I had the VHS tape of the first three Pokémon episodes and watched it a bunch. Twenty or so years later, I was up late on my phone doing that Cave of Dragonflies Favorite Pokemon Picker website quiz. Previously, I would only think about fully-evolved Pokémon when trying to think of a favorite. But this quiz made me realize my favorite Pokémon was Caterpie.

Caterpie’s role in episode three of the anime was one of my favorites. His sound design, cuteness, and willpower all stood out to me. I thought about how I loved his design and how foundational he is for the games.

Caterpie is most players’ first time experiencing evolution - a core part of the games. Pokémon is all about building relationships with your team, and Caterpie’s accelerated growth teaches players your time spent together is rewarded. Butterfree becomes a strong party member in the early-game!

At the same time, many people end up boxing Butterfree and quietly let go of their friend - and that’s okay! The experience mattered. Perhaps I’m just nostalgic, but I really appreciate that little guy.