Happy 25th birthday to Pokémon! On February 27, 1996, Satoshi Tajiri released the first Pokémon —or “pocket monsters”—  Nintendo game. Since then the video game has exploded to a franchise that produces trading cards, mobile games, and a plethora of other collectible items. 2021 marks the 25th anniversary, and Pokémon is taking no hesitation for their celebration. 

Music

In January, Pokémon announced they are teaming up with Universal Music Group to create P25 Music. To kick off their yearlong program, Pokémon and pop star Post Malone are having a virtual concert on February 27th. Up and coming artists as well as superstars like Katy Perry will be involved with P25 Music throughout the year.

McDonald’s Happy Meals

For a limited time, McDonald’s Happy Meals will include a pack of 25th anniversary edition trading cards. There are a total of four cards per pack and 50 in the entire set. There has been high demand from avid adult collectors and specific cards are now being resold for up to $100, complete sets running into the thousands. 

In-Game Pikachu

“Pokémon Sword” and “Pokémon Shield” game players will have the opportunity to unlock an exclusive Pikachu character to their game. On the 25th, Pokémon will be announcing a password to access the character, it will have a “sing” move — since the theme of the anniversary is music—  which cannot be learned in game.

Here is their dedicated 25th anniversary website with all updates for this week’s festivities.