History Sandbox / PokemonRecurringArchetypes

** In Gen VII, Incineroar (a {{Heel}} wrestler with high physical stats) is the Fighter, Primarina (a SquishyWizard with high special stats) is the Mage, and Decidueye (an ArcherArchetype with balanced stats and Ghost typing) is the Thief.

Three-stage versions usually resemble the larva, pupa, and adult stages of complete {{Metamorphosis}} of many RealLife insects, while two-stage versions are like incomplete metamorphosis with a regular younger form and bigger form-type evolution. They typically come in one of two flavors, a rounder one that may be flying and a sharper one that may be part poison, evoking the original Butterfree and Beedrill.

--> Caterpie and Weedle lines (''Gen I''); Ledyba and Spinarak lines (''Gen II''); Wurmple(''Gen III''); Kricketot line (''Gen IV''); Sewaddle and Venipede lines ("Gen V"); Scatterbug line (''Gen VI''); Grubbin line (''Gen VII'') Blipbug line (''Gen VIII''); Tarountula and Nymble lines (''Gen IX'')

An archetype that has appeared in every odd-numbered generation thus far, these Pokémon are all based on mushrooms. They are Grass-types found rather early on and usually evolve in the 20's, but what makes this archetype particularly unique is the move Spore, which is exclusive to this archetype and is the only perfect-accuracy move that causes Sleep. The general archetype likely persists entirely to provide access to this move.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Paras line (''Gen I''); Shroomish line (''Gen III''); Foongus line (''Gen V''); Morelull line (''Gen VII''); Toedscool line and Brute Bonnet (Amoongus exp) (''Gen IX'')

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Abra line (''Gen I''); Ralts line (''Gen III''); Gothita line & Solosis line [[/note]] (''Gen V''); Hatenna line (''Gen VIII'')

* VersionExclusiveContent: The mascot of the game you're playing is available and plays a role in main story while the other is a post game OptionalBoss, if not totally unavailable. Only subverted by the Kanto Starters. You can only pick one, but which one you pick isn't tied to which Version you're playing... until the ''Let's Go'' remakes.

** Gen IX went back to having a straight duo like Gen II. There was no third member or an antagonist like Necrozma or Eternatus.
*** Its DLC mascots avert ChromaticArrangement. Ogerpon has a type change mechanic and Terapagos has a unique super mode tied to the battle gimmick of the generation.

Because the games are paired, several Pokémon mirror each other (foils, rivals, version exclusive counterparts etc.) to [[SocializationBonus encourage trading.]] Some pairs however go further than most. These pairs are so closely related that they have all the hallmarks of being an evolutionary family, but typically aren't linked by evolution in game. The games consistently make a point to pair them in their appearances. Notably, Gen III introduced a lot of these alongside double battles.

* MutuallyExclusivePartyMembers: The mascot of the game you're playing is available during the main story while the other is a post game OptionalBoss, if not totally unavailable without trading. Only subverted by the Kanto Starters. You can only pick one, but which one you pick isn't tied to which Version you're playing... until the ''Let's Go'' remakes.

*** The warm/cool ColorContrast on the cover art came from the Kanto starters. Charizard the warm-colored mascot in ''Red'' and ''[=FireRed=]'' in all regions and the cool-colored mascots being Venusaur (''Green'' in Japan, ''[=LeafGreen=]'' in all regions) and Blastoise (''Blue''). Pikachu in ''Yellow'' set the standard for ChromaticArrangement with the "third member". Only Pikachu (only in the anime) was the target of the evil Team. While not Legendaries, in the Gen I games they are MutuallyExclusivePartyMembers and one of a kind for their species prior to the introduction of breeding in the Gen III remakes and beyond.

* MasterOfAll: Mew is said to be the ancestor of all Pokémon and has the genetic code to be able to use every teachable move in the game. Other mythical fairies have large movepools but are more limited to their type specialties. Arceus obviously doesn't look like the others, but reprises and outdoes Mew's "ancestor" of all Pokémon as the ''TopGod'' [[OlympusMons of Pokémon.]] Like Mew it can learn all teachable moves (except those that explicitly use hands, since it's a quadruped) and goes even further in versatility by changing its type, and each of its stats are 20 points higher than Mew's.

* CrutchCharacter: Their decent starting level of 5 and quick access to their early game STAB move means that, barring a few inconvenient matchups, they can usually solo the early game with no issue. The game is designed for the player to rely on them at the outset [[ComplacentGamingSyndrome if not the entire game if they end up overleveled.]] They can all easily overpower generic trainers and early ComMon. When it comes to gyms, depending on them is a rough answer to DifficultyLevels for how much [[ThresholdGuardians grinding]] or [[ConvenientlyPlacedWeakness catching]] and [[SocializationBonus trading]] it takes to win. [[note]]Famously Bulbasaur and Squirtle Brock dealing 4x STAB damage to breeze through Brock on their own and at least having a defensive resistance to Misty, where Charmander is inconvenienced by dealing x0.5 to both and is weak to Misty's Bubblebeam, without getting an advantage on a gym until the fourth.[[/note]] Gen V goes out of its way to challenge this playstyle by giving the first gym the advantage with the Elemental Monkeys regardless of your choice in ''BW'', and then having a neutral Normal Gym up first for ''[=B2W2=]''.

-->""Pokémon similar to this archetype"": The Kanto Starters and the Mew Duo [[note]]as outlined below, elements of the archetype come from combining traits of Charizard, Venusaur & Blastoise and Mewtwo & Mew. [[/note]]

* MutuallyExclusivePartyMembers: The mascot of the game you're playing is available during the main story while the other is a post game BonusBoss, if not totally unavailable without trading. Only subverted by the Kanto Starters. You can only pick one, but which one you pick isn't tied to which Version you're playing... until the ''Let's Go'' remakes.

*** The warm/cool ColorContrast on the cover art came from the Kanto starters. Charizard the warm-colored mascot in ''Red'' and ''[=FireRed=]'' in all regions and the cool-colored mascots being Venusaur (''Green'' in Japan, ''[=LeafGreen=]'' in all regions) and Blastoise (''Blue''). Pikachu in ''Yellow'' set the standard for ChromaticArrangement with the "third member". Obviously, none of the Kanto starters are legendaries and only Pikachu (only in the anime) was the target of the evil Team.

** Ho-oh and Lugia still weren't pursued by the evil team, but they share Mewtwo's base stat total and appear as proper mascots. They were a true duo, but still ended up getting an enhanced third version. Suicune was thrown in as the new mascot as the most popular of the Legendary Beasts.

*** Its DLC mascots avert ChromaticArrangment. Ogerpon has a type change mechanic like a limited Arceus, and Terapagos has a unique super mode tied to the battle gimmick of the generation.

* CrutchCharacter: With their decent starting level of 5 and quick access to their early game STAB move means that, barring a few inconvenient matchups, they can usually solo the early game with no issue.The game is designed for the player to rely on them at the outset [[ComplacentGamingSyndrome if not the entire game if they end up overleveled.]] This can be seen as its own version of DifficultyLevels on paper depending on type matchups for the early gyms. [[note]]Famously Bulbasaur and Squirtle dealing x4 damage to Brock and at least having a defensive resistance to Misty, where Charmander is inconvenienced by dealing x0.5 to both and is weak to Misty's Bubblebeam, without getting an advantage on a gym until the fourth.[[/note]] Gen V goes out of its way to challenge this playstyle by giving the first gym the advantage with the Elemental Monkeys regardless of your choice in BW, and then having a neutral Normal Gym up first for B2W2.

* TheHero: The closest monsters to being main characters. They get a lot of facetime in the marketing. Their designs give them pretty strong "canon" personalities (i.e. Sobble is anxious, Scorbunny is energetic.) They're also heavily associated with the human lead characters. Protagonists in spinoffs and marketing materials almost always own at least one starter if not multiple. However your starter choice having no plot importance nor any gameplay ramifications beyond a slight influence to some rivals' teams, with you being free to bench and even release your starter as you soon as you catch another Pokémon. Only in ''Yellow'' and ''Let's Go'' do they play any deeper role.

* RecurringBoss: At least one rivals Ace will be a starter, so you'll watch one you didn't pick steadily grow in power as an adversary over the game. Generic NPCs rarely use Pokémon from any of these lines.

* SpotlightStealingSquad: Despite having a "new Pikachu" in every Generation, the original Pikachu always sticks around to get top billing. For example marketing that packages the three new starters and Pikachu, rather than the three new starters and the new Pikaclone, despite Pikachu only officially having starter status in Kanto. Even ''Anime/PokemonHorizonsTheSeries'', post Ash retirement, keeps the new Captain Pikachu in a more prominent role than the Pawmi that roams around the ship.

