If you’ve read the March issue of K-Zone, on sale now, you’ll probably notice we helped breakdown the similarities and differences between Pokémon and Yo-Kai! We’ve got some extra little facts to help add to what you learned in the mag, so here we go!

Spooky Start

The Yo-Kai in Yo-Kai Watch are based on ghosts in Japanese folklore, but did you know some Pokémon are also based on Japanese yo-kai myths? Espeon, Mawile, Celebi, Drowzee, Munna and Exeggutor are just some examples of Pokémon that were inspired by spooky yo-kai stories.

Creature Creation

Pokémon can evolve into different species, becoming physically different and gaining more powerful base stats and moves. Pokémon are also categorised by ‘type’, like Fire type, Grass Type, Poison Type, and many more. Incredibly rare and powerful Pokémon are called ‘Legendary’ Pokémon, and Pokémon that are rarely seen are called ‘Mythical’ Pokémon. All the Pokémon are listed in a digital encyclopedia called the Pokedex.

When it comes to Yo-Kai, the creatures can also evolve into more powerful versions of themselves once they reach a certain level, or by combining with specific items or other Yo-Kai. There are eight different Yo-Kai classes, as well as Legend Yo-Kai that can only be obtained by collecting certain sets of Yo-Kai listed in the Yo-Kai Medallium.

Plot and Purpose

The purpose of the Yo-Kai Watch game is to travel around town befriending and battling Yo-Kai, and solving the problems they cause. This is all made possible with the watch the main player character is given by the Yo-Kai butler, Whisper. The watch gives the player the ability to see Yo-Kai.

In the majority of Pokémon games, players travel around as their own character, catching and training Pokémon, as well as taking part in battles and forming friendships with their Pokémon. The main purpose of these games is often to stop a team of villains.

Give Me More!

As well as having a TV show and games, both Pokémon and Yo-Kai Watch have movies and a trading card game!