Pokémon's reputation for being child-friendly is well-established. All mainline games carry an "E for Everyone" rating, suggesting accessibility for any child capable of handling a controller. However, beneath the surface of beloved characters like Pikachu and Eevee lies a surprisingly dark undercurrent. Some Pokédex entries reveal unsettling narratives involving abduction and even murder, adding a layer of unexpected horror to the franchise.

IGN has compiled a list of five particularly creepy Pokédex entries, though many more could be included. Notable omissions include Mimikyu, a Pokémon whose terrifying appearance compels it to disguise itself as Pikachu; Haunter, which silently stalks victims before delivering a fatal lick; and Hypno, known for its hypnotic abilities and child abduction in the animated series.

A young girl, excited for a weekend of flower picking, encounters a seemingly harmless purple balloon. The balloon, however, is revealed to be Drifloon, a Pokémon that lures children away with its alluring appearance. Pokédex entries describe Drifloon as a being formed from the spirits of people and Pokémon, but also highlight its sinister habit of abducting children, its body expanding with each captured soul. Drifloon's presence in the Valley Windworks on Fridays adds to its enigmatic and unsettling nature.

Banette

Banette's origin story echoes classic horror tropes. A discarded doll imbued with a vengeful spirit, it seeks out the child who abandoned it. Pokédex entries detail its pursuit of its former owner, inflicting harm through self-inflicted pin pricks. Only by mending its damaged state or showing it affection can its negative energy be appeased.

Sandygast

Sandygast, a seemingly innocuous sandcastle Pokémon, presents a deceptive façade. Pokédex entries warn against leaving unfinished sandcastles, as they may become possessed. Sandygast's evolution, Palossand, reveals its horrifying nature: it consumes its victims, draining their life force and leaving behind only bones.

Frillish

Frillish, the Floating Pokémon, preys on unsuspecting swimmers. Its seemingly helpful nature masks a deadly intention. Pokédex entries describe its use of venomous stingers to paralyze victims before dragging them to the ocean floor, where they drown.

Froslass

Drawing inspiration from Yuki-onna and Medusa, Froslass is a chilling figure. It lures victims to its icy lair during blizzards, freezing them and adding them to its collection of frozen corpses. Its preference for handsome men adds another layer of unsettling detail.