-->'''Fire-type Starters:''' Charmander line (''Gen I''); Cyndaquil line (''Gen II''); Torchic line (''Gen III''); Chimchar line (''Gen IV''); Tepig line (''Gen V''); Fennekin line (''Gen VI''); Litten line (''Gen VII''); Scorbunny line (''Gen VIII''); Fuecoco line (''Gen IX'');

-->'''Water-type Starters:''' Squirtle line (''Gen I''); Totodile line (''Gen II''); Mudkip line (''Gen III''); Piplup line (''Gen IV''); Oshawott line (''Gen V''); Froakie line (''Gen VI''); Popplio line (''Gen VII''); Sobble line (''Gen VIII''); Quaxly line (''Gen IX'');

-->'''Starters of different types:''' Pikachu & Eevee [[note]]Used as the player and rivals respective starters in ''Yellow,'' and again in the ''Let's Go'' remakes now letting the player to choose Eevee as well. When used by the player they are not allowed to evolve[[/note]] (''Gen I'');

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Pidgey line & Spearow line (''Gen I''); Hoothoot line (''Gen II''); Taillow line & Wingull line (Gen III); Starly line (Gen IV); Pidove line (Gen V); Fletchling line (Gen VI); Pikipek line (Gen VII); Rookidee line (Gen VIII); Wattrel line (Gen IX);

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Pikachu line (''Gen I''); Pichu [[note]]Can be lumped with the Pikachu line, but a newly introduced baby form for Gen II that [[WordOfGod was meant]] to be "the next Pikachu"[[/note]] and Marill line[[note]]A water type with some design similarities that was popular pre-release[[/note]] ("Gen II"); Plusle & Minun (''Gen III''); Pachirisu (''Gen IV''); Emolga (''Gen V''); Dedenne (''Gen VI''); Togedemaru and Mimikyu[[note]]Togedemaru is a straighforrwad example, Mimikyu is a Ghost type that deliberately but poorly mimics Pikachu in order to make friends[[/note]] (''Gen VII''); Morpeko (''Gen VIII''); Pawmi line (''Gen IX'');

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Magikarp line (''Gen I''); Feebas line(''Gen III''); Wimpod line & Wishiwashi (''Gen VII''); Finizen line (''Gen IX'');

* CuteMonsterGirl: Due to their highly feminine appearances, the Ralts, Gothita, and Hatenna lines are very cute in each stages. Adding to this, the Gothita line has a 3 females to 1 male ratio, while Hatenna is entirely female. This may have been inspired by the entirely female Jynx line, which were also part Psychic. However Jynx was more closely associated with Ice specialists like Lorelei and was part of a trio with [[FireIceLightning Magmar and Electabuzz]] before becoming OutOfFocus.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Voltorb line (standard form only) (''Gen I''); Foongus line (''Gen V''); Galarian Stunfisk (''Gen VIII''); Greavard line (''Gen IX'');

* EarlyInstallmentWeirdness: While the [[GameplayAndStorySegregation ''player'']] may be tricked into activating a Voltorb or Electrode thinking it was an item ball, this is only because they use the [[GraphicsInducedSuperDeformed same icon in game.]] InUniverse a Pokéball can fit in a ten year olds palm, while Voltorb and Electrode are a little over one and ''three'' feet in diameter respectively. In non-game material they're simply bombs rather than Pokéballs fake-outs. Foongus is appropriately much smaller, and Stunfisk only reveals it's small Pokéball shaped mouth while concealing the rest of its body.

->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Alolan Diglett line[[note]]Only has two evolutionary forms, are also based on organic creatures.[[/note]], Meltan line[[note]]Only two evolutionary forms, and the second form, unlike the others of this archetype, are a full on fusion between the Meltan[[/note]], (''Gen VII'');Gimmighoul line[[note]]Only has two evolutionary forms, the first form isn't a Steel-Type.[[/note]] (''Gen IX'');

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Hitmonlee & Hitmonchan, later including Hitmontop (''Gen I''); Plusle & Minun, Lunatone & Solrock (''Gen III''); Throh & Sawk (''Gen V''); Oranguru & Passimian (''Gen VII'');

* EarlyInstallmentWeirdness:

** Pinsir and Scyther were just version exclusive counterparts in Gen I. Both received evolutions in Gen II's betas. But somewhere in development it was decided to separate Pinsir and Heracross into a cross-gen thematic duo, while Scyther still evolved into Scizor. Down the road this also had the weird effect of giving us Mega Pinsir, Heracross, and Scizor, but because only fully evolved Pokémon are capable of mega evolution, there is no Mega Scyther.
** Scyther and Scizor. Unlike the other examples, the thematic duo here is formed from a Pokémon and its immediate evolution. Notably, Scyther is the only Pokémon that doesn't change base stat total upon evolving. Scyther and Scizor are equally powerful, just differently balanced (like all other thematic duo pairs). This would be reprised with Hisuian Kleavor making them three that share stat totals.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Legendary Birds[[note]]Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres[[/note]] (''Gen I''); Legendary Beasts[[note]]Raikou, Entei, and Suicune[[/note]] (''Gen II''); Eon Duo[[note]]Latios and Latias[[/note]] and Legendary Titans[[note]]Regirock, Regice, Registeel, later Regieleki, and Regidrago[[/note]] (''Gen III''); Lake Guardians[[note]]Uxie, Mesprit, and Azelf[[/note]] (''Gen IV''); Forces of Nature[[note]]Tornadus, Thundurus, Landorus, and later Enamorus[[/note]] and Swords of Justice[[note]]Cobalion, Terrakion, Virizion, and Keldeo[[/note]] (''Gen V''); Guardian Deities[[note]]Tapu Koko, Tapu Lele, Tapu Bulu, and Tapu Fini[[/note]] (''Gen VII''); Galarian Legendary Birds[[note]]Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres[[/note]] (''Gen VIII''); Treasures of Ruin[[note]]Ting-Lu, Chien-Pao, Wo-Chien, and Chi-Yu[[/note]] and Loyal Three[[note]]Okidogi, Munkidori, and Fezandipiti[[/note]] (''Gen IX'');

-->'''Mascot Legendary Teams:''' Tower Duo[[note]]Lugia and Ho-Oh[[/note]] (''Gen II''); Weather Trio[[note]]Kyogre, Groudon, and Rayquaza[[/note]] (''Gen III''); Creation Trio[[note]]Dialga, Palkia, and Giratina[[/note]] (''Gen IV''); Tao Trio[[note]]Reshiram, Zekrom, and Kyurem (Black & White versions)[[/note]] (''Gen V''); Aura Trio[[note]]Xerneas, Yveltal, and Zygarde[[/note]] (''Gen VI''); Light Trio[[note]]Solgaleo, Lunala, and Necrozma (Dusk Mane & Dawn Wings versions)[[/note]] (''Gen VII''); Hero Duo[[note]]Zacian and Zamazenta[[/note]] (''Gen VIII''); Paradox Duo[[note]]Koraidon and Miraidon[[/note]] (''Gen IX'');

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Rayquaza (''Gen III''); Giratina (''Gen IV''); Kyurem (''Gen V''); Zygarde (''Gen VI''); Necrozma (''Gen VII''); Eternatus (''Gen VIII''); Terapagos (''Gen IX'');

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Mew (''Gen I''); Celebi (''Gen II''); Jirachi (''Gen III''); Manaphy, Arceus and Shaymin (''Gen IV''); Victini and Meloetta (''Gen V''); Diancie and Hoopa (''Gen VI''); Magearna and Marshadow (''Gen VII''); Calyrex (DLC) (''Gen VIII''); Pecharunt (DLC) (''Gen IX'');

* CrutchCharacter: With their decent starting level of 5 and quick access to their early game STAB move means that, barring a few inconvenient matchups, they can usually solo the early game with no issue.The game is designed for the player to rely on them at the outset [[ComplacentGamingSyndrome if not the entire game if they end up overleveled.]] This can be seen as its own version of DifficultyLevels on paper depending on type matchups for the early gyms. [[note]]Famously Bulbasaur and Squirtle dealing x4 damage to Brock and at least having a defensive resistance to Misty, where Charmander is inconvenienced by dealing x0.5 to both and is weak to Misty's Bubblebeam, without getting an advantage on a gym until Erika.[[/note]] Gen V goes out of its way to challenge this playstyle by giving the first gym the advantage with the Elemental Monkeys regardless of your choice in BW, and then having a neutral Normal Gym up first for B2W2.

* ComMons: Found everywhere on land routes.

* CrutchCharacter: Their evolved forms tend to be mediocre at best, but can be useful early on due to being fully evolved sometimes as early as level 20 and having faster than average leveling rates. As the game progresses, though, their uninspiring stats and movepools will really start to hold them back.

