If you’re looking for the perfect Pokémon gift for a young fan, you’ve come to the right place! We have put together a comprehensive guide to the best gifts for Pokémon lovers of all ages. Whether your child is just starting out on their Pokémon journey, or they are already a seasoned trainer, we have something for everyone. So read on to find out what to get kids who love Pokémon!
And btw. I’m writing this with the guidance of my 5-year-old and 7-year-old pokemon experts breathing down my neck literally as I type this.
To make sure I get this just right. In fact, when I asked my 7-year-old to help me pick out some of the best gift ideas he said gleefully “yes! I can help with that!”
Some of the links below contain affiliate links, which means that at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. You can read my fulldisclosure policy here.
What is Pokemon?
Pokémon is a media franchise owned by Japanese video game company Nintendo and created by Satoshi Tajiri in 1996. Pokemon is a video game series in which players battle each other’s Pokemon creatures, or “Pocket Monsters,” for sport.
The franchise began as two video games for the original Game Boy developed by Game Freak and published by Nintendo. The franchise now includes games, trading card games, television shows, and films, comic books, and toys.
Pokemon is the second-most successful video game-based media franchise in the world behind only Nintendo’s Mario franchise.
How Do You Play Pokemon?
The Pokemon franchise centers around the Pokemon Trainer and his or her quest to capture, train, and battle with Pokemon.
However, each installment of the franchise offers a unique twist on this basic premise.
For example, in the Pokken Tournament DX game for the Nintendo Switch, players use a special controller called a Pokken Pad to control their Pokemon in combat.
Pokken Tournament DX (Nintendo Switch)
Nintendo
In the Pokemon Go mobile app, players use their smartphones to catch Pokemon in the real world.
The Pokemon Trading Card Game (TCG) is a collectible card game based on the Pokemon franchise. It was originally released in Japan in 1996 and has since been distributed to over 70 countries.
The TCG is a two-player game in which each player employs cards to combat their opponent’s Pokemon. Players create a hand of cards by drawing from their own deck of Pokemon cards. Each card represents a different Pokemon, and each Pokemon has unique powers and abilities.
No matter what type of Pokemon game you’re playing, the goal is always to become the very best trainer and a pokemon master!
Pokemn TCG: Collectors Bundle Spring 2022
What is Pokémon Go?
Pokemon Go is a mobile game based on the Pokemon franchise that was created and marketed by Niantic for iOS and Android devices in 2016. The game is built on the Pokemon universe and allows players to capture, fight, and train virtual creatures that appear in real life.
Pokemon Go was released to mixed reviews; critics praised the game’s concept and gameplay but criticized its technical shortcomings. However, the game was a massive commercial success, becoming one of the most downloaded and highest-grossing mobile apps of all time.
If your kid loves Pokemon and they don’t have this game yet then this is definitely something to consider as a pokemon gift idea.
It works on android, los, and my boys actually have it on their iPads (they don’t have phones yet – so sometimes I will lend them mine when we’re at a location with a lot of pokemon!)
If you’re looking for a gift idea for kids who like pokemon go then attachments for blue tooth accessories are going to be the way to go. I am looking at this bracelet that allows you to play without looking at your phone.
Here are some additional pokemon Go Accessories. I like this personally because the boys tend to use MY phone when we’re out and about and this allows them to still play at a playground while participating in their favorite game (in theory!)
Go-Tcha LED Touch Screen Wristband for Pokémon Go Plus Accessory Buy on Amazon
What age are Pokémon toys for?
The Pokemon franchise is primarily aimed at children, but it has something to offer for fans of all ages. The video games are rated “E” for Everyone by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), with the exception of a few titles that are rated “E-for Everyone ten and up” or “T for Teen”.
The Pokemon TCG is recommended for players ages six and up by the manufacturer (but my 5-year-old has played it successfully with his brother several times).
And the Pokemon anime series has a broad appeal, with fans of all ages enjoying the adventures of Ash Ketchum and his friends.
Pokémon toys are suitable for kids of all ages. Actual kids and those who are young at heart will love these pokemon gift ideas for birthday, christmas, and every holiday in between (pro tip – figurines make great easter egg non-candy toys!)
What to get kids who like Pokémon?
The answer to this question depends on the age of the child in question. If they are just getting into Pokémon, then a great gift option would be the Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! or Let’s Go, Eevee! games for the Nintendo Switch.
Nintendo games – Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! or Let’s Go, Eevee! These are a top pick for most pokemon lovers. Older children also love this game.
These games are perfect for young trainers and will introduce them to the world of Pokémon in a fun and accessible way.
Pokémon Let’s Go! Pikachu + Poké Ball Plus Set – Switch Japan Import
For kids who are already fans of the franchise, there are plenty of great gift options available.
One option is the Pokémon: Trading Card Game, which is a perfect pokemon gift idea for kids who love collecting and playing cards.
Pokemon Trading Card Game – 60 Total Card – 3 Foil Cards and 1 Ultra Rare Card – All Cards are Authentic – Perfect for Collectors
Another option is the Pokémon: Detective Pikachu movie, which is sure to be a hit with any fan of the franchise.
