Pokémon is a globally popular Japanese franchise created by Satoshi Tajiri and Ken Sugimori, originally starting as a video game series developed by Game Freak. The story centers around Pokémon Trainers, like the young protagonist Ash Ketchum, who travel the world to capture and train creatures known as Pokémon. These Pokémon possess unique abilities and can evolve into stronger forms, and trainers use them to compete in battles. The series explores themes of friendship, teamwork, and adventure, becoming a cultural phenomenon through its games, animated series, movies, trading card games, and merchandise.