Pokémon is set to launch an official, science-inspired encyclopedia crafted in collaboration with leading animal ecologists and behaviorists. Discover everything about Pokécology and what fans can expect from this groundbreaking release.
The Pokémon Company has announced a unique new project in partnership with renowned Japanese publisher Shogakukan: Pokécology, an official encyclopedia exploring the biology, behavior, and ecological roles of Pokémon. The book is scheduled for release on June 18, 2025, in Japan.
Pre-orders are already live at major bookstores across the country. Priced at 1,430 yen (tax included), the hardcover edition offers an in-depth, educational look at the Pokémon world through a scientific lens. While there is currently no official word on an international release, the global popularity of Pokémon makes an English translation highly likely in the near future.
Pokécology will delve into the natural lives of Pokémon, analyzing their diets, sleeping patterns, physical adaptations, social behaviors, and interactions within their environments. Unlike traditional Pokédex guides or battle manuals, this encyclopedia takes a biological approach—treating Pokémon as real-world species studied by experts.
The project is led by Dr. Yoshinari Yonehara, a respected ecologist from the University of Tokyo, who served as the lead researcher for the behavioral analysis of wild Pokémon. Joining him is Chihiro Kino, a celebrated illustrator known for her detailed work in animal ecology publications, who will provide vibrant, full-color illustrations of each featured Pokémon.
While Pokémon has published numerous guidebooks focused on stats, battles, and gameplay, Pokécology marks the franchise’s first official deep dive into the scientific study of Pokémon as living, breathing creatures. This makes it not only a must-have for dedicated fans but also an engaging educational resource—perfect for sparking curiosity in younger readers about biology, ecology, and the natural world.