Pokémon Unveils Its Biggest Release for the 30th Anniversary Celebration
We’re deep into 2026, and The Pokémon Company is still going strong with the celebrations for the franchise’s 30th anniversary. This time, they’re raising the bar with a new release that’s sure to excite fans of every mainline Pokémon game ever made.
And no, that’s not an exaggeration. Game Freak, the creative minds behind this legendary RPG series, has just unveiled the cover art for their official 30th anniversary art books. This vibrant, full-color collection will feature artwork spanning from the original Pokémon Red, Blue, and Green all the way to Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Expect to see a mix of classic illustrations, pixel art, 3D designs, promotional art, and more, all highlighting the series’ remarkable evolution over the years.
Given the extensive scope of this release, the books are set to be quite substantial. They will be split into three volumes, totaling an impressive 1,500 pages, with a release date of December 18, 2026. Each volume will wrap up with an in-depth interview featuring a member of the Game Freak team, as teased by the publisher. The art books won’t be sold as a complete set, so fans will need to purchase each volume separately. The initial launch will take place in Japan, with a price tag of ¥5,500 (around $35). While this means that collectors aiming for the full set will need to spend over $100, it also allows fans to focus on the specific eras of games they love most. There’s currently no word on whether these books will be available in English.
This massive art book release is just one of many exciting announcements from The Pokémon Company and Game Freak this year. Other highlights include a special 30th anniversary trading card game set launching this September and a Game Boy jukebox featuring 45 Pokémon music cartridges. Additionally, a premium $2,000 Pokémon character guide book was released in August 2026. Earlier this year, TPC thrilled fans with a special 30th anniversary logo that included every single one of its 1,000+ monsters. With the upcoming art book, the company continues to show its commitment to delighting every type of fan.
Pokémon enthusiasts now have a convenient way to purchase 30th anniversary Elite Trainer Boxes.