Pick Or Pass On These Pokémon And We'll Guess Your Top 3 Favorites
- by Tanner Fox
- – on
- in Movies and TV
Pokémon has been a cultural phenomenon since it was first introduced over two decades ago. What started as a simple collectible card game quickly blossomed into a popular anime, with dozens of RPG video games.
Even though the series is relatively new, almost everyone can correctly identify at least one of the series' most iconic creatures: from the adorable electric mouse Pikachu to the Generation I starters Bulbasaur, Charmander and Squirtle, to many more. It's tough to think of another property that has spawned so many lovable figures.
Pokémon is everywhere, and, believe it or not, a person's pokémon preferences can actually say a lot about them. It still might not be advisable to start asking about pokémon when meeting someone new, but it could definitely be a cool thing to ask some close friends. This isn't quite a replacement for a Rorschach test, though some people's responses could end up being pretty surprising.
With that in mind, it's also possible to guess someone's favorite creatures based on which ones they like and which ones they dislike. Pick or pass on these pokémon and we'll come up with everyone's top three favorites!
Bulbasaur
One of the most recognizable pokémon and among the first three players will encounter when beginning their journeys in the original GameBoy titles Pokémon Red and Blue, Bulbasaur is an adorable bipedal grass type with which all fans are familiar. The very first entry in the Pokédex, Bulbasaur is famous for the pod-like seed which it carries on its back. This seed will eventually blossom into a flower once it completes its transformation into Ivysaur. There have been tons of cute grass type starters in the Pokémon series, but Bulbasaur will always remain the original.
Arbok
Astute Pokémon fans will be quick to point out that Arbok and its previous form Ekans are among some of the laziest creations in Generation I. A poison type which clearly takes influence from some real-world reptiles, Arbok is a snake whose name backwards is a misspelled version of the world Cobra. That said, Arbok can be a pretty intimidating creature, able to constrict its opponents with incredible force. Being associated with the nefarious Team Rocket in the anime, Arbok likely appeals to devious trainers who aren’t fond of the cute aesthetics of most pokémon.
Pangoro
Pangoro is a massive bear-like pokémon which is derivative of real-life panda bears. Much like it's IRL counterpart, Pangoro is a giant creature which weighs around 300 pounds and stands at nearly seven feet tall. A Fighting and Dark type, Pangoro is probably a little bit less adorable and slightly more intimidating than the average panda, and it makes for a fierce competitor in the Pokémon arena. In the anime, Serena caught a Pencham which evolved into a Pangoro in an episode titled "Dream a Little Dream from Me"! It is said to have an ornery personality, and Pangoro is always seen carrying a piece of bamboo in its mouth.
Jumpluff
The final evolution of the Generation II Grass/Flying type pokémon Hoppip, Jumpluff is said to often be found floating in the air. According to its Pokédex entry, Jumpluff is thought to ride air currents across oceans, though it also relies on the wind to spread its spores. A cute grass type which bears a resemblance to the Generation I fan-favorite Grass/Poison type Oddish, Jumpluff isn’t particularly fearsome in battle, though it can be helpful in other ways. In an episode of the Pokémon anime titled "An Egg-sighting Adventure," Officer Jenny used a Jumpluff to dust for finger and footprints during an investigation.
Bagon
The beginning evolution of the pseudo-legendary Dragon pokémon Salamence, Bagon and its lineage make up some of the very few pure Dragon type creatures available in the series. Introduced in Generation III, Bagon is usually caught by trainers looking to get their hands on it's evolved form. This pokémon’s head is said to be as tough as tempered steel, which would certainly help out in combat. An episode of the Pokémon anime titled "Let Begons Be Begons" featured a trainer named Michelle who had a Bagon which desperately wanted to learn how to fly. Thought it couldn’t quite take to the skies, it did evolve into Shelgon.
