Meowth

Introduction

Meowth is a species of Pokémon in the Pokémon franchise, which is a multimedia franchise created by Satoshi Tajiri and Ken Sugimori. Meowth is known for its distinctive feline appearance and its ability to walk on two legs. It is a Normal-type Pokémon and is often associated with the villainous Team Rocket in the Pokémon anime series. This article delves into the biological, cultural, and strategic aspects of Meowth, providing a comprehensive overview for enthusiasts and researchers alike.

Biological Characteristics

Physical Description

Meowth resembles a small, bipedal feline with cream-colored fur. It has large, round ears with pink insides, and its eyes are also large and slit-pupiled. A notable feature is the gold coin embedded in its forehead, known as a "charm." Meowth's tail is long and curled at the end, resembling a question mark.

Meowth standing on two legs with a gold coin on its forehead.

Meowth standing on two legs with a gold coin on its forehead.

Evolutionary Line

Meowth evolves into Persian starting at level 28. In the Alola region, Meowth has a regional variant that evolves into Alolan Persian when leveled up with high friendship. The Galar region also introduces a variant known as Galarian Meowth, which evolves into Perrserker when leveled up.

Abilities and Moves

Meowth is known for its unique move, Pay Day, which scatters coins that can be collected after battle. Its abilities include Pickup, Technician, and Unnerve (Hidden Ability). Pickup allows Meowth to collect items after battle, Technician boosts the power of weaker moves, and Unnerve prevents opposing Pokémon from eating their held Berries.

Cultural Significance

Role in the Pokémon Anime

Meowth is prominently featured in the Pokémon anime as a member of Team Rocket, alongside Jessie and James. This Meowth is unique in that it can speak human language, a skill it learned to impress a female Meowth named Meowzie. This ability is rare and not seen in wild Meowth.

Symbolism and Mythology

Meowth is inspired by the Japanese folklore creature, the Maneki-neko, or "beckoning cat," which is believed to bring good luck and fortune. The gold coin on Meowth's forehead is a direct reference to the koban coin often depicted with Maneki-neko statues.

Strategic Use in Pokémon Games

Competitive Battling

In competitive battling, Meowth is often utilized in lower-tier formats due to its relatively low base stats. However, its Technician ability can make it a formidable opponent when using moves like Fake Out and Fury Swipes. Meowth's speed stat allows it to outspeed many opponents, making it useful for hit-and-run tactics.

In-Game Utility

Meowth's Pickup ability makes it valuable for item farming in various Pokémon games. Trainers often keep a Meowth in their party to collect rare items such as Rare Candies and PP Ups. Its move Pay Day is also useful for generating in-game currency.

Variants and Forms

Alolan Meowth

Alolan Meowth is a Dark-type variant found in the Alola region. It has a more arrogant and self-centered personality compared to its Kantonian counterpart. Alolan Meowth evolves into Alolan Persian, which has a unique ability called Fur Coat that halves damage from physical moves.

Galarian Meowth

Galarian Meowth is a Steel-type variant found in the Galar region. It has a more rugged appearance with a beard-like fur and a darker coloration. Galarian Meowth evolves into Perrserker, a Viking-inspired Pokémon with the ability Steely Spirit, which boosts the power of Steel-type moves for all allies.

Trivia and Miscellaneous Information

- Meowth is one of the few Pokémon that can learn the move Pay Day. - In the Pokémon anime, Meowth is the only known Pokémon capable of human speech without the use of telepathy. - Meowth's design is inspired by the Maneki-neko, a common Japanese figurine believed to bring good luck.

See Also

• Persian (Pokémon)
• Team Rocket (Pokémon)
• Maneki-neko
• Alolan Meowth
• Galarian Meowth