With 9 generations consisting of over 1000 fictional Pokémon, the Japanese brand Pocket Monsters have consistently kept the world of Pokémon fresh with an exciting array of memorable and unique characters. Ken Sugimori originally led a handful of artists in designing Pokémon characters. By 2013, this number had increased to a collection of over 20 artists working together to create new and unique Pokémon designs for the sprawling universe.
Pokémon characters are usually designed to be as distinct from each other as possible. Each is equipped with their own unique features, personality, ability, power move, and much more. The massive world of Pokémon is well loved by fans of all ages throughout the globe, and on this list we are taking a look at 20 of the best and most famous Pokémon characters of all time.
20. Snorlax
Also known as the “Sleeping Pokémon,” Snorlax is one big character – the heaviest of all Pokémon and also one of the most recognizable. It’s got a dark bluish body and an off-white belly, face, and feet. Physical characteristics of this Pokémon include two pointy ears, small slits for eyes, and two sharp teeth protruding from its mouth. Snorlax derives its name from being an excessive sleeper, waking up only for food. Often found in the forests, Snorlax has an endless supply of food within its reach, which works out since it will not stop eating until it has consumed 900lbs of food. This Pokémon is quite docile when unprovoked, but can be more than useful in a duel.
19. Haunter
In the Pokémon universe, “Types” are properties applied to Pokémon and their moves which affects the power of moves in battles. Haunter is a dual-type Ghost/Poison Pokémon which was first introduced in generation I. Its physical characteristics include a pair of large triangular eyes, several pointed teeth, a pink long tongue, with spikes on the sides of its head. This Pokémon can be found hiding in very dark places as it’s afraid of light. It prefers to stalk victims until it is close enough to attack. Despite being a pretty spooky Pokémon character, Haunter has been known to entertain and prank people in the anime.
18. Gyarados
Another dual-type Water/Flying Pokémon featured on this list is Gyarados. As an atrocious character, the Gyarados looks very much like a Chinese dragon. It is a water creature that lives mostly in large lakes or the ocean. Some easily identifiable characteristics of this Pokémon include; small red eyes, a three-pointed dark blue crest on its head, and four white spiky dorsal fins. It also has a large mouth that remains positioned in such a way as to maintain an angry frown. This character is listed as one of the more violent Pokémon within the universe. Gyarados is a very difficult Pokémon to tame even for the most experienced trainer, but perhaps this is why it is regarded as one of the more awesome characters.
17. Metagross
Most distinguishable among the characteristics of the Metagross is its robotic look. Unlike most other Pokémon characters that were designed to have a biologically-consistent structure, Metagross comes with a unique and futuristic look, making it an exciting addition to the universe. First introduced in generation III, Metagross uses a series of complex calculations to fight and defeat opponents in battle. Its robotic turquoise body is disc-shaped with four legs – each leg housing one brain, thus making this character one of the more intelligent Pokémon in the universe. The Metagross also has the ability to retract its legs in order to float on air and has also been seen to use these legs as a floatation device while on water. It makes this list as one of the most intimidating and impressive Pokémon characters.
16. Umbreon
In the world of Pokémon, characters are known to evolve when exposed to specific conditions. Umbreon, a cat-like creature, evolves from Eevee as a result of the latter being exposed to moonlight. This exposure results in an altered genetic structure consisting of a sleek black body, crimson eyes, four slender legs, long pointed ears and two pairs of pointed teeth. Renowned as one of the more good looking Pokémon, its physical look is completed with beautiful yellow rings on its body. At night, these yellow markings glow brightly when exposed to the moon’s aura denoting excitement. It’s rare to find an Umbreon living in the wild, as they can be found most commonly inhabiting urban areas.
15. Tyranitar
If you’re looking for a truly terrifying Pokémon, Tyranitar is the one for you. This character is a large bipedal creature with a dinosaur–like appearance. It has a purple underbelly and claws on both hands and feet. The Tyranitar is an extremely strong and contemptuous Pokémon, its green armor-like hide protects it from all sorts of attacks, a great defense when it’s out to put down other creatures. Accompanying the Tyranitar’s size, strength, and ability, is its tendency to set-off powerful earthquakes when engaged in battle – a truly remarkable Pokémon.
