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{{Short description|Pokémon species}}
{{Pokémon species|
{{good article}}
image=[[Image:1bulbasaur.png|136px|A Bulbasaur]]|
{{For|the dicynodont|Bulbasaurus}}
name=Bulbasaur|
{{Use mdy dates|date=July 2016}}
number=001|
{{Infobox character
following=[[Ivysaur]]|
| name = Bulbasaur
johtonumber=226|
| image = Pokémon Bulbasaur art.png
johtopreceding=[[Snorlax]]|
| image_upright = 0.66
johtofollowing=[[Ivysaur]]|
| caption = Bulbasaur artwork by [[Ken Sugimori]]
japanname=Fushigidane|
| series = [[Pokémon]]
nihongo=フシギダネ|
| firstgame = [[Pokémon Red and Blue|''Pokémon Red'' and ''Blue'']] (1996)
romaji=|
| creator = [[Atsuko Nishida]]<ref name="Origin"/>
evolvesto=[[Ivysaur]]|
| designer = Atsuko Nishida<ref name="Origin"/><br>Ken Sugimori (finalized)<ref name="sugimori">{{cite book |pages=342–343 |language=Japanese |title=Ken Sugimori Works |publisher=Tankobon Softcover |date=January 2014 |isbn= 9784198638061}}</ref>
generation=First|
| voice = [[Tara Sands]]<ref name="va1"/><br/>[[Michele Knotz]]<ref name="va2"/>
species=[[Seed]] Pokémon|
| species = Pokémon
stage=Basic|
| lbl21 = Type
type=Grass|
type2=Poison|
| data21 = Grass and Poison
height=2&nbsp;[[Foot (unit of length)|ft]] 4&nbsp;[[inch|in]]|
metricheight=0.7|
weight=15.2|
metricweight=6.9|
ability=Overgrow|
}}
}}
'''Bulbasaur''' ({{IPAc-en|audio=Bulbasaur Voice Line.ogg|ˈ|b|ʊ|l|b|ə|s|ɔː|r}}), known as {{nihongo|'''Fushigidane'''|フシギダネ|lead=yes}} in Japan, is a fictional [[Pokémon species]] in [[Nintendo]] and [[Game Freak]]'s ''[[Pokémon]]'' franchise. First introduced in the video games [[Pokémon Red and Blue|''Pokémon Red'' and ''Blue'']], it was created by [[Atsuko Nishida]] with the design finalized by [[Ken Sugimori]]. Since Bulbasaur's debut, it has appeared in multiple games including ''[[Pokémon Go]]'' and the ''[[Pokémon Trading Card Game]]'', as well as various merchandise. In media related to the franchise, Bulbasaur has been voiced by various voice actors, including [[Tara Sands]] and [[Michele Knotz]].
{{nihongo|'''Bulbasaur'''|フシギダネ||'''Fushigidane''' in original [[Japanese language]] versions}} are the first of the {{pokenum}} of [[List of Pokémon|Pokémon creatures]] from the [[Japan]]ese ''[[Pokémon]]'' [[media franchise]]. Designed by [[Ken Sugimori]],<ref name=Time>“[http://www.time.com/time/asia/magazine/99/1122/cover2.html PokéMania],” ''Time.com''. URL accessed on [[July 20]] [[2006]].</ref> Bulbasaur debuted in 1996 in [[Pokémon Green]], the first Pokémon video game. They are small, squat, vaguely [[reptile|reptilian]] creatures that move on all fours. They have light blue-green bodies with darker blue-green spots. As a Bulbasaur undergoes [[Pokémon evolution|evolution]], the bulb on its back blossoms into a flower.


Classified as a Grass- and Poison-type Pokémon, it was introduced in the games as a [[starter Pokémon]], one players are able to select at the game's beginning. It is a quadrupedal green creature resembling a dinosaur, with a large plant bulb on its back. Bulbasaur is a central character in [[Pokémon (anime)|the ''Pokémon'' anime]], being one of [[Ash Ketchum]]'s main Pokémon for the first season, with a different one later being obtained by supporting character [[May (Pokémon anime character)|May]]. It is featured in various manga and is owned by protagonist [[Red (Pokémon Adventures)|Red]] in ''[[Pokémon Adventures]]''.
Bulbasaur are a prominent species, since they are one of the first Pokémon that can be obtained in the first [[Pokémon (video games)|''Pokémon'' video games]] and they appear often in the [[Pokémon (anime)|''Pokémon'' anime]]. The name ''Bulbasaur'' refers to the species as a whole, as well as individual characters in the games, anime and manga. The name is combination of "bulb", the object on its back, and "dinosaur", which were anceint reptiles.


Bulbasaur has generally been received positively and has overall been considered one of the best Pokémon and best starter Pokémon, including by series producer [[Junichi Masuda]]. Its role in the anime has been suggested to have played a factor into its popularity.
==Availability==


== Conception and design ==
Bulbasaur play a key role in the original [[Pokémon (video games)|''Pokémon'' video games]], [[Computer role-playing game|RPG]] [[strategy]] games created by [[Satoshi Tajiri]] for the [[Nintendo]] [[Game Boy line|Game Boy]]. In the first-generation Pokémon games, the player may choose Bulbasaur, [[Charmander]] or [[Squirtle]] as his or her first (or "Starter") Pokémon. If the player chooses a Bulbasaur, the protagonist’s rival will choose a Charmander,<ref> [http://www.psypokes.com/rby/walkthrough.php?part=1 ''Pokémon Red'' and ''Blue'' walkthrough; Pallet Town] ''Psypokes.com''. URL Accessed [[July 20]] [[2006]].</ref> since Charmander have a [[Pokémon types|type advantage]] over Bulbasaur.<ref name=type> [http://serebii.net/games/type.shtml Pokémon types attack and defense chart] ''Serebii.net''. URL Accessed [[July 20]] [[2006]].</ref>
Bulbasaur is a species of fictional creatures called Pokémon created for the ''[[Pokémon]]'' media franchise. Developed by [[Game Freak]] and published by [[Nintendo]], the Japanese franchise began in 1996 with the video games ''Pokémon Red'' and ''Green'' for the [[Game Boy]], which were later released in North America as [[Pokémon Red and Blue|''Pokémon Red'' and ''Blue'']] in 1998.<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Hilliard |first=Kyle |date=December 25, 2016 |title=''Pokémon Red'' & ''Blue'' – A Look Back At The 20-Year Journey To Catch 'Em All |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2016/12/25/pok-233-mon-red-amp-blue-a-look-back-at-the-20-year-journey-to-catch-em-all.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231001192920/https://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2016/12/25/pok-233-mon-red-amp-blue-a-look-back-at-the-20-year-journey-to-catch-em-all.aspx |archive-date=October 1, 2023 |access-date=January 22, 2024 |magazine=[[Game Informer]]}}</ref> In these games and their sequels, the player assumes the role of a Trainer whose goal is to capture and use the creatures' special abilities to combat other Pokémon. Some Pokémon can transform into stronger species through a process called [[Gameplay of Pokémon#Pokémon evolution|evolution]] via various means, such as exposure to specific items.<ref name="millenial2">{{cite book |last=Allison |first=Anne |title=Millennial Monsters: Japanese Toys and the Global Imagination |date=May 2006 |publisher=[[University of California Press]] |isbn=9780520938991 |pages=192–197}}</ref> Each Pokémon have one or two elemental types, which define its advantages and disadvantages when battling other Pokémon.<ref>{{cite book |title=Pokémon Deluxe Essential Handbook |date=July 28, 2015 |publisher=[[Scholastic Inc.]] |isbn=9780545795661 |page=5}}</ref> A major goal in each game is to complete the [[Pokédex]], a comprehensive Pokémon encyclopedia, by capturing, evolving, and trading with other Trainers to obtain individuals from all Pokémon species.<ref name="millenial2" />


Bulbasaur first appeared as one of three Pokémon the player could choose as their first at the beginning of the initial [[Game Boy]] games, [[Pokémon Red and Blue|''Pokémon Red'' and ''Blue'']], released in [[Japan]] in 1996.<ref name="MacDonald">MacDonald, Mark; Brokaw, Brian; Arnold; J. Douglas; Elies, Mark. Pokémon Trainer's Guide. Sandwich Islands Publishing, 1999. {{ISBN|0-439-15404-9}}. (pg 192–195)</ref> Its Japanese name, ''Fushigidane,'' is a combination of the [[Japanese language|Japanese]] words for {{nihongo|''mystery'' or ''miracle''||fushigi|}} and {{nihongo|''seed''||tane}}.<ref>{{cite book |title=Anime Explosion!: The What? Why? & Wow! of Japanese Animation |last=Drazen |first=Patrick |year=2003 |publisher=Stone Bridge Press, LLC |location= St. Paul, MN |isbn=1-880656-72-8 |page=321 |title-link=Anime Explosion!: The What? Why? & Wow! of Japanese Animation }}</ref> While translating the game for [[English language|English-speaking]] audiences, [[Nintendo]] gave the Pokémon "cleverly descriptive names" related to their appearance or features as a means to make the characters more relatable to American children, with Bulbasaur being named as a [[portmanteau]] relating to its dinosaurian appearance and the large garlic-shaped bulb on its back.<ref name="Time">{{cite magazine|url=http://www.time.com/time/asia/magazine/99/1122/cover2.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010220055311/http://www.time.com/time/asia/magazine/99/1122/cover2.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=February 20, 2001|title=PokéMania|last=Chua-Euan|first=Howard|date=November 22, 1999|magazine=[[Time (magazine)|Time]]|access-date=September 15, 2008}}</ref> Both the etymology and appearance of Bulbasaur, Ivysaur, and Venusaur show it getting increasingly more dangerous as it evolves.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=M. |first1=Pratama Cipta Agi |last2=Himmawati |first2=Dian Rivia |year=2016 |title=The Relevance Between Word Formation of Pokémon Name and Its Appearance |journal=Language Horizon |department=Faculty of Languages and Arts, State University of Surabaya |volume=4 |issue=4 |pages=45–47}}</ref> Bulbasaur can evolve into [[Ivysaur]], which can then evolve into [[Venusaur]].<ref name="pokemon.com pokédex">{{cite web |title=pokemon.com Pokédex |url=http://www.pokemon.com/Pokedex/flash.asp |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080730180144/http://www.pokemon.com/Pokedex/flash.asp |archive-date=July 30, 2008 |access-date=September 15, 2008 |publisher=Nintendo/Game Freak}}</ref> Bulbasaur was created by [[Atsuko Nishida]], a character designer for [[Pokémon Red and Green|''Pocket Monsters Red'' and ''Blue'']], which she described as "working backwards" by basing it off the established Venusaur design.<ref name="Origin">{{cite web |url=https://www.yomiuri.co.jp/fukayomi/20180501-OYT8T50139/ |language=Japanese |website=Yomiuri |date=2 May 2018 |accessdate=22 January 2024 |script-title=ja:ピカチュウは大福？ 初めて明かされる誕生秘話 |trans-title=Is Pikachu [[Daifuku]]? The Secret Story Behind its Creation Revealed for the First Time |archive-date=October 6, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231006195536/https://www.yomiuri.co.jp/fukayomi/20180501-OYT8T50139/ |url-status=live }} English transcript of interview available at {{cite web |url=https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-news/creator-profile-the-creators-of-pikachu |website=Pokemon.com |date=26 July 2018 |accessdate=9 February 2024 |title=Creator Profile: The Creators of Pikachu |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200830165102/https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-news/creator-profile-the-creators-of-pikachu/ |archivedate=30 August 2020 }}</ref> Afterwards, the design was finalized by lead artist [[Ken Sugimori]] who, towards the end of development, drew the promotional art of all the species to give them a unified look and make any last-minute changes.<ref name="sugimori"/>
In ''[[Pokémon Yellow]]'', Bulbasaur becomes available later in the game as a gift in [[Cerulean City]], following the Pokémon anime storyline.<ref> [http://www.pokemonelite2000.com/ylwwalkthrough.html ''Pokémon Yellow'' walkthrough] ''pokemonelite2000.com''. URL Accessed [[July 20]] [[2006]].</ref> Bulbasaur is not available in any of the other games in the series, except in the [[enhanced remake]]s, [[Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen|''FireRed'' and ''LeafGreen'']]. Bulbasaur is also one of the random Pokémon available in ''[[Pokémon Stadium]]'' as a prize for defeating all of the [[Pokémon Gym|Gym Leaders]] (major game opponents) and the [[Elite Four]] (the highest level of competition).


