Oldest Playable Characters In Pokemon, Ranked

Summary

Some Pokemon protagonists, like Hilda and Hilbert, are among the oldest, offering unique challenges and narratives.
Mainline games depict younger leads, but spin-offs like Detective Pikachu feature older protagonists like Tim Goodman.
Specific dialogues or supplemental materials reveal details about the age of characters in Pokemon games, enriching the narrative.

Pokemon games often star young protagonists, embodying the classic theme of an inexperienced hero embarking on a voyage, with the objective of traversing the world, catching and nurturing their creatures. Yet, certain series installments deviate from this traditional pattern, presenting characters who are more mature. While age may not significantly impact the overall storyline, it serves as a factor contributing to the unique atmosphere in each game’s universe.

In Pokemon games, while the exact age isn’t often disclosed during gameplay, there are certain instances where you can infer that some protagonists are older. This could be through nuanced dialogues or behind-the-scenes information shared by developers in interviews or bonus materials. These extra details add depth to the story and help fans relate more closely to mature characters within the Pokemon universe.

8. Todd Snap (Pokemon Snap)

One Of The Youngest Protagonists Who Grew Up With The Franchise

In the original release of Pokemon Snap, Todd Snap was presented as the main character, making him unique among the protagonists due to his 10-year-old status, a detail confirmed in the Japanese version of the anime. This makes Todd one of the youngest major characters in the series, but also older compared to others whose ages have not been officially disclosed.

In “New Pokemon Snap,” Todd reappears after some years, appearing older and wiser, no longer a playable character but instead lending aid to the main character in a fresh ecological study across the Lental region. His transformation throughout the games is significant, serving as an example of how well-known characters can develop, providing fans with an intriguing perspective on the progression of time within the Pokemon universe.

7. Red And Blue (Pokemon Red And Blue)

The First Pokemon Protagonists Have Already Appeared At Different Ages

In the Pokemon games, Red and Blue are notable due to their ages being around 11 when they debuted in the Kanto region. This seems to be a recurring theme among franchise protagonists. The age range has become synonymous with the series, suggesting that the Pokemon adventure is a typical rite of passage for young, budding trainers.

In subsequent installments of the game series, like Pokemon Gold, Silver, and Crystal, as well as Pokemon Sun and Moon, these two main characters made a comeback, appearing noticeably older and wiser compared to their initial appearances. This character development is unusual yet engaging within the franchise, providing fans with a fresh viewpoint on both the characters and the game’s chronology.

6. Elio And Selene (Pokemon Ultra Sun And Ultra Moon)

There Are Several Clues About The Characters’ Ages In The Game

As a dedicated fan, I’ve often pondered about the backstories of our beloved Pokémon game protagonists, even though the games seldom delve deep into their ages or personal histories. However, there are subtle clues that can help us piece together some details. For instance, in the games Sun and Moon, characters like Elio and Selene appear to be around 11-14 years old. This assumption is based on certain interactions and events that transpire during their adventures.

To provide a clearer understanding, let me rephrase the given text: For example, it’s stated that Hau, the contemporary adversary of the main characters, is the same age as them. During certain conversations, he reveals that he joined the Island Challenge as soon as he could, and this can only be done starting from 11 years old. It’s important to note that various parts of the game provide an age, such as the Kantonian Gym, where entry is cheaper for those under 15.

5. Brendan And May (Pokemon Omega Ruby And Alpha Sapphire)

The Third Generation Introduced Some Innovations To The Franchise

In the stories of Pokemon Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald, as well as their remakes, the protagonists – Brendan and May – have accomplished many significant feats, making them among the most powerful characters within the franchise. They’ve not only vanquished two evil teams but also ascended to Battle Frontier champions, saved Earth from Deoxys, and caught numerous legendary Pokemon native to that region.

Additionally, they are among the longest-standing characters in the franchise, and their age can be discussed by NPCs based on the player’s decision. What sets Brendan and May apart from other Pokemon protagonists is that they have parents in the story. Norman, the leader of Petalburg Gym, is the father of one character, while Professor Birch acts as a parent to the other. The choice of which character the player selects determines who takes on this role.

4. Hilda And Hilbert (Pokemon Black And White)

Are Among The Oldest Mainline Pokemon Protagonists

In the franchise, Unova represents a departure from Pokemon’s conventional approach as it strived to offer a more definitive experience. A noticeable change in this regard is the age of the protagonists – Hilda and Hilbert – who are 14 years old as confirmed by the producer. This makes them the oldest playable characters in the main series games prior to that time.

This characteristic permeates the storyline, as both characters encounter increasingly complex obstacles, and Team Plasma, who among all villains in the series, strive for the most intricate objectives. Additionally, due to a subsequent game set approximately two years after the original, Hilda and Hilbert would be around 16, but they are not playable in the sequel.

3. Rei And Akari (Pokemon Legends: Arceus)

Spin-Off Protagonists Older Than Those In The Mainline Games

In the game Pokemon Legends: Arceus, the primary characters Rei and Akari share a resemblance with Lucas and Dawn from the franchise’s fourth generation, but there is no confirmed link between them. However, it’s notable that Rei and Akari are among the oldest protagonists in the series, as suggested by Cyllene, leader of the Galaxy Team’s Survey Corps, who estimates their age to be approximately 15 years old.

The storyline of Pokemon Legends: Arceus underscores this notion, as it emphasizes exploration and the risks the characters encounter. In fact, they may even be attacked by the Pokemon themselves, lending a more grave atmosphere to the game. Consequently, their roles are pivotal in the Hisui region, where they function as researchers and contribute significantly to the creation of one of the first Pokédex ever made.

2. Wes (Pokemon Colosseum)

One Of The Franchise’s Most Mature And Oldest Characters

In contrast to the playful mood of the main Pokémon series, Wes, introduced in Pokémon Colosseum, stands out as one of the franchise’s earliest and most mature protagonists. As revealed in an interview with the game developers, he is approximately 17 years old and possesses some unique characteristics. He begins his journey with not just one, but two Pokémon – Espeon and Umbreon – and also drives a vehicle, setting him apart from other characters.

Wes distinguishes himself in the franchise not just through his older demeanor but also by following an unusual route. Initially part of the criminal group Snagem, he breaks ranks by demolishing their base, pilfering the Snag Machine, a device that enables users to capture other trainers’ Pokemon. Later, he focuses on capturing and rejuvenating Shadow Pokemon, which leads to one of the series’ most ominous narratives.

1. Tim Goodman (Detective Pikachu Returns)

Is Among The Oldest Pokemon Protagonists

In contrast to the primary games in the franchise that often star youthful protagonists, the spin-offs allow for more flexibility with their characters. As such, Tim Goodman from “Detective Pikachu Returns” is among the series’ elder heroes. According to Nintendo, he begins his story at 18 years old, attending university and teaming up with a Pikachu.

In the following installment, which takes place two years after the incidents of “Detective Pikachu”, our main character Tim Goodman is now approximately 20 years old. This age difference gives the game a unique narrative that strays from typical player expectations, focusing instead on Tim’s quest to find his father. The storyline deviates from traditional series mechanics, including the avoidance of regular battles.

2025-06-03 05:54