Nintendo Files 'Pickachu' Trademark in Japan

gamerant.com:

The Pokemon game series has been with fans for over 25 years now, and one of the main reasons why Pokemon games have stayed relevant is the constant creation of new and varied content. Whether it be an app that helps children brush their teeth or the MOBA Pokemon spin-off Pokemon Unite, the franchise is always looking for its next major hit. Besides a huge and dedicated fanbase, the Pokemon franchise has kept itself relevant over the years by rarely giving fans a break between new pieces of content.

Even 25 years on, the Pokemon series is still constantly producing games, with two mainline entries in the franchise set for 2022 in the already-released Pokemon Legends: Arceus and Pokemon Scarlet and Violet at an unannounced date. Fans who want even more Pokemon content coming their way may be in luck, as a new trademark suggests new merchandise and a possible new game could be in development.

Nintendo Trademarks New Pokemon Terms

The speculation around a new Pokemon game or merchandise comes as Nintendo files to trademark the word «Pickachu.» Many will be quick to spot the play on the word Pikachu, which is the franchise's most iconic Pokemon. Yet there are some theories on the meaning of «pick» in the trademark filing. Possibly, this «Pickachu» trademark will result in some customizable merchandise for Pokemon, where buyers can choose different versions of Pikachu for their clothing.

There is a mention of video games in the trademark filing, indicating that a spin-off, choice-based game centered around Pickachu could be in the works. Choice has always been at the heart of Pokemon games, from the starter Pokemon a player chooses at the beginning of every mainline title to the decision of which final team to take into the Elite