* UnpleasantAnimalCounterpart: The Rattatas (or rather the Zigzagoons) to the Poochyenas. Zigzagoon and Poochyena replace each other in the opening sequences for ''Ruby & Sapphire'' and ''Emerald''. Yungoos and Alolan Rattata are expressly rivals. Both sides of the archetype are found on weak trainers like Youngsters, Lasses, Evil Grunts but the Grunts tend to favor the Dark-types when available.

* BlowYouAway: They are always Flying-types, fitting of birds.
* ComMons: Like the common rodents, they are ubiquitous on land routes.

** Gen I had two basic birds, Pidgey and Spearow as unpleasant animal counterparts to each other. Pidgey being docile, or heroic three stage mon, and Spearow as an aggressive two stage mon. Some of the birds in later regions would take on some Spearow traits, as below:

* TheGenericGuy: Similarly to the common rodent Pokémon, these Pokémon tend to closely resemble everyday animals and have little in the way of supernatural abilities. Fewer of them have this design philosophy, though, especially in the later generations.

* MascotMook: In Generations 1-6, Ash always had one in his lineup, boosting the popularity of the archetype above its counterpart rodent. Corviknight is also omnipresent as a taxi service in Gen 8. The only exception is Pikipek's line, who never got a ton of spotlight in its day, despite being the only one that's [[SignatureMon the ace]] of an EliteFour member.

* NonElemental: The three-stage members are usually Normal-type alongside their Flying type, though later evolutions of the archetype may be typed as something else. Only Rookidee doesn't start out as a Normal-type, though it gains the Steel type upon its final evolution.

They mainly exist to teach the mechanic of evolution early in the game, as they often evolve earlier than practically all other Pokémon, often evolving into their second or even third stage by level 10. Earlier members of the archetype can be useful in the early game thanks to their early high stats and status effects, but they are generally outclassed anywhere later than the early game. Some that reach their final form at higher levels can be more powerful, especially those from later generations. The ones that evolve early tend to have base stat totals in the high 300s or low 400s.\\

* IncreasinglyLethalEnemy: Usually they have low HP, Defenses, and no reliable recovery making them easy to eliminate. But they get increasingly annoying the longer they're allowed to stay on the field. Whether this be by boosting their own stats (through moves like Swords Dance or Quiver Dance), as a TrapMaster (with Sticky Web, Spikes, and Toxic Spikes) and spamming status effects (Stun Spore, Sleep Powder, Poisonpowder, Toxic especially if they have Compund Eyes to boost the accuracy of these moves) in between to give them time to set up. The Ledyba line uniquely uses barriers (Light Screen and Reflect) to boost defense rather than directly antagonizing the enemy. If you don't take them out immediately, they can cripple an entire team.

-->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Oddish line & Bellsprout line (''Gen I''); Lotad line & Seedot line (''Gen III''); Budew line [[note]]Roselia debuted alone in Gen III, but gained a pre-evolution and stone evolution in Gen IV making it this for ''Diamond & Pearl'', not its native ''Ruby & Sapphire''[[/note]] (''Gen IV''); Cottonee line & Petilil line (''Gen V''); Bounsweet line (''Gen VII'');

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Paras line (''Gen I''); Shroomish line (''Gen III''); Foongus line (''Gen V''); Morelull line (''Gen VII''); Toedscool line and Brute Bonnet (Amoongus exp) (''Gen IX'');

* ForcedSleep: While far from the only Pokémon move to cause this, the Spore move unique to this archetype takes this further by being the only 100% accuracy move that immediately causes sleep when it hits.[[note]]The only other 100% accuracy sleep-causing move is Yawn, but it requires that the target remain in battle for one more turn before sleep activates.[[/note]]

* StoneWall: Most of them have the capability to take damage, but are lacking in speed to prevent them from being fast users of Spore, and also aren't too threatening offensively. The only exceptions are Breloom, which is more of a GlassCannon, and Toedscruel, which has a good 100 speed, but its ability gives it [[ActionInitiative negative priority]] on [[NonDamagingStatusInflictionAttack status moves]] as an ObviousRulePatch.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Pikachu line (''Gen I''); Pichu [[note]]Part of the Pikachu line, but a newly introduced baby form that WordOfGod says was meant to be "the next Pikachu"[[/note]] and Marill line[[note]]A water type with some design similarities that was popular pre-release[[/note]] ("Gen II"); Plusle & Minun (''Gen III''); Pachirisu (''Gen IV''); Emolga (''Gen V''); Dedenne (''Gen VI''); Togedemaru and Mimikyu[[note]]Togedemaru is a straighforrwad example, Mimikyu is a Ghost type that deliberately but poorly mimics Pikachu in order to make friends[[/note]] (''Gen VII''); Morpeko (''Gen VIII''); Pawmi line (''Gen IX'');

* EarlyInstallmentWeirdness: The archetype is a series staple, but Generation II didn't exactly follow it to the letter. The [[WordOfGod intended]] [[https://www.ign.com/articles/2009/02/23/pokemon-creators-on-platinum Pikaclone was Pichu,]] a pre-evolution for Pikachu rather that a unique new line. The fanbase also took to Marill line, which had incidental similarities to Pikachu such as a rodent design, zig-zagging tail, two-stage evolution, with a baby pre-evolution introduced a generation later, and placement in the Fairy egg group, (to the point that it was given the FanNickname Pikablu). The archetype wasn't well and truly established until Generation III, where Plusle and Minun established the obligatory non-evolving electric rodent for each generation from then on.

The first Pokémon you receive in the game. Usually given to you as a choice of one of three by the local Pokémon professor, they always come in three different types: Grass, Fire, or Water. Your primary rival gets one you don't choose, and the contrast between your starter and the rival's starter teaches a basic ElementalRockPaperScissors relationship between them.[[note]]Earlier games always have the rival choosing the starter stronger to yours, while some later games have the rival choosing the starter weaker to yours; some games have ''two'' rivals who result in both.[[/note]] Since abilities were introduced, starters get one of three abilities that are type variants of each other: Overgrow, Blaze, and Torrent, which boosts the power of their primary type when their HP gets low.\\

Storywise, the starters are intended to play TheHero role among your party for your first play through. In gameplay, they are the first customization option on your RPG experience: a choice of [[FighterMageThief build]] or [[BalanceSpeedStrengthTrio stats]]. In the ''VideoGame/SuperSmashBros'' series, the concept of the starter trio along with the player character is represented by the "Pokémon Trainer" fighter (based on Red/Leaf from ''[=FireRed=]'' and ''[=LeafGreen=]''), who stands in the background while the player interchangeably controls Kanto's starter trio in different stages of evolution.

* BossBattle: Chances are, if you see a trainer using one of these Pokémon, they're usually going to be a boss, and their starter is usually their ace Pokémon. Regular trainers rarely, if ever, use Pokémon from any of these lines.

* CrutchCharacter: Their evolved forms tend to be mediocre at best, but can be useful early on due to being fully evolved at a lower level than other Pokémon. As the game progresses, though, their uninspiring stats and movepools will really start to hold them back.

A group of small, cuddly looking Pokemon that nonetheless have a BST of 600, typically distributed completely evenly across all six stats. The group also consists entirely of legendaries that not obtainable through normal gameplay in their debut generation, making them part of a larger group known as Mythical Pokemon. The first example, Mew, was subject to many [[UrbanLegendOfZelda theories]] as to how to acquire one, most of which did not pan out. As time went on some of them have become slightly easier to obtain, such as Jirachi being released as a preorder bonus for Colosseum. Due to the this, many of them can be considered PermanentlyMissableContent: If you missed the event, it may be impossible to acquire one without trading.\\

* CuteCrittersActChildlike: In the anime, they tend to be portrayed as cheerful and playful, just wanting to have fun.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Pikachu line (''Gen I''); Pichu [[note]]Part of the Pikachu line, but a newly introduced baby form that WordOfGod states that it was meant to be "the new Pikachu" for the Johto series[[/note]] and Marill line[[note]]A water type with some design similarities that was popular pre-release[[/note]] ("Gen II"); Plusle & Minun (''Gen III''); Pachirisu (''Gen IV''); Emolga (''Gen V''); Dedenne (''Gen VI''); Togedemaru and Mimikyu[[note]]Togedemaru is a straighforrwad example, Mimikyu is a Ghost type that deliberately but poorly mimics Pikachu in order to make friends[[/note]] (''Gen VII''); Morpeko (''Gen VIII''); Pawmi line (''Gen IX'');

* EarlyInstallmentWeirdness: The archetype is a series staple, but Generation II didn't exactly follow it to the letter. The [[WordOfGod intended]] Pikaclone was Pichu, a pre-evolution for Pikachu. The fanbase also took to Marill line, which had incidental similarities to Pikachu such as a rodent design, zig-zagging tail, two-stage evolution, with a baby pre-evolution introduced a generation later, and placement in the Fairy egg group, (to the point that it was given the FanNickname Pikablu). The archetype wasn't well and truly established until Generation III, where Plusle and Minun established the obligatory non-evolving electric rodent for each generation from then on.