Starring Ryan Reynolds, Justice Smith, Kathryn Newton, Suki Waterhouse, Omar Chaparro, Chris Geere, Rita Ora, Ken Watanabe, Bill Nighy
Pokémon toys are also a great gift idea for kids who love the franchise. These can be anything from plush toys to action figures and are perfect for kids of all ages.
Mattel
If your kid already has collected their favorite characters or the main sources of pokemon game playing then the next step is to build up their collection of cards, decks, worlds, and more.
Pokémon cards are a favorite gift around here and perfect when you can’t figure out what to get. Little kids love learning about the different locations. Fun fact, this pokemon link for cards we have purchased 8 times. Both as birthday gifts for others, and for our kids.
Pokémon Assorted Cards, 50 Pieces
My pokemon loving kids love this watch. It’s the first smart watch for our boys that has some of the old-school digital elements of setting timers, recording videos, and even taking pictures. And the boys love how it looks and recording themselves is really fun.
Pokémon Touchscreen Interactive Smart Watch (Model: POK4231AZ)
Are there any Pokémon toys?
Yes, there are plenty of Pokémon toys available on the market! These can be anything from plush toys to action figures and are perfect for kids of all ages. Our favorite Pokemon toys that kids of all ages (and some adults too) might love have been peppered throughout this article. Hopefully, you’re finding some that your kids don’t already have or that would be great introductions for your child to experience pokemon!
What do you get someone who loves Pokémon?
The best Pokemon gifts tend to be pretty simple. Don’t overthink this too much – in fact as I’m writing this gift guide, there are more and more Pokemon gifts appearing on the market.
A Pokemon Encyclopedia: This is perfect for the budding Pokemon trainer who wants to know everything there is to know about their favorite creatures. The encyclopedia includes information on every Pokemon, as well as their evolution, type, and more.
There are as many encyclopedias as there are “worlds” in Pokemon. These are the best way for your child to learn about the different locations, different types of Pokemon, and the general pokémon world. These are my boys’ personal favorite gifts. The card collection is nice but having all the details in one book is the perfect place for a fan of Pokemon to let their imaginations run wild!
Here are some of our favorite Pokemon encyclopedias:
Super Deluxe Essential Handbook (Pokémon): The Need-to-Know Stats and Facts on Over 800 Characters
This is a best seller and one of the best pokemon gift ideas.
The Alola nation in Pokemon is a lot like Hawaii! Sometimes there are areas and figuring out where your pokemon come from can become a fun game.
Alola Region Handbook (Pokémon)
The Super Deluxe Essential Handbook – this one seems to be a new release.
The Galar Region handbook – Gotta catch ‘em all! This one details the latest pokemon from the new version of the latest sword and shield versions on Nintendo Switch
Handbook to the Galar Region (Pokémon)
By Scholastic
Pokemon plush toys: These are perfect for kids who want to cuddle up with their favorite Pokemon. Plush toys are also a great option for kids who want to collect all of the different Pokémons
Pokémon Plush Starter 3 Pack – Charmander, Squirtle & Bulbasaur 8″ Generation One Stuffed Animals
Pokemon action figures: These are perfect for kids who want to play with their Pokemon. Action figures are also a great option for kids who want to collect all of their favorite Pokemon.
Ultra Rare Pokemon Battle Game – This is perfect for kids who love playing cards and collecting Pokemon. I’m going to be honest – my kids love “rare” cards so much. But I don’t know if these are “really” rare or they’re giving the illusion of rare. Either way there are smiles a plenty and so much joy when they open what is deemed a “rare” pack. It’s is a great gift for kids to interact with their favorite Pokemon.
Wayne Global
Can I send a Pokémon as a Gift?
Yes! You can send a Pokemon as a gift to another player in the Pokemon game. To do this, go to the main menu of the game and select “Mystery Gift.” Then, select “Send Gift.” From here, you will be able to choose which Pokemon you would like to send as a gift. The Pokemon will then be sent to the other player as a Mystery Gift.
What is the coolest Pokémon toy?
This is a difficult question to answer, as there are so many great Pokemon toys out there! The best pokémon gifts sometimes pop up in random places too so it’s good to know what kind of things your kids are into and what they might not already own.
According to my pokemon loving kids receiving an archeus or shadow Mew Tew cards is kind of a big deal. (they currently don’t have either of these and I think this was a not-so-subtle way of saying Mom, can you please find a way to get these cards!? Lol. Sob.)
If you’re able to snag one on eBay or Amazon or at a local swap meet you’d be the hit of the gift-giving for the pokemon crew!
Playing video games are also top-tier gifts that keep giving. The coolest toy to own really depends on your child’s preferences for engaging with the game.
One kid’s pokemon go is another child’s pokemon trading card game…
I’m including some links to shadow boxes which are booster packs to help bolster your child’s card collection since that’s what my boys evidently think is the coolest.
