**Tsunekazu Ishihara shares insights on the franchise's success, future, and the impact of scalpers and counterfeits.**
**Pokémon CEO Envisions Franchise Longevity Amidst Challenges**
**Pokémon CEO Envisions Franchise Longevity Amidst Challenges**
**The Pokémon Company aims for 50-100 more years of innovation in a dynamic entertainment landscape.**
The Pokémon Company is on a mission to ensure the franchise remains a beloved staple in the entertainment world for the next 50 to 100 years, according to CEO Tsunekazu Ishihara. Since launching in 1996 on the Nintendo Game Boy, Pokémon has evolved into one of the world’s most lucrative media franchises, spanning video games, films, television shows, and collectibles.
Speaking to BBC News ahead of Pokémon Day, Ishihara emphasized the importance of ongoing innovation. He pointed to the success of Pokémon GO, a mobile app that integrates augmented reality to bring creatures into the real world, as emblematic of the company’s commitment to merging both physical and digital experiences. “Our goal is to enrich both the real and virtual worlds,” Ishihara stated, hinting at exciting future developments.
The resurgence of the Pokémon trading card game has sparked a new wave of interest, but it has also attracted scalpers seeking to capitalize on rare cards. Ishihara acknowledged challenges posed by the resale market, stating, “When the second-hand market becomes more valuable, it prevents new products from being sold.” While the company has considered enhancing availability of sought-after items, he clarified that the rarity associated with collectibles is out of their control.
In addressing counterfeit products, Ishihara highlighted the company’s rigorous legal efforts to combat fakes, including recent lawsuits against entities that infringe on Pokémon's intellectual property. Collaboration with Nintendo to take legal action against Palworld, an online game resembling Pokémon but with a unique twist, showcases the company's vigilance in protecting its brand.
Pokémon has successfully remained relevant by expanding across various entertainment genres and bringing in fans from different age groups. Ishihara noted, “Pokémon became a tool of communication,” allowing fans to connect through a shared love of the franchise. Gathering over 13,000 fans at the recent European International Championships illustrates the multi-generational appeal of Pokémon.
Commenting on the unique structure of The Pokémon Company as a private entity, Ishihara believes this allows for a singular focus on Pokémon-related endeavors without the pressure from shareholders to diversify. “Whatever profit we make from Pokémon gets reinvested in Pokémon,” he shared, reinforcing the commitment to continuous growth and relevance.
As the franchise gears up to celebrate its 30th anniversary in a year, speculation is rife about potential remakes or special releases. Despite the departure of Ash Ketchum and Pikachu from the animated series, Ishihara assures fans that their journey continues in spirit. He remains optimistic about Pokémon's future, asserting that with a commitment to innovation, the franchise can thrive for generations to come. “If we remain complacent, that’s when Pokémon will go downhill,” he concluded.
