This Crazy Theory on Pokémon's Bloody Backstory Makes a Lot of Sense

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This Crazy Theory on Pokémon's Bloody Backstory Makes a Lot of Sense

This popular fan theory could be onto something. Or not.
Rachel Pick
New York, US

Crazy fan theories are always fun: the stuff of random shower thoughts, daydreams, or possibly just strong marijuana. Fan theories take little details from pop culture entities and come up with a backstory or alternate interpretation of an invented world. One particularly detailed theory is the Pokémon War Theory, which postulates that Pokémon takes place in a country still rebuilding itself after a devastating war.

Pokémon war theorists cite the odd lack of adults in the Pokémon world—everyone is either a kid or an old guy like Professor Oak. This is seen as evidence of warfare that wiped out the adult population. There's also the focus on battles and training, and dialogue from a gym trainer that says "Electric Pokémon really saved me during the war!" There's no infrastructure in Kanto, and communication between regions is difficult.

There are, of course, holes in this theory. No real physical evidence of a war remains in the landscape, and it's not really discussed. But inventing historical context for the events of the game gives it a philosophical depth that adds to the fun.

Watch the PBS Idea Channel video for a comprehensive look at the arguments for and against this popular fan theory. You just may see Pokémon in a new light.