Nostalgic Dot Art Pikachu Plush and Mascot Go on Pre-Order, Fans Praise Anti-Scalping Measures

Plush toys and mascots of “Pikachu from the Beginning,” which faithfully reproduce the nostalgic dot art from the Game Boy software Pokémon Red and Green, have begun pre-order sales on Pokémon Center Online. Orders are being accepted for a limited time from 10:00 AM on Tuesday, March 10th to 4:59 PM on Tuesday, March 17th, and many Pokémon fans have eagerly awaited this opportunity.

This “Pikachu from the Beginning” features a simple yet stylish design reminiscent of the monochrome world of the original games. Upon its initial release, it was so popular that it immediately sold out, making it difficult to acquire.

What has particularly delighted fans hoping to purchase this time is the “made-to-order” (pre-order) sales format. On social media, numerous comments such as “Seeing the words ‘made-to-order’ saved all Trainers” and “A world where everyone who wants one can buy it at the regular price without fearing scalpers is just amazing” have been observed. Many thanks are pouring in for Pokémon Center's consideration regarding the past issue of popular merchandise being resold at inflated prices. Providing an opportunity for everyone who wants the item to get it at the official price has brought immense joy to fans.

There are two types of products: a plush toy (3,300 yen) and a mascot (880 yen). The mascot, in particular, has generated buzz for its highly accurate reproduction of the game's dot art, with its unexpectedly thin design leading to reactions like “I laughed because it was unexpectedly thin” and “It was flat back then, wasn't it?” If you place an order during the designated period, you are guaranteed to receive the product, with delivery scheduled for late April.

For long-time fans, these items are an irresistible return to the origin. Don't miss this chance to welcome your very own “Pikachu from the Beginning.”

The Context

Pokémon Red and Green (released as Pokémon Red and Blue in Western markets) are the inaugural games in the immensely popular Pokémon franchise, launched in Japan in 1996 for the Game Boy. These games introduced the original 151 Pokémon, including Pikachu, and established the series' core gameplay. The