Sugimori style
I can’t let you get through the rest of your weekend without spotting this mock-up of aPokemongame inspired by the watercolor style of Ken Sugimori’s classic illustrations. It’s a brilliant idea for a first-genPokemon Red/Blue/Greenremake from artist@pokeyugami.
I’d be writing this article if the source was just an image, but it’s a full-blown video:
これは時空の歪みによって生まれた、懐かしくも新しい『ポケットモンスター 初代』！(トキワの森編)#pokemonpic.twitter.com/Mm7bF4M80F
— 時空の歪み研究員 (@pokeyugami)July 20, 2025
In the clip (viaThe Escapist), Red strolls through the forest as a few Caterpie and Weedle scooch by while a Bug Catcher boy stands guard, ready to show off his beauties.
On Twitter, a fantacked on the Viridian Forest musicfor the full classic effect.
Not to tear down some of the officialPokemonremakes we’ve gotten over the years (most recently the chibi-ifiedBrilliant DiamondandShining Pearlon Nintendo Switch last year), but dang. This fan art is so wonderful. It’s how adults like me imaginedPokemonas a kid.
If you’re on board, you should also check out some of@pokeyugami‘s other work on Twitter. I lovethis generation-spanning Gym Leader illustration, as well asthis Professor piece. Their art combines the old with the new in a novel way.
[Update:@pokeyugamihas come out with another watercolor-stylePokemongame concept video featuring a Lass trainer, a wandering Jigglypuff, and some Spearows.]
これは時空の歪みによって生まれた、懐かしくも新しい『ポケットモンスター 初代』！第2弾、3ばんどうろ編！#pokemonpic.twitter.com/yTvZHi6NTp
— 時空の歪み研究員 (@pokeyugami)July 18, 2025
What are the odds?
Just the other day I was thinking aboutanother similar fan project— a custom Gengar plush with Sugimori-esque painterly detailing. There’s a growing passion for this stuff among creators, and a riled-up audience of fans all ready to go, cash in hand.
With the power of nostalgia and the way trends seem to circle back around, I feel like it’s only a matter of time before a realPokemongame taps into this watercolor vibe.
What is it with me getting my hopes up as a once-die-hardPokemonfan? I need to chill!
10/10 would play#fyp#fypシ#foru#xyzbca#gamingtiktok#pokemon#pokemontiktok#gottacatchemall#pokemonviolet#pokemonscarlet#gamefreak
♬ Love You So – The King Khan & BBQ Show