Slowbro
One of the less-recognizable pokémon introduced in the series’ seminal first generation, Slowbro is a generally considered to be a lackadaisical, lazy sort which can’t rely on either brawn nor brain. However, it does have the ability to learn several Psychic type moves, which make it a surprisingly competent competitor. Slowbro would use its tail to fish, though it usually is found with a Shellder firmly clamped to its backside, which makes finding food difficult. Slowbro is one of two possible evolutions available to Slowpoke, the other being Slowking. Unlike Slowbro, Slowking wears a Shellder on its head seemingly at all times.
Cyndaquil
Cyndaquil is a mouse-like Fire type pokémon which was first introduced in Generation II. In many ways, Cyndaquil’s cute but fiery personality and appearance make it relatively similar to everyone’s favorite Electric type, Pikachu. In the anime, Ash Ketchum caught one of these combustible creatures in an episode titled "Good ‘Quil Hunting," though he eventually abandoned it along with the rest of his team when he set out for Hoenn. Ash also came across a few other trainers who kept Cyndaquil on their teams. The introductory evolution of Typhlosion, Cyndaquil should probably be kept at an arm’s length, despite his adorable aesthetic.
Duskull
The basic form of Dusknoir and one of a relatively small number of Ghost type pokémon, some trainers find Duskull to be cute despite his creepy outward appearance. Clearly inspired by a macabre combination of phantoms and skulls, Duskull does seem a little dark for the cartoonish Pokémon franchise. This creature is able to levitate and has the ability to pass through solid objects, no matter how thick. Duskull is also known to pursue those caught outside late at night and will do so until the sunrise scares it away. Despite being a Ghost type pokémon, Duskull is weak to both Dark and Ghost types.
Wobbuffet
Famously associated with Jesse, James, Meowth, the three main characters which comprise the gaggling gang of Team Rocket ne'er-do-wells in the anime, Wobbuffet is a hilarious blue blob which always seems to cause more trouble than it solves. The evolved form of Wynaut, Wobbuffet is a Psychic type pokémon which boasts a reputation for being devious. Female Wobbuffet are distinct because they bear two small red markings on their lips which resemble lipstick. There was an episode in the Pokémon anime titled "Wabbu-Palooza" in which Ash and company came across a town where everyone owned a Wobbuffet.
Kadabra
The evolved form of Abra and the pre-evolutionary form of Alakazam, this Generation I Psychic type pokémon is famous among Pokémon Red and Blue players due to its elusive and coveted status. Kadabra is said to be a very challenging pokémon to train, and the pokédex advises that only strong-willed trainers endeavor to capture this mysterious creature. Abra is famous for its incredible speed and swiftness which made it very difficult to stop. Those who caught and evolved Abra would have an even more difficult time transforming Kadabra into Alakazam, as that could only occur through trading.
Dhelmise
Dhelmise is an interesting amalgamation of seafaring equipment which lurks in the ocean and likely startles other, more friendly pokémon. A nautical Ghost/Grass type, Dhelmise is said to be able to defeat Wailord in a single hit. This elusive pokémon is notoriously difficult to catch in the wild, as there is only one lone fishing spot in Pokémon Sun and Moon in which it may be encountered. Dhelmise is a totally unique pokémon which is the sole member of its evolutionary line. Those seeking this ghostly creature need to have either a strong affinity for Ghost types or a strange fascination with the deep sea.
Chansey
Chansey is an adorable Normal type pokémon which was a member of the original 151 First Generation pokémon. Chansey is known for hatching extremely nutritious eggs on a daily basis which is keeps in a pouch found on its stomach. A feminine pokémon through and through, one-hundred percent of these creatures are female. Chansey can often be found in Pokémon centers thanks to their healing abilities, and just about every Nurse Joy that Ash and his friends come across owns one of these pink pokémon. An adorable pokémon bearing an eternal smile, it’s hard to dislike this fluffy thing.
Magmar
An incredibly flammable Fire type pokémon, Magmar is a Generation I creature famous for its incendiary capabilities. Magmar are known for igniting flames across their bodies to intimidate their opponents in battle, and trainers working with Magmar need to be careful of starting accidental fires. The evolutionary form of Magby and the pre-evolutionary form of Magmortar, Magmar can only evolve in very specific circumstances: they must be traded while holding a Magmarizer, which will initiate the transformation. Ash fought against a Magmar in an episode of the anime titled "Riddle Me This," and has also come across a few trainers who have owned Magmar.
