Explore the collection
0 items in your cart
Explore the collection

Pop Culture Headlines — Pokémon Tales Teaser Trailer

This is Sideshow’s Pop Culture Headlines, for the stories you need to know and for the ones you might have missed! Read below for today’s headlines from the world of geek news, or listen to a more in-depth version on Alexa, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any other podcast platforms.

If you like what you hear, be sure to leave us a 5-star review so we can continue to bring you up-to-date pop culture news!

Take a Closer Look at Marvel’s Wolverine Game

PlayStation gave fans a closer look at the combat, story, and world of Marvel’s Wolverine. The four-minute clip includes a mix of gameplay footage as well as in-game cinematics. This footage also includes a message from voice actor Liam McIntyre, who plays James Logan Howlett. Marvel’s Wolverine launches September 15 exclusively on PS5 consoles. 

Warner Bros. Shares Clip from Batman: Knightfall Part 1

Warner Bros. Entertainment shared a clip from Batman: Knightfall Part 1. The new footage shows Batman calling his therapist while driving the Batmobile. Based on the comic event of the same name, this animated movie delves into some of Gotham City’s darkest hours. Batman: Knightfall Part 1 is now available on digital. 

Pokémon Announces Stop-Motion Animated Series

Pokémon and Aardman released the first teaser trailer for Pokémon Tales: The Misadventures of Sirfetch’d & Pichu. This stop-motion animated series follows “unlikely heroes” Pichu and Sirfetch’d on a gallant quest through Galar. Pokémon Tales: The Misadventures of Sirfetch’d & Pichu will premiere on Disney+ in 2027. 

Harry Potter Heads Back to Theaters

The Harry Potter movies are headed back to cinemas to celebrate The Sorcerer’s Stone 25th anniversary. All eight movies are being re-released on the big screen, inviting fans to return to the Wizarding World for the franchise’s latest milestone. Catch a screening of your favorite installment, or make it a marathon, at a theater near you. 

This has been your Pop Culture Headlines! For more daily news updates, enable Pop Culture & Movie News- Let Your Geek SideShow on your Amazon Alexa device or listen through iTunes and get all the latest geek headlines in a convenient and timely fashion.

Don’t forget to Let Your Geek Sideshow!

New Pokémon Collectibles Revealed at PokémonXP 2026

It’s finally here! August 28 marks the start of PokémonXP and World Championships 2026 event weekend. Sideshow is here at the show floor showcasing our Pokémon collectibles, plus hosting contests and chatting with fans. If you’ve stopped by our booth, you may have noticed a couple brand-new reveals.

Sideshow is thrilled to debut our latest Pokémon collectibles at PokémonXP. Get more details about the pieces below. Plus, RSVP to be the first to know when they launch for pre-order.

Mewtwo Statue

The Mewtwo Statue is based on the character’s iconic animated appearance. Sign up now to be notified when Mewtwo becomes available on our website.

Gengar Diorama

Just in time for spooky season, the Gengar Diorama celebrates everyone’s favorite Ghost/Poison Type. Stay in touch via email and SMS to be alerted when this collectible goes on sale.

Shop Pokémon Collectibles

Charizard Statue

Inspired by the animated series, this high-end collectible statue showcases the iconic Pokémon’s strength and fiery might. Charizard unleashes a powerful attack while soaring above a swirling fire, ready to set the battlefield ablaze!

Snorlax Diorama

Beneath the branches of a leafy green tree and beside a lush blue pond, Pokémon are snacking and snoozing. These hungry friends share bountiful bunches of Oran, Sitrus, Tamato, and Pecha berries.

Eevee Life-Size Figure

This high-end statue showcases a beloved Normal Type on the path of a new adventure. An adorable Eevee frolics through a field of flowers, each color representing a different possibility for the future.

Pikachu Life-Size Figure

Based on the beloved Pokémon’s animated appearance, this high-end life-size figure truly captures the cuteness and personality of the iconic Pikachu! The electric rodent stands on a grassy travel route, waiting to embark on an exciting new adventure.

Sideshow at PokémonXP

Calling all Trainers — Sideshow will be an exhibitor at the PokémonXP and World Championships 2026 event weekend!

This first-of-its-kind fandom convention will be held in San Francisco, CA from August 28 – 30, 2026, bringing fans of every generation together to celebrate the amazing world of Pokémon. During the PokémonXP event, you can visit the Sideshow booth for a closer peek at our latest Pokémon collectibles.

Plus, attendees can look forward to new reveals and a grand prize giveaway at the event. Catch us in person at Booth #606 in the Moscone Center!

Photos from the Booth

Check out images straight from the show floor! Can you spot our newest statue and diorama emerging from inside the tall grass — or, in this case, from behind plexiglass?

Stay in Touch on Social Channels

Subscribe for More Information!

Visit our PokémonXP event page for all the latest details, and register for Sideshow’s newsletter to get the latest news and updates about this exciting event. You’ll also score $5 in Rewards for your Sideshow account!

Follow Us

Sideshow will also have online coverage and giveaways on our social media channels throughout the weekend for those who can’t join us in person. Follow along so you don’t miss any of the action.

Join the conversation with other Pokémon fans over at Sideshow Social Network or in side.show/geekgroup, and don’t forget to Let Your Geek Sideshow!

Psychic Type Pokémon Weaknesses and Strengths Explained

Originally published August 27, 2026. This article covers the battle weaknesses and strengths of Psychic Type Pokémon.

In the world of Pokémon, a Type determines the properties of a Pokémon and its moves. These Types dictate the strengths and weaknesses, and overall effectiveness, of battle matchups. Trainers need to pay attention to these specially resistances, immunities, and super-effective moves in order to keep their Pokémon strong and triumph in battle.

With so many different Types to discover — and the fact that some Pokémon can be dual-Typed — it can get a little confusing to remember what moves are most powerful against which Types. The game series teaches players some basics with the initial choice of either a Water, Fire, or Grass starter Type, but beyond common logic like, “Water douses Fire,” some of these matchups can be a little more mysterious.

