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

Professor Oak's Introduction

"Ah, a Pokémon region is more than just land, Pokémon, and adventure—it's also home to unique cultures, traditions, and people! Think about the world of Pokémon: Johto is steeped in ancient traditions, Unova thrives on modern city life, and Alola embraces a strong sense of community. Your region's culture will shape its people, the way they interact with Pokémon, and even the journey of Trainers. So, what makes your region's society unique? Let's explore!"

1. The People of Your Region

Who lives in your region, and what are their traditions? Culture in the Pokémon world is often inspired by real-world customs, but it can also include fantasy elements that make the region stand out.

➡ Examples:

Johto's culture is inspired by Japanese traditions, with pagoda-style buildings and ancient legends.

Unova's cities are based on the fast-paced, diverse lifestyle of New York.

Alola's people embrace a close bond with nature, using a trial system instead of Gyms.

Galar's League feels like a sports competition, with Gym Leaders treated as celebrities.

Try This!

How do people in your region live? Do they follow old traditions, or are they part of a modern, high-tech world?Do people have a strong connection to Pokémon, or are Pokémon more of a background presence?

➡ Example: A region where humans and Pokémon work side by side in every aspect of life, from farming to construction.

2. Traditions and Customs

What unique customs or beliefs do the people of your region have? Many Pokémon regions are influenced by real-world festivals, myths, and traditions.

➡ Examples:

Lunar New Year Influence (Johto's Kimono Girls) – Ritual dances honoring legendary Pokémon.

Hawaiian Culture (Alola's Island Challenge) – A test of strength and wisdom, rather than traditional Gyms.

Medieval Festivals (Galar's Champion Cups) – Gym battles feel like grand sporting events.

Try This!

Does your region have a special event or festival related to Pokémon?Are there old myths or legends that shape how people see Pokémon?

➡ Example: A region where once a year, Trainers release Pokémon into the wild as a way of giving thanks to nature.

3. Trainer Culture: How Do People Become Pokémon Trainers?

Each region has its own way of training Pokémon. Some use the classic Gym system, while others have different traditions.

➡ Examples:

Kanto & Johto – The standard Gym Challenge with 8 Badges.

Alola – Trials instead of Gyms, where Trainers complete unique challenges.

Paldea – A more open-ended journey with three different story paths.

Try This!

How do Trainers in your region start their journey? Do they get a Pokémon from a Professor, a family tradition, or something else?Are Gyms the main challenge, or is there a unique system?

➡ Example: Instead of Gym battles, Trainers must complete puzzles tied to their region's history to prove their worth.

4. Villainous Teams and Organizations

Every Pokémon region has a villainous team—a group that threatens the peace or pursues a selfish goal. Some are simple troublemakers, while others have big, world-changing plans.

➡ Examples:

Team Rocket (Kanto/Johto) – A crime syndicate focused on stealing Pokémon.

Team Aqua & Magma (Hoenn) – Environmental extremists seeking to expand the sea or land.

Team Galactic (Sinnoh) – A group trying to reshape the entire universe.

Team Star (Paldea) – A misunderstood group of rebellious students.

Try This!

What does your villainous team want, and why? Do they seek power, money, revenge, or something else?Are they well-organized like Team Rocket, or chaotic like Team Yell?

➡ Example: A group that believes Pokémon should rule instead of humans and seeks to free them all from Trainers.

5. Pokémon's Role in Society

In your region, how do people interact with Pokémon beyond battling? In many regions, Pokémon help with daily life, serve as protectors, or even shape traditions.

➡ Examples:

In Unova, Pokémon like Timburr are used in construction.

In Alola, people ride Pokémon instead of using bikes or cars.

In Galar, the Champion is a celebrity, and battles are massive public events.

Try This!

Do Pokémon serve an important role in work, transportation, or tradition? Are certain Pokémon respected, worshiped, or feared in your region?

➡ Example: In a mountainous region, Flying-type Pokémon are used for fast travel between distant villages.

Your Turn: Defining Your Region's Culture

Use these questions to shape the people and society of your region:

1️⃣ How do people live in your region? (Traditional, modern, futuristic, fantasy-based?)
2️⃣ What are some unique traditions or festivals? (Do they honor Pokémon? Celebrate past heroes?)
3️⃣ How do people become Pokémon Trainers? (Standard Gyms, Trials, something else?)
4️⃣ Who is the villainous team, and what do they want? (Are they criminals, rebels, or something else?)
5️⃣ How do people and Pokémon interact outside of battle? (Work, transport, everyday life?)

"Fantastic! Now your region has its own unique identity, filled with people, traditions, and even a little conflict. Next, let's dive into what Pokémon actually inhabit your region!"