The idea to feature Bulbasaur and the other ''Red'' and ''Blue'' starters in a significant role in [[Pokémon X and Y|''Pokémon X'' and ''Y'']] came around a year and a half into the development of the games. The [[Gameplay of Pokémon#Mega Evolution|Mega Evolutions]] for the three Pokémon's final forms were created, and the designers decided that they should give players an opportunity to receive one of these Pokémon from [[Professor Sycamore]], the games' professor, so that players would be able to see and use these forms.<ref>{{cite web |title=Pokemon X/Y: WHY?! Director Masuda himself answers! |url=http://www.gamesradar.com/pokemon-xy-why-director-masuda-himself-answers/ |work=[[GamesRadar]] |last=Betka |first=Zach |date=September 19, 2013 |access-date=March 16, 2014 |archive-date=December 7, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221207091428/https://www.gamesradar.com/pokemon-xy-why-director-masuda-himself-answers/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Sahdev |first=Ishaan |date=2013-09-04 |title=You'll Get Bulbasaur, Charmander And Squirtle In Pokémon X And Pokémon Y |url=https://www.siliconera.com/youll-get-bulbasaur-charmander-and-squirtle-in-pokemon-x-and-pokemon-y/ |access-date=2024-05-05 |website=Siliconera |language=en-US |archive-date=December 27, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227010203/https://www.siliconera.com/youll-get-bulbasaur-charmander-and-squirtle-in-pokemon-x-and-pokemon-y/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
==Biological characteristics==
The [[Pokédex]]es of the video games and anime say that a seed was planted on Bulbasaur's back at birth. This seed then sprouts and grows larger as the Bulbasaur grows. This is reflected during the [[Pokémon evolution|evolution]] into [[Ivysaur]] then [[Venusaur]]. The bulb is said to also absorb solar energy, which Bulbasaur need in order to grow; for this reason, Bulbasaur enjoy soaking up the sun's rays. Bulbasaur, through these stored nutrients, can survive for days without eating.<ref>The in-game [[Pokédex|Pokédexes]] of the [[Pokémon (video games)|''Pokémon'' games]] ([http://www.psypokes.com/dex/pokedex.php?id=001&view=general A copy of them from ''Psypokes''.com''.]) URL Accessed [[July 20]] [[2006]].</ref>


Despite their English names, Sugimori confirmed that the design of Bulbasaur and its evolutions are based on frogs.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ds/interview/irbj/sp/index4.html |script-title=ja:女子大生が訊く ポケットモンスターブラック・ホワイト |publisher=[[Nintendo]] |access-date=October 28, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101230153442/http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ds/interview/irbj/sp/index4.html|archive-date=December 30, 2010|language=ja}}</ref> In the ''Pokémon'' franchise, Bulbasaur are small, [[amphibian]] and [[plant]] Pokémon that move [[Quadrupedalism|on all four legs]]. They have blue-green bodies with darker blue-green spots. The seed on a Bulbasaur's back is planted at birth and then sprouts and grows along with it.<ref>{{pokédex|red|A strange seed was planted on its back at birth. The plant sprouts and grows with this Pokémon.}}</ref> The bulb absorbs sunlight which allows it to grow.<ref>{{pokédex|ruby|Bulbasaur can be seen napping in bright sunlight. There is a seed on its back. By soaking up the sun's rays, the seed grows progressively larger.}}</ref> They can survive for days without eating because the bulb stores energy.<ref>{{pokédex|yellow|It can go for days without eating a single morsel. In the bulb on its back, it stores energy.}}</ref> In the video games, Bulbasaur has two "types", elemental attributes that determine strengths and weaknesses: Grass and Poison.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Oxman |first=Demaris |date=2022-01-24 |title=Pokemon: The Best Secondary Typings For Grass-Types |url=https://gamerant.com/pokemon-best-secondary-typings-grass-types/ |access-date=2024-04-17 |website=Game Rant |language=en |archive-date=May 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230528013003/https://gamerant.com/pokemon-best-secondary-typings-grass-types/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Series producer and director [[Junichi Masuda]] considered Bulbasaur the best starter Pokémon, finding it really cute and that it exemplifies what ''Pokémon'' is for him, citing the monster and plant combination.<ref name="Polygon">{{Cite web|url=https://www.polygon.com/pokemon/2018/9/28/17855078/bulbasaur-best-starter-pokemon-gen-one|title=Bulbasaur has been the best Pokémon all along|first=Chris|last=Plante|date=September 28, 2018|website=Polygon|access-date=June 10, 2021|archive-date=September 28, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180928130412/https://www.polygon.com/pokemon/2018/9/28/17855078/bulbasaur-best-starter-pokemon-gen-one|url-status=live}}</ref> Bulbasaur has been voiced by [[Tara Sands]] and [[Michele Knotz]] in English in the [[Pokémon anime|''Pokémon'' anime series]].<ref name="va1">{{Cite web|url=https://www.crunchyroll.com/news/latest/2019/2/22/crunchyroll-expo-welcomes-voice-actress-tara-sands|title=Crunchyroll Expo Welcomes Voice Actress Tara Sands!|date=2019-02-22|access-date=2024-04-10|website=[[Crunchyroll]]|archive-date=May 13, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240513112205/https://www.crunchyroll.com/news/latest/2019/2/22/crunchyroll-expo-welcomes-voice-actress-tara-sands|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="va2">{{Cite web |title=Pokémon |website=micheleknotz.com |url=https://micheleknotz.com/pokemon/ |access-date=2024-05-07}}</ref>
When battling in the video games and anime, trainers can release the stored [[solar power|solar energy]] as a powerful Solarbeam attack. Bulbasaur can also attack using seeds from this bulb, sapping health from the opponent. Bulbasaur are able to extend two [[vine]]s from themselves, both for attacking and for manipulating objects.


== Appearances ==
<div style="clear: both" />
Bulbasaur is the first Pokémon entry in the Pokédex.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2015-01-23 |title=Bulbasaur Isn't Neccesarily The First Pokémon |url=https://kotaku.com/bulbasaur-isnt-neccesarily-the-first-pokemon-1681406035 |access-date=2024-04-10 |website=Kotaku |language=en |archive-date=March 25, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230325163718/https://kotaku.com/bulbasaur-isnt-neccesarily-the-first-pokemon-1681406035 |url-status=live }}</ref> It made its video game debut in the Japanese-language games [[Pokémon Red and Green|''Pocket Monsters Red'' ''and'' ''Green'']]. Along with [[Charmander]] and [[Squirtle]], Bulbasaur is one of the initial three Pokémon the player can choose from at the beginning of the games. Bulbasaur and the other starters from ''Red'' and ''Blue'' are replaced by [[Pikachu]] in ''[[Pokémon Yellow]]'', and is instead obtainable elsewhere in the game.<ref name="allison">{{cite book |last=Allison |first=Anne |url=https://archive.org/details/millennialmonste00alli |title=Millennial Monsters: Japanese Toys and the Global Imagination |publisher=[[University of California Press]] |year=2006 |isbn=0-520-22148-6 |url-access=limited}}</ref> Bulbasaur appears in all other entries in the main series, though in [[Pokémon Sword and Shield|''Pokémon Sword'' and ''Shield'']], Bulbasaur was not made available until the release of ''[[Pokémon Sword and Shield: The Isle of Armor]].''<ref>{{Cite web |last=Flores |first=Sky |date=2020-06-26 |title=How To Get Bulbasaur & Squirtle in Pokémon: Isle of Armor DLC |url=https://screenrant.com/bulbasaur-squirtle-guide-pokemon-isle-armor-dlc/ |access-date=2024-04-10 |website=ScreenRant |language=en |archive-date=July 30, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220730233722/https://screenrant.com/bulbasaur-squirtle-guide-pokemon-isle-armor-dlc/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Similarly, Bulbasaur was not made available in [[Pokémon Scarlet and Violet|''Pokémon Scarlet'' and ''Violet'']] until the release of ''[[Pokémon Scarlet and Violet: The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero|The Indigo Disk]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-14 |title=All The Starters Are Coming To Pokémon Scarlet And Violet |url=https://kotaku.com/pokemon-scarlet-violet-squirtle-bulbasaur-starters-dlc-1850734724 |access-date=2024-04-10 |website=Kotaku |language=en |archive-date=December 25, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231225093318/https://kotaku.com/pokemon-scarlet-violet-squirtle-bulbasaur-starters-dlc-1850734724 |url-status=live }}</ref>


