Did you know that you can catch all 151 original Kanto Pokémon right from Google Search on your phone?
Google has quietly added an interactive Easter egg that transforms mobile search into a nostalgic mini-game for Pokémon fans. Whether you’re a longtime trainer or just stumbled upon this feature, it’s an easy and surprisingly fun way to relive your childhood without downloading an app or spending a single peso.
A Mobile-Only Pokémon Hunt
This mini-game is only available on mobile devices. Whether you’re using the Google Search app or a mobile browser like Google Chrome, you’ll need to be on a phone or tablet to play. Upon testing the feature on a laptop, we weren’t able to trigger the game at all, so be sure to use a mobile device for the full experience.
To get started, search for any of the original Kanto Pokémon. Once the search results load, a red and white Poké Ball icon will appear at the bottom right corner of the screen. Tap this icon, and a playful capture animation will begin. The caught Pokémon will then be added to your digital Pokédex.
You must be logged into your Google account to save your progress. Otherwise, your Pokédex will reset each time you leave the session. The Pokédex tracks every Pokémon you’ve caught and shows hints for the ones you haven’t found yet, adding a layer of strategy and discovery to the experience.
Strategy Required for Legendary Pokémon
While catching basic Pokémon is straightforward, capturing the five Legendary and Mythical creatures — Articuno, Zapdos, Moltres, Mewtwo, and Mew — requires a more strategic approach. These rare Pokémon can only be caught using Master Balls, which are earned after reaching specific capture milestones:
- Catch 5 Pokémon to unlock Articuno
- Catch 20 Pokémon to unlock Zapdos
- Catch 50 Pokémon to unlock Moltres
- Catch 100 Pokémon to unlock Mewtwo
- Catch 150 Pokémon to unlock Mew
Each Master Ball is tied to a specific Legendary or Mythical Pokémon. For instance, if a user has caught only 20 Pokémon, they will have earned two Master Balls, which can only be used on Articuno and Zapdos. Attempting to catch Mewtwo or Mew before earning the appropriate Master Balls results in a failed capture, as only a standard Poké Ball will appear.
Notably, catching duplicates does not contribute to the Master Ball progression. Only unique captures count toward the milestones, encouraging players to search broadly rather than focusing on favorites.
A Thoughtful Nod to Pokémon Fans
More than just a game, this Easter egg is a thoughtful gesture for fans old and new. It allows longtime players to relive the thrill of completing a Pokédex, while newcomers can experience the charm of Pokémon hunting without needing a console or app download. The inclusion of subtle challenges, silhouette hints, and strategic captures gives the feature more depth than a simple novelty.
This mobile-only experience also highlights Google’s ability to integrate pop culture into its platform in a way that feels genuine and rewarding. It captures the essence of exploration and discovery that defines the Pokémon franchise, now reimagined through search. The sound effects, animations, and Pokédex interface are simple but effective, enhancing the nostalgic vibe without overwhelming the user.
It’s a modern tribute to the spirit of collecting and curiosity that Pokémon has always encouraged. Whether you’re passing time on a commute or casually scrolling during a break, it’s a satisfying way to revisit childhood memories with a few taps on your screen. The mini-game also creates moments of joy and surprise, like finally encountering a rare Legendary Pokémon, that bring a sense of accomplishment with every catch.
So grab your phone, search smart, and see if you can complete your digital Pokédex because we’ve already completed ours. Trainers eager to experience this nostalgic hunt should act fast before Google decides to retire this delightful Easter egg from its search engine.
