The Ultimate List of All Pokemon Characters

Did you also grow up in the Pokémon universe and trade your cards in the playground? (Never the shiny ones, obviously!) Do you need a refresher on all the iconic characters , whether they come from the manga, anime or games? You've come to the right place! In this article, we'll (re)discover together the main characters of the series created by Satoshi Tajiri.

Pokémon characters in manga

The Pokémon manga , also called Pocket Monsters Special, is made up of many characters. Among the most popular arcs, there is obviously the one concerning the adventures of the two trainers from the Kanto region, Red and Blue , who have gone to take up the challenge of the Pokémon League.

Throughout the adventure, Red and Blue (who are initially two rivals), find themselves having to join forces in order to defeat Team Rocket. The latter is a criminal organization that exploits Pokémon. It is much later in the manga that Green intervenes, a mysterious young girl who joins the group of our two favorite trainers.

Together, the three heroes face many challenges. Red is notably entrusted with the mission of helping Professor Oak capture Mewtwo, or of rescuing a damsel in distress struggling with wild Pokémon in the Jade Forest. Then each ends up going their separate ways. The arc ends with Red's resounding victory over Blue in the Pokémon League championship. This Pokémon duel between the two rivals remains one of the most memorable moments of the saga.

Red

Red is the main character of the Pokémon manga , adapted into a playable character in the video games. This ambitious young man from Pallet Town dreams of becoming the best Pokémon trainer in the world . Throughout his adventures, Red faces the forces of Team Rocket and ends up winning the Pokémon League, becoming the reigning Champion. His main Pokémon team includes Charizard, Blastoise, and Pikachu.

Blue

Blue is Red's rival in the manga. The grandson of Professor Oak, Blue often brags about beating Team Rocket, even though Red reminds him that he was scared to death. Blue is a talented trainer who eventually loses to Red in the Pokémon League Championship. His main Pokémon team consists of Blastoise, Pidgeot, and Alakazam.

Green

Green is a Pokémon Trainer from Pallet Town, like the main characters Red and Blue. She is initially part of the trio of Trainers sent by Professor Oak to complete the Pokédex. In the "Red and Blue" arc, Green is depicted as a mischievous and cunning young girl, who does not hesitate to use manipulation to achieve her goals.

However, she gradually develops friendships with Red and Blue. In the "FireRed and LeafGreen" arc, Green is 16 years old and is now depicted as a fashion enthusiast , adoring accessories like earrings and shoes. Her main Pokémon team includes Squirtle, Jigglypuff, and Nidorina.

Professor Chen

Professor Samuel Chen is a renowned Pokémon researcher from the Kanto region. He is the one who gives Red and Blue their starter Pokémon for their journey. Professor Chen plays a key role in the capture of the legendary Pokémon: Mewtwo .

Team Rocket

Team Rocket engages in a variety of criminal activities, including stealing rare Pokémon, illegally experimenting on Pokémon, and attempting to take over the Pokémon League. They pose a constant threat to the protagonists throughout the series. Red and his friends find themselves having to face Team Rocket's henchmen on several occasions. Team Rocket is a major obstacle on Red's path to becoming Pokémon League Champion.

Jessie

Jessie is a Team Rocket agent from a poor family who was unable to achieve her dreams. Her mother was one of Team Rocket's brightest agents. Jessie is known for her explosive temper and love of beautiful clothes. She forms a duo with James.

James

James is Jessie's partner in Team Rocket. Coming from a wealthy family, he ran away to join the criminal organization. James is more thoughtful and calm than Jessie, but just as determined to capture Pikachu. He owns many Pokémon, including a Moltres.

Meowth

Meowth is Team Rocket's most famous and important Pokémon in the anime. Able to speak the human language, Meowth is often mocked by Jessie and James for his repeated failures. Despite this, he remains a loyal ally to the duo.

Giovanni

Giovanni is the leader and founder of Team Rocket. He is an ambitious man who dreams of world domination through the power of Pokémon. He has been defeated several times by Ash and his friends. After Team Rocket disbands, Giovanni attempts to rebuild it with the help of new henchmen.

The Commanders

In the Gold and Silver arc, Team Rocket is led by four Commanders: Ariane, Lambda, Lance, and Amos. Their goal is to collect the 16 plates representing the types of Pokémon to control Arceus and bring Giovanni back to power. They are willing to do anything to achieve their goal, even if it means killing each other.