Bulbasaur appears in various ''Pokémon'' spin-offs, including ''[[Pokémon Stadium]]''<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cardaro |first=Brett |date=2023-04-06 |title=Pokémon Stadium's Switch Online Port Is Missing the Game's Most Important Feature |url=https://www.cbr.com/pokemon-stadium-feature-missing-transfer-nintendo-switch-online/ |access-date=2024-04-10 |website=CBR |language=en |archive-date=August 25, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230825180918/https://www.cbr.com/pokemon-stadium-feature-missing-transfer-nintendo-switch-online/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and the ''[[Pokémon Mystery Dungeon]]'' series, where players may be assigned Bulbasaur in a personality quiz.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Contreras |first=Ricardo |date=2020-01-27 |title=I Took Pokémon's Personality Quiz 50 Times |url=https://www.vice.com/en/article/884qpa/i-took-pokemons-personality-quiz-50-times |access-date=2024-04-10 |website=Vice |language=en |archive-date=March 6, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240306050654/https://www.vice.com/en/article/884qpa/i-took-pokemons-personality-quiz-50-times |url-status=live }}</ref> Bulbasaur appears in both ''[[Pokémon Snap]]''<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wood |first=Austin |date=2023-11-20 |title=24 years ago, Pokemon Snap gave Charmander, Squirtle, and Bulbasaur unique trading cards – and they just sold for more than the price of my house |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/rare-variants-of-the-original-starter-pokemon-cards-just-set-an-auction-record-at-over-dollar70000-each/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231127234033/https://www.gamesradar.com/rare-variants-of-the-original-starter-pokemon-cards-just-set-an-auction-record-at-over-dollar70000-each/ |archive-date=November 27, 2023 |access-date=2024-04-10 |website=GamesRadar+ |language=en}}</ref> and ''[[New Pokémon Snap]]''<ref>{{Cite web |last=Maher |first=Cian |date=2021-04-30 |title=New Pokemon Snap: All Starter Locations |url=https://www.thegamer.com/new-pokemon-snap-all-starter-locations/ |access-date=2024-04-10 |website=TheGamer |language=en |archive-date=January 14, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240114162304/https://www.thegamer.com/new-pokemon-snap-all-starter-locations/ |url-status=live }}</ref> as Pokémon the player can take pictures of. Bulbasaur also features in ''[[Pokémon Go]]''<ref>{{Cite news |date=2021-09-21 |title=Pokémon Go event Pokémon list: All costume Pokémon, including party hat Pokémon, flower crown Pokémon and every Pikachu costume explained |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/pokemon-go-event-costume-pokemon-party-hat-flower-crown-7002 |access-date=2024-04-10 |work=Eurogamer.net |language=en |archive-date=January 4, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240104165419/https://www.eurogamer.net/pokemon-go-event-costume-pokemon-party-hat-flower-crown-7002 |url-status=live }}</ref> and as a playable character in ''[[Pokémon Unite]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://screenrant.com/pokemon-go-prepare-bulbasaur-spotlight-hour/|title=Pokemon Go: How To Prepare For Bulbasaur Spotlight Hour|date=July 6, 2021|website=ScreenRant|access-date=July 15, 2021|archive-date=July 15, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210715114459/https://screenrant.com/pokemon-go-prepare-bulbasaur-spotlight-hour/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://thewestnews.com/list-of-all-playable-pokemon-in-pokemon-unite/41226|title=List of All playable Pokemon in Pokemon Unite|first=Aaron|last=Kohn|date=July 15, 2021|access-date=July 15, 2021|archive-date=October 20, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211020161350/https://thewestnews.com/list-of-all-playable-pokemon-in-pokemon-unite/41226|url-status=live}}</ref> Outside of the ''Pokémon'' video games, Bulbasaur was also featured as a collectible in the ''[[Super Smash Bros.]]'' series.<ref>"[http://guides.ign.com/guides/16387/page_54.html Guides:Super Smash Bros. Melee] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071209075003/http://guides.ign.com/guides/16387/page_54.html |date=December 9, 2007 }}," ''IGN.com''. Retrieved December 29, 2005.</ref> A costume for [[Mario]] based on it was added to ''[[Super Mario Maker]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=G. R. |date=2016-02-12 |title=Super Mario Maker Getting Charmander, Squirtle & Bulbasaur Costumes |url=https://gamerant.com/super-mario-maker-charmander-squirtle-bulbasaur-costume-trailer/ |access-date=2024-04-05 |website=Game Rant |language=en |archive-date=June 24, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210624201102/https://gamerant.com/super-mario-maker-charmander-squirtle-bulbasaur-costume-trailer/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
==Role==
===Video games===
[[Image:Bulbasaur pokemon red.png|frame|right|215px|A Bulbasaur (left) in a battle with a [[Charmander]] in [[Pokémon Red and Blue|''Pokémon Red'']].<ref> MacDonald, Mark; Brokaw, Brian; Arnold; J. Douglas; Elies, Mark. Pokémon Trainer's Guide. Sandwich Islands Publishing, 1999. ISBN 0-439-15404-9. (pg73)</ref>]]


In the [[Pokémon (anime)|''Pokémon'' anime]], multiple Bulbasaur are owned by various main characters, including series protagonist [[Ash Ketchum]].<ref name="ITmedia"/> The character May also captures one in ''[[Pokémon: Advanced]].''<ref>{{Cite web |last=Steel |first=Tom |date=2021-12-15 |title=Pokémon: Every Pokémon May Owned In The Anime, Ranked |url=https://www.cbr.com/every-may-anime-pokemon-ranked/ |access-date=2024-04-10 |website=CBR |language=en |archive-date=June 11, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220611144813/https://www.cbr.com/every-may-anime-pokemon-ranked/ |url-status=live }}</ref> She later makes a guest appearance, where it is revealed that her Bulbasaur has fully evolved into a Venusaur.<ref name="Pruning a Passel of Pals!">{{cite episode| title = Pruning a Passel of Pals! | series = [[Pokémon (anime)|Pokémon]] | credits = Shinzō Fujita (writer) | network = Various | airdate = September 27, 2008 | season = [[List of Pokémon: Diamond and Pearl: Battle Dimension episodes|Diamond and Pearl: Battle Dimension]]|number = 78}}</ref> In ''[[Pokémon Adventures]]'', a manga based on the plot of the ''Pokémon Red'' and ''Blue'' games, the character [[Red (Pokémon Adventures)|Red]] receives a Bulbasaur from [[List of Pokémon characters#Professors|Professor Oak]], which he nicknames Saur. Bulbasaur also appears in the movie ''[[Detective Pikachu (film)|Detective Pikachu]]'', where a several of them appear.<ref name="auto">{{Cite web|url=https://www.polygon.com/2019/5/16/18628186/detective-pikachu-bulbasaur-best-starter-pokemon|title=Detective Pikachu helped me love a Pokémon I used to hate|first=Patricia|last=Hernandez|date=May 16, 2019|website=Polygon|access-date=July 15, 2021|archive-date=November 13, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221113111348/https://www.polygon.com/2019/5/16/18628186/detective-pikachu-bulbasaur-best-starter-pokemon|url-status=live}}</ref> In making the film, a bulldog was used to understand the top-heavy movement of Bulbasaur, then puppeteers in London were hired to create 3D puppets of it. Facial expressions and texture details were added using [[Computer-generated imagery|CGI]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-07-27 |title=How "Detective Pikachu" Brought Pokémon Into the Real World |url=https://time.com/5582906/detective-pikachu-pokemon-visual-effects/ |access-date=2024-05-05 |website=Time Magazine |archive-date=July 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210727112159/https://time.com/5582906/detective-pikachu-pokemon-visual-effects/ |url-status=bot: unknown }}</ref>
Bulbasaur have the ability to undergo [[Pokémon evolution|evolution]], a metamorphic change within a Pokémon caused by gaining experience in battle, twice. They can evolve first into their middle forms, [[Ivysaur]], from [[Experience point#Levelling up|level]] 16 onwards, and again into [[Venusaur]], their final forms, beginning at level 32, with both evolutions giving them a significant power boost in all areas.<ref name=dex> [http://www.smogon.com/advance/bulbasaur/ Bulbasaur Pokédex entry] ''Smogon.com''. URL Accessed [[July 20]] [[2006]].</ref> Bulbasaur, like most unevolved Pokémon, learn moves at a faster rate than their evolved forms. After they learn new moves, they can simply be allowed to evolve, taking advantage of both the advanced techniques and the power increase.<ref> Hollinger, Elizabeth M.; Ratkos, James M., ''Pokémon Gold and Silver: Prima's Official Strategy Guide''. (pg 16) Prima Publishing, 2000. ISBN 0-7615-3084-3.</ref>


