Build Your Own Pokémon Region: A Step-by-Step Guide

Professor Oak's Introduction

"Ah, now this is an important step! Every great Pokémon region needs a name that captures its essence. Think of the regions we already know—Kanto, Johto, Hoenn, Sinnoh—each one has a name that fits its world, its culture, and its story. Your region's name should feel natural, memorable, and connected to the theme you've created. So, how do we find the perfect name? Let's dive in!"

What Makes a Good Region Name?

A great region name should be:

✅ Distinctive – It shouldn't sound too similar to existing regions.
✅ Meaningful – It should reflect your region's theme, culture, or environment.
✅ Easy to Say – A name that rolls off the tongue is more memorable.

Let's explore different ways to come up with your region's name!

1. Inspired by Real-World Languages

Many Pokémon regions take inspiration from real-world languages. You can use words from different languages to reflect your region's theme.

➡ Examples:

Kanto, Johto, Hoenn, Sinnoh – These are based on Japanese words related to geography and direction.

Unova – Comes from "United" (referring to its diverse cities) and "Nova" (meaning new).

Kalos – Comes from the Greek word for beauty.

Paldea – Inspired by words related to Spain (its real-world counterpart).

Try This!

Think of words that represent your region's theme in different languages.Modify or combine them to create something unique.

➡ Example: If your region is inspired by Nordic mythology, you might take "Norden" (North) and modify it into Nordia or Norell.

2. Inspired by Fantasy Languages

Not all region names have to come from real-world languages. Some can be inspired by fantasy languages, ancient scripts, or entirely made-up words.

➡ Examples:

Tolkien's Elvish (Sindarin & Quenya) – Elegant, flowing names like Eldoria or Valmara.

Dungeons & Dragons Languages – Harsh, powerful names inspired by Dwarvish, Draconic, or Infernal.

Runic or Ancient Script-Inspired Words – Names that feel old and mystical, like Zorenth or Mythralea.

Try This!

Take inspiration from fantasy languages and mix letters to create something unique.Think about how your region's name should sound—mystical, powerful, elegant, or ancient?

➡ Example: A mystical region where dragons rule could be called Draythar (inspired by "Drake" for dragon and fantasy syllables).

3. Geography-Based Names

Your region's landscape can influence its name. Is it mountainous, covered in water, or full of forests?

➡ Examples:

Hoenn is derived from the Japanese word for infinity, reflecting its diverse landscape.

Sinnoh may come from "Shin" (divine or mysterious), fitting its legendary lore.

Alola sounds like "Aloha," emphasizing its island culture.

Try This!

抖阴社区 down words related to your region's climate, terrain, or special landmarks.Combine or alter them to create a unique name.

➡ Example: A desert region might be called Solvanna (from "Sol" for sun and "Savanna").

4. Mythology & Fantasy Inspiration

If your region has a strong mythological or fantasy theme, its name could reflect that.

➡ Examples:

Hisui (old name for Sinnoh) has a historical, ancient feel.

Orre (Pokémon Colosseum) sounds mysterious and harsh, fitting its desert setting.

Galar (based on the UK) may have roots in "Gallant" or "Gallows" (a nod to medieval history).

Try This!

Think of mythological names, legendary places, or fantasy words that match your region's story.Shorten, merge, or modify them to create something original.

➡ Example: A region based on a lost civilization might be called Xyphos (inspired by "Xylo" for wood and "Phos" for light).

5. Completely Original Names

Sometimes, the best approach is to create a name from scratch. Many Pokémon regions don't have direct meanings but simply sound right.

➡ Examples:

Johto doesn't have a direct translation but feels natural.

Kalos was designed to sound elegant, fitting the region's beauty theme.

Paldea doesn't have a direct meaning but fits the Spanish-inspired world.

Try This!

Experiment with different letters and sounds until you find something that feels right.Say it out loud—does it sound like it could be a real Pokémon region?

➡ Example: You might come up with Zeyro, Tandor, or Velmora just by mixing sounds!

Your Turn: Naming Your Region

Now, let's put everything together! Use this simple process to finalize your region's name:

1️⃣ 抖阴社区 down 3–5 potential names based on the methods above.
2️⃣ Say them out loud. Do they sound natural?
3️⃣ Pick your favorite and tweak it if necessary.

"Fantastic! You've officially named your Pokémon region. Now that we have a name, it's time to bring it to life with a map! Let's move on to the next chapter!"