Japan's Pokémon Event Timeline
The Pokémon timeline offers a nostalgic journey through the significant events that have shaped the Pokémon universe, highlighting the launch of iconic games, memorable anime episodes, and legendary card releases. note that some details are drawn from my memory, so there may be occasional inaccuracies.
Feb 27, 1996
Pokémon Red and Green (Japan)
The real first Pokémon games, Red and Green, were released for the Game Boy. These introduced the original 151 Pokémon.
Feb 27, 1996
Topsun Card Gum (1995? 1996?)
Top Sun Pokemon cards were a "freebie" that came with gum sold by a company called Top Confectionery Co., Ltd. Top Confectionery no longer exists due to a merger, but in the past it was a company that sold a lot of cheap snacks using character licenses. Top Sun Pokemon cards are said to have been released around late 1995 ~ 1996, when the original Game Boy versions of Pokemon Red and Green were released. On the other hand, some collectors claims it was released in march of 97. However, I remeber seeing Topsun gum for the first time in late 95 in Nagano area.
Sep 20, 1996
Pokémon Carddass part 1 & 2
Pokémon Carddass was first released as the "Pocket Monsters Card Game" on September 20, 1996.
Oct 15, 1996
Published: CoroCoro Comic‘s November 1996 issue
Published and distributed the first Pokemon cards— gorgeous promo Pikachu and Jigglypuff cards—from CoroCoro Comic's November 1996 edition.
Oct 20, 1996
Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) Base Set (Japan)
The Pokémon TCG was released in Japan by Media Factory. The Base Set (Called Expansion Pack) included iconic Pokémon such as Charizard, Blastoise, and Venusaur.
Nov 30, 1996
ポケモンカードの遊び方（Easily Understand How to Play Pokémon Cards）
The very first "How to play Pokemon Card Game" booklet which contains non-glossy versions of Pikachu and Jigglypuff promos.
Dec 12, 1996
Pocket Monsters Card Game Gift Pack
The gift pack is a card product for the Pocket Monsters Card Game.