== Promotion and reception ==
Bulbasaur are not found in the wild in any version. As a result of their rarity, they are highly prized, despite their lack of battle prowess before evolving. Because one goal in a Pokémon RPG is to “catch ’em all”, any player of Pokémon ''Red'' or ''Blue'' who does not select a Bulbasaur at the beginning of the game must trade with someone else who has one. For this reason, Bulbasaur (and other Starter Pokémon like [[Cyndaquil]] and [[Mudkip]]) are popularly [[Pokémon breeding|bred]] for trading with other players. This feature was introduced in the second generation; and subsequent games contain locations where Pokémon can be bred to produce eggs, which hatch into Pokémon matching the mother’s earliest stage of development.
[[File:ANA B767-381 JA8578 Pokemon-Jet98.jpg|thumb|Bulbasaur has been used heavily in promotion for the series, such as on the side of planes.]]
Bulbasaur has been featured in merchandise, including toys and plush dolls.<ref name="bulbasaurgr">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamesradar.com/ds/f/the-complete-pokemon-rby-pokedex-part-1/a-200708209459101025/g-2006100415372930075|title=The complete Pokemon RBY pokedex, part 1|date=August 24, 2007|access-date=July 30, 2010|archive-date=April 14, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160414195127/http://www.gamesradar.com/ds/f/the-complete-pokemon-rby-pokedex-part-1/a-200708209459101025/g-2006100415372930075/|url-status=live}}</ref> Bulbasaur has been depicted in [[action figure]]s sold by [[Hasbro]] in the United States, while [[Tomy]] in Japan sold vinyl dolls, wind-up model kits, Singaporean popcorn with a flavor based on Bulbasaur,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.asiaone.com/lifestyle/singapore-brand-kettle-gourmet-launches-local-flavoured-popcorn-featuring-your-favourite|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210702123033/https://www.asiaone.com/lifestyle/singapore-brand-kettle-gourmet-launches-local-flavoured-popcorn-featuring-your-favourite|url-status=dead|archive-date=2021-07-02|title=Singapore brand The Kettle Gourmet launches local flavoured popcorn featuring your favourite starter Pokémon, Lifestyle News - AsiaOne|date=July 2, 2021}}</ref> and terry cloth bean bags.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.allgame.com/character.php?id=3141|title=allgame ((( Bulbasaur > Overview )))|publisher=Allgame|first=Jason|last=White|access-date=October 5, 2008|archive-date=November 14, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141114211329/http://www.allgame.com/character.php?id=3141|url-status=dead}}</ref> It has been marketed via toys at fast-food chains such as [[McDonald's]] and [[Burger King]].<ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Stewart |first=Marcus |title=McDonald's Pokémon Happy Meal Cards Are Selling Out Thanks To Adult Fans And Scalpers |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/2021/02/10/mcdonalds-pokemon-happy-meal-cards-are-selling-out-thanks-to-adult-fans-and-scalpers |access-date=2024-05-05 |magazine=Game Informer |language=en |archive-date=May 5, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240505053745/https://www.gameinformer.com/2021/02/10/mcdonalds-pokemon-happy-meal-cards-are-selling-out-thanks-to-adult-fans-and-scalpers |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Hoffer |first=Christian |title='Detective Pikachu' Comes to Burger King |url=https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/detective-pikachu-burger-king-toys/ |access-date=2024-05-05 |website=Comicbook.com |language=en |archive-date=April 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230407073148/https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/detective-pikachu-burger-king-toys/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Fastfoodtoys.Net Pokémon 2000 Toys|url=http://www.fastfoodtoys.net/burger%20king%20pokemon%20power%20cards.htm|access-date=January 28, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120222120855/http://www.fastfoodtoys.net/burger%20king%20pokemon%20power%20cards.htm|archive-date=February 22, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> Bulbasaur has also been included in various versions of the [[Pokémon Jet|Pokémon painting on ANA Boeing 767s]].<ref name="design">{{cite web|url=http://www.ana.co.jp/eng/flights/pokemonjet/design.html|title=Design|publisher=[[All Nippon Airways]]|access-date=November 15, 2009|archive-date=January 6, 2004|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040106044234/http://www.ana.co.jp/eng/flights/pokemonjet/design.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2021, [[Seiko]] made limited edition luxury watches based on Bulbasaur and its evolutionary family.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://japantoday.com/category/features/new-products/seiko-adds-limited-edition-starter-pokemon-to-their-luxury-watch-collection |title=Seiko adds limited edition starter Pokemon to their luxury watch collection - Japan Today |website=japantoday.com |access-date=11 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210714175814/https://japantoday.com/category/features/new-products/seiko-adds-limited-edition-starter-pokemon-to-their-luxury-watch-collection |archive-date=14 July 2021 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The island nation of [[Niue]] issued a commemorative coin with a legal tender value of one [[Crown (British coin)|crown]], which has a Bulbasaur on the reverse side.<ref>{{Cite book |title=2004 standard catalog of world coins |url=https://archive.org/details/cliffordmishlers00krau |url-access=limited |page=[https://archive.org/details/cliffordmishlers00krau/page/n1578 1532] |author=Chester L. Krause, Clifford Mishler |year=2003 |publisher=Krause Publications |isbn=9780873495936 }}</ref> Bulbasaur was also among the eleven Pokémon chosen as Japan's mascots in the [[2014 FIFA World Cup]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sanchez |first=Miranda |date=2014-03-15 |title=Pikachu Named Mascot of the 2014 World Cup |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2014/03/15/pikachu-named-mascot-of-the-2014-world-cup |access-date=2024-05-05 |website=IGN |language=en |archive-date=March 20, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240320102522/https://www.ign.com/articles/2014/03/15/pikachu-named-mascot-of-the-2014-world-cup |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Pikachu is Japan's awesome mascot for FIFA World Cup 2014 |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/pikachu-is-japan-s-awesome-mascot-for-fifa-world-cup-2014/1100-6418347/ |access-date=2024-05-05 |website=GameSpot |language=en-US |archive-date=May 13, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240513112242/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/pikachu-is-japan-s-awesome-mascot-for-fifa-world-cup-2014/1100-6418347/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Farokhmanesh|first=Megan|date=March 15, 2014|title=Pikachu is Japan's official mascot for the FIFA 2014 World Cup Brazil|url=https://www.polygon.com/2014/3/15/5512550/pikachu-is-japans-official-mascot-for-the-fifa-2014-world-cup-brazil|website=Polygon|access-date=July 12, 2021|archive-date=November 12, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221112151818/https://www.polygon.com/2014/3/15/5512550/pikachu-is-japans-official-mascot-for-the-fifa-2014-world-cup-brazil|url-status=live}}</ref> A Bulbasaur statue was installed on March 25, 2018, in the municipality of [[Suzano]], [[São Paulo (state)|São Paulo]], Brazil, and was the first of several other Pokémon-related statues installed.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://g1.globo.com/sp/mogi-das-cruzes-suzano/noticia/estatua-de-pokemon-instalada-em-praca-de-suzano-provoca-a-curiosidade-de-fas-do-jogo.ghtml |title=Estátua de Pokémon instalada em praça de Suzano provoca a curiosidade de fãs do jogo |website=G1 |date=March 29, 2018 |access-date=December 29, 2023 |archive-date=December 29, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231229152105/https://g1.globo.com/sp/mogi-das-cruzes-suzano/noticia/estatua-de-pokemon-instalada-em-praca-de-suzano-provoca-a-curiosidade-de-fas-do-jogo.ghtml |url-status=live }}</ref>


Bulbasaur has been largely praised by critics. ''Nintendo World Report''{{'s}} Pedro Hernandez highlighted its role in one episode of the anime, citing Bulbasaur's appealing storyline in the episode as endearing the species to him. He stated that this role helped him become a fan of the ''Pokémon'' franchise as a whole.<ref>{{cite web |title=Top 5 Pokémon: Pedro's Picks |url=http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/feature/25502/top-5-pokemon-pedros-picks |work=Nintendo World Report |last=Hernandez |first=Pedro |date=March 1, 2011 |access-date=March 2, 2014 |archive-date=November 13, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221113101851/http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/feature/25502/top-5-pokemon-pedros-picks |url-status=live }}</ref> [[IGN]] editor "Pokémon of the Day Chick" also praised Ash's "attitude-packing Bulbasaur" in the anime,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://faqs.ign.com/articles/380/380258p1.html|title=Pokemon Crystal Version - Pokemon of the Day: Bulbasaur (#1)|website=IGN|access-date=March 27, 2010|archive-date=March 24, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130324090242/http://www.ign.com/faqs/2002/pokemon-crystal-version-pokemon-of-the-day-bulbasaur-1-380258|url-status=dead}}</ref> and ''[[Official Nintendo Magazine]]''{{'}}s John Vekinis attributed his "love of Grass-type Pokémon" to Bulbasaur in spite of the Grass type's weaknesses.<ref>{{cite web |title=Top five Pokemon Types |url=http://www.officialnintendomagazine.co.uk/53177/blog/top-five-pokemon-types/?page=5 |work=[[Official Nintendo Magazine]] |last=Vekinis |first=John |date=August 10, 2013 |access-date=March 2, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141008074614/http://www.officialnintendomagazine.co.uk/53177/blog/top-five-pokemon-types/?page=5 |archive-date=October 8, 2014 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Chris Plante of ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]'' called Bulbasaur the best Pokémon; while he felt it and its evolutions "comparably dull", they were "the most true to life" as it looked more "leathery and aged" after evolving, compared to the other starters.<ref name="Polygon" /> Other ''Polygon'' writers highlighted Bulbasaur for similar reasons, mostly notably for its design, which was highlighted for providing a good balance of design elements while remaining cute.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Frank |first=Allegra |date=2016-07-22 |title=Which of the original starter Pokémon is the best? |url=https://www.polygon.com/2016/7/22/12257582/best-original-pokemon-starter |access-date=2024-04-05 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=April 5, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240405224107/https://www.polygon.com/2016/7/22/12257582/best-original-pokemon-starter |url-status=live }}</ref> Another writer highlighted Bulbasaur's appearance in ''Detective Pikachu'', stating that its cute appearance and affectionate design helped endear him to the Pokémon. He further noted that age seemed to affect people's perception of Bulbasaur; whereas younger audiences saw it as weaker, older audiences tended to perceive it as a more cute and appealing creature.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hernandez |first=Patricia |date=2019-05-16 |title=Detective Pikachu helped me love a Pokémon I used to hate |url=https://www.polygon.com/2019/5/16/18628186/detective-pikachu-bulbasaur-best-starter-pokemon |access-date=2024-04-05 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=November 13, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221113111348/https://www.polygon.com/2019/5/16/18628186/detective-pikachu-bulbasaur-best-starter-pokemon |url-status=live }}</ref> Bulbasaur was ranked the third best starter Pokémon in a poll of Japanese ''Pokémon'' fans by ''ITmedia''. The staff felt the popularity of Bulbasaur derived from the anime, particularly Ash's Bulbasaur, who at the time was the Pokémon that was with the series protagonist for the longest time besides [[Pikachu]], spanning four-and-a-half years. They speculated this led to fans growing to feel attached to Bulbasaur.<ref name="ITmedia">{{cite web |url=https://nlab.itmedia.co.jp/research/articles/177261/ |title=「御三家ポケモン」人気No.1が決定！ 「フシギダネ」「ポッチャマ」を上回る1位は？【2021年最新】 |work=ITmedia |date=April 24, 2021 |accessdate=January 21, 2024 |archive-date=January 28, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240128154257/https://nlab.itmedia.co.jp/research/articles/177261/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
Bulbasaur appear as a playable Pokémon in [[Pokémon Mystery Dungeon]]. They also make minor and cameo appearances in several other Nintendo games, Pokémon-centric and otherwise. In the [[Nintendo 64]] game ''[[Pokémon Snap]]'', players assuming the identity of a Pokémon [[photography|photographer]] find Bulbasaur along the River course, and three [[Ditto (Pokémon)|Ditto]] disguised as Bulbasaur in the Cave course.<ref> MacDonald, Mark; Brokaw, Brian; Arnold; J. Douglas; Elies, Mark. Pokémon Trainer's Guide. Sandwich Islands Publishing, 1999. ISBN 0-439-15404-9. (pg 192 - 195)</ref> Bulbasaur also show up in ''[[Hey You, Pikachu!]]'' and ''[[Pokémon Channel]]''. In these first-person games, players are put in the role of children too young to become trainers, who befriend a wild Pikachu and other Pokémon. In ''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]'', a [[fighting game]] starring well-known Nintendo characters, a Bulbasaur appears as a trophy which the player can acquire through the in-game lottery by spending coins, known as “Smash Coins”, earned while playing.<ref>“[http://guides.ign.com/guides/16387/page_54.html Guides:Super Smash Bros. Melee],” ''IGN.com''. URL accessed on [[December 29]] [[2005]].</ref>