Unown
Unown are among some of the most mysterious creatures in the Pokémon universe. There are 28 known forms, all of which seem to take a form based off of an ancient form of the Latin alphabet. Unown are Psychic type pokémon which often act strangely and feature strange characteristics. They are genderless, and it is genuinely not advised to throw one into battle, as they can only ever make use of one move: hidden power. In an episode of the Pokémon anime titled Address Unown, a G-shaped Unown was discovered by Ash and his friends after falling from an alternate dimension known as the Unown Dimension.
Torchic
Introduced in Generation III, Torchic was a Fire type starter in the GameBoy Advance Pokémon Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald titles. Torchic is a small pokémon which resembles a real-life chick, and it is known to follow behind its trainer with small, wobbling steps. Torchich is also said to store its flame somewhere in its body, and hugging it will allow a trainer to feel its inner warmth. May started her adventures with Ash with a Torchic, which she received in an episode titled "Get the Show on the Road!" This little bird may seem tame initially, but Blaziken, its Fighting/Fire type final evolution, is nothing to mess with.
Teddiursa
An etymological combination of teddy bear and ursa, the Latin word for bear, Teddiursa is a cute and cuddly little pokémon first introduced in the Second Generation. Teddiursa is often seen licking its hands after a feast of homemade honey which it concocts from fruit and beedrill pollen. Teddiursa is the pre-evolutionary form of Ursaring, which it transforms into when it reaches level 30. Though it may serve as an adorable companion, it isn’t all that imposing in battle, and trainers will be eager to allow it to evolve into its stronger form. Nobody can resist the charm of this adorable little bear!
Cherrim
Cherrim is a sweet little cocoon-like Grass type pokémon which made its series debut in Generation IV. It is the evolutionary form of Cherubi, a pokémon clearly inspired by cherries, and is the strongest member of its evolutionary family tree. Though it wraps itself up in a self-made shell in darkness, it opens up during periods of intense, direct sunlight. These forms are dubbed the ‘overcast’ form and ‘sunshine’ form respectively. Cherrim only ever made one major appearance in the Pokémon anime, and it was in an episode called "Battling the Generation Gap" during which it appeared under the ownership of a pokémon stylist named Lila.
Crobat
Crobat is the final evolutionary form of Zubat, which is commonly encountered in cavernous areas within the Pokémon games. A purple bat, the official pokédex data on Crobat states that it is nearly six feet tall and weighs over 150 pounds. There aren’t any bat-like creatures in the real world that come even close to this size, which makes Crobat a pretty frightening figure. A Poison and Flying type pokémon, it is well known for its appearance in the Pokémon anime. Ash’s friend and traveling partner Brock caught a Zubat early on in their adventures, which eventually reached its final evolution in an episode titled "Control Freak."
Xatu
Xatu is a mystic pokémon said to have the ability to see into the future. A bizarre bird-like being which looks a bit like a walking hieroglyphic, this creature, first introduced in Generation II, is the evolutionary form of Natu. When Xatu makes an appearance in the anime, the audience knows that they are in for some outlandish, time-bending adventures. In an episode called "Xatu the Future," three of these strange birds were seen in the position of a girl named Calista who had the ability to predict the weather. A Psychic/Flying type, Xatu are often found standing motionless, and their inaction is thought to be a product of their concern for the future.
Espeon
Espeon is a Psychic type pokémon which made its series debut in the Second Generation. One of eight total evolutionary forms available to Eevee, Espeon is said to be extremely loyal to trainers which it deems worthy. Though Espeon hasn’t seen much screen time in the Pokémon anime, it was featured in a multi-episode subplot in the show’s early years. Ash and friends stumbled upon a lost Eevee, which was eventually adopted by a girl named Sakura and transformed into its psychic Eeveelution sometime after that. Espeon is perhaps the most catlike of all of the possible Eevee transformations.
