30 Years of Pokémon: Why It’s More Than a Game for This Gen 1 Trainer

30 Years of Pokémon: From Game Boy Blue to the Next Generation

Can you believe it’s been three decades since we first stepped into the world of Pokémon?

This past weekend, during Super Bowl LX, The Pokémon Company International officially kicked off its 30th-anniversary celebrations with a star-studded commercial that asked one simple yet iconic question: “What’s Your Favorite?”

For me, answering that question requires a trip down memory lane that spans nearly my entire life.

A Journey That Started in 1998

I’ve been a Trainer since day one of the U.S. release in 1998. I still remember the weight of the original Game Boy in my hands and the glow of the screen as I started my journey in Pokémon Blue. That experience hooked me so deeply that I eventually went out and got a job specifically to save up for the Pokémon Yellow Game Boy Special Edition set. There was nothing like seeing Pikachu follow you around on screen for the first time!

My journey didn't stop with my Game Boy. I spent my weekends at Wizards of the Coast, marveling over the booster packs, opening packs to trade and play with fellow budding trainers back when the Trading Card Game (TCG) was at the height of the original craze. Back then, it felt like a community; today, looking back, I realize it was the start of a lifelong passion.

More Than a Game—It’s a Lifestyle

Now, 30 years later, the cycle is continuing. Pokémon has influenced my life in countless ways, but the most rewarding part of this anniversary isn't the nostalgia—it’s the legacy. Today, I get to watch my sons discover the magic of Pokémon for themselves. We love to all play Pokémon GO together as a family. We have a trip planned to go to Pokémon GO Fest in Chicago in June 2026, which is a big deal! Also during that time, the Pokémon Fossil exhibit opens at the Field Museum. You can read more about that event here! 

Watching my boys build their own decks and get excited about a rare pull from a booster pack reminds me that Pokémon isn't just a video game or a hobby; it’s a lifestyle that bridges generations. When I take my sons to Trade Days, Pokémon card in-store drops, Pokémon GO events, or even trade shows, we meet so many trainers like us. Pokémon has given my older son, Marcello, so much confidence! When he was just six years old, he was diagnosed with PANDAS, which is a neurological disorder that is sparked by strep infection. During that dark time, Pokémon was the only thing that he was actually sure about. He developed Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and during a time of worry, confusion, and just being unsure of himself, he was sure about Pokémon. Now, Marcello is 12 and still an avid Pokémon player. He is out of the woods health-wise, but we still get scares here and there. You can read more about our journey and his heroic story here. At the time of his diagnosis and years after, he did not have a voice. He was always second-guessing himself, but with Pokémon and even Nintendo games, he gained control back of his life. Now, he calls stores on his own asking if they have Pokémon cards in stock. He is working on starting a Pokémon Trainer Club at his school. Marcello has truly evolved -- as a young man and as a Pokémon trainer.

My youngest, Rocco, is eight now and following his big brother’s lead into the world of Pokémon. They’ve become best friends through their battles and card trades—a bond forged in the same world I fell in love with back in the day. It truly is a lifestyle. Rocco who is a spunky kid has always had a voice, but he was always a little shy. He is definitely not shy about Pokémon or playing his video games.

For our family, Pokémon isn’t just a game—it’s the thread that ties our generations together.

The 30th Anniversary Celebration

The Pokémon Company is leaning hard into that "What's Your Favorite?" theme for 2026. Check out the campaign that kicked off during Super Bowl LX, where a new commercial introduced “What’s Your Favorite?” The video can be viewed on the official Pokémon YouTube channel. The Super Bowl spot featured global icons like Lady Gaga, Trevor Noah, and Jisoo, proving that no matter who you are, everyone has a favorite Pocker Monster that speaks to them. 

How you can join the celebration right now:

• Pokémon GO: A new "What’s Your Favorite?" camera feature is live. You can snap photos with your favorite Pokémon even without an account.
  

  
  

• Day Out vs. Night Out: Coming later this year, "Pokémon Day Out" will offer family-friendly events (perfect for my boys!), while "Pokémon Night Out" is designed for the veteran Trainers who grew up with the franchise.

