Pokémon’s 30th anniversary celebrations are continuing through 2026, with Game Freak and The Pokémon Company announcing an expansive new collection aimed at fans across the series’ history.
Three volumes will cover 30 years of Pokémon art
The official anniversary art books will bring together material from the original Pokémon Red, Blue and Green through to Pokémon Legends: Z-A. The collection is set to include classic illustrations, pixel art, 3D artwork, promotional images and other visuals showing how the franchise has developed over time.
Game Freak has revealed the cover art for its official 30th anniversary art books, giving fans an early look at the substantial release.
Release date, page count and Japanese pricing
The collection will be split across three separate volumes, with all three scheduled to launch in Japan on 18 December 2026. Together, the books will contain 1,500 pages.
- Three volumes released individually
- 1,500 pages in total
- Japanese release date: 18 December 2026
- Price: ¥5,500 per book, approximately $35
Each volume is expected to finish with an extended interview featuring a member of the Game Freak team. The books will not be sold as a complete boxed set, so buyers will need to purchase each volume separately. That structure may suit collectors who prefer a particular era, while purchasing all three would cost more than $100 at the stated approximate price.
There is currently no news about an English translation or an Australian release.
Part of a packed Pokémon anniversary year
The art books are one of several major anniversary products announced for 2026. Other highlights include a special 30th anniversary Pokémon Trading Card Game set planned for September, plus a Game Boy jukebox supplied with 45 Pokémon music cartridges.
A premium Pokémon character guide book also launched in August 2026 at $2,000. Earlier in the year, The Pokémon Company introduced a special anniversary logo featuring more than 1,000 Pokémon.
For collectors, this release is best understood as a visual history of the franchise rather than a game or interactive product. Fans displaying Pokémon memorabilia alongside an arcade machine may also want to consider the available space before committing to three large reference volumes.
Those planning a dedicated gaming room can browse compact bartop arcades for a smaller setup, or use RETROCADE’s arcade machine buying guide when comparing cabinet formats and room requirements.
What has been confirmed
- The collection contains three separate art books.
- The books cover artwork from the original Kanto games through Pokémon Legends: Z-A.
- The combined page count is 1,500 pages.
- The Japanese release date is 18 December 2026.
- Each book costs ¥5,500 in Japan, with no English edition confirmed.
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