Unown (Pokémon)
Unown (Japanese: アンノーン Unknown) is a Psychic-type Pokémon introduced in Generation II. This unique Pokémon is notable for having 28 different forms, each resembling a letter of the Latin alphabet or a punctuation mark. Unown does not evolve into or from any other Pokémon. Its forms are collectively referred to as "One form" in the Pokédex, and they play a distinctive role in the Pokémon series, appearing primarily in ruins and mysterious locations.
Unown Pokemon with a surprised expression set against a cosmic background. The artwork is in a cartoon style with cle...
The image features an Unown Pokemon with a surprised expression. The background is filled with a starry night scene, ...
The backstory of Unown is shrouded in mystery. According to lore, Unown resembles ancient hieroglyphs and writing symbols, leading to speculation about whether it predates written language or was inspired by it. These Pokémon are said to possess a hidden power that emerges when multiple Unown gather together. Their enigmatic nature has sparked various studies and theories among Pokémon researchers, though definitive conclusions remain elusive. Notably, Unown has an unclear but significant connection to the legendary Pokémon Arceus.
In the Pokémon world, Unown plays a specialized role. They are often found in ruins and ancient sites, sticking to walls like engravings. Unown is capable of distorting reality when present in large numbers, responding to the dreams and wishes of their controller. They have also been observed interfering with Poké Balls in the Hisui region, making them difficult to capture. In the games, Unown's forms can be chronicled through the Unown Mode and Unown Report, adding a unique element of collection and mystery to the player's journey.
Unown's characteristics and abilities are as unique as its forms. It is a flat, thin Pokémon with a body shaped like an eye and appendages that resemble letters or punctuation marks. Unown is entirely black, except for its white sclerae. The alphabetic forms have fully open eyes, while the punctuation forms have half-closed eyes. Unown communicates through electromagnetic waves or telepathy, detectable by the Pokégear radio. Its signature move is Hidden Power, which varies in type and strength. When many Unown come together, they can exhibit an "odd power," indicating a collective strength rather than individual prowess.