But when it comes to Psychic Types, you may be surprised! Their strengths and weaknesses are easier to remember than you might think. If you’re battling Mewtwo or trying to catch your own Alakazam, keep these Type tips at the top of your mind.

  • There are 18 total standard Types in Pokémon.
  • Dark and Steel Types were introduced to help balance overpowered Psychic Types.
  • Psychic Type Pokémon are weak to Bug, Ghost, and Dark Types.
  • Psychic Type moves are effective against Fighting and Poison Type Pokémon.

There are 18 total standard Types in Pokémon.

  • All Standard Pokémon Types are: Normal, Fire, Fighting, Water, Flying, Grass, Poison, Electric, Ground, Rock, Psychic, Ice, Bug, Dragon, Ghost, Dark, Steel, and Fairy
  • There is a 19th special “Stellar” Type introduced in Generation IX, only available through Terastallization.
  • Dark and Steel were introduced in Generation II, and Fairy was introduced in Generation VI.
  • Pokémon can have either one or two Types. Moves can only have one type (save for Hawlucha’s unique attack move Flying Press, which is Fighting and Flying).

Based on the concept of classical elements, the Pokémon Types form the foundation of understanding how a creature interacts with its environment and how it functions in battle.

Many Pokémon are found in biomes that are adjacent to their Type, the strongest example of these being Water Types that are only found in bodies of water. Bug Types can often be found in forested regions, and Ice Types are often found in mountainous or otherwise frigid regions.

All Types have other Types that they are strong against, weak against, and few have those they are immune to entirely. Type effectiveness is one of the biggest strategies for Trainers in battle, all determined by a Pokémon’s Type and its move Types.

Dark and Steel Types were introduced to help balance overpowered Psychic Types.

  • Psychic is weak to Dark beginning in Generation II.
  • Psychic also is not very effective against Steel, and has no effect on Dark.

In the first Generation of Pokémon games, Psychic Type was extremely powerful. It was most associated with rare Legendaries like Mewtwo and other formidable evolutionary lines like Abra-Kadabra-Alakazam and Drowzee-Hypno. It was considered a point of imbalance in the earliest titles and the developers were aware of the challenge this presented to players.

To remedy this, Generation II introduced the Dark Type and Steel Type to help provide additional balance, giving Psychic Types new weaknesses and ineffective matchups.

Psychic Type Pokémon are weak to Bug, Ghost, and Dark Types.

  • These three weaknesses represent common fears, which can be considered a mental obstacle: fear of darkness (nyctophobia), fear of ghosts (phasmophobia), and fear of insects (entomophobia).

When Dark Type was introduced, it was given immunity to Psychic Type moves as well as a super effective impact on Pokémon of that designation. Additionally, Psychic Types have always been weak to Bug and Ghost moves.

To remember these Type matchups, just think of common fears and phobias. Since Psychic Types are seen as more cerebral and mind-powered, it makes sense that they’d be overpowered by terrifying concepts like insects, darkness, and ghosts/the supernatural.

If a Gengar jumped out at you in the dark, of course you’d be scared! But for Psychic Types, any Ghost moves are super effective and will cause additional damage.

Beware these scary situations for your team, especially if planning around a Gym Leader who specializes in one of these Types. Of course, on the flipside, use this knowledge to your advantage when confronting Psychic Types as well.

Psychic Type moves are effective against Fighting and Poison Type Pokémon.

  • Psychic may be effective against Fighting because of the idea of “brains vs. brawn.”
  • This principle also applies to strength against Poison Type, because of “mind over matter.”

Psychic is also super effective against Fighting and Poison Types. While some of the games’ Type matchups don’t always follow perfect logic, Psychic’s strength against Fighting may be a nod to the classic “brains vs. brawn” argument. This clash pits the power of intelligence and wits against pure brute force — and in the case of Pokémon, brains come out on top!

The strength over Poison Type may also relate to the idea of mind over matter, which refers to using your willpower and mental capacity to overcome hardship, pain, and other physical stress. The connection is less obvious, but when Poison Types are considered to cause sickness and other physical affects, the dynamic becomes clearer.

It doesn’t take telepathy and precognition to ensure your Psychic Types triumph in battle. Just remember the power of the mind!

What is your favorite Pokémon Type to have on your team? Join the conversation with other Pokémon fans over at Sideshow Social Network or in side.show/geekgroup, and don’t forget to Let Your Geek Sideshow!

How Was Mewtwo Created in the Pokémon Series?

Originally published on February 27, 2026. This article covers the topic of Mewtwo’s origin in the Pokémon series, including how the character was created in-world, its classification in the Pokédex, how Mew and Mewtwo are connected, and more.

Listen to this article:

The Pokémon franchise has grown to encompass over 1,000 pocket monsters of varying origins and backgrounds. From ghost balloons that want to carry children away like Drifloon to the keyring-shaped fairy called Klefki, there are countless creatures in each region for trainers to capture for their team.

When it comes to rare legendary Pokémon, their origins are often more mysterious. Many of these ancient monsters come from cosmic sources, dimensions of time and space, or even from the land and sea themselves. However, fan-favorite Mewtwo has a far more tragic tale that has endeared it to fans of every age since Generation 1. Born in a lab, Mewtwo’s story is one of mad science, vengeance, and grief.

How well do you know your Pokémon history? It doesn’t take a Psychic-type to uncover the whole story. Between comics, games, and movies, let’s take a closer look at:

  • What kind of Pokémon is Mewtwo?
  • When was Mewtwo first introduced?
  • How was Mewtwo created?
  • Are Mew and Mewtwo related?

What kind of Pokémon is Mewtwo?

  • Mewtwo is classified as the Genetic Pokémon, number #0150 in the Pokédex. It is also considered to be an artificial Pokémon.
  • Mewtwo is a Psychic-type legendary Pokémon.

