Who created the Pokémon franchise and conceived its original video-game idea?

Satoshi Tajiri created the Pokémon franchise and conceived its original video-game idea.

Tajiri grew up in Tokyo and enjoyed collecting insects as a child. He later connected that interest with the Game Boy's ability to link two systems. The Link Cable suggested a way for players to exchange creatures, turning collecting into a social activity rather than a solitary one.

Tajiri first proposed the concept to Nintendo while working through Game Freak, the development company he had co-founded with illustrator Ken Sugimori. The project eventually became Pocket Monsters Red and Green. Development lasted about six years and placed considerable financial pressure on Game Freak.

Tajiri directed the original project, while Sugimori handled much of the character art and Junichi Masuda composed music and contributed programming. Shigeru Miyamoto also mentored Tajiri during development. Tajiri later continued with Pokémon as an executive producer, even after his role shifted away from day-to-day direction.