!!Caterpie & Weedle

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Pikachu line (''Gen I''); Marill line[[note]]A water type, but shares design similarities and was often marketed in the same way ("Gen II"); Plusle & Minun (''Gen III''); Pachirisu (''Gen IV''); Emolga (''Gen V''); Dedenne (''Gen VI''); Togedemaru, Mimikyu[[note]]A Ghost type that deliberately but poorly mimics Pikachu in order to make friends[[/note]] (''Gen VII''); Morpeko (''Gen VIII''); Pawmi line (''Gen IX'');

* MasterOfAll: Mew is said to be the ancestor of all Pokémon and has the genetic code to be able to use every teachable move in the game. Other mythical fairies have large movepools but are more limited to their type specialties. Arceus obviously doesn't look like the others, but reprises and outdoes Mew's role as "the originator" as the TopGod [[OlympusMons of Pokémon.]] Like Mew it can learn all teachable moves (except those that explicitly use hands, since it's a quadruped) and goes even further in versatility by changing its type, and each of its stats are 20 points higher than Mew's.

A diminutive cute fairy-like Pokémon, originally with perfectly balanced stats and a massive movepool, though later additions began to minmax stats. Their most distinguishing feature in most games is the inability to actually encounter them in their debut generation. Most are locked behind real life in-person giveaway events or limited time online promotions. Mew was the first example and almost a secret Pokemon during its debut generation with many [[UrbanLegendOfZelda theories]] as to how to acquire one, most of which did not pan out. Later examples have started to become available as DLC instead of as event giveaways.\\

->'''Pokémon of the Poochyena sub-type:''' Poochyena line (''Gen III''); Stunky line[[note]]Is version-exclusive to ''Diamond'' and is only found on a few routes[[/note]] (''Gen IV''); Purrloin line (''Gen V''); Alolan Rattata line (''Gen VII''); Nickit line (''Gen VIII''); Maschiff line (''Gen IX'')

--> Caterpie and Weedle lines (''Gen I''); Ledyba and Spinarak lines (''Gen II''); Wurmple(''Gen III''); Kricketot line (''Gen IV''); Scatterbug line (''Gen VI''); Grubbin line (''Gen VII'') Blipbug line (''Gen VIII''); Tarountula and Nymble lines (''Gen IX'')

* AnimateInanimateObject: They're all based on Pokéballs.
* ChestMonster: Essentially what their gimmick is; tricking you into thinking it’s an item before revealing it's a Pokémon.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Grimer line, Koffing line (''Gen I''); Gulpin line (''Gen III''); Trubbish line (''Gen V') Varoom line (''Gen IX'')

A two-stage mon, usually Normal or Dark, that is particularly common on early game routes, if not throughout the entire region. They are generally designed to be unremarkable, having low stats even upon evolution. Early-game opponent trainers such as Youngsters and Lasses may favor them.\\

Three-stage versions usually resemble the larva, pupa, and adult stages of complete {{Metamorphosis}} of many RealLife insects, while two-stage versions are like incomplete metamorphosis with a regular younger form and bigger form-type evolution. They typically come in one of two flavors by being part flying or part poison and are often moths or butterflies.

--> Caterpie and Weedle (''Gen I''); Ledyba and Spinarak (''Gen II''); Wurmple(''Gen III''); Kricketot line (''Gen IV''); Scatterbug line (''Gen VI''); Grubbin line (''Gen VII'') Blipbug line (''Gen VIII''); Tarountula and Nymble lines (''Gen IX'')

* IncreasinglyLethalEnemy: Usually they have low HP, Defenses, and no reliable recovery making them easy to eliminate. But they get increasingly annoying the longer they're allowed to stay on the field. Whether this be by boosting their own stats (through moves like Swords Dance or Quiver Dance), as a TrapMaster (with Sticky Web, Spikes, and Toxic Spikes) and spamming status effects (Stun Spore, Sleep Powder, Poisonpowder, Toxic especially if they have Compund Eyes to boost the accuracy of these moves) in between to give them time to set up. The Ledyba line uniquely uses barriers (Light Screen and Reflect) to boost defense rather than directly antagonizing the enemy. If you don't take them out immediately, they can cripple an entire team, or become sweepers themselves.

* LaterInstallmentWeirdness:
** Steenee requires leveling up while knowing Stomp in order to evolve into Tsareena.
** Dolliv to Arboliva is a no-frills level up evolution in contrast to almost every other second-to-third form evolution in the archetype which requires a special method.

Because the games are paired, several Pokémon mirror each other (foils, rivals, version exclusive counterparts etc.) to encourage trading. Some pairs however go further than most. These pairs are so closely related that they have all the hallmarks of being an evolutionary family, but typically aren't linked by evolution in game. The games consistently make a point to pair them in their appearances. Notably, Gen III introduced a lot of these alongside double battles.

A group that largely overlaps with the Version Mascots, they generally are the secret third member of the group composed of the paired versions' mascots, and usually become in turn the mascots of each generation's UpdatedReRelease. Since each pair tends to incorporate a theme of duality, the Third Legendary often symbolizes balance between the two. Like the Version Mascots, their role has been largely codified in Gen III and IV.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Rayquaza (''Gen III''); Giratina (''Gen IV''); Kyurem (''Gen V''); Zygarde (''Gen VI''); Necrozma (''Gen VII''); Terapagos (''Gen IX'');

* BreakingOldTrends:
** Eternatus isn't technically the third member of a group alongside Zacian and Zamazenta, but it's their arch-enemy. Its story is also resolved in the paired versions rather than in an UpdatedReRelease, and it's the ClimaxBoss of said versions' Legendary Pokémon plot instead of the respective Warrior Pokémon.
** Calyrex, the mascot of ''The Crown Tundra'' DLC, leads its own trio of Legendary Pokémon and can do a FusionDance with them, but its role in the plot is completely distinct from the base games. It also completely subverts the SortingAlgorithmOfEvil and lacks Dragon typing.

* OurDragonsAreDifferent: Excepting Suicune, Calyrex, and Terapagos[[note]]Though, technically speaking, his Stellar Tera type means he can wield ''all'' Pokémon types, Dragon included[[/note]] they all are part-Dragon type (Necrozma only in its Ultra form).

** Has become a ForgottenTrope from Generation VIII onwards. The "original" Third Legendary from that generation, Eternatus, is faced during the base game's story as the ClimaxBoss, and the changes in the main series's release model -- from UpdatedReRelease to DownloadableContent -- means that following Third Legendaries such as Calyrex and Terapagos are the stars of their own DLC campaigns.
* SortingAlgorithmOfEvil: They become more and more villainous with each passing generation. Rayquaza is firmly heroic and quells the fight between Groudon and Kyogre, Giratina acts on its own to stop the human BigBad but involuntarily threatens reality, Kyurem is enslaved by the BigBad, Necrozma was originally benevolent but was driven mad by a GameBreakingInjury that forced it to steal light to survive, and Eternatus is a perfectly sane WalkingWasteland which may or may not be aware of the devastation it causes. Those who are exceptions are Suicune (who isn't connected to the main plot), Zygarde (who is heroic, and never was the focus of a game) and Calyrex (fully heroic, and like Suicune, its relevant plotline is separate from the base games' one). Terapagos does go berserk at the climax of his plot and needs to be stopped, but it isn't clear how malicious is he being.

** Calyrex can use the Reins of Unity to mount Glastrier or Spectrier, becoming respectively Ice Rider Calyrex and Ghost Rider Calyrex, swapping its Grass type for the one of its steed and boosting its base stat total to 680;

** Gen II has Suicune as the mascot of ''Crystal'', and while it has a lore connection to ''Gold's'' mascot Ho-Oh, it's otherwise unrelated to the main plot of the game, and wholly unrelated to ''Silver's'' Lugia.

** Gen VIII: Eternatus is not a version mascot, while Calyrex is the mascot of its own separate DLC campaign and is otherwise unrelated from the base games' mascots.

[[folder:Mythical Pokemon]]
!!Mythical Pokemon

* MasterOfAll: Mew is said to be the ancestor of all Pokémon and has the genetic code to be able to use every teachable move in the game. Other mythical fairies have large movepools but are more limited to their type specialties. Arceus is not a fairy, but reprises Mew's role as the originator as the TopGod [[OlympusMons of Pokémon.]] It can learn all teachable moves (except those that explicitly use hands, since it's a quadruped) and can also change its type.
* PsychicPowers: The vast majority have the Psychic-type, with only Gen IV and Gen VII being the odd ones out (discounting Arceus holding the Mind Plate for Gen IV).