The Pokémon series boasts a mixture of advanced technology and magical elements. Many Pokémon are naturally occurring creatures, varied and diverse as they inhabit the many different regions and biomes of the world. Some of these creatures, however, were created by humans via direct or indirect means.

Mewtwo is classed as an artificial Pokémon due to being cloned by scientists using DNA from the ancient Pokémon Mew. The Pokédex specifically lists its species as the Genetic Pokémon.

Within the series mythos and games, there is typically only one Mewtwo in existence. Its psychic powers are a result of the experimentation it endured, giving it abilities like telepathy, telekinesis, and teleportation. Mewtwo’s legendary status is derived both from its rarity and its connection to the legendary Mew.

Some other examples of artificially created Pokémon include the Porygon evolutionary line, which were generated using computer data, and the clockwork Magearna, which was designed as a gift for a king’s daughter.

When was Mewtwo first introduced?

  • Mewtwo was introduced in Generation 1 with Pokémon Red and Green (1996). These games were released as Red and Blue in the United States in 1998.
  • Mewtwo’s origin story was the subject of Pokémon: The First Movie in 1998 and its 2019 CGI remake Pokémon: Mewtwo Strikes Back.

Mewtwo debuted in the Generation 1 game titles as the 150th Pokémon that could be encountered and collected. Notably, it can only be found if the player has already defeated the Elite Four and Blue, the final bosses. After finding research notes in the ruined mansion on Cinnabar Island, trainers could discover Mewtwo in Cerulean Cave and try to either defeat or capture it.

Mewtwo appears across other titles as well, and occasionally can only be obtained via special promotion downloads.

Fans were introduced to a fully animated version of Mewtwo’s backstory in Pokémon: The First Movie in 1998, which was later remade entirely in CGI in 2019 under the title Pokémon: Mewtwo Strikes Back.

In the movie, Ash and his friends are invited to New Island to battle the greatest Pokémon master. Once there, they discover that Mewtwo has secretly masterminded the invitations, gathering trainers and stealing their Pokémon to create an army of clones like itself. That Pikachu vs clone Pikachu fight still makes us emotional to this day.

How was Mewtwo created?

  • In the anime, Mewtwo was created by a scientist named Dr. Fuji, who experimented on Mew’s DNA to create a stronger clone. Fuji was funded by Team Rocket’s leader Giovanni.
  • Mewtwo was subject to gene-splicing experiments and became powerful and enraged by its captivity.
  • In some Pokémon media, human cells were also added to the Mewtwo experiment. These cells came from Gym Leader and Team Rocket Scientist Blaine.

Notes found in the abandoned mansion on Cinnabar island hint at Mewtwo’s origins in game, connecting the Mew cloning experiments to Mr. Fuji, a kind old man who can be encountered in Lavender Town.

The animated films offer an expanded look on the story. Team Rocket’s leader Giovanni contracted a man named Dr. Fuji (likely based on Mr. Fuji) to create a clone using DNA obtained from the mythic Pokémon Mew. Through this, Giovanni hoped to obtain a massively powerful soldier for his organization’s own nefarious purposes. Mewtwo’s origin is also more emotional in the anime, as the creation had to witness its fellow clones destabilize and die. The loss of its friends causes Mewtwo deep grief.

No matter the adaptation, Mewtwo is always subject to frightening science experiments and gene splicing. These cruel tests eventually imbue the Pokémon with its powerful psychic abilities and its vicious personality.

Are Mew and Mewtwo related?

  • Mewtwo is a clone of Mew and is closely associated with Mew in most media appearances.
  • Mew is an ancient legendary Pokémon whose DNA was taken by scientists in hopes of creating the strongest Pokémon ever.
  • Mew is seen as more playful and childlike, while Mewtwo has a cynical personality because of its creation.

Being cloned directly from Mew’s DNA, Mewtwo is often associated with the mythic pink Pokémon. What sets them apart from other Pokémon, however, is that Mewtwo does not evolve from Mew. The games also treat them as individual entities, so their stats and abilities are largely unrelated to one another.

According to the Pokédex, Mew’s DNA contains the genetic code of all Pokémon and is thought by some to be their common ancestor. Despite its status as a clone, Mewtwo is only based on Mew’s DNA, and does not contain the extended genetic code of all other Pokémon.

What do you think of Mewtwo’s iconic origins? Join the conversation with other Pokémon fans over at Sideshow Social Network or in side.show/geekgroup, and don’t forget to Let Your Geek Sideshow!

First Look: Roronoa Zoro 1/6 Figure by Jimei Palace

Sideshow’s newest UNBOXING VIDEO showcases the latest One Piece collectible from Jimei Palace x Cosmic Creations. Ahead of the worldwide release, get a first look at the Roronoa Zoro Sixth Scale Figure, inspired by the character’s appearance in hugely popular anime One Piece television series.

Take a closer look at everything from the One Piece figure packaging to the range of articulation and variety of accessories included in this highly anticipated release with the unboxing video below.

Unboxing the Figure

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7_Y6riijgI

Cosmic Creations and Jimei Palace have come together to bring you a brand-new sixth scale action figure based on the fan-favorite anime, One Piece!

Roronoa Zoro is presented in high-quality detail with a series of accessories to bring this character to life, from the screen to your shelf. With his bright green hair and an adjustable, plus his signature katanas, this figure is ready to be posed for action and recreate all his memorable scenes from the anime.

In addition, the Roronoa Zoro Deluxe is presented with the same high-quality detail but features an added accessory that makes this figure even more epic: an LED light-up base that recreates the character’s eye-catching and vibrant purple power signature as he wields his impressive swords!

Roronoa Zoro, One Piece

Alongside Monkey D. Luffy, Roronoa Zoro is one of the most recognizable characters from the One Piece anime. As a valuable and trusted member of the Straw Hat Crew, Zoro the bounty hunter lends his immense talent to the group. He aspires to be the world’s greatest swordsman and the Pirate Hunter certainly lives up to these lofty goals.

