Gaming is a realm filled with with diversity, ranging from super popular titles to moderately unknown. But very few franchises have captured the heart and soul of the players like Pokemon. For millions around the world, their journey as Pokemon trainers began with a very simple Gameboy and a game cartridge holding in the phenomenal world of Pokemon Red, Blue and Yellow. Created by Japanese Game Designer Satoshi Tajiri back in 1996, these games were the ones which introduced the world to these iconic and remarkable creatures called Pokemon, landing the franchise to one of the best selling video game franchises of all time at present.
Talking about timeless classics, the Generation 1 of Pokemon is something one must surely talk about. Set in the a region known as Kanto (inspired by the real-life Kanto region of Japan), this fictional land became the very first steps for millions of aspiring Pokemon Trainers.
From the extensive metropolis of Celadon City to the serene shores of Cerulean Cape, each location in Kanto was crafted with immense details to bring to the players a world filled with excitement and adventure. Whether traversing through the deepest of Viridian forest, or navigating through the treacherous corners of Mt. Moon, every step in Kanto held a promise of adventure and discovery.
Central to the characters of Kanto region, come the Pokemon themselves. Starting from the adorable Pikachu to the fire-breathing powerful Charizard, each and every creature was brought to the players with distinct personalities and abilities. Trainers embarked on a quest to every corner of the Kanto region, forming bonds with Pokemon that would last a lifetime, all leading to the final destination of every trainer: The Pokemon League.
Talking about memorable, we have to talk about the most memorable aspects of the game. Oh, the sheer excitement of a child to come across a Legendary Pokemon! From the distinguished Articuno, the fiery Moltres and the electrifying Zapdos upto the Mythical and intimidating Mewtwo. Rumors about these immensely strong Pokemon spread far and wide across the Kanto region, making players embark on journeys to search for these creatures shrouded by mysteries. Oh, the sheer adrenaline and excitement on encountering these majestic beasts!
While the first games were released over two decades, the games impact the community to this day. At the present, Pokemon has over 120 games, with many iterations starting from Pokemon FireRed and LeafGreen on the Gameboy Advance, Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver on the Nintendo DS to Pokemon Let's Go Pikachu and Let's Go Eevee on the Nintendo Switch bring back the Kanto regions for new and old players alike to enjoy and feel nostalgic about. Oh, the thought of the good old Pallet Town where most of us started our journeys! These modern installments to the Pokemon franchise pay homage to the roots of the same alongside bringing fresh elements to captivate both newcomers and seasoned veterans alike.
Reflecting on the Generation 1 of Pokemon, it is made immensely clear as to why Kanto is one of the most loved regions of all. It is clear that the legacy of Pokemon will and does extend to the far and beyond of its initial release. From the bustling cities and peaceful towns, to the Legendary Pokemon and the battles fought, the Kanto region holds a very special place in the hearts of many.
Even after we begin to embark on journeys across newer regions, let us not forget where we all came from: the old and simple Pallet Town.
All the generation 1 Pokemon