Groudon
Groudon is a Ground type legendary pokémon which debut alongside the contrasting Kyogre legendary in Generation III. Ancient pokémon folklore posits that Groudon is a personification of the land itself, while the opposing Kyogre is a representation of the sea. The two seem to be locked in a constant battle to control the forces of nature. The flagship legendary pokémon of the video games Pokémon Ruby and Pokémon Omega Ruby, when joined by Kyogre and Rayquaza it forms the fabled weather trio. Players could capture Groudon in certain Pokémon titles, which made the game’s final battles a breeze as it was so incredibly powerful.
Ducklett
A duck-like Water/Flying type pokémon first introduced in Generation V, Ducklett is almost an exact approximation of real-world waterfowl. The pre-evolutionary form of Swanna, Ducklett is portrayed in the anime as a mischievous little creature prone to stealing items. It was most famously depicted as a sunglass-wearing trickster in an episode called "The Mighty Accelguard to the Rescue" in which it confiscated items from a local market at the command of its trainer. An adorable little creature, Ducklett isn’t all that useful in battle and should probably be reserved for other, more useful means. It’s funny to think that it took five generations to make a duck pokémon.
Skuntank
Skuntank is the evolutionary form of Stunky and is an obvious approximation of a skunk, which isn’t exactly the most graceful animal to convert into pokémon form. That said, by Generation IV, quality ideas for pokémon were clearly beginning to wear a bit thin. Skuntank is a Dark/Poison type creature which is known for its ability to spray a vile-smelling fluid from its tail when in danger. Skuntank make for surprisingly useful creatures in battle, and opposing trainers would probably do well to give up the fight lest they find themselves spending weeks after the battle bathing their pokémon.
Skitty
Skitty is a Normal type pokémon which is the in-universe equivalent of a housecat. As such, it isn’t particularly competent in battle, though its adorable and friendly nature make it an ideal companion. Skitty is the pre-evolutionary form of Delcatty, though it only evolves when put near a Moon Stone. In the Pokémon anime, Skitty made its debut in an episode titled "I Feel Skitty" in which it was captured by Ash’s friend, May. It then made a few ancillary appearances as a part of her team. A fan favorite from Generation III, Skitty is a fairly recognizable creature which is rife for merchandising.
Hitmonlee
Hitmonlee is a Fighting type pokémon which was introduced in Generation I and is one of three possible evolutions for the Generation II pokémon Tyrogue. Tyrogue only evolves into Hitmonlee under relatively specific circumstances: should Tyrogue’s attack stat be greater than its defense stat when it reaches level 20, it will adopt the form of Hitmonlee. A mouthless, bipedal blob, Hitmonlee attacks using its incredibly flexible and agile legs. It first appeared in the Pokémon anime in an episode appropriately titled "The Punchy Pokémon" in which it found its way through several fights under the leadership of Team Rocket before being bested by Ash’s Primeape.
Meganium
Meganium is a Generation II Grass type pokémon which is the final evolution of Chikorita and Bayleef. Inspired by tropical flora, this creature is known for emitting sweet-smelling aromas which can calm their trainers and subdue their opponents. At nearly six feet and around 250 pounds, Meganium is actually much larger than it may appear. In the anime, Ash’s friend Casey was given a Chikorita by professor Elm, which eventually evolved into Meganium as the series progressed. Though it may seem like a strong combatant, Meganium has a host of weaknesses which could make it a risky entrant into the fray.
Deerling
Deerling is an adorable forest-centric Generation V pokémon which comes in four forms, each related to one of the fours seasons. These alterations come in the form of palette swaps which actually change based on the month in which either a game is being played or the anime is taking place. However, Deerling won’t change its form after being captured by the player, so owning an entire collection of these creatures would require waiting at least a year. The pre-evolutionary form of Sawsbuck, Deerling has rarely been seen in the anime, though a herd of the animals was featured in In the Shadow of Zekrom and Enter Iris and Axew.
Tropius
Tropius is a massive palm tree-like Grass/Flying type pokémon which debuted in Generation III. Tropius is alone in its evolutionary line, and it is famous for its nearly insatiable love of fruit. This treelike being loves fruit so much that it has actually affected its biology, as it now grows fruit on its body, which is said to be particularly beloved by children. Tropius was first seen in an episode of the Pokémon anime titled "From Brags to Riches" in which a rival trainer used its fruit in a battle against Ash Ketchum’s Corphish and Torkoal.
