
  

• Completing Pokédex challenges
  

• Expanding their card collections
  

• Displaying favourite characters
  

• Building and customising Pokémon models
  

For many hobbyists, hands-on building has become a creative way to connect with favourite Pokémon. Bandai’s Pokémon model kits, for example, allow fans to assemble detailed, display-ready versions of iconic characters like Pikachu, Charizard and Eevee, no glue or paint required.

It’s a different way to experience the franchise: slower, creative and display-focused, perfect for collectors and long-time fans alike.

FAQs

When is Pokémon’s 30th anniversary?

Pokémon’s 30th anniversary takes place in 2026, marking 30 years since the original Pokémon Red and Green games were released in Japan on 27 February 1996.

Who created Pokémon?

Pokémon was created by Satoshi Tajiri and developed by Game Freak, with publishing support from Nintendo.

Why is Pokémon still popular after 30 years?

Pokémon remains popular due to nostalgia, cross-generational appeal, collectibility, competitive play, strong community engagement and consistent reinvention through new games and media.

How many Pokémon are there now?

As of the latest generation, there are over 1,000 officially recognised Pokémon species across all regions.

What are different ways to celebrate Pokémon’s 30th anniversary?

Fans can celebrate by replaying classic games, collecting trading cards, attending events, building Pokémon model kits, or revisiting the anime and films.

Celebrate 30 Years of Pokémon at Hobbyco

If the past 30 years have proven anything, it’s that Pokémon adapts.

With new generations on the horizon, expanding competitive scenes, digital innovation and evolving collectables, Pokémon shows no signs of slowing down.

For Australian fans, the 30th anniversary is more than a milestone; it’s a reminder of how deeply embedded Pokémon has become in our culture.

From Game Boy link cables to modern console adventures, the journey continues.

If you are looking for a meaningful way to celebrate Pokémon’s 30th anniversary, start at the workbench. Explore the full collection today.

With locations conveniently located throughout Metro Sydney, finding the perfect hobby shop near you has never been easier. Experience the excitement of exploring our vast selection of Pokémon products, expert advice, and exceptional customer service. Discover why Hobbyco is the number one hobby shop in Australia. Customers can buy products online through our platform.