Rellor and Rabsca — Origin of Species

In this recurring series, I’ll analyze the origins of Pokémon designs and their allusions to Mediterranean culture from Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet. Rellor Rellor is a Bug-type Pokémon whose name is “Roller” backwards. This name lends itself well to its basis on a dung beetle. There are many kinds of dung beetle species but the … Read more

Capsakid and Scovillain — Origin of Species

In this recurring series, I’ll analyze the origins of Pokémon designs and their allusions to Mediterranean culture from Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet. Capsakid Capsakid is a Grass-type Pokémon based on a spicy pepper. Its name is a combination of “Capsaicin” and “Kid”. Capsaicin is the component of peppers that give it a burning sensation when … Read more

Squawkabilly – Origin of Species

In this recurring series, I’ll analyze the origins of Pokémon designs and their allusions to Mediterranean culture from Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet. This colorful bird’s name is a combination of “squawk” and “rockabilly“, a musical genre that was the precursor to rock-and-roll. Squawkabilly is a parrot based on the rockers, also known as greasers, … Read more

Smoliv, Doliv, Arboliva – Origin of Species

In this recurring series, I’ll analyze the origins of Pokémon designs and their allusions to Mediterranean culture from Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet. Smoliv Smoliv is known as the Olive Pokémon, a unique Grass/Normal-type. Its name is a combination of “small” and “olive”. Its name also includes the online slang word “smol”, to imply it … Read more

Fidough and Dachsbun | Origin of Species

In this recurring series, I’ll analyze the origins of Pokémon designs and their allusions to Mediterranean culture from Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet. Fidough Fidough is a cute Fairy-type Pokémon inspired by a dog, particularly the dachshund. Its body looks to be made of dough with an egg yolk glaze that hasn’t been baked yet. Its … Read more

Tandemaus and Maushold | Origin of Species

In this recurring series, I’ll analyze the origins of Pokémon designs and their allusions to Mediterranean culture from Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet. Tandemaus Tandemaus appears early in the player’s Paldean journey. It, or rather they, are two mice who always appear together. Its name reflects this, a combination of “tandem” and “mouse”. The two … Read more