The Pokémon Company, one of the world's most lucrative media franchises, believes it can thrive for another 50 to 100 years if it stays innovative. Since its debut on the Nintendo Game Boy in 1996, Pokémon has become much more than just a video game, expanding into films, TV shows, and toys. The company’s CEO, Tsunekazu Ishihara, shared insights on the franchise's ongoing success and future direction in a recent interview.
Pokémon’s annual showcase, Pokémon Day, is soon approaching, with fans looking forward to news about new games and updates. Ishihara hinted at continuing to blend the real and virtual Pokémon worlds, like with the popular mobile game Pokémon GO, which uses GPS to place Pokémon in players' everyday environments. "This is Pokémon's greatest strength," he stated, underscoring the importance of fresh ideas.
Amid the franchise's resurgence, particularly in trading cards, the rise of scalpers poses challenges to new fans and product sales. Ishihara noted the issues posed by the resale market but reaffirmed that it’s not their role to artificially control rarity. However, he promised a vigorous fight against counterfeit products.
Success for Pokémon stems from its ability to connect multiple generations of fans through various platforms, as seen during events like the recent International Championships that attracted thousands of enthusiasts. Ishihara emphasizes the focus on Pokémon, sharing that all profits are reinvested into the franchise—allowing the company to pursue its passion without worrying about shareholder interests.
With the upcoming 30th anniversary, speculation is rife about special celebrations, yet Ishihara remains committed to continuing the legacy of Pokémon. "If we stay dedicated to our mission, the franchise can last for decades to come," he asserts, suggesting that innovation is key to avoiding complacency.
Pokémon’s annual showcase, Pokémon Day, is soon approaching, with fans looking forward to news about new games and updates. Ishihara hinted at continuing to blend the real and virtual Pokémon worlds, like with the popular mobile game Pokémon GO, which uses GPS to place Pokémon in players' everyday environments. "This is Pokémon's greatest strength," he stated, underscoring the importance of fresh ideas.
Amid the franchise's resurgence, particularly in trading cards, the rise of scalpers poses challenges to new fans and product sales. Ishihara noted the issues posed by the resale market but reaffirmed that it’s not their role to artificially control rarity. However, he promised a vigorous fight against counterfeit products.
Success for Pokémon stems from its ability to connect multiple generations of fans through various platforms, as seen during events like the recent International Championships that attracted thousands of enthusiasts. Ishihara emphasizes the focus on Pokémon, sharing that all profits are reinvested into the franchise—allowing the company to pursue its passion without worrying about shareholder interests.
With the upcoming 30th anniversary, speculation is rife about special celebrations, yet Ishihara remains committed to continuing the legacy of Pokémon. "If we stay dedicated to our mission, the franchise can last for decades to come," he asserts, suggesting that innovation is key to avoiding complacency.