What’s in the Box?

The Roronoa Zoro Sixth Scale Figure features:

  • Four (4) highly detailed headsculpts with movable eye
  • One (1) independently developed platinum silicone body
  • Nine (9) interchangeable hands
  • One (1) green coat
  • One (1) pair of pants
  • One (1) sash (with wire for styling)
  • One (1) waist wrap
  • One (1) turban
  • One (1) pair of genuine leather boots
  • Thee (3) diecast katanas
  • Three (3) scabbard
  • One (1) beer
  • Three (3) aura effect part
  • One (1) adjustable stand

Companion Pieces

Monkey D. Luffy Sixth Scale Figure

You can’t set sail without your captain! The Monkey D. Luffy Sixth Scale Figure is available now, based on the live-action Netflix adaptation of One Piece.

Roronoa Zoro Sixth Scale Figure

Fill out your crew with the Roronoa Zoro Sixth Scale Figure — inspired by his swashbuckling live-action appearance and shipping today!

For more Sideshow FIRST LOOK unboxings, visit our official YouTube Channel. Featuring fan-favorite and highly anticipated collectible figures from all your favorite worlds, this series is an essential guide for curious collectors! See all the latest sixth scale collectibles from manufacturers like Hot Toys, Sideshow, Exo-6, and more.

Never miss a limited release! Subscribe to Sideshow SMS for alerts sent right to your mobile device on highly anticipated product launches, exclusive sales, giveaways, and more. Visit side.show/sms to sign up now.

The Roronoa Zoro Sixth Scale Figure is ready to slice into your display! Bring home a loyal defender and skilled swordsman with this vital member of the Straw Hats Crew. Then, show off your collection at side.show/geekgroup or in the Sideshow Social Network. And as always, don’t forget to Let Your Geek Sideshow!

First Look: One Piece Chopper Collectible Figure by Hot Toys

Sideshow’s newest UNBOXING VIDEO showcases Hot Toys’ latest One Piece collectible. Ahead of the worldwide release, get a first look at the Chopper Collectible Figure, inspired by the character’s appearance in Netflix’s live-action One Piece television series.

Take a closer look at everything from the One Piece figure packaging to the range of articulation and variety of accessories included in this highly anticipated release with the unboxing video below.

Unboxing the Figure

Standing at a substantial height of approximately 48.5cm, the Chopper figure features a newly developed head and specialized soft body covered in brown plush fabric to perfectly replicate the texture of his fur as seen on screen. Beneath the soft exterior lies an internal armature, allowing collectors to pose Chopper in a wide range of dynamic, lifelike positions. To further bring the character to life, it features magnetically interchangeable mouths, allowing collectors to switch between a sweet smile and an open-mouth expression.

The figure also comes with six pieces of interchangeable cloven hoof hands covered in flocked fabric. These include a pair of relaxed hands, a pair of object-holding hands, and a pair of sitting gesture hands, enabling fans to recreate his cutest poses from the series. A highlight of this action figure is the versatile display options provided by the head design.

More details:

Chopper’s iconic red top hat is covered in plush fabric and is fully removable, allowing for two distinct looks. Thanks to the magnetic design, collectors can easily detach the flocked antlers and ears to remove the hat, and then reattach them directly to the head to display Chopper in his natural “hatless” appearance. Complete with his maroon colored shorts, blue backpack featuring a magnetic buckle, and a specially designed wood deck-themed figure base, this reindeer is ready to set sail with the Straw Hats.

Tony Tony Chopper, One Piece

“I’ll become a doctor who can cure any disease! Because … because there’s no disease in this world that can’t be cured!”

Season 2 of Netflix’s One Piece live-action series sees the Straw Hat Pirates venture farther into the Grand Line. On Drum Island, the crew meet a peculiar and adorable doctor. Inspired by that arc, Sideshow and Hot Toys are delighted to unveil the Tony Tony Chopper Collectible Figure. This collectible offers a hyper-realistic depiction of the Straw Hats’ medical master for your collection.

What’s in the Box?

The Chopper Collectible Figure features:

  • Authentic and detailed likeness of Chopper in the One Piece live-action series
  • Newly developed head covered in brown colored plush fabric
  • Two (2) magnetically interchangeable mouths (smile and open mouth expressions) covered in brown colored plush fabric
  • Highly accurate facial expression
  • One (1) pair of magnetically removable antlers covered in flocked fabric
  • One (1) pair of magnetically removable ears covered in flocked fabric
  • Newly developed specialized soft body covered in brown colored plush fabric, featuring an armature inside that allows for a wide range of articulation
  • Approximately 48.5 cm tall
  • Six (6) pieces of interchangeable cloven hoof hands covered in flocked fabric, including:
    • One (1) pair of relaxed hands
      • One (1) pair of object-holding hands
      • One (1) pair of open/sitting gesture hands

Costume:

  • One (1) red colored top hat covered in plush fabric (removable)
  • One (1) pair of maroon colored shorts

Accessory:

  • One (1) blue colored backpack with a magnetic buckle
  • Specially designed wood deck-themed figure base with One Piece logo

Companion Pieces

Monkey D. Luffy Sixth Scale Figure

You can’t set sail without your captain! The Monkey D. Luffy Sixth Scale Figure is available now.

Roronoa Zoro Sixth Scale Figure

Fill out your crew with the Roronoa Zoro Sixth Scale Figure — shipping today!

For more Sideshow FIRST LOOK unboxings, visit our official YouTube Channel. Featuring fan-favorite and highly anticipated collectible figures from all your favorite worlds, this series is an essential guide for curious collectors! See all the latest sixth scale collectibles from manufacturers like Hot Toys, Sideshow, Exo-6, and more.

Never miss a limited release! Subscribe to Sideshow SMS for alerts sent right to your mobile device on highly anticipated product launches, exclusive sales, giveaways, and more. Visit side.show/sms to sign up now.