%%TO PRESERVE FONT SIZE; DO NOT REMOVE
-->'''Non-starter Grass/Water/Fire Trios''': The Elemental Monkeys [[note]]Pansage line, Pansear line, Panpour line, none of which is the first Pokémon the player will obtain, one of which is gifted to the player depending on which starter they selected, and all of which can be encountered in the wild.[[/note]] (''Gen VI'');

A Normal-type, two-stage mon that are particularly common on early game routes, if not throughout the entire region. They are generally designed to be unremarkable, having low stats even upon evolution. Early-game opponent trainers such as Youngsters and Lasses may favor them.\\

Sometimes called the "rodent," they've been a variety of field and urban mammals that live near humans (such as rabbits, raccoons, badgers, mongooses, and even pigs). They typically evolve once around level 20 and have a base stat total in the lower 400s. Moderately useful early on, but poor coverage options, Normal typing and low stats make them obsolete quickly. However they may have abilities (like Runaway or Pick Up) that make them a good UtilityPartyMember if you have extra space in your party. In addition they can usually learn a lot of field moves in Generations that use [=HMs=].\\

In Gen III a sub-type was introduced based on Poochyena, that shares many similarities with the Rattata. The main difference is that they're Dark-types, and tend to have slightly higher stats in the mid 400s range. The Dark-types are also used by the evil team Grunts in every generation they appear in. While not as consistent as their Normal-type counterparts, they can be considered the "Weedle" to Rattata's "Caterpie."\\

A Flying-type, either three-stage or two-stage, these Pokémon can be found everywhere in their regions alongside their fellow rodents. While they also often appear on the early-game opponents, their evolution, stats, and typing can be useful throughout the game. If nothing else, they can be useful as HM Fly mounts to quickly ferry you between towns.\\

Due to some EarlyInstallmentWeirdness it wasn't fully established until Gen IV.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Pidgey line & Spearow line[[note]]A secondary Normal bird, slightly less common[[/note]] (''Gen I''); Hoothoot line [[note]]A nocturnal counterpart to Pidgey[[/note]] (''Gen II''); Taillow line [[note]]Reprises Spearow more than Pidgey, and isn't very common[[/note]] & Wingull line [[note]]Extremely common on ''sea'' routes instead of land[[/note]](Gen III); Starly line (Gen IV); Pidove line (Gen V); Fletchling line (Gen VI); Pikipek line (Gen VII); Rookidee line (Gen VIII); Wattrel line [[note]]Reprises Wingull more than Pidgey[[/note]] (Gen IX);

[[folder: Caterpie & Weedle]]
!!Caterpie & Weedle | The Early Bug(s)

Three-stage versions usually resemble the larva, pupa, and adult stages of complete {{Metamorphosis}} of many RealLife insects, while two-stage versions are like incomplete metamorphosis with a regular younger form and bigger form-type evolution. In the first five Generations, they tended to come in two flavors: the Caterpie which is typically more docile, rounder, and usually part Flying-Type. The second is The Weedle, intimidating, pointy, almost always Poison-type. From Gen VI on, you may only see one or the other per game.

--> '''Caterpie subtype:''' Caterpie line (''Gen I''); Ledyba line (''Gen II''); Wurmple line ending in Beautifly (''Gen III''); Kricketot line (''Gen IV''); Sewaddle line (''Gen V''); Scatterbug line (''Gen VI''); Blipbug line (''Gen VIII''); Tarountula line (''Gen IX'')
--> '''Weedle subtype:''' Weedle line (''Gen I''); Spinarak line (''Gen II''); Wurmple line ending in Dustox (''Gen III''); Venipede line (''Gen V''); Grubbin line (''Gen VII''); Nymble line (''Gen IX'')
-->'''Pokémon similar to this archetype:''' Burmy & Combee lines[[note]]They are literally a moth and bee like in Gen I, share the same habitat, and have gender based evolutions (The former one for both male & female, but the latter for female only) but they both come later than Kricketot in the same Gen[[/note]] (''Gen IV'')

-->'''Pokémon similar to this archetype:''' Hoppip line & Sunkern line [[note]]Hoppip is common and has three stages like Oddish before it, but Sunkern has the special evolution method and is uncommon and weaker by far than the others. The two also aren't positioned as counterparts[[/note]] (''Gen II''); Gossifleur line (''Gen VIII''); Smoliv line & Capsakid line[[note]]Like in Gen II, one is more common and three stages, while the other is less common and has special evolution method. They also aren't positioned as counterparts.[[/note]] (''Gen IX'')

An archetype that has appeared in every odd-numbered generation thus far, these Pokémon are all based on mushrooms. They are Grass-types found rather early on and usually evolve in the 20's, but what makes this archetype particularly unique is the move Spore, which is exclusive to this archetype and is the only perfect-accuracy move that causes Sleep.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Paras line (''Gen I''); Shroomish line (''Gen III''); Foongus line (''Gen V''); Morelull line (''Gen VII''); Toedscool line (''Gen IX'');
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Brute Bonnet[[note]]Is a mushroom that learns Spore and is introduced in an odd-numbered generation, but is a late-game single-stage Pokémon, albeit one whose design is derived from Amoonguss.[[/note]] (''Gen IX'');

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Pikachu line (''Gen I''); Pichu (''Gen II''); Plusle & Minun (''Gen III''); Pachirisu (''Gen IV''); Emolga (''Gen V''); Dedenne (''Gen VI''); Togedemaru (''Gen VII''); Morpeko (''Gen VIII''); Pawmi line (''Gen IX'');
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Marill line[[note]]Shares some visual and thematic similarities to its predecessor, even being referred to as "Pikablu" before its official name was release. However, it deviates from the standard color and typing of the standard Pikaclone, has a complete evolutionary line, and plays out like a MightyGlacier when every other example is some degree of FragileSpeedster.[[/note]] (''Gen II''); Mimikyu[[note]]Appears in the same generation as Togedemaru and plays out more like a DeconstructedCharacterArchetype than a true example.[[/note]] (''Gen VII'')

->'''Pokémon similar to this archetype:''' Rhyhorn line[[note]]The final stage wasn't introduced until well after its previous two stages, and wasn't as significant an upgrade from them as that of true Pokémon of this archetype. Geodude in the same Gen is the main mold of the archetype[[/note]] (''Gen I'')

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Abra line (''Gen I''); Ralts line (''Gen III''); Gothita line & Solosis line[[note]]Gothita plays it more straight, while Solosis bears a greater resemblance to a fetus or [[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homunculus Homunculus]]. [[/note]] (''Gen V''); Hatenna line (''Gen VIII'')

[[folder:The Gastly]]
!!The Gastly | The Main Ghost-Type
A Ghost-Type with a family of three evolutions, with the third form requiring a special method. They usually have a high Special Attack Stat, and a base stat total in the low 500s. Because Ghost-Types are generally uncommon, the may be the most common Ghost available.\\
\\
All of them have been the ace of an Elite Four member.
->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Gastly line (''Gen I''); Duskull line (''Gen III''); Litwick line (''Gen V''); Honedge line (''Gen VI'')

* AnimateInanimateObject: Litwick is a candle that turns into a lamp and later a chandelier, while the whole Honedge line is based on swords. Gastly is a downplayed example as a living cloud of toxic gas, but it still has significant ghostly features while its evolutions are an outright BedsheetGhost and LivingShadow.
* BossBattle: All of them have been the ace of an Elite Four member. The first three iterations with a Ghost-type specialist (Gengar with Agatha, Dusclops/noir with Phoebe, and Chandelure with Shauntal. Aegislash was the ace of a Steel-type Elite Four member, Wikstrom.
* EarlyInstallmentWeirdness:
** Gengar and Dusknoir require a [[SocializationBonus trade]] to evolve, while the other two only need a Dusk Stone.
** The Duskull line is notable for becoming a full member of this archetype by gaining a third form between generations. Litwick and Honedge instead had their own third forms introduced alongside their first and second from the get-go, like Gastly.
* NoSell: Their Ghost-type gives them immunities to both Normal and Fighting.
* SoulPower: They're always Ghost-types.
* YourSoulIsMine: Several of their Pokédex entries make mention of them stealing humans' souls or life force. Haunter tries to lick people with its tongue and steal their lives away, the Litwick line's flames are fueled by souls, and Honedge will drain the life of anyone that tries to wield it like a real sword.

