The head of The Pokémon Company, Tsunekazu Ishihara, expressed confidence in the franchise's potential to thrive for the next 50 to 100 years, signaling that continuous innovation is key. Launched in 1996 on the Nintendo Game Boy, Pokémon has evolved into one of the globe's most lucrative media franchises, spanning video games, films, TV shows, and toys. Recently, the trading card game has gained immense popularity, leading to increased issues with scalping and fraud.
In a recent BBC News interview, Ishihara reflected on the success and future of Pokémon ahead of Pokémon Day, an annual showcase of new releases and events. While he held back specifics, he reaffirmed a commitment to "enrich both the real world and the virtual world." The Pokémon GO mobile application exemplifies this idea, combining gameplay with real-world interaction.
However, the surge in trading card demand has raised concerns over scalpers who buy limited packs to resell rare cards. Ishihara noted that the resale market could hinder the sales of new products as these rare items retain inflated value. Some fans proposed producing more limited-run items to alleviate the issue, but Ishihara emphasized that rarity is part of what makes those items valuable.
Addressing counterfeit merchandise, Ishihara mentioned the company's active legal fight against imitation products, noting a recent victory against a Chinese mobile app developer. Additionally, The Pokémon Company, in coordination with Nintendo, has taken legal action against Pocketpair for alleged patent infringements regarding their game Palworld, often dubbed as "Pokémon with guns."
One of the cornerstones of Pokémon's lasting appeal, according to Ishihara, is its ability to connect generations through various mediums including anime, trading cards, and games. A recent International Championships event in London drew about 13,000 enthusiastic fans, showcasing the franchise's reach.
Since its inception, Pokémon has remained focused on its core brand, which Ishihara believes allows the company to innovate freely without shareholder pressure. As Pokémon approaches its 30th anniversary, the company aims to continue merging the digital world with reality. Ishihara asserts, "If we continue focusing on our mission, Pokémon can probably continue to its 50th or 100th anniversary." The future looks bright for Pokémon, contingent on continuing to adapt and evolve with consumer expectations.
In a recent BBC News interview, Ishihara reflected on the success and future of Pokémon ahead of Pokémon Day, an annual showcase of new releases and events. While he held back specifics, he reaffirmed a commitment to "enrich both the real world and the virtual world." The Pokémon GO mobile application exemplifies this idea, combining gameplay with real-world interaction.
However, the surge in trading card demand has raised concerns over scalpers who buy limited packs to resell rare cards. Ishihara noted that the resale market could hinder the sales of new products as these rare items retain inflated value. Some fans proposed producing more limited-run items to alleviate the issue, but Ishihara emphasized that rarity is part of what makes those items valuable.
Addressing counterfeit merchandise, Ishihara mentioned the company's active legal fight against imitation products, noting a recent victory against a Chinese mobile app developer. Additionally, The Pokémon Company, in coordination with Nintendo, has taken legal action against Pocketpair for alleged patent infringements regarding their game Palworld, often dubbed as "Pokémon with guns."
One of the cornerstones of Pokémon's lasting appeal, according to Ishihara, is its ability to connect generations through various mediums including anime, trading cards, and games. A recent International Championships event in London drew about 13,000 enthusiastic fans, showcasing the franchise's reach.
Since its inception, Pokémon has remained focused on its core brand, which Ishihara believes allows the company to innovate freely without shareholder pressure. As Pokémon approaches its 30th anniversary, the company aims to continue merging the digital world with reality. Ishihara asserts, "If we continue focusing on our mission, Pokémon can probably continue to its 50th or 100th anniversary." The future looks bright for Pokémon, contingent on continuing to adapt and evolve with consumer expectations.