14. Kingdra
The Kingdra is a large water Pokémon with looks that are very similar to a Seahorse. Characterized by its yellow underbelly contrasted against a blue scale-covered body, it has a distinctive snout that can squirt powerful streams of water strong enough to knock an opponent down. Apart from this attack mechanism, this Pokémon can use its yawn to create underwater currents that are capable of destroying small ships. The Kingdra is a powerful water creature that awakens during a storm. Make sure not to be found in uninhabited sea areas during a storm because a Kingdra will be out looking for you.
13. Gengar
This dark purple Pokémon may not look like a lot of trouble really at first sight. Characterized by a cute looking round body, Gengar has a sinister look that is hard to miss. This character employs the use of stealth in a very mischievous and playful way, allowing it to hide in the shadows and behave maliciously. Playing practical jokes on unsuspecting and random victims is Gengar’s favorite hobby. A positive characteristic to note about this Pokémon is its tendency to stay true and loyal to its trainers. Don’t be surprised however if you find your shadow being weird at times; it’s probably the Gengar entertaining itself again.
12. Alakazam
This yellow, large, and humanoid looking Alakazam is quite an impressive creature. It has brown armor covering parts of its body to defend against attacks and possesses psychic abilities. This Pokémon is a sight to behold and is capable of doing almost anything. Most interesting about this character are the silver spoons it wields in each hand – these spoons work as psychic amplifiers. With an IQ of over 5,000, the Alakasam is a highly intelligent and strategic Pokémon. If you’re lucky enough to gain its trust, this Pokémon can give you one of its psychic-amplifying spoons and will also remember absolutely everything it has ever experienced.
11. Typhlosion
As another iconic Pokémon on this list, Typhlosion is one creature that is always ready for battle. It’s a bulky but surprisingly agile character with similarities to a badger. This Pokémon has a special ability that allows it to make anything go up in flames when it is angered. It is also capable of creating explosions by rubbing its fur together. The heat it generates when ready for battle can create a shimmering haze that it uses to hide itself. The Typhlosion is very rarely found in the wild, although it can be found living on grasslands.
10. Dragonite
Taking the number 10 spot on this list is one Pokémon fan favorite, Dragonite. This character as the name implies is Dragon/Flying Pokémon which has evolved from Dragonair. It is vulnerable to ice, rock, and fairy movies. Composed of small wings with a greenish undertone to them, the Dragonite also has a pair of long antennae which are easily identifiable on its head. Its snout is small, rounded, and completing its facial look is a pair of very friendly eyes. This Pokémon takes to humans easily, can be very protective of its environment, and will do anything if ever it is threatened.
9. Arcanine
Arcanine is a quadrupedal (four-legged) canine-type Pokémon and one of the bravest characters around. It has a distinct orange and black pelt and a characteristic beige fur that covers most of its head and parts of its hind legs. Its pointed ears protrude much like its pointy teeth does, and its tail mirrors the fur on its head. The Arcanine is known to have a burning flame inside its body that serves as a source of all its power and gives it extreme speed. This beautiful Pokémon has been known to live in volcanoes, but mostly, it can be found in prairies.
8. Mewtwo
Mewtwo is an artificial humanoid Pokémon that has its roots in science. It is primarily gray in overall color with purple eyes and a long purple tail. It has a very well-defined chest and shoulders that look like a breastplate. This Pokémon was created using DNA engineering, and as can be expected from its name, Mewtwo derives its origins from Mew. Mewtwo is a fierce Pokémon known widely as one of the most powerful characters in the Pokémon universe. It also possesses extremely powerful telepathic abilities such as mind control and levitation. Mewtwo resides mostly in dark caves and will remain there until it is ready to unleash destruction on an enemy. This is one Pokémon that should never be provoked.
7. Lugia
Part bird, part dinosaur, and part dragon, Lugia is a larger-than-life Pokémon. Being the leader of the legendary birds, Lugia possesses incomparable powers in its wings. This silver-white character has wings that resemble hands, a body that resembles a dragon, and a head that’s similar to a plesiosaur. One of its unique signature moves is the ability to command the weather, conjuring and calming a storm as it pleases. The Lugia’s powerful wings are capable of having devastating effects with just a slight flutter, and a full-on flap can cause storms that could go on for weeks. As a very powerful Pokémon, Lugia prefers to isolate itself deep underwater to avoid accidental damage.
