Pokemon, a popular franchise that has been around for more than 20 years, has amassed a diverse fanbase comprising both new and long-time enthusiasts. While some fans have joined the Pokemon world in recent times with the release of newer generations, a significant portion of the fanbase has been devoted to the series since its inception on Game Boy. Throughout the evolution of the games, certain Pokemon have stood out and left a lasting impression. However, one particular Rock-type Pokemon from the first generation is currently embroiled in a controversy that revolves around a peculiar memory phenomenon.
In recent years, several widespread debates have emerged within communities, focusing on the history of various forms of media and branding. This curious phenomenon has been dubbed the "Mandela Effect." It refers to a collective experience of a false memory, and it draws its name from Nelson Mandela, the former President of South Africa. Many individuals erroneously believed that Mandela had passed away in the 1980s, despite his actual death occurring in 2013. Taking a less morbid turn, a similar scrutiny has now befallen one of the original 151 Pokemon.
The Pokemon Onix's Name Has Stirred Up Discourse
Onix, one of the well-known Pokemon associated with the legendary Rock-type gym leader Brock, accompanied Ash on his adventures in the anime. This enormous, serpent-like creature poses a significant challenge for Electric-type Pokemon, such as Pikachu, due to its dual Ground typing. Historically, the Pokemon has always been recognized as Onix, but this notion has recently been called into question by a group of fans. Despite conflicting recollections, a number of vocal supporters firmly believe that the Pokemon's name was once spelled as "Onyx" instead.
Nevertheless, the claims of a different spelling for Onix's name lack both credibility and validation within any official Pokemon game. While multiple individuals insist that their memories defy documented records, this controversy has led some to classify Onix as an example of the Mandela Effect. Interestingly, similar arguments lacking concrete proof have been made regarding subjects such as the "Ford" logo and the name of "Froot Loops" cereal, adding a level of mystery to the "Onyx" situation. However, there is indeed a plausible explanation for this confusion.
"Onyx" and Misinformation Spread by the Pokemon Anime's 4Kids Dub
During the time when 4Kids was handling the dubbing of Gen 3's anime, a segment called Trainer's Choice would air. This segment aimed to provide Pokemon trivia to the viewers, but it had its flaws. Unfortunately, many episodes of Trainer's Choice contained incorrect information. One notable example was when they misspelled Onix as "Onyx". However, the worst offense of this segment was when they claimed that Arbok evolves into Seviper, which is completely inaccurate and one of the most incorrect Pokemon facts ever aired in the entire anime series.
Trainer's Choice may have faded from memory for many, but it undeniably left a lasting impression on certain fans. For those young viewers who were just diving into the world of Pokemon back then, it's possible that Trainer's Choice may have inadvertently misled them long after the days of nostalgic anime watching. Although most of its inaccuracies were confined to misconceptions about type matchups, certain blunders like "Onyx" have made such a significant impact that they have caused some fans to question their own reality. Onix's name controversy, a rare instance of the Mandela Effect with some degree of credibility, serves as a reminder of the Pokemon anime's less consistent era.