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

Professor Oak's Introduction

"Ah, names carry great meaning! Whether it's Gym Leaders, Rivals, Professors, or everyday citizens, the names of the people in your region should reflect their personalities, backgrounds, and even their connection to Pokémon. Some names are based on real-world inspirations, while others follow fun naming patterns. What will the people of your world be called? Let's dive into the art of naming NPCs!"

1. Naming Patterns for Different NPCs

Many Pokémon games follow specific naming themes for different characters, helping players remember them easily.

➡ Examples of Naming Themes in Pokémon Games:

✅ Professors – Named after trees (Oak, Elm, Birch, Rowan, Sycamore).

✅ Gym Leaders – Often have names related to their Pokémon type (Flannery → Fire, Roxie → Rock/Punk theme).

✅ Elite Four & Champions – Usually have strong, memorable names with mythological, nature, or personality-based origins (Lance, Cynthia, Alder, Leon).

✅ Villainous Teams – Their leaders often have names tied to their goals or elements (Giovanni = Mafia-like, Cyrus = Sun/Galaxy theme, Lusamine = "Luminous" beauty).

✅ Rivals – Can be named after attitude, nature, or even colors (Blue, Silver, Hugh, Hop).

✅ Trainers & NPCs – Named based on their Trainer Class (Camper Liam, Swimmer Katie, Psychic Robert).

Try This!

Do your region's Gym Leaders follow a special naming theme?

Does your villain team have thematic names based on their goals?

➡ Example: Your region's Gym Leaders are named after gemstones (Opal, Jasper, Citrine, Topaz).

2. Naming Your Region's Professor

Every Pokémon region has a Professor who studies Pokémon and guides the player. Traditionally, they are named after trees.

➡ Tree-Based Naming Examples:

✅ Professor Cypress – Could be an older, wise Professor who studies Pokémon longevity.

✅ Professor Willow – A gentle, nature-loving Professor focused on Pokémon habitats.

✅ Professor Alder – Might specialize in ancient Pokémon or Legendary lore.

➡ Breaking the Naming Tradition:

Professor Quartz (Named after minerals) – A Professor who studies Fossil Pokémon.

Professor Nova (Named after stars) – A Professor who studies space-related Pokémon.

Professor Rune (Named after writing) – A Professor researching Pokémon myths & ancient scripts.

Try This!

Does your Professor have a unique name that fits their personality or research focus?

Are they young and energetic, or old and wise?

➡ Example: Your region's Professor is named Professor Sequoia, a tall, imposing figure who specializes in Pokémon evolution.

3. Naming Gym Leaders, Elite Four, and Champions

Gym Leaders and the Elite Four are some of the most memorable NPCs in a Pokémon game. Their names often connect to their battle type, personality, or theme.

➡ Example Naming Patterns for Gym Leaders:

✅ Elemental Names – Blaine (Fire), Misty (Water), Volkner (Electric).