As time passes by and teen life gets busier with new responsibilities, it may seem likely and natural to leave childhood hobbies behind. Many people do. But for millions around the world, like myself, Pokémon continues to be more than a nostalgic memory as many people of all ages continue to play games of the franchise. Whether it is old Nintendo DS games like Pokemon Black, new Switch games like Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, or even games on mobile phones like Pokemon TCG pocket or Pokemon Go, it is clear to see that many people enjoy Pokemon in their free time. Nearly three decades after it began, the Pokémon franchise remains relevant not just for kids, but for adults who grew up with it. The question now is not whether Pokémon is still popular, but whether it still belongs in the lives of fans who are getting up there in age.
The answer? Definitely. Pokémon should keep evolving with us as it’s for everyone, no matter the age or even gender.
The Pokemon franchise has never stopped growing. From the early stages in the Game Boy days to today’s age of Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet on the Nintendo Switch, not to forget the massive success of Pokémon GO to trading cards and animated shows, it has consistently adapted and continued on with new audiences and platforms. To many, it offers a sense of relaxation, entertainment, excitement, and even exercise. As for myself, I have played most of the DS and 3DS games and remember the excitement of building teams, shiny hunting, and battling with my brother in all of the games. We can even see that Pokémon GO in particular has helped people of all ages get outdoors and connect with others, proving that it has a place far beyond the title of just being a game.
For many, Pokémon remains a source of comfort and joy from the nostalgia that it brings in a fast-paced world. “Certain people have different interests, so it depends on the person,” said Adrian Popoca, a junior who shows his support for Pokémon being played by all age groups. He makes a good point: enjoyment isn’t something specific to be exact, but rather subjective. For some, Pokémon is a way to unwind, bond with family, or tap into creativity. For others, it’s about competition and community. The franchise in itself has created games that have layers that go deeper than a child’s pastime. Most games in the franchise encourage players to interact with others, like only allowing some pokemon to evolve only when traded. At the same time, the game ensures that it can be enjoyed by solo players that are simply trying to have time for relaxation.
On a different note, not everyone agrees. “If you’re pushing 40, let it go,” said Enver Ibanez, also a junior, expressing a more critical view of adult Pokémon fans. Compared to the previous point of view, this perspective reflects a common stereotype that is reflected upon multiple other hobbies; that adults enjoying things designed for kids are somehow immature or unwilling to grow up. Then again, that idea overlooks the fact that people can grow while still enjoying what makes them happy. We can see this in other hobbies like going to Disneyland as adults or collecting figures like Sonny Angels, the point being that it all provides a sense of happiness. Enjoying Pokémon as an adult doesn’t mean someone is stuck in the past, but rather it means they’ve found lasting value in something that continues to offer fun, challenge, and meaning, that being the world of Pokemon.
In fact, articles across major gaming and culture publications show that many adult fans of Pokémon are not only thriving in their personal and professional lives, but also using the game as a creative outlet, a way to connect with their kids, or even to manage stress and anxiety. We can actually see an example of this in therapy, as Pokémon cards are used to build connections and creativity, for kids according to Subida Counseling, a therapy company that aims to help children. The benefits are real, and they go far beyond nostalgia.
In the end, it’s not about age but rather it’s about interest and wherever one’s interest resides Pokémon continues to bring joy to people of all backgrounds and ages. Whether you’re eight or pushing forty, there’s a different sensation about setting off on a new journey, catching new Pokemon, battling your friends, and connecting with the world on a different level.
So rather than telling people to “let it go”, maybe it’s time we let go of the idea that growing up means leaving joy behind. Pokémon shouldn’t just be for kids, it should be seen as available to anyone who’s still curious, creative, and willing to explore. If we continue or start to look at it in that way, maybe it’ll evolve alongside us.
