The Pokémon franchise, one of the most recognizable names in gaming and pop culture, is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2024.
Originally debuting in 1996 with Pokémon Red and Green in Japan, the series has since become a global phenomenon, spanning video games, trading cards, an animated television series, and a wide array of merchandise.
Developed by Game Freak and published by Nintendo and The Pokémon Company, the Pokémon franchise has sold over 440 million video game units worldwide as of 2023, making it the highest-grossing media franchise in history. To honor this milestone, a series of celebratory events and collaborations are planned throughout the year, highlighting the enduring popularity of Pokémon.
One of the most notable tributes comes from Time Magazine, which has released three exclusive Pokémon-themed covers for a special edition issue this month.
These collector’s covers are available for purchase through Amazon as well as various local retailers, catering to long-time fans and newcomers alike. Each of the three unique Time Magazine covers spotlights a different set of legendary Pokémon that have left an indelible mark on the franchise’s three-decade journey.
The first cover features Ho-Oh and Lugia, the mascots of the Pokémon Gold and Silver versions, symbolizing the series’ expansion to the Johto region.
A second cover highlights Rayquaza, the powerful Legendary Pokémon from Pokémon Emerald, a title celebrated for its reinvention of core gameplay elements on the Game Boy Advance.
The third and final cover showcases Mega Charizard X, an iconic Mega Evolution introduced in Pokémon X and Y for the Nintendo 3DS, which helped usher in a new era for strategic battles and connectivity. Pokémon Company representatives stated that the 30th anniversary will be marked by ongoing events across the globe, with fans encouraged to keep an eye on the official website and Nintendo Direct presentations for announcements regarding upcoming festivities, exclusive products, and digital activations on the Nintendo Switch eShop.
Since its launch, the Pokémon brand has continually evolved, with Game Freak’s innovative game design and Nintendo’s robust hardware platforms—most recently the Nintendo Switch—propelling the series to new heights.
The inclusion of Pokémon in Time Magazine’s storied history reflects not just the franchise’s monumental achievements, but its ability to transcend generations and mediums. With a variety of products, special promotions, and global events on the horizon, Pokémon’s 30th anniversary stands as a testament to its enduring relevance and appeal.
Fans eager to commemorate the occasion can secure the limited-edition Time Magazine covers now, ensuring a piece of history as the journey continues for the next generation of trainers.
Originally debuting in 1996 with Pokémon Red and Green in Japan, the series has since become a global phenomenon, spanning video games, trading cards, an animated television series, and a wide array of merchandise.
Developed by Game Freak and published by Nintendo and The Pokémon Company, the Pokémon franchise has sold over 440 million video game units worldwide as of 2023, making it the highest-grossing media franchise in history. To honor this milestone, a series of celebratory events and collaborations are planned throughout the year, highlighting the enduring popularity of Pokémon.
One of the most notable tributes comes from Time Magazine, which has released three exclusive Pokémon-themed covers for a special edition issue this month.
These collector’s covers are available for purchase through Amazon as well as various local retailers, catering to long-time fans and newcomers alike. Each of the three unique Time Magazine covers spotlights a different set of legendary Pokémon that have left an indelible mark on the franchise’s three-decade journey.
The first cover features Ho-Oh and Lugia, the mascots of the Pokémon Gold and Silver versions, symbolizing the series’ expansion to the Johto region.
A second cover highlights Rayquaza, the powerful Legendary Pokémon from Pokémon Emerald, a title celebrated for its reinvention of core gameplay elements on the Game Boy Advance.
The third and final cover showcases Mega Charizard X, an iconic Mega Evolution introduced in Pokémon X and Y for the Nintendo 3DS, which helped usher in a new era for strategic battles and connectivity. Pokémon Company representatives stated that the 30th anniversary will be marked by ongoing events across the globe, with fans encouraged to keep an eye on the official website and Nintendo Direct presentations for announcements regarding upcoming festivities, exclusive products, and digital activations on the Nintendo Switch eShop.
Since its launch, the Pokémon brand has continually evolved, with Game Freak’s innovative game design and Nintendo’s robust hardware platforms—most recently the Nintendo Switch—propelling the series to new heights.
The inclusion of Pokémon in Time Magazine’s storied history reflects not just the franchise’s monumental achievements, but its ability to transcend generations and mediums. With a variety of products, special promotions, and global events on the horizon, Pokémon’s 30th anniversary stands as a testament to its enduring relevance and appeal.
Fans eager to commemorate the occasion can secure the limited-edition Time Magazine covers now, ensuring a piece of history as the journey continues for the next generation of trainers.