Xerneas
Xerneas is a box art legendary pokémon featured in the Nintendo 3DS games Pokémon X and Y. A deer-like being, Xerneas is said to be an incredibly powerful figure which has the ability to grant others eternal life. It appears beside Yveltal and Zygarde as the Sixth Generation’s trio of legendary pokémon. One of the very few purely Fairy type creatures available in the Pokémon universe, Xerneas had a very interesting role in the anime. In an episode titled Diancie and the Cocoon of Destruction it appeared to fix the chaos caused by Yveltal, and in doing so somehow transformed into a tree.
Whismur
Whismur is a Generation III Normal type pokémon characterized by its large floppy ears and unique, stitch-like eyes. Whismur evolves into Loudred once it reaches level 20 and Exploud once it reaches level 40. This creature is typically very quiet and can be almost inaudible at times. However, when endangered, Whismur may emit an ear-splitting cry intended to stifle its enemies. In the anime, a trio of Whismur were captured by Team Rocket and forced to perform for their superiors, though Ash and Pikachu eventually freed these wild pokémon. It's cute and cuddly exterior is greatly diminished as it evolves.
Bellossom
Bellossom is a Grass type pokémon added in Generation II which is one of two possible final evolutions available to Oddish. While Bellossom is a gorgeous floral creature regarded for its aesthetic, its evolutionary counterpart Vileplume is, as the name may suggest, the total opposite. Bellossom isn’t a particularly strong pokémon and is prone to many weaknesses, and is depicted in the anime as having leaves in place of feet or legs. They are renowned for their unique dance and sought after by trainers looking to replicate their movements. In an episode of the anime titled "Flower Power," a girl named Bailey obtained a pair of Bellossom for that very reason.
Carvanha
Carvanha is a Generation III Water/Dark type pokémon which closely resembles a piranha. The pre-evolutionary form of Sharpedo, it is well known for its harsh nature and extremely rough skin. Its powerful jaws make it a formidable opponent, though it is almost always constrained to a body of water. Carvanha made an appearance in an episode of the anime titled "A Corphish Out of Water" in which Ash had to cross a weather infested with these vicious fish in order to get his ailing Corphish to a Pokécenter. Wild Carvanha swim in packs and are known to be extremely territorial.
Oddish
Known as Nozonokusa in Japan, Oddish is an adorable Generation I Grass/Poison type pokémon which is often a favorite of those who have been fans of the franchise from the beginning. Acting something like a walking turnip, Oddish buries its body in the ground during the day in order to absorb nutrients. The first in its evolutionary line, Oddish can evolve into Gloom at level 21, and then into either Vileplume or Bellossom depending on if it is given either a Sun Stone or Leaf Stone. Though not particularly powerful, it can learn Petal Dance, which is its captivating signature move.
Pyroar
Introduced in Generation VI, Pyroar is a Fire/Normal type pokémon which is intended to represent a lion or some other form of large cat. Often seen sporting an iconic combustible mane, it is thought that the male with the largest mane is crowned as the leader of a Pyroar pack. The evolutionary form of Litleo, it can evolve starting at level 35. Pyroar played a major role in the Mega Evolution Special II, which was among a series of Pokémon anime specials which featured new inclusions from the X and Y generation. In these episodes, Pyroar was seen under the command of a trainer named Lysandre
Type: Null
Type: Null is one of the most complicated and mysterious creatures to ever see inclusion in the Pokémon universe. One of the only Normal type legendary pokémon, Type: Null always wears a protective mask which is kept in place in order to inhibit its incredible powers. Once it reaches a high enough level and friendship stat, it will evolve into Silvally, which appears to be an unmasked version if its previous form. A lab creation of the Aether Foundation, Type: Null was formed using the cells of every known pokémon and has the uncanny ability to switch between types.
Mime Jr.
