The first Pokémon ever created may surprise fans of the series, as it isn't one of the first three starter Pokémon that kick off Kanto's Pokédex.

Since the release of the first games in 1996, Pokémon has remained popular among its fans. What started as a cute pixel RPG adventure for the original Game Boy has grown to full 3D graphics on the Nintendo Switch, with nearly 900 total species available across 8 different regions. While many fans may imagine Charmander when thinking about the first Pokémon they remember, or believe that Bulbasaur must be the game's first species as it is number #001, the very first Pokémon ever created is actually found later in the Kanto region's Pokédex.

The Pokémon series has adopted a few different Pokémon that have become mascots for the series. Even those who don't play Pokémon games or watch the anime likely know Pikachu when they see it on shirts, books, or posters. Another Kanto original that stands out as a recognizable icon for the series is Charizard. The fire-breathing behemoth often ranks as a favorite among fans of the game. However, neither Pikachu or Charizard can claim the seat as the original design that got the Pokémon series started.

The very first Pokémon ever created, according to interview information provided by Gamepedia, was the Ground/Rock type evolution Rhydon. Originally, Pokémon designs were going to be more heavily inspired by dinosaurs, and Rhydon's design captures that first vision well, sporting horns, a long tail, and a dinosaur-like body. Despite being the first Pokémon design however, it sits at #112 in the Pokédex. Rhydon was made the second evolution for the Pokémon Rhyhorn, who gets a particular spotlight during the Kalos region's X and Y, but Rhydon itself seems to be mostly lacking from the series, despite its importance to the game's foundation.

Pokémon Designs Were Originally Meant To Be Like Dinosaurs

While Rhydon hasn't seemed like a mascot for the Pokémon series, there are remnants of its importance to developers within the games. Players might notice in Pokémon Gyms, tiny Rhydon statues are posted on pillars inside the doors. This small nod was a way for the developers to immortalize Rhydon's importance to the series subtly.

Since its original introduction in Pokémon's generation 1, Rhydon was given another evolution, Rhyperior. Players can get Rhyperior by trading a Rhydon holding a Protector. Rhydon has also remained a popular and powerful Ground/Rock type for players to have on their team, with the Pokémon able to execute attacks like Earthquake and the Bug-type move Megahorn. While Pikachu and Charizard will always have a place as notable characters in the Pokémon series, Rhydon will hold a special spot in the game's history as part of the foundation that helped build the world fans know and love today.

Next: Do Pokémon's Ash and Serena Ever Get Married?

Source: Gamepedia