The Chopper Collectible Figure is ready to doctor up your display! Bring home a little sass and a ton of heart with this darling deer. Then, show off your collection at side.show/geekgroup or in the Sideshow Social Network. And as always, don’t forget to Let Your Geek Sideshow!

Pokémon: Snorlax’s Stats, Size, Favorite Food, and More!

Originally published March 10, 2026. This article covers important facts about the Pokémon Snorlax.

Listen to this article:

2026 officially marks 30 years of Pokémon! A global phenomenon unlike any other, Pokémon unites fans of the video games, anime, TCG, and more. Whether you’re a casual Pokémon collector who enjoys having a plushie of your fave or an intense player who has memorized the Pokédex, there’s always a corner of the Pokéworld for you. So, how do you celebrate your Pokémon fandom? Are you rewatching your favorite episodes? Maybe catching up on some Zzzs with Pokémon Sleep?

For us, it’s all about looking back on our favorite Pokémon. Their legacy begins with Generation I, or the first 150 Pokémon revealed and released to the world. One of those OG “pocket monsters” is Snorlax — a fan favorite with a BIG impact! Learn more about this sweet, snoozy Pokémon below.

Snorlax is a Normal Type

  • Species: Sleeping Pokémon
  • Egg Groups: Monster

There are 18 types of Pokémon. Snorlax is a Normal Type, the second most common Type after Water (with Grass third on the list). Because of its Type, none of Snorlax’s moves are particularly super effective against other Pokémon. Additionally, it is very susceptible to attacks from Fighting Type Pokémon. Despite this, Snorlax is still a formidable opponent. That’s due in no small way to its immense size.

Snorlax weighs 460 kg and eats everything

  • Weight: 460 kg (1,014.1 lbs)
  • Height: 2.1 m (6 ft 11 inches)

Obviously, Snorlax is immense. Its rotund silhouette is large enough to block entire roads, obstruct bridges, or destroy smaller pathways. While Snorlax can sometimes be found lounging underneath the trees it eats from, this Pokémon is even more likely to fall asleep in a totally inconvenient location. After gorging on 800-900 pounds of berries, vines, and whatever else it can find, Snorlax falls into a deep, almost unshakeable slumber. Very little besides a special flute can wake it.

A big Pokémon requires an equally big habitat. Therefore, Snorlax predominantly lives in mountains or forests. Lazy yet powerful, it utilizes its size to get food and deter predators. After all, Snorlax is the heaviest Normal Type. However, Snorlax is not the biggest nor the heaviest Pokémon overall. That honor goes to the Legendary Pokémon Eternatus.

Munchlax evolves into Snorlax

  • Evolves with high friendship
  • Levels up and grows slowly

Munchlax certainly lives up to its name. The hyperactive Pokémon eats an incredible amount of food, consuming its body weight or more daily. And like Snorlax, Munchlax does not discern its meals based on taste or even freshness. That means that yes, Munchlax is certainly a dumpster diver to some degree.

This Normal Type Pokémon is an amicable partner at home or in battle as long as you can provide it with its necessary calories. Otherwise, it resorts to raiding and stealing. Over time, Munchlax will develop a bond with its Trainer. Once the pair reaches a high enough level of friendship, Munchlax evolves into Snorlax.

Snorlax debuted in in Generation I

  • Abilities: Immunity, Thick Fat, and Gluttony
  • Base HP: 160

As previously stated, Snorlax is one of the original 150 Pokémon. He is difficult to acquire in the games, yet Trainers go out of their way to get one of these rare Pokémon. Trainers even overcome immense frustration when he stalls their progress, all so they can get these large, leisurely Pokémon on their side. And who wouldn’t want a Snorlax? Capable of swimming and always extremely kind — unless you stand between it and its meals — Snorlax is an ideal Pokémon companion.

Other Pokémon think so, too! Pikachu has definitely enjoyed a snooze on Snorlax’s tummy. Other Pokémon also tend to gather near Snorlax to rest on its fur or indulge in the berries, snacks, and seeds it forgets to eat before it succumbs to its mini hibernation. How cute is that!?

Who is your favorite Pokémon? Raise your hand if it’s Snorlax — that is, if you haven’t already fallen asleep beside this gentle giant. Or upon its squishy belly. As the spring weather draws nearer, a midday nap with Snorlax after a long meal sounds completely idyllic.

Celebrate your catches with other Trainers at side.show/geekgroup or in the Sideshow Social Network. And as always, don’t forget to Let Your Geek Sideshow!

The Most Ruthless Heroes Across Pop Culture

Originally published on March 14, 2024. This article analyzes 10 of the most ruthless and violent heroes across pop culture mediums, including television, movies, comics, anime, and more.

When we think of heroes, we think of shining, stalwart, selfless people. They protect because their ultimate goals are peace and prosperity. Most heroes also follow a certain code of ethics that they consider unbreakable. But then there are the heroes who decide to bend — or fully snap in half — those traditional moral principles. Not all people with super powers can be trusted all the time. Some heroes keep it real and others keep it bloody.

Check out our list of 10 of the most ruthless heroes — and antiheroes — from across movies, television, and more. Then, keep reading below to see why these characters made the cut.

  • Omni-Man
  • Yasha Nydoorin
  • Eric Draven
  • The Punisher
  • Homelander
  • Maki Zen’in
  • Red Sonja
  • Red Hood
  • Anakin Skywalker
  • Yennefer of Vengerberg

Omni-Man

  • From: Invincible
  • Played by: J.K. Simmons and Talon Warburton

Omni-Man is an alien who operates as a super hero on Earth. He pretends to be charming and compassionate — the ideal hero archetype. In reality, Nolan Grayson is completely amoral. He happily slaughters innocents in order to fulfill the wishes of his alien empire. Seeing other races as weak and inferior, he squashes them like bugs.

