Which games first introduced the Johto region?

Pokémon Gold and Silver first introduced the Johto region. These second-generation games let players begin in New Bark Town, travel through Johto’s Gyms, and ultimately challenge the Pokémon League at Indigo Plateau.

Johto was designed as a neighboring region to Kanto rather than a completely separate world. After completing the main story, players could return to Kanto and explore its cities, routes, Gyms, and landmarks. This large post-game journey helped make Gold and Silver feel like a continuation of the original adventure.

The games also added 100 new Pokémon, including Johto-associated species such as Chikorita, Cyndaquil, Totodile, Lugia, and Ho-Oh. Pokémon Crystal followed in 2000 as an enhanced version with additional story and presentation changes.