Pokemon Green

Pokémon Green: The Overlooked Origin of a Legendary Series

While Pokémon Red and Pokémon Blue are often the most well-known titles that launched the Pokémon phenomenon in the West, many fans overlook the importance of Pokémon Green. Released exclusively in Japan in 1996 alongside Pokémon Red, Green was the true origin of the beloved Pokémon series. Despite never receiving an official international release in its original form, Pokémon Green played a crucial role in shaping the franchise as we know it today and deserves more recognition for its legacy.

At its core, Pokémon Green was essentially the same as Red in terms of gameplay, featuring the same story and 151 original Pokémon. However, its impact lies in the fact that it was one of the very first Pokémon games ever made. While Red and Blue became global sensations, Green was the initial counterpart to Red in Japan, giving Japanese players their first taste of the “gotta catch ’em all” experience. Without Green, the Pokémon phenomenon may not have started in the way it did.

Interestingly, when Pokémon Red and Blue were released internationally, they were based on an updated version of Japan’s Red and Blue, with improved graphics and bug fixes that addressed some of the flaws in the original Green. This means that Green has a rougher, more primitive feel compared to the polished experience of Blue and Red that international players enjoyed. But this raw, early version of Pokémon is a historical piece that showcases the humble beginnings of the franchise.

It’s also important to mention the influence Pokémon Green had on Pokémon Yellow. Released in 1998, Pokémon Yellow expanded upon Red and Blue by making Pikachu the central character, following the anime’s success. While Yellow featured more enhancements, Green laid the groundwork that made these later innovations possible.

Though Pokémon Blue tends to get more credit as Green’s counterpart, it’s Green that holds a special place in Pokémon history. It may not have had the international exposure of its peers, but it was a crucial stepping stone for the entire series. Without Green and its pairing with Red in Japan, the worldwide sensation that is Pokémon may have taken a different path.

In retrospect, Pokémon Green shouldn’t be overlooked. It may not have the polish or international recognition of Red, Blue, or Yellow, but it represents the birth of the Pokémon franchise. For any fan of the series, Pokémon Green is a key part of understanding how the Pokémon world we love today began.