Delving into the Enigmatic Pokémon Number 00: A Comprehensive Guide
The question of what Pokémon is number 00 often sparks confusion and curiosity among Pokémon enthusiasts. The answer is: it depends on the context! In most standard Pokédex arrangements, there is no Pokémon designated as number 00. However, there’s one exception that makes the concept of a Pokémon #00 a reality: Victini. In the Unova Pokédex, Victini is uniquely designated as #000, making it the only Pokémon to legitimately hold this distinction in any official regional Pokédex. This special placement is due to Victini’s association with victory and being a good luck charm, effectively positioning it ‘before’ the conventional start of the Pokédex.
The Mythical Case of Victini: Unova’s Number 000
Why Victini is Special
Victini, a Mythical Pokémon introduced in the fifth generation (Pokémon Black and White), possesses a unique position within the Unova region’s Pokédex. Unlike other regions where the Pokédex begins with the starter Pokémon (Snivy, Tepig, and Oshawott), the Unova Pokédex places Victini at the very beginning, with the index number 000. This unusual placement highlights Victini’s significance and role as a bringer of victory. Its presence is believed to ensure success for those who befriend it, making it a highly sought-after Pokémon.
What Makes It “Legitimate”?
The designation of #000 for Victini is considered legitimate because it’s officially recognized within the game’s programming and displayed in the in-game Pokédex. This is not a fan-made concept or a glitch; it’s a deliberate design choice by the Pokémon developers to emphasize Victini’s special status.
The Unova Pokédex Structure
It’s important to understand the structure of the Unova Pokédex to appreciate Victini’s position. The Unova Pokédex initially featured Pokémon exclusively from the Unova region, making it a fresh start for players. With Victini at #000, the traditional numbering then begins with the starter Pokémon, creating a sense of anticipation and excitement for players embarking on their journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Pokémon Numbers
1. What is the standard numbering system for the Pokédex?
The standard numbering system for the Pokédex typically begins with number 001, assigned to the first Pokémon in the national Pokédex, Bulbasaur. Regional Pokédexes also follow a similar pattern, starting with the first Pokémon found within that specific region.
2. Are there any other Pokémon with unusual Pokédex numbers?
While no other Pokémon is designated as #00 in a regional Pokédex, some Pokémon have changed positions or have been added to the Pokédex with numbers that might seem unconventional at first glance. However, they all follow the standard numbering from 001 onward.
3. What is the 1000th Pokémon in the National Pokédex?
The 1000th Pokémon in the National Pokédex is Gholdengo, a Steel/Ghost type introduced in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet (Generation 9). Gholdengo evolves from Gimmighoul after collecting 999 Gimmighoul Coins.
4. What is the significance of Pokédex numbers in gameplay?
Pokédex numbers are primarily used for organization and identification. They don’t directly impact gameplay mechanics like battling or stats. However, they serve as a reference point for collectors and competitive players. They are an integral part of the franchise and often discussed within learning games and the educational gaming sector, which the GamesLearningSociety.org actively researches and promotes.
5. What happens when new Pokémon are introduced?
When new Pokémon are introduced, they are assigned sequential numbers in the National Pokédex, continuing the established numbering system. This ensures each Pokémon has a unique identifier.
6. What Pokémon is number 001?
Bulbasaur is the Pokémon with number 001 in the National Pokédex. This Grass/Poison type is one of the original starter Pokémon from the Kanto region.
7. What Pokémon is number 151?
Mew is the Pokémon with number 151 in the National Pokédex. This Psychic-type Mythical Pokémon marked the end of the original 151 Pokémon in the Kanto region.
8. What is the National Pokédex?
The National Pokédex is a comprehensive list of all known Pokémon, arranged in a specific numerical order. It serves as the definitive guide to all Pokémon across different regions and generations.
9. How do regional Pokédexes differ from the National Pokédex?
Regional Pokédexes focus on the Pokémon found within a specific region, like Kanto, Johto, or Unova. They may not include all Pokémon from the National Pokédex, but they provide a localized list tailored to the game’s setting.
10. Is there a Pokémon number 666?
Yes, the Pokémon number 666 is Vivillon, a Bug/Flying type Pokémon known for its diverse wing patterns based on the geographical location where the game is played.
11. What is the purpose of collecting all Pokémon in the Pokédex?
Collecting all Pokémon in the Pokédex is a primary goal for many players. Completing the Pokédex often unlocks in-game rewards, recognition, and a sense of accomplishment.
12. How do alternate forms affect Pokédex numbering?
Alternate forms, such as Mega Evolutions or regional variants, typically do not receive new Pokédex numbers. They are considered variations of the original Pokémon and are often documented within the same Pokédex entry.
13. What Pokémon is number 777?
The Pokémon with number 777 is Togedemaru, an Electric/Steel type Pokémon introduced in the Alola region.
14. What Pokémon is number 420?
The Pokémon with number 420 is Cherubi, a Grass type Pokémon. It’s known as the Cherry Pokémon.
15. Are there any other interesting facts about Pokédex numbers?
One interesting fact is that the placement of certain Pokémon numbers can sometimes be thematic or coincidental. For example, Voltorb is number 100, which might be related to its resemblance to a Poké Ball. Additionally, the Games Learning Society (https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/) explores how these elements of game design, like Pokédex numbering, contribute to engagement and learning in gaming environments.
Pokémon numbers provide a fundamental framework for organizing and cataloging the vast world of Pokémon. While Victini remains the sole exception as #000 in the Unova Pokédex, the conventional numbering system ensures a structured and comprehensive listing of all Pokémon across various regions and generations. Understanding the nuances of Pokédex numbers enhances appreciation for the game’s intricacies and encourages a deeper exploration of the Pokémon universe.