On Oct. 30, The Pokémon Company alongside Fender Japan announced a new collaboration celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Pokémon franchise with two new special edition guitars. Featuring both Fender’s iconic Stratocaster and Telecaster models, the design of both guitars traces back to the roots of the original Red and Green versions of the Pokémon video game series.
Since 1996, the Pokémon Company has released 39 mainline games, spanning across nine generations. Beyond video games, the Pokémon Company operates in other sectors including trading cards, an animated TV and movie series, toys and more. In 2024, Pokémon became the most successful franchise of all time with the Pokémon Company racking in over $12 billion in revenue.
Each special edition guitar is reminiscent of the original games with color matched bodies and headstocks, and pixel-art graphics featuring classic designs and elements from the original game series. Smaller details such as the pixelated-theme pickguard, Poké Ball fretmarkers and Pokémon 30th anniversary neck plate showcases a high level of attention to detail present on both models.
In addition to the visual aspect of both guitars, a unique feature of these models is their “8-Bit Sound System.” By pressing the volume knob, the guitars can be played with an 8-bit sound, featuring a techno sound reminiscent of the original soundtrack of Pokémon Red and Green.
Each guitar will come with an original pick and pick tin set, a dedicated hardshell case and a certificate of authenticity.
Both guitars will be made and sold in Japan only, with shipping available only within Japan. They will be available for purchase via a lottery system with applications opening on Nov. 19 at 12:00 p.m. JST and will end on Nov. 24 at 4:59 p.m. JST. Both variants will cost ¥396,000 including tax, approximately $2,500 at the time of reporting.