Pokemon SAS6 Chilling Reign Shadow Elite Trainer Box
However, some of the most popular Pokemon toys tend to include plush toys, action figures, and the motherload:
The Pokemon TCG Trading Card Game
The Pokémon trading card game is board game and a staple in our house – it’s only a two-player game so it’s great for two kids or siblings to play. Also if you can ever find a tcg deck get it! my boys love playing the game, but they also LOVE some of the cards in the game and wish they could trade them – so extra “packs” from the game can be a clutch gift
The Pokemon Trading Card Game
It can be a bit confusing but, “trading card game” which tends to be a catch-all phrase for just lots and lots and LOTS of Pokemon trading cards.
For example, this would make an incredible Pokemon gift idea for Christmas. My boys LOVE these gold cards – and find they carry a lot of clout on the playground for trading with other “regular’ TCG cards.”
Pokemon Trading Cards
And when all else fails…just get them more cards. Pokemon-loving kids look forward to trading them with other Pokemon fans and they can never, truly, have enough because ass the seating goes, you gotta catch ‘em all!
RIP your floor/dressers/drawers as they’re about to be flooded with these little cardboard babies;).
I’m including this link to an Amazon page but really – Pokemon cards are popping up everywhere these days since the resurgence in interest. We sometimes get the best ones at our local Walgreens, or on Ebay!
Pro tip – your kids will love the “same packs” even if they’ve already had them because we’ve found that there is never the same exact pokemon in every pack…at least so far.
Pokemon Plushies
For younger children, there are Pokemon plush toys, which are soft and cuddly versions of popular Pokemon characters. These make great gifts for kids who love to snuggle with their favorite Pokemon. There are so many different stuffed Pikachu’s that when in doubt about getting a soft Pikachu toy is going to be a perfect addition to your child’s collection.
Pokémon Eevee and Pikachu 2 Pack Plush Stuffed Animals 8 Inch
Here are some favorite Pokemon plushies to get your kid’s collection started!
Some more Pokemon stuffed animals:
These make adorable Christmas gifts.
This Pokemon plush starter pack is a must-own for any Pokemon lover:
These plushies are a great toy for someone who’s looking to snuggle with their favorite Pokemon. They are often made of high quality materials.
Pokémon Plush Starter 3 Pack – Charmander, Squirtle & Bulbasaur 8″ Generation One Stuffed Animals
What should I get my 8-year-old Pokémon fan?
When it comes to Pokémon gift ideas for special events or as a birthday gift, I try to find ways to expand my child’s collections in a few different ways. My boys are still young enough that they love playing with their favorite Pokémon characters and figurines, but I expect those little guys to start taking up space on shelves or in toy bins soon.
My Pokemon-loving almost 8-year-old is already eyeing some more specific items, booster packs for card collections, collector boxes, and we already own a TON of Pokemon cards and gear. And yet I still find myself stumped with what to get him since he first started loving this game and these characters 3/4 years ago.
Pokémon Legends: Arceus – Nintendo Switch
More Great Pokemon Gifts for Kids
And if you’re still stumped here are some more pokemon gifts for kids:
Elite Trainer Box
Nothing helps your Pokemon-loving kid feel more like he or she is the very best that no one ever was more than the Elite Trainer Box. I mean, dude, it’s in the name!
Pokemon TCG: Sword & Shield Brilliant Stars Elite Trainer Box
Pokemon
Pokemon Sword
Pokemon Sword was 2019’s latest iteration of the Pokemon franchise. It was made and released for the Nintendo Switch (so get that one first!) and was given a rating of 9.3/10 by IGN, one of the most reputable game reviewer in the industry.
Pokémon Sword – Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]
Nintendo
Pokéballs
I mean, can you really be the very best if you don’t even have Pokeballs?
Pokemon MB-01 Monster Collection Monster Ball
Takara Tomy
Poke belts
Now were getting serious! Level up from just juggling Pokeballs in your hand to having them on your belt. Just like how the professionals do it! Plus, it’s a really fun toy!
Wicked Cool Toys
Pokemon booster packs
Once they started collecting Pokemon cards, I’m almost a 100% sure they’ll be asking for more! That’s just how it works!
Pokemon
Pokemon bath bombs
These are so fun and perfect for bath time because there is usually a cute little Pokemon toy inside! I love that they come in different colors.
The Island Bath & Body
Pokemon night light
I don’t know about you but I sure wish I had this when I was a little kid! It’s B E A U T I F U L.
Kaitnax
Pokemon Carry case
Well, they have to put those trading cards somewhere, right? Might as well help them keep organized.
tombert
Pokemon toy set
When trading cards aren’t enough, action figures do the trick!
Jazwares, LLC
So, there you have it! Our ultimate guide to the best gifts for Pokemon lovers. We hope that this has helped you in your search for the perfect present for the Pokemon fan in your life. Happy shopping! Oh and btw…please do me a solid. If the links for any of these aren’t working can you let me know? I’d hate to direct friends and readers to a space that isn’t providing what they need.
Find any other great pokemon gift ideas for kids? comment below and let me know!
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