Pokémon and Satanism
Pokémon and Satanism are believed by some Fundamentalist Christian groups to be deeply and secretly connected. These groups are concerned about elements of the dark occult they see as widely present in the popular video game and animation series. This article explains some of their reasons, which are based on their fundamentalist beliefs, and shows contrast and comparison.
Note that these parallels may not be in accordance with a strict definition of Satanism. Some of their beliefs are as follows:
- Pokémon parallel daemons. They are captured and must be invoked to perform tasks.
- Magical "talismans" (gym badges) are necessary to control many of them.
- "Magical" stones are used to evolve certain Pokémon
- Pokémon "evolve". Evolution allegedly denies the most extreme and fundamentalist versions of creationism, therefore Pokémon denies some forms of Biblical interpretation.
- Many Pokémon have paranormal or psychic powers. These powers are not derived from God and therefore must stem from Satan.
- Many Pokémon embody or practise Asian spiritual and mystical concepts. For example, some practise martial arts, which some Christian groups denounce as pagan. The game world also incorporates Asian traditions about elemental forces.
These criticisms have themselves been criticized by many Pokémon fans for common sense.