Many Pokémon enthusiasts are just discovering that there’s a mysterious Pokémon listed as #000 in the Pokédex, and the reason behind this unique numbering has sparked countless discussions across fan communities. Game Freak’s decision to include such an entry has only deepened the long-running debates about Pokémon lore.

The Pokémon franchise is often seen as lighthearted and accessible, but at the same time, Nintendo and Game Freak have added several complex twists that keep players guessing. One of the most famous debates revolves around the “first” Pokémon. While Bulbasaur officially holds the #001 slot, Arceus is credited with creating all life, and Rhydon was technically the first Pokémon designed. Throwing a #000 into the mix only adds another layer of mystery to an already confusing timeline.

Who Exactly Is Pokémon #000?

If you thought things couldn’t get any more complicated, here’s the twist: Pokémon #000 only appears in one generation of the games — Generation 5, also known as “Generation V.” This generation introduced Pokémon Black and Pokémon White, which remain among the most celebrated titles in the series.

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As usual, Game Freak introduced new legendary Pokémon with these releases. However, one particular Pokémon created a numbering problem when it was revealed before the official game launch. Victini, the Mythical Pokémon in question, first appeared in the fourteenth movie, Zoroark: Master of Illusions, nearly eight months before the games hit shelves. To accommodate this early reveal, Victini was given the special #000 designation in the Unova Pokédex.

The Official Reason Behind #000

On the surface, this seems like a simple technical decision — Victini needed a spot before the standard numbering began. But the games also provide an in-universe explanation. According to Professor Juniper in Pokémon Black and White, Victini received the special number zero because its powers symbolize victory, and this blessing was hoped to be shared with any Trainer carrying that Pokédex.

This detail adds a touch of mythology to Victini’s placement and gives fans a lore-based justification beyond the behind-the-scenes scheduling issue. It reflects how Game Freak often blends narrative creativity with game design decisions to keep the universe rich and engaging.

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Is Victini Still #000?

The situation becomes even more intriguing when you look at Victini’s current status. On the official Pokémon website and in later Pokédex entries, Victini is now listed as #494 instead of #000. This has led to new debates: did Game Freak retcon the number to preserve consistency, or did they simply not want to overshadow Bulbasaur as the franchise’s symbolic first Pokémon?

Fans continue to speculate about whether Victini’s #000 status was ever meant to be permanent or if it was just a temporary solution tied to Generation V. Regardless, its unique placement has cemented Victini’s role as one of the most mysterious entries in the franchise’s history.

A Quirky Piece of Pokémon History

Whether or not Victini officially remains #000, the story behind its numbering highlights how much depth and detail the Pokémon world contains. For longtime fans, these mysteries are part of what keeps the series exciting, even decades after its creation.

At the end of the day, while Bulbasaur will always hold the honor of being #001, Victini has secured its place in history as the only Pokémon ever marked with the rare and enigmatic #000 slot. And for many fans, that makes Victini a legend in more ways than one.