With less than a week to go until Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield launch, the hashtag #ThankYouGameFreak has started to trend worldwide on Twitter.
This has seen the community that surrounds the pocket monster’s ever-popular brand take a moment to send positive messages to the Japanese developer, reflecting on the impact that the Pokémon games have had on their lives.
It was YouTuber and Twitch streamer MysticUmbreon94 that came up with the idea that set the Twitter trend in motion, writing: “Thank you Game Freak for creating the games that got me through all the tough times in my childhood. I know times are rough, but there are still fans that love what you do. Spread if you appreciate what Game Freak does.”
It wasn’t long before prominent members of the community started to rally behind the #ThankYouGameFreak hashtag with their own appreciative comments:
I said it directly last night, but #ThankYouGameFreak. You've created a franchise that tens of millions of people love and play every day. A franchise I love and have dedicated a large chunk of my life. We appreciate you. pic.twitter.com/8MFLQ1Up5g
— Joe Merrick (@JoeMerrick) November 9, 2019
#ThankYouGameFreak for so many wonderful games over the last (almost) 24 years. The Pokémon franchise absolutely changed my life and has given me so many fantastic memories, and I can’t wait for even more next week with Sword & Shield! pic.twitter.com/kt1hpoARjf
— Big Boss (@AceTrainerLiam) November 9, 2019
#ThankYouGameFreak the world you’ve created and the creatures in it have been part of my life since I was 2! Back then it was Pokémon Yellow now it’s in my home turf with Galar! I could not be more excited! pic.twitter.com/HKBRI51237
— Bird Keeper Toby (@BirdKeeperToby) November 9, 2019
I don’t even know where I’d start… This franchise has been a part of my entire life, with no exaggeration. I love this game, I love my job and I’ve loved every minute that I’ve dedicated to Pokemon.
Roll on Sword & Shield. ????
— luke (@GameboyLuke) November 9, 2019
In Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield, you will choose between three starter Pokémon – Grookey, Scorbunny, and Sobble – before having the chance to explore the Galar region – with its idyllic countryside, contemporary cities, thick forests, and craggy, snow-covered mountains. Challenging the Gyms in the region, you will once again look to become Champion.
Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield will release exclusively for Nintendo Switch worldwide on November 15th.
