Pokémon Brings Back a 1996 Fan Favorite for Its Latest 30th Anniversary Release
Bandai is turning back the clock to 1996 for a new Pokémon 30th anniversary release that recreates some of the earliest merchandise produced during the franchise’s first year.
The “Pokémon Kids 30th Anniversary Edition” brings back 11 soft vinyl finger puppets based on the original Pokémon Kids figures, accompanied by retro packaging and collectible cards inspired by products released three decades ago.
Pokémon Kids first launched in Japan in 1996, the same year that Pokémon Red and Green introduced players to the series on Game Boy, and the long-running Bandai Candy range has since expanded to cover hundreds of Pokémon.
For the anniversary collection, Bandai has used the original 1996 Pokémon Kids products as references for the soft vinyl figures, packaging and accompanying cards rather than creating an entirely new series based around modern designs.
The retro presentation extends to Game Boy-inspired packaging, while every figure also includes one collectible card selected from a collection of 24 designs based on those accompanying the original releases.
The 11 returning Pokémon Kids variants are Charizard, Pikachu, Raichu, Gengar, Chansey, Ditto, Eevee, Dragonair, Dragonite, Mew and a Clear Version of Pikachu.
While Mew and the standard Pikachu have been shown as part of the initial reveal, Bandai has yet to provide a full look at the remaining figures, leaving much of the recreated 1996 lineup to be revealed ahead of release.
The selection remains firmly rooted in Pokémon’s first generation, bringing together several characters that have remained closely associated with the franchise throughout its 30-year history.
Each individual Pokémon Kids 30th Anniversary Edition figure is priced at ¥275 (approx. $2 USD / £1 GBP), with one randomly packaged soft vinyl figure, one of the 24 collectible cards, and a piece of soda-flavored gum included.
A 12-box set is also available through Premium Bandai for ¥3,300 (approx. $21 USD / £16 GBP), although the collection contains 11 figure variants and purchasing a complete box does not guarantee one of every design.
Pre-orders are now open through Premium Bandai Japan, with reservations also available through general hobby goods retailers.
The Pokémon Kids 30th Anniversary Edition is scheduled for release in December 2026, when the figures are also expected to become available through a wider selection of retailers.
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