Bulbasaur has been noted to be less popular than Charmander and Squirtle.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-03-15 |title="I choose you…!" Survey reveals most popular starter Pokémon among Japanese college students |url=https://soranews24.com/2016/03/15/i-choose-you-survey-reveals-most-popular-starter-pokemon-among-japanese-college-students/ |access-date=2024-04-05 |website=SoraNews24 -Japan News- |language=en-US |archive-date=April 5, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240405224106/https://soranews24.com/2016/03/15/i-choose-you-survey-reveals-most-popular-starter-pokemon-among-japanese-college-students/ |url-status=live }}</ref> ''[[Nerdist]]'' attributed it to a lack of attention to the line early in the series because of [[Venusaur]]'s omission from game [[box art]] in non-Japanese releases of the game.<ref>{{Cite web |title=An Ode to Bulbasaur, the Unsung Hero of the Starter Pokémon |url=https://nerdist.com/article/bulbasaur-best-starter-pokemon/ |access-date=2024-04-05 |website=Nerdist |language=en-US |archive-date=April 5, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240405190900/https://nerdist.com/article/bulbasaur-best-starter-pokemon/ |url-status=live }}</ref> This led to one [[Twitter]] user creating an account named BulbaGanda to spread support for the Pokémon, which was met with considerable popularity.<ref>{{Cite web |last=D'Anastasio |first=Cecilia |date=2019-02-08 |title=If You Don't Love Bulbasaur, 'Bulbasaur Propaganda' Might Change Your Mind |url=https://kotaku.com/if-you-dont-love-bulbasaur-bulbasaur-propaganda-might-1832473836 |access-date=2024-04-05 |website=Kotaku |language=en |archive-date=June 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210610022318/https://kotaku.com/if-you-dont-love-bulbasaur-bulbasaur-propaganda-might-1832473836 |url-status=live }}</ref>
===Pokémon anime===
The [[Pokémon (anime)|''Pokémon'' anime]] [[television program|series]] and [[film]]s are a set of adventures separate from most other versions of ''Pokémon'', featuring [[Ash Ketchum]] as the main character, and following his quest to become a Pokémon Master. He and his companions travel around the Pokémon world battling other [[Pokémon trainer]]s. To this end, Ash and his friend [[May (Pokémon)|May]] have each trained a Bulbasaur (at different times), although Ash’s was featured for a much longer period. Despite how long Ash kept his Bulbasaur, it, like his Squirtle and Pikachu, refuses to evolve.<ref name=hysteria> ''Pokémon Advanced Challenge, Vol. 7 - Six Pack Attack'', Viz Video., [[March 12]] [[2006]]. ASIN B000CEXG32.</ref>


== References ==
Ash’s Bulbasaur has remained with him longer than any of his other Pokémon with the exception of his [[Pikachu]], the first Pokémon on his team. Before joining his team, it lived with a girl named Melanie, who took care of abandoned Pokémon. It is unclear whether or not this Bulbasaur had been abandoned, but Melanie was not its trainer, she was merely a friend.<ref>“[http://www.serebii.net/anime/epiguide/indigo/010.shtml Episode 10 - Bulbasaur and the Hidden Village]”, ''Serebii.net''. URL accessed on [[February 26]] [[2006]].</ref> Originally, this Bulbasaur was pessimistic about Ash, and when it and his other Pokémon were separated from him, it insisted to the other Pokémon that he had abandoned them.<ref> ''Pokémon - Seaside Pikachu!'' Viz Video., [[July 20]] [[1999]]. ISBN 6305466858 .</ref> However, following this episode, its loyalties began to improve and it eventually became one of Ash’s most faithful Pokémon.<ref> ''Pokémon - Pikachu Party (Vol. 12)'' Viz Video., [[November 23]] [[1999]]. ASIN B000021Y6R.</ref>
{{Reflist|2}}


== External links ==
Like all Pokémon in the anime (except [[Mewtwo]], a particular [[Team Rocket (anime)#Meowth|Meowth]], [[Lucario]], and a certain [[Slowking]]), Bulbasaur cannot speak and are only able to communicate verbally by repeating syllables of their species name (“bulb”, “bulba”, “saur”), using different [[pitch accent|pitch]]es, [[tonal language|tone]]s and [[body language]] to convey moods. From this, however, a Bulbasaur’s [[Pokémon trainer|trainer]] can usually understand what it is saying. Ash and his early companions were the first humans to witness a Bulbasaur evolution ceremony, in which all the Bulbasaur in the world gather in one place in order to evolve into Ivysaur.<ref>“[http://www.serebii.net/anime/epiguide/indigo/051.shtml Episode 51 - Bulbasaur’s Mysterious Garden]”, ''Serebii.net''. URL accessed on [[February 26]] [[2006]].</ref>
{{Portal|Video games}}
* [http://bulbapedia.bulbagarden.net/wiki/Bulbasaur_(Pokémon) Bulbasaur on Bulbapedia]
* [https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokedex/bulbasaur Bulbasaur on Pokemon.com]


{{Pokémon Generation 1|state=expanded}}
As in the games, [[Pokémon trainer]]s can carry a maximum of 6 Pokémon in their active roster at any one time. Ash’s Bulbasaur remained on his active roster for much of the series, but was later left with [[Professor Oak]], after other Pokémon in Oak’s care started fighting amongst themselves. Bulbasaur was the only Pokémon able to break up these fights, and the fights would resume if it were to leave.<ref>“[http://www.serebii.net/anime/epiguide/indigo/051.shtml Episode 227 - Bulbasaur ... The Ambassador!]”, ''Serebii.net''. URL accessed on [[February 28]] [[2006]].</ref>
{{Pokémon}}


[[Category:Anthropomorphic dinosaurs]]
[[Image:Bulbasaur_in_the_anime.jpg|right|thumb|195px|Ash Ketchum’s Bulbasaur in episode 51 of the [[Pokémon (anime)|''Pokémon'' anime]]]]
[[Category:Characters created by Atsuko Nishida]]
Nintendo has stated that, unlike the video games, Pokémon in the anime are genderless with a few exceptions.<!-- I know, this needs a citation. It was once in Pokémon.com’s FAQ under a heading like “Is Pikachu a boy or a girl?”, but the site layout has changed drastically. I’ve looked for it at web.archive.org but no luck so far.--> Bulbasaur typically has a relaxed attitude, rarely allowing itself to be provoked. This is in sharp contrast to its teammate [[Squirtle]], which tends to act rashly. Like Ash’s Pikachu, this Bulbasaur has decided it prefers not to evolve. Although this decision was not accepted by other Bulbasaur at first, they have come to respect its wishes.
[[Category:Fictional characters with plant abilities]]

[[Category:Fictional frogs]]
During the grass field battle of the Indigo League tournament, a battle competition that takes place on the [[Indigo Plateau]], Ash’s Bulbasaur defeated two of the opponent’s three Pokémon on its own (a [[Beedrill]] and a [[Scyther]]), despite little fighting experience as a part of Ash’s team (and the fact that, in the video game, both of those Pokémon would have a significant type advantage over a Grass-type like Bulbasaur). It also took part in the [[Orange Islands|Orange League]] Tournament, however, it was quickly defeated by a more experienced [[Electabuzz]], making it the only Pokémon on Ketchum’s team not to defeat at least one of the opposition’s Pokémon. Later, in the Johto League Silver Conference, Bulbasaur was able to defeat a particularly strong [[shiny Pokémon|shiny]] [[Magneton]], and then in the same match, duel a freshly-rested [[Meganium]] to a draw.<ref>“[http://www.serebii.net/anime/epiguide/johto/270.shtml Episode 270 - Tie One On!]”, ''Serebii.net''. URL accessed on [[February 26]] [[2006]].</ref> Bulbasaur is one of only three of Ash’s original Pokémon (the others being [[Snorlax]] and [[Charizard]]) to appear so far in the English dubs of the ''Advanced Generation'' episodes, which are the most recent incarnation of the ''Pokémon'' anime.
[[Category:Fictional whip users]]

[[Category:Plant characters]]
Another featured Bulbasaur is the fourth Pokémon caught by May during her [[Hoenn]] adventures. While travelling in the Forbidden Forest (a [[Pokémon types#Grass-type|Grass Pokémon]] reserve), she finds it trying to pick flowers. It warms to her and defends her against the other grass Pokémon, who see her as a threat. When May leaves, Bulbasaur decides to go with her. Like May’s other Pokémon, it is a contest Pokémon. Pokémon contests within the series are [[dog show]]-type events in which Pokémon compete to demonstrate style to a panel of judges. For this reason, it is taught the Petal Dance attack, a flashy move which garners high scores from the judges. May's Bulbasaur has a heart-shaped marking on its forehead, which may hint that her Bulbasaur is female.
[[Category:Pokémon introduced in generation I]]

Since May's Bulbasaur fell in love with Ash's Bulbasaur, both Bulbasaur are now with [[Professor Oak]].