Yasha Nydoorin

  • From: Critical Role — The Mighty Nein
  • Played by: Ashley Johnson

She would like to rage! Yasha Nydoorin is generally soft spoken. In battle, however, she is totally brutal. She’ll plow through and cut down her adversaries without a moment’s hesitation. The Mighty Nein are lucky to have her in their adventuring party.

Eric Draven

Eric Draven was brutally murdered after watching a group of Devil’s Night enthusiasts assault his fiancée. A year later, Eric comes back from the dead to exact vengeance as The Crow. The Crow has nothing left to lose, so he shows no mercy. Because his kills are personal and emotional, they’re also particularly violent.

The Punisher

  • From: Marvel
  • Played by: Dolph Lundgren, Thomas Jane, Ray Stevenson, and Jon Bernthal

There is a war raging within Frank Castle’s mind, and he’s bringing it to the streets of Hell’s Kitchen. Ruthless and merciless in his path towards vengeance, The Punisher has no qualms killing to rid the world of those he considers the true villains. Do you think he’s a good guy, bad guy, or something in between?

Homelander

  • From: The Boys
  • Played by: Antony Starr

Although this list isn’t ranked, Homelander might be the worst of them. The Boys‘ biggest villain is also that fictional world’s greatest hero. A leader, captain, father, and the paragon of American patriotism, Homelander is worshipped by millions of adoring fans. He’s also a murderer, a bigot, and a genocidal maniac. And those prejudiced actions aren’t always behind the scenes.

Maki Zen’in

  • From: Jujutsu Kaisen
  • Played by: Mikako Komatsu (Japanese VA) and Allegra Clark (English VA)

Maki Zen’in was born without any cursed energy. Still, she trains using cursed weapons. But she is the shame of her clan, who also devalue women to an extraordinary degree. After the Culling Game, Maki survives a brutal attack, and then absorbs her twin sister’s powers. With that surge of strength and final determination, Maki wipes out the Zen’in Clan … completely. And the Jujutsu world is better for it.

Red Sonja

  • From: Dynamite
  • Played by: Brigitte Nielsen, Misty Lee, Charlotte Vandermeersch, and Matilda Lutz

Red Sonja is a queen. She has to defend her throne — and make some aggressive expansions. So of course she needs the capacity to raze entire enemy civilizations and kingdoms to the ground. Red Sonja does this effectively and with no small amount of carnage.

Red Hood

  • From: DC
  • Played by: Curran Walters, Jensen Ackles, Troy Baker, and more

Once one of the obedient Robins, Red Hood has changed into a killer. We can’t blame Jason. After all, being beaten to death by The Joker will definitely shift your perspective on things. Now the traumatized troublemaker does things a little bit differently than Batman. He’s willing to break Batman’s one rule, and he won’t let his adoptive father stand in his way.

Anakin Skywalker

  • From: Star Wars™
  • Played by: Hayden Christensen (live action) and Matt Lanter (The Clone Wars)

Even before he became Darth Vader, Anakin Skywalker garnered a reputation for getting things done the hard way. Anakin’s inability to control his anger led to a few botched missions with the clone troopers. Because he’s so skilled with his Lightsaber, he’s also chopped many an enemy to bits. And we all know about the incident with the Sand People — a rescue gone horribly wrong due to Anakin’s rage.

Yennefer of Vengerberg

Yennefer of Vengerberg is a protector of the realm. But she’s also willing to do (almost) anything to further her own power and agenda. Disabled from birth, she scrapes and fights for respect within magical circles. When she claims that strength, it is at a terrible cost. With fire and fury, Yennefer seeks to reclaim her bodily autonomy while also protecting those she loves.

Who do you think are the most ruthless heroes? Did we miss your favorite? Share your picks at side.show/geekgroup or in the Sideshow Social Network, and don’t forget to Let Your Geek Sideshow!

From Mecha to Yaoi, Here’s a Guide to 12 Major Anime Terms

Originally published May 11, 2026. This article covers definitions and examples of popular anime terms.

Anime is experiencing a rise in popularity lately that may be making non-fans curious about diving into the medium. If you’re just starting your anime-watching journey and all the terminology is throwing you off, fear not! We’re here to help guide you through the basics in the most simplified way possible.

Here are some anime terms to recognize as you begin your journey to weebdom. Browse the list below and then keep reading for recommendations and definitions!

  • shonen / seinen
  • shoujo / josei
  • isekai
  • slice of life
  • mecha
  • magical girl
  • yuri / yaoi
  • harem / reverse harem

Shonen / Seinen

If you’re familiar with anime in any way, it’s likely because of a shonen anime. That said, shonen, like shoujo, doesn’t describe a show’s genre; it’s a demographic identifier. Shonen indicates that the target audience of the work is young men – think school-age boys. Dragonball Z, One Piece, and Attack on Titan are among the most well-known anime of all time, and they’re all shonen. Shonen stories dominate the anime space and will likely be the first and most common type of show any newcomer runs into.

Seinen is the term for shows targeted towards adult men; those are often darker and more mature than shonen anime. A show like Berserk is a well-known example.

Shoujo / Josei

  • Example(s): Fruits Basket, The Apothecary Diaries, Paradise Kiss, Yuri!!! On Ice
  • Genre Staple: Female-led, coming of age

Shoujo anime are targeted at school-age girls. Shoujo is often dismissed for being solely about romance, but that’s a stereotype. Certainly romance plays a part in a lot of shoujo anime, but there are as many different types of shoujo stories as there are shonen ones. A show like Fruits Basket is much different from something like The Apothecary Diaries, after all, even though romance plays a part in both shows.

Josei, like seinen, is an indicator that a story is for an older audience, adult women here. Josei anime aren’t talked about as much as shonen or shoujo, but with shows like Paradise Kiss and Yuri!!! On Ice as beloved examples, they definitely can’t be written off.