• The Big Reveal: Everything is leading up to Pokémon Day on February 27th, where we expect the biggest announcements for the future of the franchise.

What’s Your Favorite?

Whether you’re a veteran who remembers the  original 151 Kanto Pokémon or a new Trainer that is just starting your journey in the latest region, this year is for you.

For me, the answer to "What's Your Favorite?" isn't just a specific Pokémon—it's the memories of the last 30 years and the ones I’m currently making with my kids. Well, if you must know, I am partial to the Kanto region, so you can see me in selfies with Chansey, Dragonite, Clefairy, Kabuto, Jynx, Mr. Mime, and so many more! 

So, I’ll ask you: After 30 years, What’s your Favorite? Let’s talk about it in the comments!

Kayou My Little Pony Moon Edition 2 Guide: How to Enter the Chase the Magic Sweepstakes

Chase the Magic: Your Guide to the Newest My Little Pony Card Drop and Sweepstakes

Calling all Bronies, Pegasisters, and TCG collectors! The magic of Equestria has just arrived in a major way. Kayou, in collaboration with Hasbro, has officially launched the MY LITTLE PONY Friendship Eternal Cards – Moon Edition 2 in the United States.

This isn't just a new set of cards; it’s an invitation to join the "Chase the Magic" Sweepstakes for a chance to literally become part of My Little Pony history. Here is everything you need to know about the new collection and how you could win the ultimate fan prize.

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The Collection: 189 Cards to Discover

Following the 15th anniversary of My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic in 2025, this set brings a fresh chapter of collectibility. The set features:

• 189 total cards spread across 10 different rarity levels.

• Shining Celebration – Zenith Rare (◇ZR): The rarest card in the set, featuring the Mane 6 in a dazzling party scene.

• Crystal Fantasy – Secret Rare (SC): Beautiful cards pairing ponies with sparkling gemstones.

• Shimmering Goldflow – Super Golden Rare (SGR): Capturing the elegance of the Grand Galloping Gala.

• U.S. Exclusives: A special PR card recreating Andy Price’s live New York Comic Con artwork, plus 20 rare autographed cards signed by Andy Price himself hidden in random boxes.

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The "Chase the Magic" Sweepstakes

The headline of this launch is the sweepstakes, which offers a prize unlike anything we've seen in the TCG world.

The Grand Prize: One lucky winner will collaborate with legendary comic artist Andy Price to design a brand-new pony character inspired by themselves. This character will then be featured in a future edition of Kayou’s My Little Pony products. To top it off, the winner receives an oversized version of the card featuring their custom creation.

How to Enter:

1. Pull the Rare: You must find one of the Shining Celebration – Zenith Rare (◇ZR) cards.

2. Be Fast: Only the first 30 fans to pull and verify their ◇ZR card qualify for the grand prize draw.

3. Verify: Visit kayouofficial.com to upload photos. You will also need to ship the card for physical verification.

4. Bonus: All 30 qualifiers receive a free PSA grading for their ◇ZR card courtesy of Kayou.

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Important Dates & Where to Buy

Don't wait—the clock is already ticking!

• Entry Period: February 1, 2026, to May 31, 2026 (11:59 PM EST).

• Eligibility: Open to U.S. residents who purchase the U.S. version of the cards.

• Retailers: You can find boxes now at Amazon, Target, GameStop, Best Buy, Barnes & Noble, and the livestream platform Crossing.

Are you planning to hunt for that Zenith Rare? Let me know in the comments which pony you're hoping to pull most!

LEGO x Pokémon: Did They Drop the Poké Ball?

LEGO x Pokémon is Finally Here... But is it a Critical Hit?

The day many of us thought would never come has arrived: LEGO Pokémon is officially live on LEGO.com. I’ve been waiting for this collab since I was a kid, and while I'm a bit torn, LEGO is clearly going big for the 30th Anniversary.

Pre-orders are officially open today (Jan 12, 2025), and the sets will ship on Pokémon Day, February 27, 2026. If you want that GWP, you’ll need to move fast. The LEGO sets are also available for pre-order via the Pokémon Center. This post contains affiliate links!

