Water type Pokemon have always held a special place in the hearts of Pokemon trainers. With their diverse designs and inspirations, these Pokemon have captured the imagination of fans around the world. In this article, we delve into the dashing design of water types across different generations and explore the origins of their names and concepts.
Starting with the franchise history, the water type has been a staple since the first generation of Pokemon games. It is one of the three types that players can choose for their starter Pokemon, introducing them to the world of elemental types from the very beginning. For this analysis, we focus on water types from the first three generations, each with its own unique design and inspiration.
One of the most iconic water type Pokemon is Magikarp and its evolution, Gyarados. Inspired by an old Chinese folk tale of a carp turning into a dragon by swimming up a waterfall, Magikarp and Gyarados represent overcoming great hardships and achieving success. The design of Gyarados as a water-flying type may be inspired by decorative windsocks and kites, common motifs in East Asian culture.
Goldeen and Seaking draw inspiration from goldfish, with their names hinting at royalty and regality. The association with the title of king and queen may stem from the Japanese name for goldfish, “Kingyo,” resembling the English word “King.” Wailmer and Wailord, on the other hand, pay homage to whales, with Wailord being the lord of the sea, inspired by the Blue Whale, the largest known animal on Earth.
Barboach and Whiscash take on the persona of catfish, with Whiscash being associated with earthquakes in Japanese folklore. The legend of Namazu, a catfish said to cause earthquakes, adds a mystical element to the design of Whiscash, with its mustache-like whiskers symbolizing power and authority. Finally, Sharpedo's design as a combination of shark and torpedo showcases its rough skin ability, introducing players to the concept of abilities in Pokemon.
Overall, the dashing design of water types in Pokemon is a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the game developers. From folklore and legends to real-life inspirations, each water type Pokemon has a unique story to tell. As trainers continue to explore the world of Pokemon, they can appreciate the intricate designs and inspirations behind their favorite water type creatures. So, next time you encounter a water type Pokemon in the wild, remember the rich history and concept behind its dashing design.