Named Manene in Japan, Mime Jr. is the Generation IV pre-evolutionary form of Mr. Mime, which is a member of the 151 original pokémon. A Psychic/Fairy type, Mime Jr. relies on deception and confusion to defeat its enemies, though it is quick to flee if a battle isn’t going well. Given its small size and strange physique, it isn’t a fearsome combatant, though its magical abilities make it a worthwhile creature to catch. Despite its benign appearance, Mime Jr. is actually associated with James of Team Rocket who had one in his possession for a brief time in the Pokémon anime.
Rayquaza
Rayquaza is, alongside Kyogre and Groudon, one of a trio of legendary pokémon which were featured in the Third Generation of the franchise. Rayquaza seems to be some sort of snake or dragon, and he is often associated with lightning and thunderstorms. A Dragon/Flying type, Rayquaza is both incredibly tall and extremely heavy. Being a legendary pokémon, he is incredibly valuable, though it is notoriously difficult to capture in Pokémon Emerald. Though it isn’t known to evolve into anything else, it does have a mega evolution which it may reach under very specific circumstances. In the anime, Rayquaza fought a Deoxys in a tremendous aerial battle.
Registeel
Registeel is a mystifying and unusual Generation III Steel type pokémon which boasts a smattering of intimidating red eyes and a warped metal body. This creature's body is thought to be harder than any known material, and it is also thought to be hollow inside, though that’s not something anybody would dare to check. In the anime, Registeel appeared beside it's alternate versions Regirock and Regice in an episode called "Lucario and the Mystery of Mew" in which it was one of the guardians of the Tree of Beginning. Ash and his Torkoal actually lost a battle to a Registeel in the episode titled Overjoyed.
Lunala
Lunala is a Seventh Generation legendary Psychic/Ghost type pokémon which is one of two final evolutions available to the already rare and potentially extrademensional Cosmog. A member of the Light Trio alongside Solgaleo and Necrozma, Lunala is known to travel between dimensions using its third eye. This purple pokémon is the legendary featured on the Pokémon Moon box art, and her variant Solgaleo adorns the cover of Pokémon Sun. In the 88th episode of the Sun and Moon anime series, Lunala is shown fusing with Necrozma to form a being known as Dawn Wings Necrozma.
Meowth
Meowth is a Generation I pokémon which is undoubtedly one of the most well-known creatures in the franchise thanks to it's heavy involvement in the anime. The pokémon most closely associated with Team Rocket, James and Jessie are accompanied by a Meowth which is one of a very small number of pokémon known to have the ability to speak. These catlike beings are known to have an affinity for shiny objects, and most Meowth are often seen bearing a coin or shiny object on their heads. They evolve into Persian, the pokémon of choice for Team Rocket leader Giovanni.
Seedot
An acorn pokémon first seen in Generation III, Seedot is known to attach itself to trees by the stem which adorns the top of its head. The most basic form of its evolutionary line, Seedot can evolve into Nuzleaf when it reaches level 14, and it can later transform into Shiftry when shown a Leaf Stone. These small pokémon have never played much of a role in the Pokémon anime, but they are often found in grassy, natural environments. Professor Oak was seen using his extensive knowledge of pokémon to cheer up a trio of sad Seedot in an episode titled "Seeing is Believing."
Spinda
Though Spinda has rabbit-like features, it isn’t necessarily derivative of any one real-world creature. Found in Generation III, this Normal type pokémon isn’t known to evolve into any other forms. This is a bit strange, as a majority of pokémon which don’t have any other evolutionary forms are usually either legendaries or special in some other way. Spinda seems to be perpetually dizzy thanks to its swirly eyes and awkward, waddling gait. In an episode of the anime titled "Going for a Spinda," Ash, Brock and Misty come across an entire colony of spinda along with a girl affectionate over one with a heart-shaped spot on its head.
Sentret
Sentret gets its name because it is often seen serving as a sentry for other pokémon as they sleep. Consequently, a Sentret won’t be able to fall asleep unless another Sentret is standing guard nearby. A furry, ferret-esque Normal type pokémon introduced in Generation II, Sentret is famous for balancing its little body atop its massive tail. When it reaches level 15 it has a chance to evolve into Furret. In an episode of the anime titled "Tanks a Lot," a group of Sentret teamed up with Misty’s Togepi to foil Team Rocket’s plans and disable their Arbo-Tank.
