In this recurring series, I’ll analyze the origins of Pokémon designs and their allusions to Mediterranean culture from Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet.
Nymble
Nymble is a small Bug-type Pokémon who appears in the tall grasses around Paldea. Its name is a combination of “nymph”, a premature insect, and “nimble”, for its athletic ability. It is based on a grasshopper, which has a very nimble and acrobatic jump. It has a simple insectoid design with two pairs of legs and a third pair curled up on its back which resemble pocketknives.
Specifically, Nymble may be based on the Pseudochorthippus parallelus erythorpus, which is indigenous to the arable areas of Spain.
It has its third set of legs folded up. When it’s in a tough spot, this Pokémon jumps over 30 feet using the strength of its legs.
It’s highly skilled at a fighting style in which it uses its jumping capabilities to dodge incoming attacks while also dealing damage to opponents.
Pokédex
When large groups of grasshoppers swarm together, they are commonly referred to as locusts. In their adult form, these swarms will descend upon farms and quickly eat all of the vegetation. As such, locusts have long been seen as apocalyptic. One swarm is described in the Book of Exodus, but also included in written works across the Mediterranean. These aren’t just historical events, as last year there was a report of a locust swarm in Spain’s Canary Islands.
Lokix
At level 24, Nymble evolves into Lokix and becomes bipedal. The third pair of legs open up to sharp razors and it can even stand on them. Its name is a combination of “locust” and “kicks”.
Lokix is based on a grasshopper and its secondary Dark-typing might be an allusion to the swarming and devastation that the real-world insects can cause.
Additionally, its design may draw inspiration from Kamen Rider, a Japanese media franchise that started in the 1970s. The premise is based around a group of superhero grasshoppers called Kamen Rider who fight evil. However, the Riders’ source of power is the same harnessed by evil forces, which may be another reference for its Dark-typing.
When it decides to fight all out, it stands on its previously folded legs to enter Showdown Mode. It neutralizes its enemies in short order.
It uses its normally folded third set of legs when in Showdown Mode. This places a huge burden on its body, so it can’t stay in this mode for long.
Pokédex
The Showdown Mode that Lokix enters may also be an allusion to Kamen Riders, as each of the superheroes has forms they can transform into for additional power during a fight.
When the Riders are about to defeat their opponent, they may use a finishing move such as “Rider Kick”. Similarly, Lokix is one of the few Pokemon who learn the move Axe Kick and it is the final move in its learnset.
Conclusion
Grasshoppers are a common bug with subspecies found around the world. It is surprising that they have inspired a Pokemon design until now. Nymble starts off as a typical early-route bug but when it evolves into Lokix, it gains a Dark-typing and more complex design motif. They are certainly memorable Pokémon who have no trouble running into you wherever you are. And because of Nymble’s small size in tall grass, you may be the one accidentally running (or riding) into them!