Pokémon Unveils Ekans for the Lunar Serpent Year

Pokémon Rings in the Year of the Snake with a Charming Animated Short

Pokémon celebrated the 2025 Lunar New Year, the Year of the Snake, with a heartwarming animated short featuring Ekans and Arbok. The video, released on January 29th, 2025, on the official Pokémon YouTube channel, depicts a humorous and touching encounter.

The short focuses on two Ekans, one a Shiny variant, dangling from a tree. The Shiny Ekans's accidental fall onto a passing Arbok leads to an unexpected evolution, sparked by the Arbok's playful threat. The newly evolved Shiny Arbok is then welcomed by its fellow Arboks, showcasing a heartwarming acceptance.

The video's brevity didn't diminish its impact; viewers expressed emotional responses, with some comparing the Ekans' interaction to that of children, highlighting the theme of friendship transcending differences. Nostalgia also played a significant role, with many recalling their early encounters with Shiny Pokémon in games like Pokémon Gold and Silver.

Beyond the animated short, The Pokémon Company organized various Lunar New Year events and merchandise.

Pokémon GO's Lunar New Year Celebration

Pokémon GO joined the festivities with a Lunar New Year event, starting January 9th, 2025, as part of its Dual Destiny season (December 3rd, 2024 – March 4th, 2025). This event boosted the encounter and Shiny rates for several snake-themed Pokémon, including Ekans, Onix, Gyarados, Dratini, Dunsparce, Snivy, and Darumaka (whose Daruma doll inspiration symbolizes good luck).

The event also featured themed Field Research tasks, special 2km Eggs containing Pokémon like Makuhita, Nosepass, Meditite, Duskull, and Skorupi, and a Timed Research offering rare Zygarde Cells.

This multifaceted celebration showcased Pokémon's commitment to engaging its fanbase with creative content and interactive events during the Lunar New Year.