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

Professor Oak's Introduction

"Ah, towns and cities! Every Pokémon region is filled with unique settlements, from peaceful villages to sprawling metropolises. These locations shape a Trainer's journey, offering Pokémon Centers, Gyms, and key story events. But what makes a town stand out? How do we name them and make them feel alive? Let's explore how to design memorable towns for your Pokémon region!"

1. The Role of Towns & Cities in a Pokémon Region

Each town in your region serves a different function in the player's journey.

✅ Starting Town – Where the player begins their adventure and receives their first Pokémon.

✅ Gym Towns – Home to a Gym Leader and a Pokémon Gym challenge.

✅ Historical or Mythological Sites – Towns built around ancient ruins, legends, or Legendary Pokémon.

✅ Industrial & Modern Cities – Locations with high-tech labs, battle arenas, or corporate influence.

✅ Coastal & Port Towns – Towns that connect to the ocean, trade routes, or islands.

✅ Mountain & Forest Villages – Hidden settlements with unique culture and traditions.

✅ League & Elite Four Capital – The final challenge before the Champion battle.

➡ Example:

Pallet Town (Kanto) – A quiet starting town where the player's journey begins.

Ecruteak City (Johto) – A historic city tied to the Legendary Beasts and Ho-Oh's mythology.

Castelia City (Unova) – A huge, modern metropolis full of skyscrapers and business centers.

Try This!

What is the largest city in your region?

Does your region have a town famous for an ancient legend?

➡ Example: Your region has a volcanic town built around a hot spring, where Fire-type Pokémon thrive.

2. Naming Your Towns & Cities

A town's name should match its environment, culture, or history.

1. Nature-Inspired Town Names

Many Pokémon towns are named after plants, colors, or natural elements.

✅ Examples:

Pallet Town (Kanto) – Named after a color palette, symbolizing the start of a journey.

Lavender Town (Kanto) – A mysterious, ghostly town with a purple theme.

Eterna City (Sinnoh) – Tied to ancient myths and time (Eternal → Eterna).

🌿 New Nature-Based Town Ideas:

Willowshade Town – A peaceful village with large willow trees.

Amberstone City – A rocky town with golden cliffs and fossils.

Snowpetal Village – A winter town where cherry blossoms bloom even in the cold.

2. Cultural & Historical Town Names

Some Pokémon cities are inspired by real-world locations or ancient history.

✅ Examples:

Anistar City (Kalos) – Inspired by astronomy and ancient stargazing.

Ecruteak City (Johto) – Based on traditional Japanese architecture.

Hammerlocke City (Galar) – Named after medieval castles and weapons.