Google and Pokémon join forces for a fun, playable Search collaboration

Pokémon, a franchise that likely needs no introduction, is now extending its already-considerable reach through a fun, new, engaging collaboration with Google. This latest crossover allows users to interact with the iconic creatures directly within the familiar Google search interface, and it is pretty fun, too.

You can see it in action by simply searching for any of the original 151 Pokémon and waiting a second for a Poké Ball icon to appear in the bottom right corner of the search results page. A simple click initiates the “capture,” adding the Pokémon to the user’s digital collection – A.K.A. their Pokédex.

As players progress in their Pokémon catching, they will be rewarded for reaching specific milestones. Upon capturing 5, 20, and 50 Pokémon, players will receive a Master Ball. These coveted items can then be strategically used to catch the five elusive Kanto region Mythical and Legendary Pokémon: Articuno, Zapdos, Moltres, Mewtwo, and Mew.

For those eager to complete their Google Pokédex swiftly, each of the original 151 Pokémon can be searched for individually. Alternatively, dedicated fans can find convenient lists of all 151 Pokémon online to expedite the process. The order in which Pokémon are caught is largely flexible, with the exception of the Legendary and Mythical Pokémon mentioned above. Those, again, only become available after accumulating a sufficient number of other captures.

While there are no explicit in-game rewards for achieving the completion of all 151 Pokémon in Google’s interactive experience beyond the inherent satisfaction of doing so, the journey itself offers a nostalgic and enjoyable diversion. While not a replacement for something like Pokéon Go, this is one of the more elaborate Google Search Easter eggs we’ve ever seen, and it’s a fun trip down memory lane for anyone who is or has been a fan of the Pokémon franchise over the years.