[[folder:The Pokéball Decoy]]
!!The Pokéball Decoy
Items in the Pokémon series are generally represented by Pokéballs that litter the landscape. However, due to this, several Pokémon have been introduced that take advantage of this fact, and bear a similar design in order to trick players into running into them. Generally they are fairly balanced in their stats, albeit excelling in a few areas and falling flat in others.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Voltorb line (standard form only) (''Gen I''); Foongus line (''Gen V''); Galarian Stunfisk (''Gen VIII'');
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Hisuian Voltorb line[[note]]Although it does resemble the Pokéballs of the time period, Hisuian Voltorb and Electrode aren't discoverable in the overworld like the others in this category[[/note]] (''Gen VIII''); Orthworm[[note]]Also not discoverable as a mimic, while some hide in the ground, vaguely looking like Pokéballs, they aren't easily interactable in this state. Some just roam around.[[/note]], Greavard line [[note]]Mimics overworld items in its first form when it's buried underground, but doesn't look like a Poké Ball[[/note]], Brute Bonnet[[note]]Also not discoverable as a mimic like Hisuian Voltorb and Electrode, albeit due to being Amoonguss' ancestor.[[/note]], Gimmighoul line[[note]]While these are discoverable as a mimic, they don't function as a ChestMonster, as they don't resemble item pickups.[[/note]] (''Gen IX'');
----
* AnimateInanimateObject: They're all based on Pokéballs.
* ChestMonster: Essentially what their gimmick is; tricking you into thinking it’s an item before revealing it's a Pokémon.
[[/folder]]

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Grimer line, Koffing line (''Gen I''); Gulpin line (''Gen III''); Trubbish line (''Gen V')
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Varoom line[[note]]Although it's a Poison-type Pokémon with two stages and represents a form of pollution, it's also part Steel-type and is less amorphous than the other members.[[/note]] (''Gen IX'')

[[folder:The Fossil Duo]]
!!The Fossil Duo
A duo of Pokémon that can be obtained via FossilRevival. Usually, you are given the choice between one of the two fossils to obtain and later revive, though there may be a way to obtain the other, particularly post-game. Fossil Pokémon specific to this archetype are always Rock-type, and they generally evolve around level 40.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Omanyte & Kabuto lines (''Gen I''); Lileep & Anorith lines (''Gen III''); Cranidos & Shieldon lines (''Gen IV''); Tirtouga & Archen lines (''Gen V''); Tyrunt & Amaura lines (''Gen VI'')
->'''Pokémon similar to this archetype:''' Aerodactyl[[note]]A SixthRanger independent of the Omanyte and Kabuto lines from the same generation.[[/note]] (''Gen I''); Dracozolt, Dracovish, Arctozolt, and Arctovish[[note]]Four different Pokémon based off of [[MixAndMatchCritters two different variables]], none of which are Rock-type.[[/note]] (''Gen VIII'')

!Duality Pairs

[[folder:The Hitmonlee & Hitmonchan]]
!!The Hitmonlee & Hitmonchan | Direct Contrast Duo

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Hitmonlee & Hitmonchan[[note]]before receiving a shared preevolution and a third in Gen II[[/note]] (''Gen I''); Plusle & Minun, Lunatone & Solrock (''Gen III''); Throh & Sawk (''Gen V''); Oranguru & Passimian (''Gen VII'');
->'''Pokémon similar to archetype:''' Scyther & Scizor[[note]]Introduced in different generations, and share the same evolutionary line, but are the only evolutions that don't change base stat total.[[/note]], Pinsir & Heracross[[note]]JapaneseBeetleBrothers that have been introduced in different generations, and only loosely juxtapose one another in gameplay style.[[/note]] (''Gens I and II''), Armarouge and Ceruledge[[note]]They share a preevolution in Charcadet, essentially getting their "Tyrogue" in their debut Gen.[[/note]] and Tatsugiri & Dondozo[[note]]They do not share base stat total, being BigGuyLittleGuy instead of an equal pairing.[[/note]] (''Gen IX'')

[[folder:The Nidorans ♀ & ♂]]

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Nidoran female & male lines (''Gen I''); Volbeat & Illumise, Latios & Latias (''Gen III''); Rufflet & Vullaby lines (''Gen V''); Hatenna & Impidimp lines (''Gen VIII'')
->'''Pokémon of the same species with gameplay differences between genders:''' Meowstic[[note]]Distinct designs and movepools after evolving from Espurr[[/note]]; Indeedee[[note]]Varying designs, movepools, and stats[[/note]]; Oinkologne[[note]]Different design, abilities, and base stats after evolvng from Lechonk. They share movepools but the female learns them at a faster rate[[/note]] (''Gen IX'')
->'''Pokémon similar to this archetype:''' Tauros & Miltank[[note]]Introduced in different generations, and have sharply contrasting character designs, with Miltank being more anthropomorphic and cartoony than Tauros.[[/note]] (''Gens I and II''); Mew and Mewtwo[[note]]In the Gen I games Mew is said to be Mewtwo's mother, though the latter is not gendered. In the anime and other contemporary spinoffs Mewtwo was gendered male[[/note]] (''Gen I''); Darkrai and Cresselia[[note]]While Cresselia is all female, Darkrai is undiscovered gender[[/note]] (''Gen IV''); Solgaleo and Lunala[[note]]Genderless in game, but described as gendered evolutions of the Cosmog line, Solgaleo male and Lunala female[[/note]] (''Gen VII''); Zacian and Zamazenta[[note]]Genderless in game, but described as siblings, Zacian the sister and Zamazenta the brother[[/note]] (''Gen VIII'')

[[folder:The Zangoose & Seviper]]
!!The Zangoose & Seviper | The Predator Prey Duo

->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Axew line[[note]]Three-stage Dragon-type Pokémon with obscenely high Attack and a similarly-high level for evolving into its final form, often used by late Gym Leaders and Elite Four members. However, its final stage's base stat totals are only 540, with its other stats ranging from decent to middling. Whereas true pseudo-legendaries [[MagicKnight can attack from either the physical or special end]], [[MagicallyIneptFighter Haxorus]] is [[PoorPredictableRock strictly limited to physical attacks]][[/note]] (''Gen V''); Duraludon line[[note]]Only one-stage in its debut, it would later become two-stage with 600 BST and partial Dragon-typing in its second form[[/note]] (''Gen VIII and IX'');

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Legendary Birds[[note]]Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres[[/note]] (''Gen I''); Legendary Beasts[[note]]Raikou, Entei, and Suicune[[/note]] (''Gen II''); Eon Duo[[note]]Latios and Latias[[/note]] and Legendary Titans[[note]]Regirock, Regice, Registeel, Regieleki, and Regidrago[[/note]] (''Gen III''); Lake Guardians[[note]]Uxie, Mesprit, and Azelf[[/note]] (''Gen IV''); Forces of Nature[[note]]Tornadus, Thundurus, Landorus, and Enamorus[[/note]] and Swords of Justice[[note]]Cobalion, Terrakion, Virizion, and Keldeo[[/note]] (''Gen V''); Guardian Deities[[note]]Tapu Koko, Tapu Lele, Tapu Bulu, and Tapu Fini[[/note]] (''Gen VII''); Galarian Legendary Birds[[note]]Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres[[/note]] (''Gen VIII''); Treasures of Ruin[[note]]Ting-Lu, Chien-Pao, Wo-Chien, and Chi-Yu[[/note]] and Loyal Three[[note]]Okidogi, Munkidori, and Fezandipiti[[/note]] (''Gen IX'');

[[ZigZaggingTrope This archetype is never exactly the same from game to game]], though its purest form was defined in Gens III and Gen IV. In most cases, they are Legendary Pokémon which are far above both common wild Pokémon and minor Legendaries, often treated as major deities in their own right. Because of their overwhelming power, mascot Legendaries are generally banned from official tournaments and battle facilities.