In the Japanese version, Ash's Bulbasaur is voiced by [[Megumi Hayashibara]], while May's Bulbasaur is voiced by [[Miyako Itō]]. In the English version, they are both voiced by [[Tara Jayne]].
<div style="clear: both"></div>

===''Pokémon Trading Card Game''===
[[Image:Bulbasaur_TCG.jpg|right|thumb|150px|Bulbasaur in the ''[[Pokémon Trading Card Game]]'' (Base set)]]

The ''[[Pokémon (card game)|Pokémon Trading Card Game]]'' is a [[collectible card game]] similar in goal to a Pokémon battle in the video game series; players must use cards (with individual strengths and weaknesses) in an attempt to defeat their opponent by "knocking out" all of his cards.<ref> [http://www.pokemon-tcg.com/p_strategy/rulebooks/book_68.jsp#433 ''Pokémon Trading Card Game'' "How to play" guide] ''pokemon-tcg.com''. URL Accessed [[July 3]], [[2006]].</ref> The game was first published in [[North America]] by [[Wizards of the Coast]] in 1999, until [[The Pokémon Company|Nintendo USA]] started publishing the series in 2003.<ref> [http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=company/pr/20030312b ''Pokémon Trading Card Game'' News; "Pokémon Ruby & Sapphire TCG Releases"] ''Wizards.com''. URL Accessed [[July 3]], [[2006]].</ref>

In this capacity, Bulbasaur was among the first Pokémon cards with which players became acquainted. Bulbasaur cards have appeared in the Base Set (and Base Set 2 and Legendary Collection), Gym Challenge (as [[Erika (Pokémon)|Erika]]’s Bulbasaur), Expedition (two cards), EX Team Magma vs. Team Aqua, and EX FireRed & LeafGreen (two cards). Considering the notability and popularity of Bulbasaur, the Pokémon had relatively few appearances in the early card series. In particular, the Rocket set contained [[Charmander]] and [[Squirtle]] cards, but no Bulbasaur.<ref> [http://serebii.net/TCG/Rocket/ ''Pokémon Trading Card Game'' set; Team Rocket set cards] ''Serebii.net''. URL Accessed [[July 21]], [[2006]].</ref> Bulbasaur has begun to make more frequent appearances in the recent expansions, starting with the Expedition set. Most Bulbasaur cards are of the “common” frequency (see image) and can generally be found with relative ease. There is however a "misprint" of Bulbasaur in the original set where instead of saying "length 2'4, ''weight'' 15 lbs" it says "length 2'4, ''length'' 15 lbs".<ref> "[http://www.psypokes.com/dex/deckdex.php?id=001 Appearances of Bulbasaur in the ''Pokémon Trading Card Game'']" ''Psypokes.com''. URL Accessed on [[May 4]], [[2006]].</ref>

===Pokémon manga===
Bulbasaur is also featured in several Pokémon [[manga]]. In ''[[Pokémon: Pikachu Shocks Back]]'', ''[[Pokémon: Electric Pikachu Boogaloo|Electric Pikachu Boogaloo]]'', and ''[[Pokémon: Surf’s Up, Pikachu!|Surf’s Up, Pikachu!]]'', which loosely parallel the storyline of the anime, Pikachu is separated from Ash temporarily, and travels with a Bulbasaur to a secret Pokémon village in the mountains. Later, Ash has caught a Bulbasaur of his own, which he uses in its first appearance to battle Team Rocket. While Ash and his companions take time off to work odd jobs, his Bulbasaur challenges an Ivysaur’s belief in a guardian Venusaur spirit, and the two scale an enormous, ancient tree to settle the matter. Bulbasaur accompanies Ash throughout his journeys in the [[Orange Islands]], and eventually fights in the final showdown with [[List of Orange Islands Gym Leaders#Drake|Drake]], the Orange Crew Supreme Gymleader. In ''[[Magical Pokémon Journey]]'', a character named Pistachio has a female Bulbasaur (nicknamed “Danerina” in the Japanese version), who has a crush on him.<ref> {{jp icon}} [http://maco.cha.to/pokemon/pipipi/chara03.html ''Pokémon: Magical Journey'' character bios] ''Maco.cha.to''. URL Accessed [[July 26]], [[2006]].</ref>

[[Red (Pokémon)|Red]] received a Bulbasaur, which he nicknamed "Saur", in the ''[[Pokémon Adventures]]'' manga, and manga based on the [[Pokémon Red and Blue|original games]], from [[Professor Oak]], in Chapter 1, "VS. Mew"<!-- anyone got the US title?-->.<ref> Kusaka, Hidenori, & Mato. ''Pokémon Adventures, Volume 1: Desperado Pikachu'', VIZ Media LLC, [[July 6]], [[2000]]. ISBN 1-56931-507-8.</ref> It battled alongside Red, until Chapter 15, "Wartortle Wars", when it evolved into an Ivysaur, after battling a wild [[Mankey]].<ref> Kusaka, Hidenori, & Mato. ''Pokémon Adventures: Legendary Pokémon, Vol. 2''; Chapter 33, Chapter 15, "Wartortle Wars", (pg 7-20) VIZ Media LLC, [[December 6]], [[2001]]. ISBN 1-56931-508-6. </ref> In Chapter 30, "Zap, Zap, Zapdos!", Red used his Saur to defeat [[List of Kanto Gym Leaders#Lt. Surge|Lt. Surge]]'s Zapdos, using its Razor Leaf attack to cut the cables that joined the Team Rocket Executive and the legendary bird.<ref> Kusaka, Hidenori, & Mato. ''Pokémon Adventures, Volume 3: Saffron City Siege''; Chapter 31, "The Art of Articuno" (pg 33-46) VIZ Media LLC, [[August 5]] [[2001]]. ISBN 1-56931-560-4</ref> In Chapter 33, "The Winged Legends", Red's Ivysaur evolved into a Venusaur to team up with Green's [[Charizard]] and [[Green (Pokémon)|Blue]]'s [[Blastoise]], Turtley, to defeat [[List of Kanto Gym Leaders#Sabrina|Sabrina]]'s Zapmolcuno (a merged form of [[Zapdos]], [[Moltres]] and [[Articuno]]) and destroy Team Rocket's control on Saffron City, splitting the three birds in the process.<ref> Kusaka, Hidenori, & Mato. ''Pokémon Adventures, Volume 3: Saffron City Siege''; Chapter 33, "The Winged Legends" (pg 77-95) VIZ Media LLC, [[August 5]] [[2001]]. ISBN 1-56931-560-4</ref>

==Bulbasaur in other media==
Bulbasaur is also the main character of two children’s books, ''Pokémon Tales, Volume 3: Bulbasaur’s Trouble'' and ''Bulbasaur’s Bad Day'', that were published in 1999 and 2000 respectively by [[Sagebrush]]. In ''Pokémon Tales, Volume 3: Bulbasaur’s Trouble'', Bulbasaur resolves an argument between the other Pokémon.<ref>“[http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1569313857 Pokémon Tales, Volume 3: Bulbasaur’s Trouble],” ''Amazon''. URL accessed on [[February 2]] [[2006]].</ref> In ''Bulbasaur’s Bad Day'', [[Meowth]] traps Bulbasaur in a pit and it has to outwit [[Team Rocket]] (the [[antagonist]]s of the anime) to escape.<ref>“[http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0613244370 Bulbasaur’s Bad Day],” ''Amazon''. URL accessed on [[February 1]] [[2006]].</ref>

In [[Japan]], [[McDonald's|McDonald’s]] included Bulbasaur as one of a series of promotional Pokémon cards given away with their [[Happy Meal]]s.<ref>“[http://www.hostultra.com/~spp/Layout.php?spp=TCG/Donald McDonalds’s Pokémon Booster packs],” ''Scyther’s Pokémon place''. URL accessed on [[February 26]] [[2006]].</ref> McDonald’s did not, however, extend this idea outside Japan. Instead, a rival company, [[Burger King]], took up the cause: their “Power Cards” included a Bulbasaur, alongside [[Elekid]], [[Charmander]], [[Meowth]], [[Kingler]], [[Snorlax]], [[Lapras]], [[Scyther]], [[Articuno]] and [[Pikachu]] in “Assortment 3”.

==Notes and references==
<div class="references-small">
*The following games and their instruction manuals: ''[[Pokémon Red and Blue|Pokémon Red]]'', ''[[Pokémon Green|Green]]'', and ''[[Pokémon Red and Blue|Blue]]''; ''[[Pokémon Yellow]]''; ''[[Pokémon Stadium]]'' and ''[[Pokémon Stadium#Pokémon Stadium 2|Pokémon Stadium 2]]''; ''[[Pokémon Gold and Silver|Pokémon Gold]]'', ''[[Pokémon Gold and Silver|Silver]]'', and ''[[Pokémon Crystal|Crystal]]''; ''[[Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire|Pokémon Ruby]]'', ''[[Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire|Sapphire]]'', and ''[[Pokémon Emerald|Emerald]]''; ''[[Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen|Pokémon FireRed]]'' and ''[[Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen|LeafGreen]]''; ''[[Pokémon Colosseum]]'' and ''[[Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness]]''.

;DVDs
* ''Pokémon, Vol. 15: Charizard!!'', Viz Video., February 2000. ASIN B00004DS9J.
* ''Pokémon, Vol. 18: Water Blast!'', Viz Video., May 2000. ASIN 6305844674 <!-- not an ISBN -->.
* ''Pokémon - The First Movie'', Warner Home Video., October 2000. ASIN B00004WIB2.
* ''Pokémon, Vol. 26: Friends and Rivals!'', Viz Video., January 2001. ASIN B0000541UG.
* ''Pokémon The Movie 2000'', Warner Home Video., May 2001. ASIN B00005A3O6.
* ''Pokémon 3: The Movie '', Warner Home Video., October 2001. ASIN B00005NMW3.
* ''Pokémon: Mewtwo Returns'', Warner Home Video., December 2001. ASIN B00005OW0I.
* ''Pokémon Master Quest 2: Quest 2'', Viz Video., February 2005. ASIN B0002IQD2Y.

