Nintendo’s inaugural US Pokémon showcase uncovers the key to the franchise’s success.

Before The Game Awards emerged as the pinnacle of recognition in the gaming world, E3 was the premier annual event from 1995 to 2019, where developers showcased their latest creations and captured the attention of both industry insiders and gamers alike. Fans eagerly anticipated the presentations from their favorite companies, knowing they would unveil thrilling announcements, new trailers, or gameplay footage for upcoming titles.

Nintendo has been a staple at E3 since its inception, with its panels consistently generating excitement. Fans looked forward to updates on cherished franchises like Super Mario and The Legend of Zelda. However, Pokémon was initially absent from these showcases, as it was primarily a Japanese phenomenon in its early days. This changed in May 1998, when the franchise made its grand debut in the United States during an E3 presentation. The Video Game History Foundation has shared recordings of early E3 events, including the moment Nintendo introduced the Pokémon anime and games to a Western audience.

During this presentation, fans can catch all the Pokémon announcements between minutes 23 and 29. The anticipation was palpable, as word of the franchise had already spread globally. To entice potential fans, the presentation included a promotional video highlighting its immense popularity in Japan, showcasing impressive statistics from the franchise’s first two years:

Given that the franchise was just two years old at the time, these figures are remarkable. Over 27 months, not only did the games become best-sellers, but the franchise also quickly expanded to include an anime series that continues to thrive today, along with a trading card game that has become a cornerstone of a multibillion-dollar industry. Nintendo recognized the franchise’s potential to transcend video games and seized the opportunity.

Pokémon quickly gained traction in the United States, eventually becoming a global sensation. While we may never fully understand the extent of that success’s foresight, it’s evident that Nintendo acted swiftly to solidify this vision. The explosive success in Japan during those first two years laid the foundation for Pokémon’s enduring legacy.

The entire presentation is a fascinating watch for Nintendo enthusiasts. Before diving into the Pokémon segment, Nintendo showcased the Game Boy Color, announcing its upcoming release before the holiday season at a price of $79.95, featuring a vibrant screen with 56 colors.

Zelda fans were treated to a special moment when Shigeru Miyamoto took the stage to discuss the upcoming title, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. E3 1998 marked the first opportunity for the American audience to experience the game firsthand, making it a significant promotional event.

Looking back at this presentation is particularly intriguing as players eagerly await a remake of Ocarina of Time. While the release date for The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time on Nintendo Switch 2 is set for 2026, there’s speculation it could coincide with the original’s launch date in 1998.

Pokémon holds a special place in the hearts of millions, making it impossible not to reflect on the franchise’s history with a sense of nostalgia. Whether you first heard about “Pocket Monsters” through overseas whispers in 1996, played the games upon their Western release, or became a fan more recently, the 1998 E3 presentation remains a significant moment worth remembering.