What was the original name of the first Pokémon project before it became Pocket Monsters?

The original name of the first Pokémon project was Capsule Monsters. The concept later became Pocket Monsters, which was shortened internationally to Pokémon.

The early title reflected the idea that creatures could be stored in capsules and released for play or battle. Trademark problems made Capsule Monsters unsuitable as the final name, leading to interim forms such as Capumon and Kapumon before Pocket Monsters was chosen.

The capsule idea also helped shape the Poké Ball, the familiar item used to catch and carry Pokémon. Although the final franchise name is now universal, its development history includes several earlier titles. Capsule Monsters is therefore a specific historical name, not the name of a later spin-off or an alternative English release.