The Pokémon Company is gearing up for its 30th anniversary, with CEO Tsunekazu Ishihara asserting that the franchise could thrive for another 50 to 100 years, provided it persists in its innovative tendencies. Launched in 1996 on the Nintendo Game Boy, Pokémon has evolved into one of the most lucrative media franchises in the world, extending its reach beyond video games into films, television, and collectibles. Recently, the trading card game has experienced a renaissance, driving interest but also attracting scalpers seeking rare cards, a concern Ishihara acknowledges.
Ahead of Pokémon Day, an annual showcase for fans and announcements, Ishihara remains tight-lipped but emphasizes the company's long-term mission to enhance connectivity between the real and virtual worlds. Notably, mobile app Pokémon GO exemplifies this aim by using GPS technology to incorporate beloved Pokémon into the player's environment.
The recent upswing in scalping has drawn attention from fans, including high-profile figures like YouTuber Logan Paul, who famously purchased an extremely rare card. The CEO notes that this phenomenon undermines new product sales and suggests that the second-hand market disrupts availability, despite fans advocating for more limited editions. While he defends the rarity inherent in collectibles, Ishihara remains proactive against counterfeit products, revealing ongoing legal battles with companies producing imitation merchandise.
Ishihara attributes Pokémon's enduring success to its capacity as a communication tool, highlighting how fans connect through diverse mediums, whether video games or anime. Recent events show a thriving community, as evidenced by the participation of 13,000 attendees at the European International Championships. For many, like fans Justin and Marina, these conventions have not only fostered friendships but also rekindled childhood love for the franchise.
The Pokémon Company adopts a unique approach as a privately-held entity, focusing solely on the Pokémon brand. Unlike publicly traded competitors, this singular focus allows for reinvestment back into Pokémon without pressures from shareholders to diversify. Ishihara's assurance that Pokémon's longevity hinges on innovation highlights the company’s aim to avoid complacency.
As the franchise prepares for its significant milestone next year, speculation abounds concerning plans to commemorate the anniversary, such as potential remakes of the original Game Boy titles. However, Ishihara maintains that the priority remains steady: enhancing the connection between gamers and the Pokémon world. With this vision, he asserts that Pokémon can continue its journey for half a century or more, as long as the team steers clear of stagnation.
Ahead of Pokémon Day, an annual showcase for fans and announcements, Ishihara remains tight-lipped but emphasizes the company's long-term mission to enhance connectivity between the real and virtual worlds. Notably, mobile app Pokémon GO exemplifies this aim by using GPS technology to incorporate beloved Pokémon into the player's environment.
The recent upswing in scalping has drawn attention from fans, including high-profile figures like YouTuber Logan Paul, who famously purchased an extremely rare card. The CEO notes that this phenomenon undermines new product sales and suggests that the second-hand market disrupts availability, despite fans advocating for more limited editions. While he defends the rarity inherent in collectibles, Ishihara remains proactive against counterfeit products, revealing ongoing legal battles with companies producing imitation merchandise.
Ishihara attributes Pokémon's enduring success to its capacity as a communication tool, highlighting how fans connect through diverse mediums, whether video games or anime. Recent events show a thriving community, as evidenced by the participation of 13,000 attendees at the European International Championships. For many, like fans Justin and Marina, these conventions have not only fostered friendships but also rekindled childhood love for the franchise.
The Pokémon Company adopts a unique approach as a privately-held entity, focusing solely on the Pokémon brand. Unlike publicly traded competitors, this singular focus allows for reinvestment back into Pokémon without pressures from shareholders to diversify. Ishihara's assurance that Pokémon's longevity hinges on innovation highlights the company’s aim to avoid complacency.
As the franchise prepares for its significant milestone next year, speculation abounds concerning plans to commemorate the anniversary, such as potential remakes of the original Game Boy titles. However, Ishihara maintains that the priority remains steady: enhancing the connection between gamers and the Pokémon world. With this vision, he asserts that Pokémon can continue its journey for half a century or more, as long as the team steers clear of stagnation.
