The Pokemon Company
History
The Pokémon Company is a Japanese company that is responsible for managing the Pokémon franchise. It was established through a joint investment by the three businesses holding the copyright on Pokémon: Nintendo, Game Freak, and Creatures. The company was founded after the success of the Pokémon video game series for the Game Boy, and its primary responsibility is managing the licensing of the Pokémon intellectual property.
Business Structure
The Pokémon Company is structured as a joint venture between three major companies: Nintendo, Game Freak, and Creatures. Each of these companies brings a unique aspect to the Pokémon franchise. Nintendo, as the publisher of the Pokémon video games, has a vested interest in the success of the franchise. Game Freak, as the developer of the games, is responsible for the creation and design of new Pokémon species. Finally, Creatures handles the production of Pokémon trading card games and toys.
Role and Responsibilities
The Pokémon Company's main role is to manage and promote the Pokémon franchise. This includes overseeing the production of Pokémon video games, the Pokémon animated series, movies, trading card games, toys, and other merchandise. The company also manages the licensing of the Pokémon intellectual property, ensuring that the brand is used appropriately and profitably.
Pokémon Video Games
The Pokémon Company oversees the production and distribution of the Pokémon video games, which are developed by Game Freak and published by Nintendo. The games are released in pairs, each with slight variations, and a third version often follows these initial two. The games are primarily released on Nintendo's handheld consoles, such as the Game Boy, the Nintendo DS, and the Nintendo Switch.
Pokémon Animated Series and Movies
The Pokémon Company also manages the production of the Pokémon animated series and movies. The animated series, which began airing in 1997, follows the journey of the main character, Ash Ketchum, as he travels through various regions, competes in Pokémon battles, and strives to become a Pokémon Master. The series has been highly successful, spawning over 20 seasons and numerous movies.
Pokémon Trading Card Game
The Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) is another major aspect of the Pokémon franchise that The Pokémon Company oversees. The TCG was first introduced in 1996 and has since become a popular collectible card game worldwide. The Pokémon Company works in conjunction with Creatures Inc. to produce and distribute the cards.
Merchandising and Licensing
In addition to the video games, animated series, and trading card game, The Pokémon Company is also responsible for the licensing and merchandising of the Pokémon brand. This includes a wide range of products such as toys, clothing, stationery, and more. The company ensures that all products bearing the Pokémon name meet their quality standards and represent the brand appropriately.
Impact and Influence
The Pokémon Company has had a significant impact on the video game industry and popular culture. The Pokémon franchise is one of the highest-grossing media franchises of all time, with billions of dollars in revenue. The company's effective management and promotion of the brand have played a key role in this success.