;'''Notes'''
<!--This article uses the Cite.php citation mechanism. If you would like more information on how to add references to this article, please see http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Cite/Cite.php -->
{{reflist|2}}

<!--#No longer referenced: #{{note|gamesales}} “[http://palgn.com.au/article.php?id=3605&sid=4cea9e5e814470cb7ea6fd462d04a13e Nintendo reveal sales figures]”, ''PalGN Gamecube''. URL accessed on [[February 28]] [[2006]].-->
<!--#No longer referenced: <!--#{{note|Furby}} “[http://www.mimitchi.com/html/furbn90.htm Pokémon, Pashmina Hot in Britain],” ''Mimitchi''. URL accessed on [[February 2]] [[2006]].-->
<!--#No longer referenced: #{{note|worm}} “[http://securityresponse.symantec.com/avcenter/venc/data/vbs.saur.a.html Symantec Security Response VBS.Saur.A]”, ''Symantec''. URL last accessed on [[March 26]] [[2006]].-->

;'''Publications'''
*Barbo, Maria. ''The Official Pokémon Handbook''. Scholastic Publishing, 1999. ISBN 0-439-15404-9.
*Loe, Casey, ed. ''Pokémon Special Pikachu Edition Official Perfect Guide''. Sunnydale, CA: Empire 21 Publishing, 1999. ISBN 1-930206-15-1.
*Nintendo, ''et al''. ''Official Nintendo Pokémon Snap Player’s Guide''. Nintendo of America Inc., 1999. [[Amazon Standard Identification Number|ASIN]] B000CDZP9G
*Nintendo Power. ''Official Nintendo Pokémon FireRed Version & Pokémon LeafGreen Version Player’s Guide''. Nintendo of America Inc., August 2004. ISBN 1-930206-50-X

;'''Websites'''
*{{cite web | title= Statistical analysis of Bulbasaur | work=PsyPoke | url=http://www.psypokes.com/dex/pokedex.php?id=001&view=general| accessmonthday=29 December | accessyear=2005}}
*{{cite web | title= Individual anime episode summaries | work=Serebii.net | url=http://www.serebii.net/anime/epiguide/ | accessmonthday=28 February | accessyear=2006}}

;'''Manga volumes'''
*Ono, Toshihiro. ''Pokémon: Pikachu Shocks Back Graphic Novel''. VIZ Media LLC, [[December 6]] [[1999]]. ISBN 1-56931-411-X
*Ono, Toshihiro. ''Pokémon: Electric Pikachu Boogaloo Graphic Novel''. VIZ Media LLC, [[April 5]] [[2000]]. ISBN 1-56931-436-5
*Ono, Toshihiro. ''Pokémon: Surf’s Up, Pikachu Graphic Novel''. VIZ Media LLC, June 2000. ISBN 1-56931-494-2
*Kusaka, Hidenori, & Mato. ''Pokémon Adventures, Volume 1: Desperado Pikachu''. VIZ Media LLC, [[July 6]] [[2000]]. ISBN 1-56931-507-8
*Kusaka, Hidenori, & Mato. ''Pokémon Adventures, Volume 2: Legendary Pokémon''. VIZ Media LLC, [[December 6]] [[2000]]. ISBN 1-56931-508-6
*Kusaka, Hidenori, & Mato. ''Pokémon Adventures, Volume 3: Saffron City Siege''. VIZ Media LLC, [[August 5]] [[2001]]. ISBN 1-56931-560-4
</div>

==External links==
{{Spoken Wikipedia|Bulbasaur.ogg|2005-12-31}}
{{Contains Japanese text}}
*[http://www.pokemon.com/ Official Pokémon website]
*[http://bulbapedia.bulbagarden.net/wiki/Bulbasaur_(Pokémon) Bulbapedia] (a Pokémon-centric Wiki)’s article about Bulbasaur as a species
**[http://bulbapedia.bulbagarden.net/wiki/Ash's_Bulbasaur Bulbapedia]’s article about Ash’s Bulbasaur
**[http://bulbapedia.bulbagarden.net/wiki/May's_Bulbasaur Bulbapedia]’s article about May’s Bulbasaur
**[http://bulbapedia.bulbagarden.net/wiki/Pistachio Bulbapedia]'s article about Pistachio's Danerina
*{{Serebiidex|001|Bulbasaur}}
*[http://www.pokemondungeon.com/pokedex/bulbasaur.shtml Pokémon Dungeon] Pokédex entry, full of statistics analysis
*[http://www.psypokes.com/dex/pokedex.php?id=001&view=general PsyPoke] Pokédex entry
*[http://pokemon.wikia.com/wiki/Bulbasaur Bulbasaur] in [[wikiasite:pokemon|''The Pokémon Encyclopedia'']]
*[http://www.smogon.com/rs/pokemon/bulbasaur Smogon] Bulbasaur Tactical data
* {{WikiKnowledge|Bulbasaur}}

{{featured article}}

<!--Categories-->
[[Category:Starter Pokémon]]
[[Category:Starter Pokémon]]
[[Category:Basic Pokémon]]
[[Category:Video game characters introduced in 1996]]
[[Category:Fictional dinosaurs]]
[[Category:Plant characters]]

<!--Other languages-->
[[ca:Bulbasaur]]
[[es:Bulbasaur]]
[[fr:Bulbizarre]]
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[[it:Bulbasaur]]
[[nl:Bulbasaur (Pokémon)]]
[[ja:フシギダネ]]
[[no:Bulbasaur]]
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[[zh:妙蛙种子]]

Latest revision as of 07:25, 11 December 2024

For the dicynodont, see Bulbasaurus.

Bulbasaur
Pokémon character
Bulbasaur artwork by Ken Sugimori
First gamePokémon Red and Blue (1996)
Created byAtsuko Nishida[1]
Designed byAtsuko Nishida[1]
Ken Sugimori (finalized)[2]
Voiced byTara Sands[3]
Michele Knotz[4]
In-universe information
SpeciesPokémon
TypeGrass and Poison

Bulbasaur (/ˈbʊlbəsɔːr/ ⓘ), known as Fushigidane (Japanese: フシギダネ) in Japan, is a fictional Pokémon species in Nintendo and Game Freak's Pokémon franchise. First introduced in the video games Pokémon Red and Blue, it was created by Atsuko Nishida with the design finalized by Ken Sugimori. Since Bulbasaur's debut, it has appeared in multiple games including Pokémon Go and the Pokémon Trading Card Game, as well as various merchandise. In media related to the franchise, Bulbasaur has been voiced by various voice actors, including Tara Sands and Michele Knotz.

Classified as a Grass- and Poison-type Pokémon, it was introduced in the games as a starter Pokémon, one players are able to select at the game's beginning. It is a quadrupedal green creature resembling a dinosaur, with a large plant bulb on its back. Bulbasaur is a central character in the Pokémon anime, being one of Ash Ketchum's main Pokémon for the first season, with a different one later being obtained by supporting character May. It is featured in various manga and is owned by protagonist Red in Pokémon Adventures.

Bulbasaur has generally been received positively and has overall been considered one of the best Pokémon and best starter Pokémon, including by series producer Junichi Masuda. Its role in the anime has been suggested to have played a factor into its popularity.

Conception and design

[edit]

Bulbasaur is a species of fictional creatures called Pokémon created for the Pokémon media franchise. Developed by Game Freak and published by Nintendo, the Japanese franchise began in 1996 with the video games Pokémon Red and Green for the Game Boy, which were later released in North America as Pokémon Red and Blue in 1998.[5] In these games and their sequels, the player assumes the role of a Trainer whose goal is to capture and use the creatures' special abilities to combat other Pokémon. Some Pokémon can transform into stronger species through a process called evolution via various means, such as exposure to specific items.[6] Each Pokémon have one or two elemental types, which define its advantages and disadvantages when battling other Pokémon.[7] A major goal in each game is to complete the Pokédex, a comprehensive Pokémon encyclopedia, by capturing, evolving, and trading with other Trainers to obtain individuals from all Pokémon species.[6]

Bulbasaur first appeared as one of three Pokémon the player could choose as their first at the beginning of the initial Game Boy games, Pokémon Red and Blue, released in Japan in 1996.[8] Its Japanese name, Fushigidane, is a combination of the Japanese words for mystery or miracle (fushigi) and seed (tane).[9] While translating the game for English-speaking audiences, Nintendo gave the Pokémon "cleverly descriptive names" related to their appearance or features as a means to make the characters more relatable to American children, with Bulbasaur being named as a portmanteau relating to its dinosaurian appearance and the large garlic-shaped bulb on its back.[10] Both the etymology and appearance of Bulbasaur, Ivysaur, and Venusaur show it getting increasingly more dangerous as it evolves.[11] Bulbasaur can evolve into Ivysaur, which can then evolve into Venusaur.[12] Bulbasaur was created by Atsuko Nishida, a character designer for Pocket Monsters Red and Blue, which she described as "working backwards" by basing it off the established Venusaur design.[1] Afterwards, the design was finalized by lead artist Ken Sugimori who, towards the end of development, drew the promotional art of all the species to give them a unified look and make any last-minute changes.[2]

The idea to feature Bulbasaur and the other Red and Blue starters in a significant role in Pokémon X and Y came around a year and a half into the development of the games. The Mega Evolutions for the three Pokémon's final forms were created, and the designers decided that they should give players an opportunity to receive one of these Pokémon from Professor Sycamore, the games' professor, so that players would be able to see and use these forms.[13][14]

Despite their English names, Sugimori confirmed that the design of Bulbasaur and its evolutions are based on frogs.[15] In the Pokémon franchise, Bulbasaur are small, amphibian and plant Pokémon that move on all four legs. They have blue-green bodies with darker blue-green spots. The seed on a Bulbasaur's back is planted at birth and then sprouts and grows along with it.[16] The bulb absorbs sunlight which allows it to grow.[17] They can survive for days without eating because the bulb stores energy.[18] In the video games, Bulbasaur has two "types", elemental attributes that determine strengths and weaknesses: Grass and Poison.[19] Series producer and director Junichi Masuda considered Bulbasaur the best starter Pokémon, finding it really cute and that it exemplifies what Pokémon is for him, citing the monster and plant combination.[20] Bulbasaur has been voiced by Tara Sands and Michele Knotz in English in the Pokémon anime series.[3][4]

