Which artist finalized the designs of the original Pokémon species?

Ken Sugimori finalized the designs of the original Pokémon species.

Sugimori was the lead artist and art director for the first Pokémon games. He created the official artwork that gave the original creatures a consistent visual style, helped refine their shapes, and illustrated promotional material and game-related designs.

The word “finalized” matters because Pokémon designs often involved contributions from several artists. Atsuko Nishida, for example, designed Pikachu and Bulbasaur, while other creators developed additional species. Sugimori reviewed and completed the designs so that the full roster worked together as a coherent bestiary.

Sugimori was also a founding member of Game Freak and illustrated the company’s early magazine. His work became closely associated with the franchise’s classic watercolor-like promotional art. He should not be confused with Satoshi Tajiri, who originated the Pokémon concept, or with Junichi Masuda, a composer, director, and producer.