Like most forms of entertainment, video games have a long history of cross promotional deals that come in many different ways. While some publishers opt for promotional prizes like Microsoft and Taco Bell's Xbox Series giveaway, others come in the form of placing real world brands in games. In this case, a Pokemon fan took it upon themselves to make a strange promotional image which features an odd and goofy pairing.
Redditor SarcasticTacos took to the Pokemon Subreddit to share a wild concept of bringing Mountain Dew into the Pokemon world. SarcasticTacos shared their vision of "Baja Blastoise" which envisions Squirtle's final evolution as a radical brand mascot. The design injects both Mountain Dew and Taco Bell into Blastoise's new form, being as the former is an exclusive flavor for the fast food chain. Instead of its iconic cannons, the new Blastoise has "Baja Blast" Mountain Dews alongside some upside down sunglasses to keep it "radical."
The artwork has come as something of a treat for Redditors who have littered the post with accolades. Sitting at a 96 percent upvote and over 160 comments, the post has even earned a Reddit Gold Award alongside many other tags. The comments are filled with fans sharing their support and jokes over the image. Some have even pointed out the upside down glasses definitely fit Blastoise since "Sunglasses Squirtle" is a fan favorite variant of the Gen 1 starter.
The Pokemon franchise has never been shy of cross promotional efforts with various brands, organizations, and celebrities. Since 2021 will mark the 25th anniversary of the Pokemon franchise, it has been a year filled with celebrations through crossovers. Through the announcements of big projects, Pokemon GO holding its own anniversary event, and numerous branding deals, The Pokemon Company is making sure Pokemon remains a well known property.
While SarcasticTacos' Taco Bell exclusive flavored Blastoise has new fans, the Pokemon brand already has an ongoing promotion with another fast food chain that has been a cause for joy and heartbreak. To celebrate Pokemon's anniversary, as well as the ever popular Pokemon Trading Card Game, The Pokemon Company partnered with McDonald's for a special Happy Meal toy. All Happy Meals would come with exclusive Pokemon cards, featuring all the starters across generations. However, much like regular Pokemon cards the demand has caused serious issues which required certain McDonalds chains to limit Happy Meal Toy sales to prevent scalping.
So while the "Baja Blastoise" will likely only remain in the conceptual phases, it is still a goofy yet charming crossover nobody was expecting. Although, if there was promotional form of a beloved Pokemon, it's sure to be franchise mascot Pikachu taking it as the electric mouse remains the figurehead for all Pokemon branding options.