%%TO PRESERVE FONT SIZE; DO NOT REMOVE
-->'''DLC Mascot Legendaries:''' Urshifu ans Calyrex (''Gen VIII''); Ogerpon and Terapagos (''Gen III'')
%%TO PRESERVE FONT SIZE; DO NOT REMOVE
-->'''Other Mascots:''' The Kanto Starters[[note]]Charizard, Venusaur, Blastoise, Pikachu, and Eevee[[/note]] (''Gen I''); Suicune (''Gen II'');
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Mew Duo[[note]]Mewtwo and Mew. They don't actually appear on the cover art of the games they're introduced in, despite effectively serving this role for these games, and [[AvertedTrope aren't]] [[ClimaxBoss encountered in the story proper]]. The two also created thier own separate archetypes.[[/note]] (''Gen I''); Arceus[[note]]Is ostensibly the mascot of ''Legends: Arceus'', itself a very heavily stylized remake-esque iteration of Gen IV, alongside the very vanilla ''Brilliant & Shining'' versions, being its namesake and the [[MissionFromGod catalyst for the entire story]]. It's also the Trio Master of the Mascots from the original release. However it plays a limited role throughout said story as a mysterious MissionControl and [[TrueFinalBoss only makes a personal appearance at the very end of the postgame]]. It also [[ArsonMurderAndJaywalking doesn't actually appear on the cover]].[[/note]] (''Gen IV''); Eternatus[[note]]Has very strong ties to Zacian and Zamazenta and battling it serves as the climax to the main story, but isn't seen or even mentioned until late into the game.[[/note]] (''Gen VIII'')

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Rayquaza (''Gen III''); Giratina (''Gen IV''); Kyurem (''Gen V''); Necrozma (''Gen VII''); Terapagos [[note]]Doesn't belong to the duo, but factors into their plotline[[/note]] (''Gen IX'');
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Suicune[[note]]A mascot that belongs to a different group of Legendary Pokémon than Ho-Oh and Lugia, and is only related to the former[[/note]] (''Gen II''); Zygarde[[note]]Not a version mascot, but part of the same group with its duo[[/note]] (''Gen VI''); Eternatus[[note]]Not a version mascot, and technically does not belong to the duo of Zacian and Zamazenta but antagonizes them[[/note]], Calyrex[[note]]Like Eternatus, it doesn't belong to the duo of Zacian and Zamazenta from the base game, and is instead the leader of its own separate trio of Legendary Pokémon[[/note]] (''Gen VIII'')

[[folder:The Mewtwo-like Lifeform]]
!!The Mewtwo
An extremely rare Pokémon that doesn't play well with humans. Going after them isn't just difficult but actually dangerous. They are somehow corrupted by science, an framed as hostile towards their creators or humans in general. While Mewtwo is officially Legendary, this distinct group has been labeled both Legendary and Mythical.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Mewtwo (''Gen I''); Deoxys (''Gen III''); Genesect (''Gen V''); Type: Null (''Gen VII'');

* AntiVillain: Unlike the Mews who are often to be protected, and the mascots that are just forces of nature, the hostile legendary is framed as an outright antagonist. Some may undergo a HeelFaceTurn by the end.
* ArtificialHuman: Mewtwo, Deoxys, Genesect, and Type: Null were all created/altered by humans in some way.
* DefrostingIceQueen: They tend to start out with a base happiness of 0, implying that it's a lot harder to earn their trust than it is with most Pokémon.
* HeelFaceTurn: In keeping with the anime's philosophy that no Pokémon is inherently evil. Whether they come around at the midpoint, the climax, or the epilogue, they do reach an understanding with the heroes eventually. In the games, however, it depends on the mon and often requries the player to catch them first. Type:Null takes this further by evolving into Silvally via friendship.
* HumansAreTheRealMonsters: Many of them lash out after being scorned by humans.
* PoorCommunicationKills: They might just be scary-looking customers that can't explain their actions. In this case, they're not hostile because they hate humans, but because humans hate them.
* UltimateLifeform:
** Scientists cloned Mewtwo from the DNA of Mew to create the strongest Pokémon, and its two Mega Evolutions grant it the highest Attack and Special Attack of all Pokémon.
** Deoxys is said to be mutated by a laser beam and can freely change its form to specialize in either offense, defense, or speed, near maximizing their respective stats.
** Genesect was already an apex prehistoric predator before being revived and further enhanced by Team Plasma to act as a living superweapon.
** Type: Null is a chimeric Pokémon modeled after Arceus to adapt to any confrontation and combat [[EldritchAbomination Ultra Beasts]].

[[folder:The Mew-like Fairy]]
!!The Mew
A diminutive cute fairy-like Pokémon, typically with perfectly balanced stats and a massive movepool. Their most distinguishing feature in most games is the inability to actually encounter them. Most are locked behind real life in-person giveaway events or limited time online promotions. \\
\\
This archetype was a series staple for the first five generations, but has been increasingly [[PlayingWithATrope played with]] afterwards for more unique Mythicals.

%%TO PRESERVE FONT SIZE; DO NOT REMOVE
->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Mew (''Gen I''); Celebi (''Gen II''); Jirachi (''Gen III''); Manaphy and Shaymin (''Gen IV''); Victini (''Gen V'');
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Phione and Arceus[[note]]Phione is hatched from a Manaphy egg, and is [[MasterOfNone all-around far weaker]] than a standard Mythical Fairy. Arceus isn't fairy like in design, but is a Mythical with [[MasterOfAll all-around superior stats]], [[SerialEscalation even more versatility and an even stronger claim to being the ancestor of all Pokemon than Mew itself.]][[/note]] (''Gen IV''); Meloetta[[note]]Fluxes between being a specially-oriented MightyGlacier and physically-oriented LightningBruiser, depending on which form it's in.[[/note]] (''Gen V''); Diancie and Hoopa (''Gen VI''); Magearna and Marshadow[[note]]Neither duo of which have perfectly balanced stats; each Pokémon is designated towards specific playstyles.[[/note]] (''Gen VII''); Calyrex[[note]]Can transform into either a physically-oriented MightyGlacier or a specially-oriented LightningBruiser. It only has balanced stats in its base form; even then, its HP is slightly more than its other stats, which are [[MasterOfNone all-around middling]] by this archetype's standards. Lastly, it is categorized as a Legendary and not as a Mythical Pokémon.[[/note]] (''Gen VIII''); Pecharunt[[note]]A small and cute mythical, its stats are all a flat 88 except for its monstrous 160 base Defense stat. It's also ''far'' more malicious than the others.[[/note]] (''Gen IX'');
----
* BadassAdorable: Despite their small size, they're relatively balanced powerhouses.
* CuteCrittersActChildlike: In the anime, they tend to be portrayed as cheerful and playful, just wanting to have fun.
* JackOfAllStats: In the straightest examples, they have perfectly balanced stats (100 in each) for a base stat total of 600. Looser examples play with strengths and weaknesses, but still add up to 600.
* LivingMacGuffin: Their role in a lot of the anime movies, if not outright being a DamselInDistress.
* MasterOfAll: Mew is said to be the ancestor of all Pokémon and has the genetic code to be able to use every teachable move in the game. Other mythical fairies have large movepools but are more limited to their type specialities. Arceus is not a fairy, but reprises Mew's role as the originator as the TopGod [[OlympusMons of Pokémon.]] It can learn all teachable moves (except those that explicitly use hands, since it's a quadruped) and can also change its type.
* PsychicPowers: The vast majority have the Psychic-type, with only Gen IV and Gen VII being the odd ones out (discounting Arceus holding the Mind Plate for Gen IV).
* WolverinePublicity: Being tiny and adorable, they're always at the forefront of movies, marketing, and merchandise in their respective generations.
[[/folder]]

* IncreasinglyLethalEnemy: Usually they have low HP, Defenses, and no reliable recovery making them easily to eliminate. But many of them have means of being increasingly annoying or dangerous the longer they're allowed to stay on the field. Whether this be by boosting their own stats (through moves like Swords Dance or Quiver Dance), as a TrapMaster (with Sticky Web, Spikes, and Toxic Spikes) and spamming status effects (Stun Spore, Sleep Powder, Poisonpowder, Toxic especially if they have Compund Eyes to boost the accuracy of these moves) in between to give them time to set up. The Ledyba line uniquely uses barriers (Light Screen and Reflect) to boost defense rather than directly antagonizing the enemy. If you don't take them out immediately, they can cripple an entire team, or become sweepers themselves.

* PoisonousPerson: Pokémon of the "intimidating" subtype tend to be Poison type.

!!The Hitmonlee & Hitmonchan | Themed Duo

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Dratini line, Larvitar line, Bagon line, Beldum line, Gible line, Deino line, Goomy line, Jangmo-o line, Dreepy line, Frigibax line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Slakoth line[[note]]While Slaking has a base stat total comparable to legendaries, it goes over the line and has a base stat total of 670 but with the drawback of not attacking every other turn[[/note]], Trapinch line[[note]]A three-stage line of Dragon-type Pokémon with a high evolution level, but Flygon is weaker than the true members of this archetype, and levels up faster.[[/note]], Axew line[[note]]Three-stage Dragon-type Pokémon with obscenely high Attack and a similarly-high level for evolving into its final form. However, its final stage's base stat totals are only 540, with its other stats ranging from decent to middling. Whereas true pseudo-legendaries [[MagicKnight can attack from either the physical or special end]], [[MagicallyIneptFighter Haxorus]] is [[PoorPredictableRock strictly limited to physical attacks]][[/note]], Duraludon line[[note]]Is only two-stage, even though Archaludon has 600 BST and is part-Dragon type[[/note]]