The Launch Lineup:

Set #	Name	Piece Count	Price (USD)
72151	Eevee	587 pcs	$59.99
72152	Pikachu & Poké Ball	2,050 pcs	$199.99
72153	Venusaur, Charizard, & Blastoise	6,838 pcs	$649.99

• The Bonus (GWP): If you purchase the massive 6,838-piece Kanto starters set (72153), you get the 40892 Kanto Region Badge Collection for free. It’s a 312-piece display case featuring all eight brick-built Gym badges—but it's only available while supplies last!

My Honest Take: Did LEGO Drop the Poké Ball?

I’ll be real—I’m not as hyped as I thought I’d be. Don't get me wrong, the scale of that nearly 7,000-piece starter set is insane, but the attention to detail on the fan side feels a little off.

Case in point: Set 72151. How do you launch Eevee with that set number? In a world where LEGO loves hidden details, that number was begging to be dedicated to Mew (#151). At least the Pikachu set has a built-in "25" on the base to honor his Pokédex number, so they clearly know how to do it! 

Who am I kidding, though? Did I immediately queue up and ADD TO CART? 

What I would love to see for the future!

As a diehard Pokémon fan, and LEGO enthusiast, as well as a parent, I would love to see the new LEGO SmartBrick integrated into this new collab. Why not add the LEGO SmartBrick with the Pokémon Pokédex?

I woud also love to see minifigure size Pokémon with the use of the new spherical brick-built balls that we saw in the LEGO Ideas 21358 Minifigure Vending Machine.

Am I Buying?

Despite my gripes... yes. Because I am a dork and my "gotta catch 'em all" instinct is stronger than my financial logic, I already pulled the trigger on Eevee and the Pikachu/Poké Ball set. I’m holding out hope that this is just the first wave and we’ll see some more affordable, minifig-scale sets in the future.

What about you? Is that $650 price tag for the Kanto trio a "Must Buy" or are you "Crying" over your bank account? Let me know in the comments!

#Pokemon #PokemonLEGO #LEGO #afol #Nintendo #Kanto #PokemonDay

Mickey’s Search Party: Ultimate Budget Friendly Guide to Disney On Ice in NYC & NJ!

Disney Magic Hits the Ice: Mickey’s Search Party is Coming to NYC!

The magic of Disney is back in the Northeast for their annual winter spectacular of aerobatics on ice! We are no strangers to this beautiful show, and as a Disney family, I have the scoop on how to make your first experience into the best experience imaginable! You can also check out my post from previous years here. You can also check out my money saving tips below!

Get ready to lace up your skates (metaphorically, of course) because your favorite Disney characters are heading back to the New York and New Jersey area! From January 8 through February 1, 2026! 

Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party will be transforming local arenas into a world of magic, mystery, and high-flying fun.

This isn't just a skating show; it’s an interactive quest. The story follows Mickey and his pals as they follow Captain Hook’s treasure map to rescue Tinker Bell. Along the way, you’ll be transported into some of the most iconic Disney and Pixar worlds. The show features masterfully done vignettes from your favoite Disney and Pixar films like Toy Story, Coco, The Little Mermaid, and more!

What to Expect: Aerial Stunts & Immersive Magic

This production is famous for pushing the boundaries of what happens on the ice. Here are a few highlights you won't want to miss:

• Coco’s Spirit Realm: Watch Miguel cross the Marigold Bridge into the Land of the Dead with skeletons performing on "sway poles" right over the audience.

• Arendelle Comes to Life: Elsa’s ice palace is built right before your eyes using stunning video projection technology.

• High-Flying Heroes: Witness Belle soar into the sky on an enchanted chandelier and Ariel perform breathtaking aerial acrobatics.

• Pirate Shenanigans: Captain Hook’s pirates bring the laughs (and the thrills) with tumbles, flips, and stunts on "tumble tracks" and stilts.

