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A new format: This month in Pokémon!🧵 July 1996 marked an important turning point in Pokémon's early history. Just four months after the release of Pokémon Red & Green in February, the games had evolved into one of Japan's fastest-growing Game Boy hits. #ThisMonthInPokemon

Much of that momentum came from word of mouth and magazines such as CoroCoro Comic. Throughout July, schoolyards and game shops across Japan were buzzing with discussions about version exclusive Pokémon, evolution methods, and easter eggs.

CoroCoro Comic continued publishing strategy guides, maps, and feature articles that encouraged exploration while fueling speculation about secrets still hidden within the games.

The mysterious Mew had already become an urban legend after programmer and Mew creator Shigeki Morimoto secretly left the mythical Pokémon in the game's code, with rumors spreading rapidly despite there being no official way for players to obtain it.

Development had also begun on Pokémon Blue, an enhanced version of the original games with improved sprites, updated text, and numerous bug fixes. Meanwhile, plans for expanding the franchise into other forms of media were taking shape.

Pokémon had not yet become the giant the world knows today, but the foundation was laid. Every month brought new players, stronger sales, and increasing excitement as magazines like CoroCoro introduced readers to artwork, gameplay tips, and the growing lore of the Pokémon world.