Arena Champions

Champions of Kanto

• Pierre (Argenta) : A Rock-type specialist, Pierre is the first Gym Leader that Red faces in the manga. He owns a Racaillou and an Onix.
• Ondine (Azurea) : Champion of the Water type, Ondine uses a Stari and a Staross. She appears as a rival of Red in the manga.
• Augustus (Celadon City) : Champion of the Grass type, Augustus helps Red capture Mewtwo in a special arc.
• Giovanni (Jadielle) : Although not specialized in any particular type, Giovanni is a formidable trainer. He is also the leader of Team Rocket.

Champions of other Regions

• Lino (Hoenn) : Champion of the Clementi-Ville Gym, Lino uses Steel-type Pokémon.
• Lem (Kalos) : Champion of the High Relifac Arena, Lem specializes in the Electric type.
• Astera (Galar) : Champion of the Mélétan Arena, Astera handles Dark-type Pokémon.

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Pokémon characters in the animated series

The Pokémon animated series introduced iconic characters like Ash , Pikachu , and their friends. Follow their adventures through the series' various seasons, where they cross paths with trainers, gym leaders, and members of Team Rocket.

Main characters

Sacha (Satoshi)

Sacha or Satoshi in Japanese, is the main character of the Pokémon animated series. Originally from Bourg Palette, his dream is to become a Pokémon Master. From the beginning of his adventures, he receives a Pikachu , who quickly becomes his most faithful companion despite a difficult understanding at first.

Ash is known for his unwavering determination, courage, and competitive spirit. Over the seasons, he has traveled through many regions, participated in various tournaments and challenges, and made friends with other trainers. He is always eager to learn and improve... he is a true role model for many young viewers.

Pikachu

Pikachu, the electric Pokémon, is not only Ash's partner but also the official mascot of the Pokémon franchise . Recognized by his electrified red cheeks and adorable cry, Pikachu remains both powerful in battle and affectionate towards his trainer. He symbolizes friendship and loyalty.

Jessie, James and Meowth

Jessie, James, and Meowth, the comical members of Team Rocket , are determined to capture Ash's Pikachu. Despite their often-backfired plans, they add humor and lightness to the series. Their unique dynamic and unwavering perseverance make them iconic and beloved antagonists.

Pierre (Takeshi)

Pierre, or Takeshi in Japanese, is a traveling companion of Ash, specializing in Rock-type Pokémon. He is the oldest of the group and aspires to become a prominent Pokémon Doctor. Pierre is also the pragmatic manager and cook of the group, bringing balance and care to his friends.

Ondine (Kasumi)

Misty, known as Kasumi in Japan, is a Water-type Pokémon Trainer. She joins Ash at the beginning of his adventure, after Ash borrows her bike. She is determined and sometimes stubborn, and serves as the Celadon Gym's champion . Her combative nature inspires younger Trainers.

Supporting characters

Agent Jenny

Officer Jenny is an iconic figure in every town in the Pokémon world. Their mission is to uphold order ... much like the police. While each Jenny shares a striking resemblance and dedication to the law, their last names vary. Their presence is omnipresent throughout the series.

Nurse Joëlle

Nurse Joy treats injured Pokémon at Pokémon Centers in each city. Identical in each facility, her constant kindness and medical expertise are a pillar for traveling Pokémon Trainers. Nurse Joy ensures the health and recovery of their companions.

Pokémon Professors

Pokémon Professors, such as Professor Oak , Professor Sycamore , and Professor Keteleeria , are scholars who study Pokémon. They provide valuable advice, as well as starter Pokémon, to new Trainers. They play a crucial role in the education and development of young heroes' skills.

Arena Champions

Gym Leaders are elite Trainers who test the skills of aspiring Pokémon Masters in specialized battles. Each Champion, mastering a specific type of Pokémon, presents a unique challenge and a crucial step in each Trainer's journey . Defeating these Champions is not only a test of skill and strategy, but also a vital step toward competing in the Pokémon League, where the greatest Trainers compete against each other.

Rivals

Rivals, such as Regis , Harrison , and Alain , are other trainers who cross the hero's path and challenge him regularly. Each rival has their own motivations and strategies, pushing the hero to constantly improve. These confrontations are crucial to the development of Ash's fighting skills , with each rival bringing a new perspective and new challenges that enrich the plot and stimulate the main character's personal and professional growth.

Pokémon Characters in Video Games

The Pokémon video games feature customizable characters, as well as numerous non-playable characters (NPCs). Each region has its own Gym Leaders, Legendary Trainers, and memorable antagonists.

First generation

Pokemon Red and Blue

In Pokémon Red and Blue, players choose between a male or female character and battle their rival, Ray. They meet allies such as Professor Oak, battle Gym Leaders, and oppose Team Rocket. The available starters are Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle.

