Pokémania took the world by storm in the 1990s, and almost three decades later, the fanbase, and the Pokémon Trading Card market, is booming.
It all began with video games for the Nintendo Game Boy but it has evolved into a media behemoth of films, merchandise and collectible trading cards.
Fans from all over north-east England say it is an exciting time to be part of the fandom, with new releases and a huge anniversary looming.
The Pokémon Trading Card game is also thriving, with serious money being spent to “catch ’em all”.
Vectis Auctions in Thornaby, Stockton-on-Tees, this year launched a trading card division after a Pokémon card collection sold for £19,000.
Video by Adam Clarkson and Alex Challies