Pokemon Rewind: Most Popular Pokemon Characters

It has been decades since Mewtwo was the most recently discovered Pokemon—and with even more big changes to the world of Pokemon in recent years, there has never been a more exciting time to catch ‘em all! 

But where to begin? Thankfully, Plaza Japan’s Pokedex is up-to-date, courtesy of Rotom and the most renowned professors in the Pokemon world. Thanks to these experts, we have provided a list of our top most popular Pokemon characters. Read on!

The Most Popular Starter Pokemon

Starter Pokemon are your first faithful companions on your journey to becoming a Pokemon Master! Because of that, all of these first friends are automatically some of the most popular Pokemon characters, as starter Pokemon represent each generation of Pokemon discovery, from art to the storylines in games and TV. Here are a few to spotlight like Jigglypuff on stage:

The Starters of the Starters

An honorable mention must go to each of the three first companions of the Kanto region, with Bulbasaur as the first Pokemon, Squirtle proving to be the coolest—sunglasses or not—and Charmander charming the entire world, as its final evolved form Charizard is often rated as one of the most popular Pokemon characters overall!

Other Popular Starter Pokemon

The most recent region to be introduced is Paldea, which has introduced some instant new favorites, including Sprigatito, Fuecoco, and Quaxley. But not to be outdone, Litten, the Alolan and fiery counterpart to Sprigatito, has constantly won over the hearts of audiences worldwide. 

The adorable Fennekin, the fox-like fire-type companion to Serena in Pokemon X and Y, has also blazed through the competition. At the same time, Froakie, later known to have a secret evolution in Ash-Greninja, also made big waves. 

Ultimately, though, classic starter Pokemon are most definitely popular and always the most remembered. Choosing your top pick might be just as tricky as it is for any new trainer!

The Crowd Favorites

Some Pokemon characters need no introduction because they are simply that well cherished and synonymous with Pokemon. Here are a few:

Pikachu

Technically, Pikachu, companion of the most popular character in Pokemon, Ash Ketchum, is also a starter pokemon! Moreover, Pikachu might be one of the most recognizable figures worldwide, to say nothing about being one of the most popular characters. There is no need to ask Team Rocket or Meowth if that’s right! 

That said, we might want to check in on ghost-type Mimikyu, who is adored as a cult favorite because Pikachu is not exactly Mimikyu’s personal favorite.

Eevee

The same level of fandom goes for the cuddly and adorable Eevee and all of the most glorious “Eevee-lutions” that continue to delight Pokemon fans, young and old. From powerful Vaporeon to dazzling Sylveon to mysterious Umbreon, to any other, with Eevee, there is a Pokemon type for everyone - and that makes Eevee one of the most popular Pokemon characters ever.

Lucario

Lucario is a true champ, both in and out of the arena. This strong fighting-type Pokemon is a loyal companion who will fight for you with some knock-out moves and look cool while doing it. If you have a Lucario on your team, you will be thanking your lucky Starmies that you didn’t have to throw in the towel in your battles!

Rockruff

Rockruff is an Alolan pup who can evolve into either a daytime or nighttime form of Lycanroc…or possibly even a mysterious dusk version. But as long as you have a few treats in your pocket, you will definitely be popular with this friendly Pokemon.

The Legendary and Mythical Pokemon

Unlike popular starter Pokemon, the most difficult to catch are the rare and legendary Pokemon! But because they aren’t easy to find in the wild, and many think they are only figures of our imagination, some of our most popular items for Pokemon characters celebrate these mythical creatures. 

From Ho-Oh, Rayquaza, and the mysterious Cosmog, to Arceus, Shaymin, the Gratitude Pokemon, and the humble Bidoof who rose to god-tier through the power of the Internet, there are so many powerful beings that are the winning hand in any match-up of most revered Pokemon.

Choose Your Companion

Is your head still spinning faster than a Pokeball from the wide world of Pokemon? Do not worry. Start writing down your personal most popular Pokemon characters – we even have stationery for that! 

The most important thing, however, is not just to follow the crowd but to set off on your own journey as you build your own relationships with the ones that have managed to capture your heart. 

Happy travels, trainer!

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