The Pokémon franchise, which originated in Japan, has become a global phenomenon as it celebrates its 30th anniversary this February 27. What started as a simple pair of gaming cartridges has evolved into a multi-faceted empire encompassing games, merchandise, and an entrenched cultural presence. The story highlights the increasing number of fans and the ongoing expansion of the franchise without signs of slowing down.

Ten years ago, Nintendo launched Pokémon GO, a mobile game that became its most significant success in decades, reaching a peak of over 232 million concurrent players worldwide and totaling over 650 million downloads by 2023. This augmented reality game transformed how users interact with the Pokémon universe, allowing them to 'catch' Pokémon in real-world locations. The impact of Pokémon GO continues as it captivates new audiences and reinforces Pokémon’s status as a beloved entity among various age groups.

The article also features the story of Leo P4t0m4n Marín, an eight-year-old boy from Málaga, who began his own Pokémon journey through this popular game. With the upcoming European International Pokémon Championship (EUIC) in London, there is a poignant connection to the legacy of Pokémon, showing how the franchise remains integral to the current generation and continues to inspire and connect fans across the globe.