how many pokemon are there

How Many Pokémon Are There? The Complete 2025 Guide

Jamie

• 3 min read

As of 2025, there are 1,025 official Pokémon species across nine generations.
This number includes every Pokémon introduced from the original Kanto region in 1996 up to the Paldea region in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. If you also count alternate forms—such as Alolan, Galarian, and Hisuian variants—the total number of unique designs easily surpasses 1,200.

This guide breaks down the Pokémon count by generation, explores the role of regional variants, and explains why this number is so meaningful for fans, players, and collectors.

The Origins of Pokémon and the Expanding Pokédex

When Pokémon Red and Green launched in Japan in 1996, the series introduced just 151 creatures. Players met iconic characters like Pikachu, Mewtwo, and Mew—legends that still define the franchise today.

But with each new game generation, the roster expanded. From Johto to Paldea, the Pokédex has grown steadily, reflecting both the creativity of Game Freak and the ever-evolving world of Pokémon.

How Many Pokémon Are There in Pokémon? (By Generation)

Here’s the full breakdown of the official Pokémon count by generation:

  • Generation I (Kanto) – 151 Pokémon (Bulbasaur to Mew)
  • Generation II (Johto) – 100 new Pokémon (Chikorita to Celebi)
  • Generation III (Hoenn) – 135 new Pokémon (Treecko to Deoxys)
  • Generation IV (Sinnoh) – 107 new Pokémon (Turtwig to Arceus)
  • Generation V (Unova) – 156 new Pokémon (Victini to Genesect)
  • Generation VI (Kalos) – 72 new Pokémon (Chespin to Volcanion)
  • Generation VII (Alola) – 88 new Pokémon (Rowlet to Zeraora)
  • Generation VIII (Galar) – 96 new Pokémon (Grookey to Calyrex)
  • Generation IX (Paldea) – 120 new Pokémon (Sprigatito to Terapagos)

👉 Total as of early 2025: 1,025 official Pokémon species.

Regional Variants, Forms, and Expansions

While the official number is 1,025, the Pokémon world becomes even more complex when you add variants and alternate forms.

  • Alolan Forms – e.g., Alolan Vulpix, Alolan Raichu
  • Galarian Forms – e.g., Galarian Ponyta, Galarian Zapdos
  • Hisuian Forms – introduced in Pokémon Legends: Arceus (like Hisuian Growlithe)
  • Special Battle Forms – Mega Evolutions, Gigantamax, and Terastalized Pokémon

Although these don’t increase the official count, they do give fans new designs, typings, and gameplay mechanics. If you include every alternate design, the Pokémon universe exceeds 1,200 unique variations.

Why the Number of Pokémon Matters

The question “how many Pokémon are there?” isn’t just trivia—it carries real meaning:

  • Completionists – For players aiming to “catch ’em all,” knowing the total is essential.
  • Competitive Play – Each new Pokémon adds abilities, moves, and strategies that reshape the metagame.
  • Collectibles – Pokémon TCG cards, plush toys, and figures often highlight milestones (like the 1,000th Pokémon).
  • Generational Bond – Older fans remember just 151 Pokémon, while younger fans start with over 1,000. The growing number connects different generations.

A Guide for New Fans: Where to Start

Hearing “1,025 Pokémon” can feel overwhelming if you’re just starting. Here’s a simple approach:

  1. Begin with Your Generation – If you’re playing Scarlet and Violet, focus on Paldea first.
  2. Discover Classics Gradually – Explore earlier generations at your own pace.
  3. Use Online Pokédex Tools – Filter by type, generation, or popularity to make learning easier.
  4. Join Fan Communities – Reddit, Discord, and local groups help you connect, trade, and learn.

You don’t need to memorize everything at once—enjoy the journey.

Beyond the Games: Pokémon in 2025

The growing Pokémon count impacts more than just the games:

  • Trading Card Game (TCG) – Each expansion features new Pokémon from recent generations.
  • Anime and Movies – New Pokémon keep stories fresh and exciting.
  • Merchandise – Plushies, clothing, and collectibles often highlight popular or milestone Pokémon.

The Pokémon universe has become a multi-billion-dollar franchise, and the ever-growing roster fuels its cultural impact.

Collecting Outside the Games: Pokémon Mystery Boxes

Want to celebrate all 1,025 Pokémon in a unique way? Instead of just playing or collecting cards, you can explore Pokémon-themed mystery boxes.

Platforms like Hapabox let fans order surprise boxes filled with Pokémon merchandise, cards, or collectibles. It’s a fun, gamified way to expand your collection while enjoying the thrill of mystery—like opening a booster pack but on a bigger scale.

👉 Check out the Pokémon Mystery Box Collection for year-round surprises.

Conclusion: The Pokémon Universe Keeps Growing

So, how many Pokémon are there?

  • 1,025 official Pokémon species as of 2025
  • Over 1,200 unique designs if alternate forms are included

This number represents nearly three decades of creativity, nostalgia, and innovation. Whether you’re a competitive player, a card collector, or a casual fan, the ever-expanding Pokédex ensures there’s always something new to discover.

If you want to take your fandom beyond the games, consider exploring Pokémon Mystery Boxes from Hapabox. It’s the perfect way to keep the excitement alive, long after you’ve learned the answer to “how many Pokémon are there.”

🎁 Ready to start your adventure? Explore Pokémon Mystery Boxes on Hapabox today.