Isekai

  • Example(s): Ascendance of a Bookworm, I’m in Love With the Villainess
  • Related Genre: Fantasy

This is a fun genre. Isekai anime features a character who has been plucked from the normal world and dropped into a fantasy one. In Ascendance of a Bookworm, the main character travels back in time to a world where books are still so uncommon as to be a luxury, affordable only for the super rich. In a show like I’m in Love With the Villainess, the main character is reincarnated into her favorite otome game (dating sim). Things can get pretty wild in iseksai anime, but that’s what makes it one of the most popular genres of the medium.

Slice of Life

  • Example(s): Sk8 the Infinity, My Dress-Up Darling
  • Related Genre: Romantic Comedy

Slice of life anime is often cozy and relatively low stakes. These stories take place in an everyday setting where the world isn’t ending, and the big bad is familiar – crippling social anxiety, not a vengeful deity. Characters’ day-to-day lives and interpersonal relationships are usually the focus of these stories. Sk8 the Infinity is a fun example about friendship and skateboarding, while My Dress-Up Darling is an adorable story that explores being true to yourself through cosplay.

Mecha

Robots! Explosions! Rather than fights between individual people, battles in mecha anime involve giant robots throwing all the hands. Whether they’re piloted, transforming, or wearable, robots are the name of the game here. Among the genre’s most well-known and influential anime is Neon Genesis Evangelion, but Mobile Suit Gundam, Blue Gender, and Ghost in the Shell are other examples.

Magical Girl

  • Example(s): Sailor Moon, Cardcaptor Sakura, Revolutionary Girl Utena
  • Related Genre: Fantasy

As Sailor Moon is one of the most popular animated series of all time, this genre probably doesn’t need defining. For those who might not know though, the magical girl story usually features a young girl (or a whole group of them!) with a world-saving alter ego and the superpowers to help her accomplish the task. The fashionable costumes aren’t required, but they’re greatly appreciated. Cardcaptor Sakura and Revolutionary Girl Utena are other famous and highly regarded examples.

Yuri / Yaoi

  • Example(s): Burst Angel, Sasaki and Miyano
  • Genre Staple: Queer themes, romantic focus

Also called girls’ love (GL) and boys’ love (BL) respectively, yuri and yaoi anime feature queer characters at their center. For a long time, people generalized the genres as toxic and exploitative, but modern works have done a fantastic job of telling much healthier, more nuanced LGBTQ+ stories. Burst Angel is an older yuri show with a whole lot of gun-slinging and crime-fighting, while Sasaki and Miyano is a more recent coming-of-age yaoi about the blossoming relationship between two school boys who bond over BL manga.

Harem / Reverse Harem

  • Example(s): Tenchi Muyo!, Ah! My Goddess, Ouran High School Host Club
  • Related Genre: Romance

The harem genre of anime has a bit of a reputation, and it’s not hard to see why given the name. In harem anime, the focus is on a single male protagonist and his many potential female partners. The “potential” part is where things can get interesting in good and bad ways. Certainly, the nature of the genre leads a lot of one-note female love interests, but watching characters interact and develop relationships is the best part of any story, and it’s where the charm of this genre comes in when executed properly. This is also true for reverse harem anime, where the main protagonist is female and the multiple suitors are male. Some old school classics that helped define the genre are Tenchi Muyo!, Ah! My Goddess and Ouran High School Host Club.

There are as many genres of anime as there are of any other medium, so naturally, these are just some of the terms you’re most likely to run into on your journey down the anime rabbit hole. Hopefully they help!

What’s been on your anime radar lately? Join the conversation with other anime fans over at Sideshow Social Network or in side.show/geekgroup, and don’t forget to Let Your Geek Sideshow!

How Many Official Eeveelutions are in Pokémon Right Now?

Originally published on April 30, 2026. This article discusses the evolution methods, typing, and other details of Eevee and its eight official Eeveelutions from the main Pokémon franchise games and anime.

Eevee is a Pokémon that is full of potential. Many of the pocket monsters in the franchise are known for their distinct and exciting evolutionary lines, becoming bigger and stronger as they level up. The adorable Eevee, known itself as the Evolution Pokémon, is unique in having multiple different forms it can take depending on how it’s raised by its Trainer.

Some Pokédex entries explain this by way of Eevee being adaptable to its environment while other games specify that the creature has unstable genetic code that can be rewritten by the radiation of element stones. And while there are 18 formal Types (properties of Pokémon and their moves, accounting for strengths and weaknesses), Normal Type Eevee cannot yet evolve into every other Type.

As of Pokémon Generation 9, there are 8 official Eevee forms, also called Eeveelutions (a combination of Eevee + evolution). While fans love to speculate and theorize on possible future additions to this list, let’s take a look at the official generation, typing, and evolution methods for:

  • Vaporeon
  • Jolteon
  • Flareon
  • Umbreon
  • Espeon
  • Glaceon
  • Leafeon
  • Sylveon

Vaporeon

  • Generation: 1
  • Type: Water
  • Evolves via: Water Stone

One of the three original Eevee forms, Vaporeon is one of the most popular Eeveelutions. It is most recognized by its fins, with two ear fins, a head fin, a neck ruff, and a long tail similar to a mermaid’s. According to some Pokédex entries, its molecular structure is so similar to water that it can camouflage or melt into surrounding ponds, lakes, and seas. Vaporeon is also known as the Bubble Jet Pokémon.

It evolves from Eevee with the use of a Water Stone, an Element Stone that radiates elemental energy. As a Water Type, Vaporeon has primary advantage over Fire Types (like Flareon) and others. It is weak to Electric and Grass Types (like Jolteon and Leafeon).

Jolteon

  • Generation: 1
  • Type: Electric
  • Evolves via: Thunder Stone

Jolteon, the Lightning Pokémon, is the Electric Type Eeevee form from Generation 1 of the games. It has spiky fur and fringe, with a canine physique and a short tail. Jolteon’s fur functions like bristles or spines that can be launched at enemies, charged with electricity from its own cells. This creature is high-strung and emotional, difficult to bond with or even literally get close to — its fur sparks with negative ions.