Tour Dates & Locations

The search party is making three major stops in our area in 2026. Mark your calendars for the venue closest to you:

Location	Dates	Venue
Newark, NJ	Jan 8 – 11	Prudential Center
Belmont Park, NY	Jan 15 – 19	UBS Arena
Brooklyn, NY	Jan 29 – Feb 1	Barclays Center

Pro-Tips for Families

• The "Cold" Factor: Remember, it's an ice rink! The arena is usually about 10 degrees cooler than outside, so layers are your friend.

• Costumes: Fans ages 14 and under are encouraged to dress up as their favorite characters to join the fun. Check out my links and HOT tips for arena-friendly products to bring below.

• Get Tickets Early: Tickets are already on sale! For the future, if you are a Disney On Ice Preferred Customer, you can snag your seats during the pre-sale starting today!

Quick Link: You can find the full performance schedule and ticket info at DisneyOnIce.com.

Money Saving Tips for Families!

You don't have to break the bank to provide a little extra magic in your seat while watching the show. Here are some tips that I even participated in, because we are on a really tight budget. 

I have scrambled the day of the show in the past, so I know what it's like to try and locate some magic on a budget! A perfect solution if you have less than 24 hours to plan is to get glow sticks! If you have extra time, then check out my picks below! 

If you would like to see what the venu h

Another great tip!

The toys below are also great to hold on to for Disney vacations! I always bring my own bubble blowers with me for the kids for night time parades and indoor shows, and they are happy and none the wiser. 

Spinning Light Up Orb Wands (2-pack), Amazon $17.97

Snowflake Wands (2-pack), Amazon $15.95

Mickey Mouse Bubble Wands, Amazon $14.99

Glow sticks from the Dollar Tree are an easy same day fix! 

Glow Stick Bracelets are easier to manage! Try these instead of traditional glow sticks. Find them on Amazon!

If you live near a dollar store like Dollar Tree or Dollar General, you can find glow sticks for a buck! Glow sticks are easy, low-cost options to add a little pizazz to your view of the show. 

Bags at Arenas

Some arenas have specific policies allowing types of bags inside the arena. A safe bet would be to first check the arena's website, and/or bring a clear bag. A clear bag or backpack allows for quicker pass-through security and alleviates the stress of having to return things to your car. I use this bag that I found on Amazon. 

Also, bring snacks for your kids, don't be afraid to do that! If kids are happy with their snacks, then there is more money for the parents to buy what they want like ice cream and beer!

Here is a peek of what to expect from our last visit to Mickey's Search Party at UBS Arena in Belmont Park, New York.

There are kiosks for snowcones with souvenir cups. This is probably the best bang for your buck as you get a snack, and a cup to take home!

You can also purchase photo packages!

There are a lot of fun souvenirs that can be used as light-ups, and you can also purchase shirts to commemorate your experience. 

 

I hope that this post was helpful! If so, then check out my other social media channels where I share videos, photos, and captions outlining more family-friendly experiences! Give me a follow at @PlayLiveRepeat on all social media!

Feld Entertainment®, family owned and operated, is the worldwide leader in producing and presenting live touring family entertainment experiences that bring people together and uplift the human spirit. Properties include Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey®, Monster Jam®, Disney On Ice, Monster Energy AMA Supercross, and the SuperMotocross World Championship. Across the brand portfolio, Feld Entertainment has entertained millions of families in more than 80 countries and on six continents. Visit feldentertainment.com for more information. 

Long Jump into Fun: Introducing the New My Mario Collection for Babies and Little Kids!

Power Up Playtime! Introducing the New My Mario Series for Little Fans and Their Families

Get ready, Mushroom Kingdom adventurers! 

Nintendo is bringing the beloved world of Super Mario to a whole new generation with the exciting My Mario series, making its U.S. debut next month. Inspired by Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Yoshi, and their friends, My Mario is a brand-new collection of products, games, and experiences designed for young children and their parents to explore, imagine, and play together. 

I am very jealous of new parents, because this is the announcement I have been waiting for my entire motherhood. Check out my first little bundle, Marcello, dressed in his Super Mario finest for his first birthday photos. 

Sorry! Back to the back magic that is the new My Mario collection...