Appearances

[edit]

Bulbasaur is the first Pokémon entry in the Pokédex.[21] It made its video game debut in the Japanese-language games Pocket Monsters Red and Green. Along with Charmander and Squirtle, Bulbasaur is one of the initial three Pokémon the player can choose from at the beginning of the games. Bulbasaur and the other starters from Red and Blue are replaced by Pikachu in Pokémon Yellow, and is instead obtainable elsewhere in the game.[22] Bulbasaur appears in all other entries in the main series, though in Pokémon Sword and Shield, Bulbasaur was not made available until the release of Pokémon Sword and Shield: The Isle of Armor.[23] Similarly, Bulbasaur was not made available in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet until the release of The Indigo Disk.[24]

Bulbasaur appears in various Pokémon spin-offs, including Pokémon Stadium[25] and the Pokémon Mystery Dungeon series, where players may be assigned Bulbasaur in a personality quiz.[26] Bulbasaur appears in both Pokémon Snap[27] and New Pokémon Snap[28] as Pokémon the player can take pictures of. Bulbasaur also features in Pokémon Go[29] and as a playable character in Pokémon Unite.[30][31] Outside of the Pokémon video games, Bulbasaur was also featured as a collectible in the Super Smash Bros. series.[32] A costume for Mario based on it was added to Super Mario Maker.[33]

In the Pokémon anime, multiple Bulbasaur are owned by various main characters, including series protagonist Ash Ketchum.[34] The character May also captures one in Pokémon: Advanced.[35] She later makes a guest appearance, where it is revealed that her Bulbasaur has fully evolved into a Venusaur.[36] In Pokémon Adventures, a manga based on the plot of the Pokémon Red and Blue games, the character Red receives a Bulbasaur from Professor Oak, which he nicknames Saur. Bulbasaur also appears in the movie Detective Pikachu, where a several of them appear.[37] In making the film, a bulldog was used to understand the top-heavy movement of Bulbasaur, then puppeteers in London were hired to create 3D puppets of it. Facial expressions and texture details were added using CGI.[38]

Promotion and reception

[edit]
Bulbasaur has been used heavily in promotion for the series, such as on the side of planes.

Bulbasaur has been featured in merchandise, including toys and plush dolls.[39] Bulbasaur has been depicted in action figures sold by Hasbro in the United States, while Tomy in Japan sold vinyl dolls, wind-up model kits, Singaporean popcorn with a flavor based on Bulbasaur,[40] and terry cloth bean bags.[41] It has been marketed via toys at fast-food chains such as McDonald's and Burger King.[42][43][44] Bulbasaur has also been included in various versions of the Pokémon painting on ANA Boeing 767s.[45] In 2021, Seiko made limited edition luxury watches based on Bulbasaur and its evolutionary family.[46] The island nation of Niue issued a commemorative coin with a legal tender value of one crown, which has a Bulbasaur on the reverse side.[47] Bulbasaur was also among the eleven Pokémon chosen as Japan's mascots in the 2014 FIFA World Cup.[48][49][50] A Bulbasaur statue was installed on March 25, 2018, in the municipality of Suzano, São Paulo, Brazil, and was the first of several other Pokémon-related statues installed.[51]

Bulbasaur has been largely praised by critics. Nintendo World Report's Pedro Hernandez highlighted its role in one episode of the anime, citing Bulbasaur's appealing storyline in the episode as endearing the species to him. He stated that this role helped him become a fan of the Pokémon franchise as a whole.[52] IGN editor "Pokémon of the Day Chick" also praised Ash's "attitude-packing Bulbasaur" in the anime,[53] and Official Nintendo Magazine's John Vekinis attributed his "love of Grass-type Pokémon" to Bulbasaur in spite of the Grass type's weaknesses.[54] Chris Plante of Polygon called Bulbasaur the best Pokémon; while he felt it and its evolutions "comparably dull", they were "the most true to life" as it looked more "leathery and aged" after evolving, compared to the other starters.[20] Other Polygon writers highlighted Bulbasaur for similar reasons, mostly notably for its design, which was highlighted for providing a good balance of design elements while remaining cute.[55] Another writer highlighted Bulbasaur's appearance in Detective Pikachu, stating that its cute appearance and affectionate design helped endear him to the Pokémon. He further noted that age seemed to affect people's perception of Bulbasaur; whereas younger audiences saw it as weaker, older audiences tended to perceive it as a more cute and appealing creature.[56] Bulbasaur was ranked the third best starter Pokémon in a poll of Japanese Pokémon fans by ITmedia. The staff felt the popularity of Bulbasaur derived from the anime, particularly Ash's Bulbasaur, who at the time was the Pokémon that was with the series protagonist for the longest time besides Pikachu, spanning four-and-a-half years. They speculated this led to fans growing to feel attached to Bulbasaur.[34]

Bulbasaur has been noted to be less popular than Charmander and Squirtle.[57] Nerdist attributed it to a lack of attention to the line early in the series because of Venusaur's omission from game box art in non-Japanese releases of the game.[58] This led to one Twitter user creating an account named BulbaGanda to spread support for the Pokémon, which was met with considerable popularity.[59]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b c ピカチュウは大福？ 初めて明かされる誕生秘話 [Is Pikachu Daifuku? The Secret Story Behind its Creation Revealed for the First Time]. Yomiuri (in Japanese). May 2, 2018. Archived from the original on October 6, 2023. Retrieved January 22, 2024. English transcript of interview available at "Creator Profile: The Creators of Pikachu". Pokemon.com. July 26, 2018. Archived from the original on August 30, 2020. Retrieved February 9, 2024.
  2. ^ a b Ken Sugimori Works (in Japanese). Tankobon Softcover. January 2014. pp. 342–343. ISBN 9784198638061.
  3. ^ a b "Crunchyroll Expo Welcomes Voice Actress Tara Sands!". Crunchyroll. February 22, 2019. Archived from the original on May 13, 2024. Retrieved April 10, 2024.
  4. ^ a b "Pokémon". micheleknotz.com. Retrieved May 7, 2024.
  5. ^ Hilliard, Kyle (December 25, 2016). "Pokémon Red & Blue – A Look Back At The 20-Year Journey To Catch 'Em All". Game Informer. Archived from the original on October 1, 2023. Retrieved January 22, 2024.
  6. ^ a b Allison, Anne (May 2006). Millennial Monsters: Japanese Toys and the Global Imagination. University of California Press. pp. 192–197. ISBN 9780520938991.
  7. ^ Pokémon Deluxe Essential Handbook. Scholastic Inc. July 28, 2015. p. 5. ISBN 9780545795661.
  8. ^ MacDonald, Mark; Brokaw, Brian; Arnold; J. Douglas; Elies, Mark. Pokémon Trainer's Guide. Sandwich Islands Publishing, 1999. ISBN 0-439-15404-9. (pg 192–195)
  9. ^ Drazen, Patrick (2003). Anime Explosion!: The What? Why? & Wow! of Japanese Animation. St. Paul, MN: Stone Bridge Press, LLC. p. 321. ISBN 1-880656-72-8.
  10. ^ Chua-Euan, Howard (November 22, 1999). "PokéMania". Time. Archived from the original on February 20, 2001. Retrieved September 15, 2008.
  11. ^ M., Pratama Cipta Agi; Himmawati, Dian Rivia (2016). "The Relevance Between Word Formation of Pokémon Name and Its Appearance". Faculty of Languages and Arts, State University of Surabaya. Language Horizon. 4 (4): 45–47.
  12. ^ "pokemon.com Pokédex". Nintendo/Game Freak. Archived from the original on July 30, 2008. Retrieved September 15, 2008.
  13. ^ Betka, Zach (September 19, 2013). "Pokemon X/Y: WHY?! Director Masuda himself answers!". GamesRadar. Archived from the original on December 7, 2022. Retrieved March 16, 2014.
  14. ^ Sahdev, Ishaan (September 4, 2013). "You'll Get Bulbasaur, Charmander And Squirtle In Pokémon X And Pokémon Y". Siliconera. Archived from the original on December 27, 2023. Retrieved May 5, 2024.
  15. ^ 女子大生が訊く ポケットモンスターブラック・ホワイト (in Japanese). Nintendo. Archived from the original on December 30, 2010. Retrieved October 28, 2018.
  16. ^ Game Freak (September 30, 1998). Pokémon Red (Game Boy). Nintendo. Pokédex: A strange seed was planted on its back at birth. The plant sprouts and grows with this Pokémon.
  17. ^ Game Freak (March 17, 2003). Pokémon Ruby (Game Boy Advance). Nintendo. Pokédex: Bulbasaur can be seen napping in bright sunlight. There is a seed on its back. By soaking up the sun's rays, the seed grows progressively larger.
  18. ^ Game Freak (October 19, 1999). Pokémon Yellow (Game Boy). Nintendo. Pokédex: It can go for days without eating a single morsel. In the bulb on its back, it stores energy.
  19. ^ Oxman, Demaris (January 24, 2022). "Pokemon: The Best Secondary Typings For Grass-Types". Game Rant. Archived from the original on May 28, 2023. Retrieved April 17, 2024.
  20. ^ a b Plante, Chris (September 28, 2018). "Bulbasaur has been the best Pokémon all along". Polygon. Archived from the original on September 28, 2018. Retrieved June 10, 2021.
  21. ^ "Bulbasaur Isn't Neccesarily The First Pokémon". Kotaku. January 23, 2015. Archived from the original on March 25, 2023. Retrieved April 10, 2024.
  22. ^ Allison, Anne (2006). Millennial Monsters: Japanese Toys and the Global Imagination. University of California Press. ISBN 0-520-22148-6.
  23. ^ Flores, Sky (June 26, 2020). "How To Get Bulbasaur & Squirtle in Pokémon: Isle of Armor DLC". ScreenRant. Archived from the original on July 30, 2022. Retrieved April 10, 2024.
  24. ^ "All The Starters Are Coming To Pokémon Scarlet And Violet". Kotaku. August 14, 2023. Archived from the original on December 25, 2023. Retrieved April 10, 2024.
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