Takara Tomy Revives 1997 Life-Size Pikachu Plush for Pokemon's 30th Anniversary
In a nostalgic nod to Pokemon's enduring legacy, Takara Tomy has officially announced the return of an iconic collectible: the life-sized Pikachu plush, first released in 1997.
Dubbed the “Welcome Back! Pikachu 1/1” plush, this highly anticipated remake celebrates the upcoming 30th anniversary of the Pokemon franchise, marking nearly three decades since the original Pokemon games launched in Japan for the Game Boy platform. About the Classic Pikachu Plush and Its Legacy The original Pikachu plush from 1997 holds a special place in the hearts of longtime Pokemon fans, reflecting the franchise's early character design before Pikachu’s sleeker, modern appearance.
This classic toy, renowned for its round shape—affectionately referred to as the “fat Pikachu” design—became a symbol of Pokemon’s burgeoning popularity in the late '90s.
By 2023, Pokemon had become one of the world’s highest-grossing media franchises, with cumulative software sales for core games like Pokemon Red and Blue, Pokemon Sword and Shield, and recent Nintendo Switch releases surpassing 480 million copies globally. Details on the 30th Anniversary Release The newly announced Pokemon 30th Anniversary “Welcome Back! Pikachu 1/1” plush faithfully recreates the beloved original at approximately 40 centimeters in height.
According to Takara Tomy, the plush will be available for purchase starting February 28, 2026, exclusively in Japan.
Fans eager to secure the collectible can expect availability through major retailers, including Amazon Japan, upon its release.
The revival aligns perfectly with a series of commemorative events and product launches planned for the Pokemon 30th anniversary, underscoring the franchise’s lasting cultural impact. Journalistic Insights and Official Commentary In a translated statement, representatives from Takara Tomy emphasized their excitement to bring back the original design, citing the plush as “a tribute to nostalgia, honoring both longtime trainers and a new generation discovering the magic of Pokemon.” The company’s commitment to classic Pokemon merchandising showcases its ongoing partnership with The Pokemon Company and Nintendo, who continue to celebrate the franchise’s storied history on platforms such as the Nintendo Switch and through exclusive collectibles on the eShop and other online retailers. Final Thoughts With this announcement, Takara Tomy invites collectors and fans old and new to reconnect with the roots of Pokemon.
The upcoming release of the life-sized Pikachu plush is not just a nostalgic artifact, but a testament to Pokemon’s multi-generational appeal and the powerful legacy of Japan’s gaming and toy industries.
Stay tuned to official channels for more information on international availability and further anniversary merchandise.
Dubbed the “Welcome Back! Pikachu 1/1” plush, this highly anticipated remake celebrates the upcoming 30th anniversary of the Pokemon franchise, marking nearly three decades since the original Pokemon games launched in Japan for the Game Boy platform. About the Classic Pikachu Plush and Its Legacy The original Pikachu plush from 1997 holds a special place in the hearts of longtime Pokemon fans, reflecting the franchise's early character design before Pikachu’s sleeker, modern appearance.
This classic toy, renowned for its round shape—affectionately referred to as the “fat Pikachu” design—became a symbol of Pokemon’s burgeoning popularity in the late '90s.
By 2023, Pokemon had become one of the world’s highest-grossing media franchises, with cumulative software sales for core games like Pokemon Red and Blue, Pokemon Sword and Shield, and recent Nintendo Switch releases surpassing 480 million copies globally. Details on the 30th Anniversary Release The newly announced Pokemon 30th Anniversary “Welcome Back! Pikachu 1/1” plush faithfully recreates the beloved original at approximately 40 centimeters in height.
According to Takara Tomy, the plush will be available for purchase starting February 28, 2026, exclusively in Japan.
Fans eager to secure the collectible can expect availability through major retailers, including Amazon Japan, upon its release.
The revival aligns perfectly with a series of commemorative events and product launches planned for the Pokemon 30th anniversary, underscoring the franchise’s lasting cultural impact. Journalistic Insights and Official Commentary In a translated statement, representatives from Takara Tomy emphasized their excitement to bring back the original design, citing the plush as “a tribute to nostalgia, honoring both longtime trainers and a new generation discovering the magic of Pokemon.” The company’s commitment to classic Pokemon merchandising showcases its ongoing partnership with The Pokemon Company and Nintendo, who continue to celebrate the franchise’s storied history on platforms such as the Nintendo Switch and through exclusive collectibles on the eShop and other online retailers. Final Thoughts With this announcement, Takara Tomy invites collectors and fans old and new to reconnect with the roots of Pokemon.
The upcoming release of the life-sized Pikachu plush is not just a nostalgic artifact, but a testament to Pokemon’s multi-generational appeal and the powerful legacy of Japan’s gaming and toy industries.
Stay tuned to official channels for more information on international availability and further anniversary merchandise.
