Redesigning Mew: Unveiling a Realistic Feline Transformation

Article Key Points

A talented Pokemon fan created a more realistic interpretation of Mew, emphasizing its feline characteristics and behavior.

Mew's design and its "meow" sound draw inspiration from cats, but within the Pokemon franchise, there are other creatures that bear a closer resemblance to ordinary house cats. The fan-generated artwork depicting Mew as a slumbering feline, evoking nostalgia for the timeless Pokemon trading cards, garnered widespread acclaim and gratification for successfully encapsulating the true essence of this cherished Mythical Pokemon.

A talented Pokemon fan has reimagined Mew to resemble a more realistic and cat-like creature. While this Mythical Pokemon draws inspiration from domestic cats in its design, its behavior differs greatly apart from the sound it makes, which resembles a meow when it calls out its own name. Mew's name is based on the sounds that kittens make, both in Japan and in the West. However, despite the feline-inspired onomatopoeia and overall design, there are other Pokemon in the franchise that resemble house cats more closely.

A recent example of a Pokemon that clearly draws inspiration from cats is the Grass-type starter Sprigatito in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet. Even its name appears to be a playful combination of "sprig" and the Spanish word for cat. Just a few generations ago, Litten, which also had a more straightforward name, debuted as the Fire-type starter in Pokemon Sun and Moon. However, cat and dog-like Pokemon have been introduced throughout the history of the franchise. Now, a fan artist has given a makeover to one of the original cat-like Pokemon.

Reddit user SenZephyr recently showcased their breathtaking painting of Mew, a legendary Pokemon, embodying the traits of a real cat with astonishing accuracy. In a manner reminiscent of typical feline behavior, Mew is depicted peacefully curled up in a ball, with its head gently supported by its legs. Remarkably, the artist further transformed their masterful creation into captivating promotional trading cards, including both traditional and holographic versions.

Drawing inspiration from the artistic aesthetic of vintage Pokemon trading cards, which deviated from the stylistic and narrative norms of the anime and video game series, the hand-painted appearance exudes a nostalgic charm. It goes without saying that this devoted fan has truly done justice to one of the most beloved mythical Pokemon of all time.

Despite its existence since the 1990s, Mew has managed to maintain its popularity and relevance by leveraging media exposure and in-game events. Most recently, players of Pokemon Scarlet and Violet were given the opportunity to obtain Mew as a complimentary Mystery Gift during a promotional event that also introduced its rivaled counterpart, Mewtwo, into the game.

Fortunately, players can look forward to further chances to train and engage in battles with their own Mew as Pokemon Scarlet and Violet's second wave of downloadable content (DLC) is set to release in December. The upcoming expansion, titled The Indigo Disk, will be available starting December 14, 2023.

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

Pokemon Scarlet and Pokemon Violet are the upcoming main series Pokemon games. These two versions will be the arrival of Generation IX.

Platform(s) SwitchReleased November 18, 2022Developer(s) Game FreakPublisher(s) Nintendo, The Pokemon Company

Editor's P/S

As a long-time fan of the Pokemon franchise, I am always excited to see new and creative interpretations of the beloved characters. This fan-made artwork of Mew as a realistic feline is absolutely stunning and captures the essence of Mew's playful and affectionate nature. I especially appreciate the attention to detail in the fur texture and the way the artist has portrayed Mew's relaxed and curious expression.

Overall, I think this artwork is a wonderful tribute to Mew and a testament to the creativity and passion of the Pokemon fan community. I would love to see more realistic interpretations of other Pokemon in the future, and I hope that this artwork inspires other artists to share their own unique visions of the Pokemon world.