Starting February 19th, you can be among the first to experience the My Mario collection at Nintendo NEW YORK and Nintendo SAN FRANCISCO stores. Can't make it to a store? Don't worry! My Mario products will also begin arriving at select retail stores nationwide this spring and will continue to expand throughout the year.

What's in Store for My Mario Fans?

Nintendo has partnered with fantastic brands like Mattel, Fisher-Price, and TOMY to create a thoughtful and engaging collection that's perfect for introducing little ones to the magic of Mario. 

Here’s a peek at what you can expect...

Super Mario Fisher-Price Little People includes a six-pack of your favorite characters! I anticipate that this set will be very hard to find as it will boost nostalgia in older fans, and parents wanting to add Nintendo Little People to their kiddo's toy box! Retailing at $19.99, try not to pay the crazy price of $55! 

This is the hottest Fisher-Price Little People set to hit the market! Already I see it for sale from third-party sellers for $60+! 

Building Block Adventures! Spark creativity with two charming wooden block sets. Choose from a Mario Wood Block Set (3 pcs) or go big with the Mario & Friends Wood Block Set (30 pcs), featuring Mario and other iconic items from the Super Mario series. Imagine the towers and castles your little builder will create! If all of the play factors and collectible aspects are not enough, the included characters will all be playable as amiibo in compatible Nintendo Switch games. 

Interactive Digital Fun with the Hello, Mario! App Dive into digital playtime with the free Hello, Mario! app! Launching February 19th on the Apple App Store, Google Play, and as a free download on Nintendo Switch (and Nintendo Switch 2!) via Nintendo eShop, this app allows children, parents, and caregivers to intuitively and playfully interact with Mario. Mario can make silly faces with the help of little players, take app breaks, and more! Think many, many levels higher than the Super Mario from his N64 days, when you could stretch Mario's face or have him follow you on screen. This app is a huge dose of nostalgia for parents, new and seasoned! Also, the absolute best part of the app is that you DO NOT need an internet connection once the app is downloaded. 

"It's Me, Mario!" Stop-Motion Series Gather the family for some adorable viewing! The My Mario stop-motion animation series – "It’s Me, Mario!" – is available now on the My Mario website and the official Play Nintendo YouTube channel. It's the perfect way to share some animated fun with your little ones. The videos are absolutely adorable! I want to jump through my screen and give Mario a snuggle. 

Mario-Themed Apparel for Tiny Trendsetters Dress your smallest Super Mario fans in style! The My Mario collection includes a fantastic range of apparel for infants and toddlers, from comfy onesies and sleepers to playful outfits for every adventure.

Read Along with Mario! Snuggle up for storytime with the interactive Hello, Mario! board book, created by Nintendo and published by Penguin Random House. It’s a wonderful way to introduce early literacy alongside a beloved character. The board book collection will launch Spring 2026. 

Cuddly Companions and Fun Rattles For the littlest fans, there are soft toys that include fun rattles and cuddly Mario plush. Perfect for snuggles, sensory play, and imaginative adventures.

Splash into Fun with Tomy Toomies My Mario Bath Toys Even bathtime gets a power-up! The Tomy Toomies My Mario collection will make a splash with exciting bath toys and water squirters inspired by iconic Super Mario characters. The collection is whimsical, fun, and are priced perfectly for gifting! Think first and second birthday gifts when little ones venture out on their own underwater level of fun!

Toomies My Mario™ Pour & Nest Bath Toy Set $13.99

Toomies My Mario™ Bath Pipes Playset $19.99

Toomies My Mario™ Bath Squirters 4 Pack $14.99

Toomies My Mario™ Super Mushroom & Fire Flower Bath Squirters $7.99

Toomies My Mario™ Mario & Goomba Bath Squirters $7.99

The My Mario series is a fantastic way for families to connect and share their love for the Super Mario universe. With such a diverse range of products and experiences, there’s something for every young adventurer.

Stay tuned to the My Mario site and Nintendo.com for updates on specific product launch timings. And be sure to follow @NintendoStoreUS on Instagram and X for more information on products and events at the official Nintendo stores.