Pokemon is Autistic (Episode 16)

A: I do want to catch them all. I want to be the very best. M: Like no one ever was? A: Exactly.

In this episode of The Autistic Culture Podcast:

Hosts Matt and Angela share why so many Autistic people have an affinity for Pokémon (one of the most beloved franchises in history) and its characters. Pokémon not only taps into natural Autistic skills, it also helps to build authentic community around a shared interest.

Creator of Pokemon, Satoshi Tajiri (officially diagnosed on the autism spectrum), was obsessed with collecting and cataloging bugs as a child, which later inspired his idea for a hugely successful series of games that has since become iconic around the world. The need to collect, categorize, and understand all the different Pokémon appeals strongly to autistic adults and children alike.

Podcast hosts go on to talk about the concept of "Flow": a state of complete absorption in an activity. They relate this to Tajiri's intense focus in creating the original Pokémon games. Autistic individuals are prone to entering Flow states when engaged in their special interests. Pokémon's vast, intricate world taps into an Autistic person's curiosity and persistence.

M: I went to this training led by a neurotypical person about autism.
A: Oh my favorite.
M: I will never forget this.
A: My favorite. Autistic trainings run by allistic people. Mmm! Bring it on!
M: Exactly…He said, and I quote, “There's a special place in hell for the person who created Pokemon because of the obsession it causes in children with autism. And being an Autistic person...
A: And by obsession, you mean joy and fun? Is that...
M: That's the thing.
A: No more joy and fun for Autistic people!

Pokémon is representative of Autistic Culture because of the ability to collect and analyze data, follow intrinsic motivations, and achieve Flow states. Pokémon provides a world where Autistic skills are celebrated and Autistic socializing is supported. On this culture trip, the hosts praise it as an immersive special interest that encapsulates the Autistic experience.

Do you, “Gotta catch ‘em all?” Tell us about it in the comments!

See Mew

Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience

Want more Autistic cartoons? Check out Episode 18: Ponies are Autistic

Episode 39: Dungeons & Dragons is Autistic

Episode 32: Animation is Autistic

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Learn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPP

Matt’s social media: Autistic Connections Facebook Group

Learn more about Angela at AngelaLauria.com and Difference Press

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