* BossBattle: Their fully evolved forms are either the SignatureMon or at least a team member of endgame bosses such as the eighth Gym Leader, the founder of a villainous team, the EliteFour, or the Champion.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Legendary Birds[[note]]Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres[[/note]](and their Galarian forms), Legendary Beasts[[note]]Raikou, Entei, and Suicune[[/note]], Eon Duo[[note]]Latios and Latias[[/note]], Legendary Titans[[note]]Regirock, Regice, Registeel, Regieleki, and Regidrago[[/note]], Lake Guardians[[note]]Uxie, Mesprit, and Azelf[[/note]], Forces of Nature[[note]]Tornadus, Thundurus, Landorus, and Enamorus[[/note]], Swords of Justice[[note]]Cobalion, Terrakion, Virizion, and Keldeo[[/note]], Guardian Deities[[note]]Tapu Koko, Tapu Lele, Tapu Bulu, and Tapu Fini[[/note]], Treasures of Ruin[[note]]Ting-Lu, Chien-Pao, Wo-Chien, and Chi-Yu[[/note]], Loyal Three[[note]]Okidogi, Munkidori, and Fezandipiti[[/note]]

-->'''Mascot Legendary Teams:''' Tower Duo[[note]]Lugia and Ho-Oh[[/note]], Weather Trio[[note]]Kyogre, Groudon, and Rayquaza[[/note]], Creation Trio[[note]]Dialga, Palkia, and Giratina[[/note]], Tao Trio[[note]]Reshiram, Zekrom, and Kyurem (White & Black versions)[[/note]], Aura Trio[[note]]Xerneas, Yveltal, and Zygarde[[/note]], Light Trio[[note]]Solgaleo, Lunala, and Necrozma (Dusk Mane and Dawn Wings versions)[[/note]], Hero Duo[[note]]Zacian and Zamazenta[[/note]], Paradox Duo[[note]]Koraidon and Miraidon[[/note]]

-->'''DLC Mascot Legendaries:''' Urshifu, Calyrex, Ogerpon, Terapagos

-->'''Other Mascots:''' All Kanto Starters[[note]]Charizard, Venusaur, Blastoise, Pikachu, and Eevee[[/note]], Suicune
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Mew Duo[[note]]Mewtwo and Mew. They don't actually appear on the cover art of the games they're introduced in, despite effectively serving this role for these games, and [[AvertedTrope aren't]] [[ClimaxBoss encountered in the story proper]]. The two also share different legendary roles, with Mewtwo being a Hostile Legendary and Mew being a Mythical Fairy.[[/note]], Eternatus[[note]]Has very strong ties to Zacian and Zamazenta and battling it serves as the climax to the main story, but isn't seen or even mentioned until late into the game.[[/note]], Arceus[[note]]Is ostensibly the mascot of ''Legends: Arceus'', being its namesake and the [[MissionFromGod catalyst for the entire story]], but plays a limited role throughout said story as a mysterious MissionControl and [[TrueFinalBoss only makes a personal appearance at the very end of the postgame]]. It also [[ArsonMurderAndJaywalking doesn't actually appear on the cover]].[[/note]]

** The Kanto games also had two enhanced versions. ''Blue'' was the original third version in Japan. ''Yellow'' was actually a fourth version despite codifying the idea of a third version worldwide.

*** The idea of the version mascots having warm/cool ColorContrast was originated by the Kanto starters, with Charizard being the warm-colored mascot in ''Red'' and ''[=FireRed=]'' in all regions and the cool-colored mascots being Venusaur (''Green'' in Japan, ''[=LeafGreen=]'' in all regions) and Blastoise (''Blue''). Pikachu in ''Yellow'' would additionally establish yellow as one of the common colors for the "third member". Obviously, none of the Kanto starters are legendaries and so have no connotations of being rare, powerful, or valuable to evil factions.
*** The Mew duo represents nature vs technology as the ancestor of natural born Pokémon, and a man-made clone/genetic experiment. Mewtwo is also associated with Giovanni the way some team bosses are associated with a mascot legendary, even if Team Rocket isn't obsessed with catching it. In some continuities, he’s partially responsible for creating it. Of course, Mewtwo and Mew obviously aren't the mascots of any game, nor do they have the usual warm/cool ColorContrast.
** Ho-oh and Lugia still weren't pursued by the evil team, but they share Mewtwo's stat total and appear as proper mascots. They were a true duo, but still ended up getting an enhanced third version. Suicune was thrown in as the new mascot as the most popular of the Legendary Beasts.

** Gen V skipped doing a "Gray Version" for Kyurem, and instead introduced the idea of the third member doing a FusionDance with the duo. This resulted in the first paired enhanced versions instead of just a single third version.

** Gen VII did a lot with legendaries, and the newly christened Ultra Beasts. For the duo, it introduced the idea of the mascots coming from a branched evolution line. For the third member, it reprised both the FusionDance with other mascots for paired enhanced versions (Necrozma's Dusk Mane and Dawn Wings modes), as well as giving the third member a unique super mode (Ultra Necrozma).
** Gen VIII looked like it would reprise Necrozma with Eternatus. However, instead of a new enhanced version, the original versions were enhanced with DLC. The DLC mascots Urshifu and Calyrex don't have much to do with the original duo. Interestingly, it is the first time since Gen I that there are four distinct mascots in a single generation.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Rayquaza, Giratina, Kyurem, Necrozma, Terapagos
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Suicune[[note]]Belongs to a different group of Legendary Pokémon than Ho-Oh and Lugia[[/note]], Zygarde[[note]]Not a version mascot[[/note]], Eternatus[[note]]Not a version mascot, and technically does not belong to the duo of Zacian and Zamazenta[[/note]], Calyrex[[note]]Like Eternatus, it doesn't belong to the duo of Zacian and Zamazenta from the base game, and is instead the leader of its own separate trio of Legendary Pokémon[[/note]]

** Gen II has Suicune as the mascot of ''Crystal'', and while it has a lore connection to ''Gold'''s mascot Ho-Oh, it's otherwise unrelated to the main plot of the game.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Mewtwo, Deoxys, Genesect, Type: Null,

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Mew, Celebi, Jirachi, Manaphy and Shaymin, Victini
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Phione and Arceus[[note]]Phione is hatched from a Manaphy egg, and is [[MasterOfNone all-around far weaker]] than a standard Mythical Fairy. Arceus isn't fairy like in design, but is a Mythical with [[MasterOfAll all-around superior stats]], [[SerialEscalation even more versatility and an even stronger claim to being the ancestor of all Pokemon than Mew itself.]][[/note]], Meloetta[[note]]Fluxes between being a specially-oriented MightyGlacier and physically-oriented LightningBruiser, depending on which form it's in.[[/note]], Diancie and Hoopa, Magearna and Marshadow[[note]]Neither duo of which have perfectly balanced stats; each Pokémon is designated towards specific playstyles.[[/note]], Calyrex[[note]]Can transform into either a physically-oriented MightyGlacier or a specially-oriented LightningBruiser. It only has balanced stats in its base form; even then, its HP is slightly more than its other stats, which are [[MasterOfNone all-around middling]] by this archetype's standards. Lastly, it is categorized as a Legendary and not as a Mythical Pokémon.[[/note]], Pecharunt[[note]]A small and cute mythical, its stats are all a flat 88 except for its monstrous 160 base Defense stat. It's also ''far'' more malicious than the others.[[/note]]

* SnowballingThreat: While they're somewhat easy to defeat, many of them have means of being increasingly annoying or dangerous the longer they stay on the field. Whether this be by boosting their own stats (through moves like Swords Dance or Quiver Dance), as a TrapMaster (with Sticky Web, Spikes, and Toxic Spikes) or spaming status effects (Stun Spore, Sleep Powder, Poisonpowder, especially if they have Compund Eyes to boost the accuracy of these moves). The Ledyba line uniquely uses barriers (Light Screen and Reflect) to boost defense rather than directly antagonizing the enemy.

-->'''Starters of different types:''' Pikachu & Eevee [[note]]Used and the player and rivals respective starters in ''Yellow,'' and again in the ''Let's Go'' remakes depending on version allowing the player to use Eevee as well. When used by the player they are not allowed to evolve[[/note]] (''Gen I'');

* TheHero: The closest monsters to being main characters. They get a lot of facetime in the marketing and their designs give them pretty strong "canon" personalities. They're also heavily associated with the human lead characters. However they have no actual importance within the games themselves except for in the Lets Go games, with your starter choice having no plot importance nor any gameplay ramifications beyond a slight influence to the rivals' teams, with you being free to bench and even release your starter as you soon as you catch another Pokémon.

-->'''Pokémon similar to this archetype:''' Burmy line[[note]]Has a larval stage and similar stats and learnsets to other butterfly-like members of the archetype, but has a two-stage branching evolution based on gender with no pupal stage for the males and a lifelong pupal stage for the females[[/note]] (''Gen IV'')

* BlowYouAway: Pokémon of the "docile" subtype tend to end up Flying-type on their final evolution. Even the winged members of the intimidating subtype can usually learn some Flying-type moves.