Which Japanese titles began the Pokémon video game series in 1996?

The Pokémon video game series began in Japan with Pocket Monsters Red and Green in 1996.

Game Freak developed the role-playing games for Nintendo’s Game Boy. Players explored the Kanto region, captured creatures, trained them, battled other Trainers, and traded Pokémon with other players.

Outside Japan, the games were released as Pokémon Red and Blue. The original Japanese Green version was not released internationally in its original form, which is why many overseas players know the first pair as Red and Blue.

The Japanese releases established the central structure that still defines the series: a regional adventure, a Pokédex to complete, Gym challenges, rival battles, and version-exclusive Pokémon. The games introduced the first 151 species, including Bulbasaur, Charmander, Squirtle, Pikachu, and Mew.