The Pokémon Company International has partnered with Dark Horse Comics to produce a book unlike any other for Pokémon fans. The Pokémon Deluxe Character Guide is a 336-page tome stuffed with art from across the wide specturm of games, the Pokémon TCG, and the Pokémon anime. The book is wrapped in a glorious hardcover featuring Pikachu and 16o of his fellow Pocket Monsters. What’s more, Pokémon Deluxe Character Guide will feature all 1, 025 Pokémon within its pages.
This is no mere Pokémon Handbook, either. As a celebration of Pokémon turning 30 this year, it’s a true celebration of the franchise. There are two versions to look for: one is the standard edition for $59.99, while the other is the Pokémon Deluxe Character Guide Limited Edition Box Set for $199. This one is for the super collectors—let’s break down what you get:
- Hardcover copy of Pokémon Deluxe Character Guide
- Collector’s box
- Exclusive premium Pokémon TCG game playmat
- Certificate of authenticity
- Two collectible video game prints
- Two collectible animation prints
Those cracking open the book for the first time will be greeted by a foreword written by The Pokémon Company International president and CFO Tsunekazu Ishihara. Here’s a bit more about the book from the press release:
With artwork spanning the franchise, the ‘Pokémon Deluxe Character Guide’ Limited Edition Box Set Collection is a celebration of the brand and the many Trainers who make up the vibrant and diverse Pokémon community, who have accompanied us along the way — whether they started their journey playing the video games, collecting and playing with Pokémon cards, or tuning in to the animation,” says Heather Dalgleish Parker, senior director of original merchandise at The Pokémon Company International. “As the first of its kind for Pikachu Press, this collector’s edition box set and book celebrate the legacy and breadth of the Pokémon brand while inviting Trainers to learn more about their favorite Pokémon in a beautifully crafted and thoughtfully curated format.
Pokémon Deluxe Character Guide comes to book stores and comic book shops starting August 25, 2026. You can look in a pre-order here or at the bookseller of your choosing, but consider throwing some love to a smaller chain rather than give it to Amazon.
Source: The Pokémon Company International Press Release