6. Garchomp
Introduced in generation IV is this dual-type Dragon/Ground Pokémon called Garchomp, but more commonly known as the ‘Mach Pokémon’. This dark-looking character is a terrible sight to behold but can be quite a useful Pokémon to have. Its navy blue color and red underbelly in addition to the golden patches found on its lower belly and head, give it a very distinct look. Garchomp’s head has appendages that act as sensors, allowing it to sense prey from a distance. Garchomp’s most distinctive characteristic is its massive wings which allow it to fly to impressive heights and at jaw-dropping speeds. Most terrifying about this Pokémon is its ability to consume entire flocks of Pokémon birds at a single go. The design of this popular Pokémon character draws its inspiration from several sources, including the hammerhead shark, elements of a jet aircraft, and classic dragons from mythology.
5. Blastoise
A bipedal and tortoise-like creature, the Blastoise is truly one of a kind. It sports a brown shell that protects its light blue body, not only with its tough quality but also with two strategically positioned water cannons at the top of its shell just over the shoulders. These water cannons can be extended further to produce a more powerful charge that is capable of piercing through concrete and steel. The Blastoise also has the ability to increase its own weight in order to control the blasts from his cannon, and with this weight it can crush any enemies that might be on its path. This Pokémon prefers to live near small bodies of freshwater.
4. Eevee
Eevee is a normal-type generation I Pokémon. It is one of the most versatile ones you can have and has been known to evolve into at least 8 other Pokémon depending on the method used. Eevee is one of the known smaller characters in the Pokémon universe. It’s physical characteristics include; short slender legs with three small toes and a pink paw pad on each foot, gentle brown eyes, long pointed ears with dark brown interiors, and a small black nose. With its pet-like characteristics, Eevee is quite unremarkable when it comes to being considered for battles. It’s most unique feature is a peculiar genetic structure that allows it to adapt appropriately into any environment. Eevee has made this list because it is considered one of the most well-loved Pokémon in the universe.
3. Pikachu
Another Pokémon of average strengths finds its way close to the top of this list, not because of its electric-type capabilities but because of its popularity. Pikachu is most easily identified as the mascot of the Pokémon franchise and is also one of Nintendo’s major mascots. The yellow, chubby, rodent-like character is as adorable as can be. Notable among its qualities, is the ability to release electrical discharges through its tail which can produce a electrocution-like effect on its opponents. A large group of this Pokémon working together can induce a lightning storm capable of causing considerable damage. Pikachu stands for everything friendly and lovable about the Pokémon universe, and this is why it has made our top 3 on this list.
2. Charizard
Charizard is a dual-type Fire/Flying Pokémon with large bat-like wings and a long tail that is equipped with an ever burning flame at the tip. Primarily orange in colour with a cream underside from the chest to the tip of its tail, it has a long neck, small blue eyes, slightly raised nostrils, and two horn-like structures protruding from the back of its rectangular head. This character is made for battle, and its fire will burn hotter as it gains more experience. With a single breath of fire, it can burn down forests and melt gigantic glaciers. Charizard is a simple Pokémon that has much to offer its trainers. It can be found mostly in valleys.
1. Mew
At the very top of this list sits the pink bipedal Pokémon known as Mew. Characterized with very distinct features, this Pokémon has a short snout, large ears, and large blue eyes to match. Its legs are proportionally larger than its arms, and its long tail has an oval-shaped tip. This character is so unique in the Pokémon universe becauce contained in it’s DNA are traces of every other Pokémon. This notable characteristic provides Mew with the ability to learn any move from other Pokémon characters – this is sucn an impressive capability for such a small Pokémon, and the reason why it is number 1 on this list. Some of the other characteristics of Mew are its adaptability, intelligence, playfulness, selflessness, and the ability to travel both by air and by water. This character is known to only reveal itself to a person who carries a pure heart, a Pokémon worth every inch of its fame.
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