Which Pokémon Movies are Canon? Let's Dive In, Trainers!

Alright, Pokémon fans, we know you've been wondering: "Which Pokémon movies are canon, and which ones can I safely ignore?" Well, grab some popcorn and let's dive into the world of Pokémon cinema, because we're about to spill the beans on the canon Pokémon movies! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and which pokemon movies are canon.

What Does 'Canon' Mean in the Pokémon Universe?

Before we get started, let's quickly define what 'canon' means in the context of the Pokémon universe. Canon refers to the official storyline, characters, and events that are recognized by the Pokémon franchise's creators, Game Freak, and Nintendo. These are the elements that are considered 'official' and are generally accepted as part of the main Pokémon lore.

The Mainline Series: The Core of Pokémon Canon

The mainline Pokémon games are the core of the Pokémon canon. These are the games released on Nintendo's handheld consoles and later on the Nintendo Switch. The mainline series follows the adventures of the protagonist (you) and your partner Pokémon as you journey through various regions, challenging Gym Leaders, and eventually becoming the Champion.

The mainline Pokémon movies are directly tied to these games. They often feature the same protagonists and their partner Pokémon, advancing the story and introducing new characters and Pokémon. So, if you're looking for canon Pokémon movies, you'll want to stick with the ones that correspond to the mainline games.

Pokémon Movies Corresponding to Mainline Games

Here are the canon Pokémon movies that directly correspond to the mainline games:

1. 1. Pokémon: The First Movie - Mewtwo Strikes Back (1998) - Corresponds to Pokémon Red, Blue, and Yellow.
2. 2. Pokémon: The Movie 2000 - The Power of One (1999) - Corresponds to Pokémon Gold and Silver.
3. 3. Pokémon 3: The Movie - Spell of the Unown (2000) - Corresponds to Pokémon Gold, Silver, and Crystal.
4. 4. Pokémon 4Ever - Celebi: Voice of the Forest (2001) - Corresponds to Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire.
5. 5. Pokémon: Jirachi Wish Maker (2003) - Corresponds to Pokémon Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald.
6. 6. Pokémon: Destiny Deoxys (2004) - Corresponds to Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen.
7. 7. Pokémon: Lucario and the Mystery of Mew (2005) - Corresponds to Pokémon Diamond and Pearl.
8. 8. Pokémon: The Rise of Darkrai (2007) - Corresponds to Pokémon Diamond and Pearl.
9. 9. Pokémon: Giratina and the Sky Warrior (2008) - Corresponds to Pokémon Platinum.
10. 10. Pokémon: Arceus and the Jewel of Life (2009) - Corresponds to Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver.
11. 11. Pokémon the Movie: White - Victini and Zekrom / Black - Victini and Reshiram (2011) - Corresponds to Pokémon Black and White.
12. 12. Pokémon the Movie: Kyurem vs. The Sword of Justice (2012) - Corresponds to Pokémon Black 2 and White
13. 2. 13. Pokémon the Movie: Genesect and the Legend Awakened (2013) - Corresponds to Pokémon X and Y.
14. 14. Pokémon the Movie: Diancie and the Cocoon of Destruction (2014) - Corresponds to Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire.
15. 15. Pokémon the Movie: Volcanion and the Mechanical Marvel (2016) - Corresponds to Pokémon Sun and Moon.
16. 16. Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! (2017) - A remake of the original Pokémon movie, it corresponds to Pokémon Sun and Moon.
17. 17. Pokémon: Mewtwo Strikes Back - Evolution (2019) - A remake of the first Pokémon movie, it corresponds to Pokémon Sword and Shield.

Spin-off Movies: A Bit More Complicated

Now, let's talk about the spin-off Pokémon movies. These are movies that don't directly correspond to a mainline game. They often feature different protagonists and storylines. While these movies can still introduce new Pokémon and characters that appear in the mainline games, they aren't always considered canon because they don't directly advance the main storyline.

Examples of spin-off movies include:

- Pokémon: The Mastermind of Mirage Island (1999) - Pokémon Heroes: Latios & Latias (2002) - Pokémon: Lucario and the Mystery of Mew (2005) - While this movie is listed above as corresponding to Pokémon Diamond and Pearl, it's also considered a spin-off because it features a different protagonist and storyline. - Pokémon Ranger and the Temple of the Sea (2006) - Pokémon: Zoroark: Master of Illusions (2010)

Which Pokémon Movies Should I Watch?

If you're looking to watch all the canon Pokémon movies, we recommend sticking with the ones that correspond to the mainline games. These movies will give you the most accurate and up-to-date information about the Pokémon universe and its lore.

However, if you're a completionist or just want to watch all the Pokémon movies, then by all means, watch the spin-off movies too! They can still be enjoyable and introduce you to new Pokémon and characters.

Final Thoughts, Trainers!

And there you have it, folks! The definitive guide on which Pokémon movies are canon. We hope this article has helped you navigate the complex world of Pokémon cinema. Whether you're a seasoned trainer or just starting your Pokémon journey, there's always more to learn and explore in this amazing world.

So, grab your Pokéballs, and let's catch 'em all - on the big screen and in the games! Happy watching, and remember: Gotta catch 'em all!