The world of Pokémon is vast and captivating, filled with creatures of incredible power and mythical origins. Among these, Legendary and Mythical Pokémon stand out, often holding significant roles in the lore and gameplay. This guide aims to list all Legendary and Mythical Pokémon in order, clarifying the distinction between the two categories and providing some context for their appearances. Note that "order" can be interpreted in several ways (National Dex number, release order, etc.), so this list focuses on a chronological order based on their introduction to the franchise's main games. Variations and alternate forms are included where applicable.
It's important to define the terms:
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Legendary Pokémon: Typically powerful Pokémon often associated with significant events or locations in the game's storyline. They are often found singly or in pairs, and their capture is usually a significant challenge.
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Mythical Pokémon: Pokémon that are extremely rare and are typically obtained through special events or distributions rather than regular gameplay. They often possess unique abilities or backstories.
Legendary Pokémon (in approximate order of introduction)
Generation I (Red, Blue, Yellow):
- Articuno
- Zapdos
- Moltres
- Mewtwo
- Mew (often categorized as Mythical, but its in-game presence blurs the line)
Generation II (Gold, Silver, Crystal):
- Raikou
- Entei
- Suicune
- Lugia
- Ho-Oh
- Celebi (often categorized as Mythical)
Generation III (Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald):
- Groudon
- Kyogre
- Rayquaza
- Latios
- Latias
- Jirachi (often categorized as Mythical)
Generation IV (Diamond, Pearl, Platinum):
- Dialga
- Palkia
- Giratina
- Uxie
- Mesprit
- Azelf
- Manaphy (often categorized as Mythical)
- Phione (often categorized as Mythical)
Generation V (Black, White):
- Zekrom
- Reshiram
- Kyurem
- Landorus
- Tornadus
- Thundurus
- Cobalion
- Terrakion
- Virizion
- Genesect (often categorized as Mythical)
Generation VI (X, Y):
- Xerneas
- Yveltal
- Zygarde (with its various forms)
- Diancie (often categorized as Mythical)
- Hoopa (often categorized as Mythical)
Generation VII (Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun, Ultra Moon):
- Solgaleo
- Lunala
- Necrozma (with its various forms)
- Marshadow (often categorized as Mythical)
Generation VIII (Sword, Shield):
- Zacian
- Zamazenta
- Eternatus
- Calyrex (with its various forms)
Generation IX (Scarlet, Violet):
- Koraidon
- Miraidon
- The Paradox Pokémon (various forms) - While debated, these powerful forms of existing Pokémon lean toward legendary status.
Mythical Pokémon (in approximate order of introduction)
This list includes Pokémon generally categorized as Mythical, recognizing that the distinction between "Legendary" and "Mythical" isn't always strictly defined.
- Mew (Generation I)
- Celebi (Generation II)
- Jirachi (Generation III)
- Deoxys (Generation III - While sometimes listed as Legendary due to its unique distribution and lore, its rarity and event-only nature aligns with Mythical)
- Manaphy (Generation IV)
- Phione (Generation IV)
- Darkrai (Generation IV)
- Shaymin (Generation IV)
- Arceus (Generation IV) - While incredibly powerful and central to the lore, Arceus's limited availability leans towards Mythical categorization for many.
- Genesect (Generation V)
- Diancie (Generation VI)
- Hoopa (Generation VI)
- Volcanion (Generation VI)
- Magearna (Generation VII)
- Marshadow (Generation VII)
- Zeraora (Generation VII)
- Meltan (Generation VII)
- Melmetal (Generation VII)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between a Legendary and a Mythical Pokémon?
Legendary Pokémon are typically powerful and play a significant role in the game's story, often found within the game itself albeit usually at the end. Mythical Pokémon, however, are exceptionally rare and are typically only obtainable through special events or distributions.
Are there any Pokémon that are considered both Legendary and Mythical?
While not officially categorized as both, some Pokémon, like Mew, blur the lines. Its in-game appearance and power could argue for a Legendary classification, but its rarity and unique acquisition make it fit the Mythical designation as well.
How many Legendary and Mythical Pokémon are there in total?
The exact numbers fluctuate depending on how you categorize certain Pokémon and the inclusion of alternate forms. However, this list provides a comprehensive overview of those widely considered to be Legendary or Mythical.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Legendary and Mythical Pokémon, hopefully clarifying the distinctions and providing a clear, chronological ordering of their introduction. Remember to consult the official Pokémon resources for the most up-to-date information.
