Pokémon's reputation for child-friendliness is well-established, with its core games consistently receiving an "E for Everyone" rating. However, beneath the surface of Pikachu and Eevee's charm lies a surprisingly dark undercurrent. Some Pokédex entries reveal unsettling stories of abduction and even murder, adding a layer of unsettling intrigue to the franchise.
IGN has compiled a list of five particularly creepy Pokédex entries, though many more deserve mention. Honorable mentions include Mimikyu, a Pokémon whose terrifying appearance forces it to disguise itself as Pikachu; Haunter, a silent stalker who licks its victims to death; and Hypno, whose history of child abduction and dream-feeding is even depicted in the children's cartoon.
AnswerSee ResultsDrifloonA young girl, excited for a weekend of flower picking, encounters a seemingly harmless purple balloon. The balloon, however, is revealed to be Drifloon, a Pokémon that lures children away with its alluring appearance. Pokédex entries detail its sinister nature: it's formed from the spirits of people and Pokémon, and its round body expands as it abducts more victims. Drifloon's presence at the Valley Windworks only on Fridays adds to its mysterious and unsettling aura.
Banette
This Marionette Pokémon draws parallels to classic horror figures like Annabelle or Chucky. Its origin story centers on a discarded doll that seeks revenge on the child who abandoned it. Pokédex entries describe Banette's haunting presence in dark alleys and its method of inflicting harm by using pins as effigies. Only by unzipping its smile or showing it affection can its negative energy be appeased.
Sandygast
This sandcastle-themed Pokémon belies a horrifying reality. Pokédex entries warn against leaving sandcastles unattended, as they can become possessed and transform into Sandygast. This Pokémon traps its victims, absorbing their bodies and draining their life force. Its evolution, Palossand, is known as the "Beach Nightmare," further highlighting its predatory nature.
Frillish
The Floating Pokémon, Frillish, preys on unsuspecting swimmers. Its seemingly innocuous appearance hides a deadly secret: its veil-like arms are covered in thousands of poisonous stingers. These paralyze its victims, allowing Frillish to drag them to its lair five miles beneath the surface, where they presumably drown.
Froslass
Drawing inspiration from Yuki-onna and Medusa, Froslass is a chilling creature. It lures unsuspecting hikers to its icy lair during blizzards, freezing them and adding them to its collection of frozen corpses. The Pokémon specifically targets men it deems handsome, adding another layer to its sinister charm.