a Christian perspective on Pokémon

Taking a Poke at Pokémon, from John Goecke of Al Menconi Ministries

“…when you include the potential for addiction to such games, the violence and pit fighting aspects, and the occult overtones, Pokémon is not a game we can readily recommend for children.” —John Goecke

Pokémon—a commentary
by Berit Kjos

"Who are the strange little creatures from Japan that have suddenly become global super-stars? Most kids know the answer well: They are called Pokémon (short for POCKEt MONster and pronounced Poh-keh-mon), and they have stirred up some mixed reactions. …Gotta catch them all'"

Pokémon—another commentary—from Worthynews

"Like Dungeons and Dragons, it is a role-playing game. The object is for the child to become a master by gaining power through confrontations between the various monsters. Since the Pokémons are spirits, they have abilities to do such things as induce headaches, read minds, and suck out souls. Energy cards are used to strengthen one's own monster or weaken the opponent…" —Helen Beason, Julie Jefferson, and Brett Peterson

“Pokémon: The First Movie”—read our review
from Christian Spotlight on the Movies

"…this will probably be one of the most controversial G-rated cartoon movies made in this century… The main topics to talk about in this movie between parents and their children (especially Christian families) is the issue of 'psychic' powers and abilities…" —Josh Bizeau, reviewer

• The movie—viewer comments
  from Christian Spotlight on the Movies
  

• TV program—viewer comments in Christian Spotlight on TV