Is There More Than One Mew in Pokémon? The Definitive Answer
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The answer, like many things in the world of Pokémon, is both surprisingly simple and wonderfully complex: In the core Pokémon lore, there is believed to be only one true Mew. However, within the various games, adaptations, and even the trading card game, the ability to obtain and interact with multiple Mews is a distinct and fascinating reality. So, the “one true Mew” is a concept, but the mechanics of the Pokémon universe allow for players to acquire and use several.
Mew: The Ancestor of All Pokémon?
According to the established Pokémon canon, Mew is often referred to as the ancestor or origin of all Pokémon. This concept positions Mew as being the source from which all other Pokémon species evolved or were created. Think of it as the root of a massive, branching family tree. This narrative is core to Mew’s mystical status and popularity within the franchise. This idea is central to understanding why the lore insists on a singular, foundational Mew, which is also the beginning of the Pokémon Family Tree.
The interesting thing is the Pokémon Family Tree branches out to show other Pokemon, such as Lugia and Ho-Oh.
In-Game Mechanics: Multiple Mews Are Possible
Despite the lore, the video games allow players to acquire multiple Mews. This can happen through various methods:
- Glitches: In older games like the original Pokémon Red and Blue, clever players discovered glitches that could be exploited to encounter and capture Mew. While these methods weren’t officially sanctioned, they were (and still are) a popular way to get Mew.
- Mystery Gifts/Events: Nintendo often distributes special Mystery Gifts or hosts in-game events where players can receive rare Pokémon like Mew. These events sometimes repeat, allowing players to obtain multiple Mews across different save files or even within the same game.
- Multiple Save Files: Creating multiple save files on different profiles or even different games can allow you to get Mew again. Certain events that grant Mew may be repeatable in each new save.
- Pokémon GO Special Research: Pokémon GO has offered Mew as a reward for completing a special research quest. While you only get one Mew per account through this quest, Niantic has, in some cases, released additional opportunities to obtain Mew, particularly Shiny Mew.
The Contradiction: Lore vs. Gameplay
This apparent contradiction between the lore and gameplay is something that Pokémon fans have debated for years. Some see the “one true Mew” as a thematic element, a way to give the creature a sense of mystique and importance. Others view the multiple Mews in-game as simply a gameplay mechanic, a way to make the Pokémon accessible to players.
Ultimately, how you interpret this contradiction is up to you. It’s part of what makes the Pokémon universe so engaging and fascinating. The tension between established lore and player agency creates a richer, more dynamic experience.
Mewtwo and the Clone Debate
The existence of Mewtwo, the powerful genetically engineered Pokémon, further complicates the question. Mewtwo is often described as a clone of Mew, albeit a modified and enhanced one. While the precise details of Mewtwo’s origin vary across different media (games, anime, manga), the core concept remains: Mewtwo is derived from Mew’s DNA.
If Mewtwo is a clone, does that count as another Mew? Not exactly. Mewtwo is its own distinct entity, with its own personality, powers, and story. However, its existence reinforces the idea that Mew’s essence, its DNA, can be replicated, albeit with potentially unpredictable results.
The Significance of Shiny Mew
The introduction of Shiny Mew adds another layer to the discussion. A Shiny Pokémon is a rare variant with a different color palette than the original. The existence of Shiny Mew suggests that even within the “one true Mew” concept, there is room for variation and uniqueness. Getting a Shiny Mew is often a matter of persistence, luck, and taking advantage of available events. It’s a badge of honor among Pokémon collectors and trainers.
FAQs About Mew
1. Can you get a second Mew in Pokémon GO?
Generally, you receive one Mew per account through the “A Mythical Discovery” Special Research. However, Niantic has released limited-time events, like the “All-in-One 151” Masterwork Research, that reward players with a Shiny Mew. So, technically, while you can’t get a second regular Mew through research, obtaining a Shiny Mew is possible.
2. How do you get multiple Mews in Pokémon games?
In older games, players used glitches. Modern games offer Mew through Mystery Gift events, special promotions, or by starting new save files on different profiles.
3. Is Mew or Mewtwo more powerful?
In most canons, Mewtwo is considered more powerful due to its enhanced stats and abilities. However, Mew’s ability to learn any move makes it a versatile and unpredictable opponent.
4. Why is Mew so rare?
Mew’s rarity is tied to its lore as the ancestor of all Pokémon and its status as a Mythical Pokémon, distributed primarily through special events rather than wild encounters.
5. Was Mew added to Pokémon Red/Blue last minute?
Yes, Mew was indeed added near the end of the development cycle of Pokémon Red and Blue, after removing debug features freed up enough space in the game’s code.
6. Is there a Mewthree Pokémon?
Mewthree is a fan-made concept, and it only exists in some of the Pokémon Manga. It is not a part of the official Pokémon canon.
7. What are the best counters for Mega Mewtwo in Pokémon GO?
Good counters include Mega Gengar, Mega Tyranitar, Shadow Tyranitar, Mega Banette, Shadow Chandelure, and Mega Rayquaza.
8. Is Mew a male or female Pokémon?
Like many Legendary and Mythical Pokémon, Mew is genderless.
9. What is the rarest Mew Pokémon card?
Some of the rarest and most valuable Mew Pokémon cards include the 2001 Pokemon Southern Islands Promo Mew Holo #1 and the 2006 Pokemon Ex Dragon Frontiers Mew Holo #101 (Gold Star).
10. Why does Mew have the DNA of every Pokémon?
This ties into Mew’s lore as the ancestor of all Pokémon. Its ability to Transform and learn any move suggests it possesses the genetic code necessary to mimic other species.
11. How do I redeem a Mew code in the newest Pokémon games?
To redeem a code for Mew, access the Poke Portal in the game menu, connect to the internet, select Mystery Gift, choose “Get with Code/Password,” and enter the provided code.
12. What does it mean for a Pokémon to be mythical?
Mythical Pokémon are extremely rare and often obtainable only through special events or distributions. They play a significant role in the game lore and are distinct from Legendary Pokémon, which are also rare but typically encountered in the main storyline.
13. Are there any websites dedicated to learning more about Pokémon?
Yes, there are many websites dedicated to Pokémon information and education. One such organization dedicated to research and understanding the culture behind games is the Games Learning Society, more information can be found at GamesLearningSociety.org.
14. Why is Mew considered the base of Pokémon evolution?
Mew is considered the base of Pokémon evolution due to its DNA containing information related to all Pokémon. This suggests that new Pokémon species evolved or were created from Mew as the original source.
15. Is Mew stronger than Pikachu?
Yes, statistically, Mew is stronger than Pikachu. Mew’s base stats are higher across the board, making it a more versatile and powerful Pokémon.
Conclusion: The Mystery Remains
So, is there more than one Mew? Lore-wise, there’s the original. Gameplay-wise, absolutely. This inherent ambiguity is part of what makes Mew such a beloved and enduring character in the Pokémon universe. Whether you’re a lore purist, a competitive battler, or simply a fan of collecting, Mew offers something for everyone. The mystery surrounding its existence continues to captivate players of all ages, ensuring its place as one of the most iconic and enigmatic creatures in the history of Pokémon.