Pokemon
**Pokémon** (short for "Pocket Monsters") is a global multimedia franchise created by Satoshi Tajiri and first released in Japan in 1996.
It centers around adorable creatures called Pokémon that humans (Trainers) catch, train, and battle using their special abilities and elemental powers (Fire, Water, Grass, etc.). The core experience is "Gotta Catch 'Em All!" — collecting, evolving, and competing with these creatures across video games, the long-running anime series starring Ash Ketchum, trading card games, movies, and more.
With over 1,000 Pokémon species, it remains one of the biggest entertainment franchises in the world, blending adventure, strategy, and friendship.