Pokemon Yellow

Pokémon Yellow follows a similar pattern with a player character choice, with Pikachu as the mandatory starter. Players face the same rival, benefit from the help of Professor Oak, and challenge the same Gym Leaders while battling Team Rocket as the main antagonist.

Second generation

Pokemon Gold and Silver

In Pokémon Gold and Silver, players choose between a male or female character and meet a new rival. They receive one of the starters: Germignon, Chéricendre or Kaiminus. They face the Johto Gym Leaders and battle the renewed Team Rocket.

Pokemon Crystal

Pokémon Crystal adds more depth with the same playable characters and starters as in Gold and Silver. The game also introduces Suicune encounters as a key story element and continues the confrontations with Team Rocket, while offering additional challenges in the gyms.

Third generation

Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire

Players choose between a hero or heroine and receive one of three starter Pokémon: Arcko, Poussifeu, or Mubou. They face their rival, the Hoenn Gym Leaders, and battle the antagonist organization, Team Aqua or Team Magma depending on the version.

Pokemon Emerald

Pokémon Emerald combines elements of Ruby and Sapphire, pitting players against both Team Aqua and Team Magma. Players choose from the same characters and starters, meet key allies, and challenge Gym Leaders with a new challenge in the Battle Frontier.

Pokémon Fire Red and Leaf Green

These remakes of Pokémon Red and Blue allow players to relive the classic adventures with either male or female characters. They battle against the same Team Rocket, the same Gym Leaders, and choose between the three original starters, all while experiencing graphical and gameplay updates.

Fourth generation

Pokemon Diamond and Pearl

In Pokémon Diamond and Pearl, players choose a male or female character, face off against their rival Tanguy, and work with Professor Rowan. They challenge the Sinnoh Gym Leaders and oppose Team Galactic. The starters are Turtwig, Chimchar, and Piplup.

Pokémon Platinum

Pokémon Platinum features characters similar to Diamond and Pearl, with plot enhancements. Players encounter Giratina in a parallel dimension while battling Team Galactic. Gym Leaders are the same, with increased challenges. The starters remain Turtwig, Chimchar, and Piplup.

Pokemon Black and White

Pokémon Black and White introduce modern playable characters with rival choices between Cheren and Bianca, and the help of Professor Keteleeria. Gym Leaders vary between Unovas, and the main antagonists are Team Plasma. The starting Pokémon are Snivy, Tepig, and Moustillon.

Fifth generation

Pokemon Black 2 and White 2

In these sequels, players still choose between a hero or heroine and face a new rival, competing across Unova with renewed arena champions. Team Plasma returns as the antagonists. The starters offered remain Snivy, Gruikui, and Moustillon.

Pokémon X and Y

Pokémon X and Y, set in the French-inspired Kalos region, offer players a choice of characters and a diverse set of rivals. Gym Leaders are varied, with Team Flare serving as the primary antagonist. The starting Pokémon are Chess, Fennekin, and Grenousse.

Sixth generation

Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire

These remakes of Ruby and Sapphire offer players a choice of male or female characters, with their rival Timmy. Professor Seko assists players, who challenge the Hoenn Gym Leaders and face off against Team Aqua or Magma. The starters are Arcko, Poussifeu, and Mudkip.

Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon

In Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon, players can choose between a hero or heroine and befriend their rival Tili. They compete in the Alolan Captain Trials instead of traditional Gym Battles and face off against Team Rainbow Rocket. The starters are Rowlet, Litten, and Otaquin.

Seventh generation

Pokémon Sword and Shield

Pokémon Sword and Shield introduce a region inspired by Great Britain, Galar, with playable characters and rivals like Tarrak. Players challenge Galar Gym Leaders and battle Team Yell. The starting Pokémon are Scorbunny, Scorbunny, and Grookey.

Pokémon Scarlet and Purple

In Pokémon Scarlet and Purple, set in an open-world region inspired by Spain, players choose their avatar and meet their rival Nemza. They explore freely to challenge the "Gym Masters" and battle the antagonist organization, Team Star. The starters are Poussacha, Coiffeton, and Croâporal.

Conclusion

Whether you grew up trading Pokémon cards at recess or are just discovering this rich and captivating universe, we hope this article brought back fond childhood memories . From Red and Blue traveling Kanto to the new generation of Trainers exploring Galar or the Spanish-inspired region, each character , each rival , and each antagonist enriches the Pokémon adventure.

As you continue or begin your journey, remember that every Pokémon and Trainer you meet along the way helps shape the legend you are writing. Stay curious and ready to take on challenges, because the Pokémon world is vast and full of surprises to discover!