Jolteon is weak to Ground Type attacks (as they literally ground the charge from Electric Types) and is strong against Water Types. Its design draws inspiration from dogs, foxes, and even raijū, a legendary creature from Japan known for having a body wrapped in lightning.

Flareon

  • Generation: 1
  • Type: Fire
  • Evolves via: Fire Stone

Generation 1’s Flareon is the Fire Type in Eevee’s evolutionary line, aptly called the Flame Pokémon. Its orange fox-like body and yellow fur shapes evoke the silhouette of a blazing fire. The mane around its neck can specifically be used to vent heat from its body, and it has a flame organ that turns inhaled air into super hot fire when exhaled. Despite its dangerous abilities, it’s very curious and sweet towards others!

Flareon is weak to Water Types, Ground Types, and Rock Types. While descriptions of its body temperature are inconsistent, the Pokémon itself typically runs over 1500 degrees Farenheit. Since it cannot swim, in games where it is sent to battle above water, it stands on a special floating platform to protect itself.

Umbreon

  • Generation: 2
  • Type: Dark
  • Evolves via: Leveling up with high friendship during the night

The Moonlight Pokémon, Umbreon was one of two Eeveelutions introduced in Generation 2. Its evolution is tied to the day and night cycle present in most games from that generation onwards (though later games also introduced a Moon Shard in place of a traditional Element Stone). It has a sleek black body with yellow rings on its legs, tail, ears, and face. These glow with luminescence in the light of the moon.

Umbreon is a Dark Type with weakness to Bug, Fighting, and Fairy Types. It is also fully immune to Psychic Types (like its counterpart Espeon). When an Eevee with a high enough friendship status levels up during the nighttime hours, it will evolve into this form. Older Pokédex entries also allude to Umbreon having poisonous sweat, likely a remnant from a previous Poison Type designation.

Espeon

  • Generation: 2
  • Type: Psychic
  • Evolves via: Leveling up with high friendship during the day

The light side to Umbreon’s dark, Espeon is the Sun Pokémon and is evolved based on a player’s friendship level during daylight hours (or use of a Sun Shard). It is a Psychic Type that is weak to Bug, Dark, and Ghost Types — fun fact, these weaknesses are due to those three Types representing common fears in the mind.

Espeon is extremely feline in its appearance, with a pink-purple body, a red gem on its forehead, and a forked tail. This tail is like a tuning fork, its fine hairs vibrating and helping the Pokémon to predict enemy moves. Its name includes from the letters ESP (extrasensory perception) as a further reference to its uncanny abilities.

Glaceon

  • Generation: 4
  • Type: Ice
  • Evolves via: Leveling up in an area near an Ice Rock (or by exposure to an Ice Stone from Generation 7 onward)

We love an Eeveelution with bangs! Glaceon and its Generation 4 counterpart Leafeon were the first Eevee forms to be introduced with environmental evolution factors — they initially could only evolve around specific areas before corresponding Element Stones were introduced.

Glaceon is the Fresh Snow Pokémon, an Ice Type that can control its body temperature to turn its fur into ice needles or create small flurries around itself (often referred to in the games as diamond dust). It is weak to Fire, Steel, Fighting, and Rock Types. Its design appears to be based on arctic foxes and Siamese cats.

Leafeon

  • Generation: 4
  • Type: Grass
  • Evolves via: Leveling up in an area near a Moss Rock (or by exposure to a Leaf Stone from Generation 8 onward)

Leafeon, the Verdant Pokémon, is a Grass Type that evolves when leveled in proximity to a Moss Stone (or if a Leaf Stone item is used in later games). Its yellow body has tufts of green fur that look like leaves, complete with a leafy tail. Leafeon’s body is actually said to be closer in DNA structure to a plant than an animal, and it can use photosynthesis to sustain itself.

Leafeon has the most weaknesses of any Eeveelution, taking extra damage from Fire, Flying, Bug, Poison, and Ice Type Pokémon. A Grass Type Eevee form was in development as early as Generation 2, although its design changed before its official debut.

Sylveon

  • Generation: 6
  • Type: Fairy
  • Evolves via: Leveling up while knowing a Fairy Type move and having at least two levels of affection with Eevee

The newest Eeveelution to join the evolutionary tree, Sylveon is a Fairy Type. Sylveon has bright blue eyes, white and pink fur, and adorable elements that look like bows and ribbons on its body, giving it a truly cute appearance. But don’t be fooled — its pink, sparkly moves give it an advantage over ferocious Dark, Fighting, and Dragon Types. Those ribbon-like feelers give off a calming aura to ease conflict with others, and it likes to wrap them around it’s Trainer’s hand to express companionship while walking. This is why it’s known as the Intertwining Pokémon.

Like several others, this Eeveelution is evolved based on the level of friendship (called affection in several games) you have with your Pokémon. A developer once stated it was the very first Fairy Type to be designed overall for the games. Sylveon’s weaknesses are Poison and Steel Types, the latter being a reference to classic fae lore and folktales that fairies are weak to iron.

More Eevee Facts

  • Introduced in Generation 1, Eevee is a Normal Type.
  • Female and male Eevees can be told apart by the shape of the white fluff at the end of their tail — male Eevees have a sharper color border that looks like zigzags and females have a rounded color border that looks more like flower petals.
  • Eevee has the most branched Evolutions of any Pokémon.
  • If multiple evolution conditions are met at the same time, certain transformations will be prioritized: Leafeon and Glaceon take priority over Sylveon, who takes priority over Umbreon and Espeon.
  • Eevees with Gigantamax Factor cannot evolve.

Which Eeveelution is your favorite? Join the conversation with other Pokémon fans over at Sideshow Social Network or in side.show/geekgroup, and don’t forget to Let Your Geek Sideshow!

Back to Homepage