Goodra
Known as Numelgon in Japan, Goodra is the final evolution of Goomy, and one of the few pure Dragon type pokémon available for capture. Introduced in Generation VI, Goodra is peculiar because it can only evolve from its previous form Sliggoo if it has passed level 50 and it is either foggy or rainy in the game’s overworld. Goodra are known to be incredibly friendly creatures which love to hug their trainers. However, this can be a bit of a drawback as they secrete a sticky goo which often adheres to anything they touch. Ash would later come to own one in the Pokémon anime.
Dustox
Dustox is a quirky-looking Bug/Poison type pokémon which first saw introduction to the franchise’s universe beginning with Generation III. It is one of Wurmple’s two possible final forms, though this evolution depends on if Wurmple becomes a Silcoon or Cascoon during his first transformation. Should wurmple become a Silcoon, it will then evolve into Beautifly, while a Cascoon will become a Dustox. Dustox was clearly designed with moths in mind, and their pokédex entry specifically states that they flock to and sometimes overrun cities because they are drawn to bright lights. This pokémon has the ability to spread a poisonous dust when flapping its wings.
Machoke
An immensely strong pokémon built for taking on opponents, Machoke will often wear belts similar to those seen in professional wrestling competitions. A Generation I pokémon, Machoke is in the middle of its evolutionary line. It evolves from Machop beginning at level 28 and must be traded in order to reach Machamp, its final evolution. This Fighting type pokémon is outrageously strong and is said to be able to lift a fully-grown sumo wrestler with just one finger. A team of Machoke saved Ash and his team from an oncoming boulder in an episode of the anime.
Metapod
A well-known entry into the original pokémon generation and the eleventh overall pokédex entry, Metapod is a famously useless pokémon as wild variants often only utilize one move: harden. This raises their defenses, but, if there aren’t any allied pokémon on the field, that doesn’t offer much of an advantage. Mimicking the real-life transformations of some species of butterfly, Metapod is the cocoon form of Caterpie, and the final evolution in its lineage is Butterfree, a butterfly pokémon. Metapod was one of the first pokémon ever successfully captured by Ash Ketchum in the long-running Pokémon animated series.
Altaria
Introduced in Generation III, Altaria is a Dragon/Flying pokémon which closely resembles a cloud. A beauty to behold in the Pokémon universe, Altaria is said to sing and dance as it whirls through the sky, enchanting all those who come across it. The evolved form of the Normal/Flying type pokémon Swablu, these two creatures are remarkably similar in appearance. If given the Mega Stone, Altarianite it can transform into its mega evolution known as Mega Altaria. This pocket monster is perhaps most famous for facing off against Ash in a gym battle in the Pokémon anime.
Pansage
Pansage is a unique Grass type pokémon first introduced in Generation V which seems to be a cross between some form of monkey and sage bush. These pokémon are known to be friendly and will sometimes share the leaves which grow on their heads with worn-out looking trainers and pokémon. These leaves are thought to heal stress. Pansage is one of three elemental monkey-like pokémon, the other two being the Fire type Pansear and the Water type Panpour. It appeared beside these two in an episode of the anime titled Triple Leaders! Triple Threats! Pansage has a chance to evolve into Simisage if shown a Leaf Stone.
Zapdos
A member of the original 151 pokémon and one of the first legendaries to appear in the franchise, Zapdos is a large yellow bird which has the ability to control electricity, much like everyone’s favorite yellow rodent Pikachu. It is one of a trio of legendary birds found in the Kanto region, the other two being the Fire/Flying type Moltres and the Ice/Flying type Articuno. Highly coveted by both digital trainers and oldschool card collectors thanks to their power and nostalgia, Zapdos and his cohorts are rare to come by. In the anime, Zapdos was pursued by a trainer named Lawrence III who sought to capture all of the legendary birds as well as Lugia, their master.
