The holiday season is upon us all and that means a number of things for dedicated gamers – including new games to play. Provided Pokemon fans haven't already snatched up all of their most desired pieces of software in 2014, there's a good chance that they'll be on the receiving end of some titles come Christmas morning. Two of the most obvious choices for gifts are none other than Pokemon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire; the pair of games that happily reacquainted us with the Hoenn region.
It's the recent releases of those aforementioned titles, combined with the holiday season, that has lead us to wonder which Pocket Monsters are the most appropriate for the yuletide season. After some thought, we've managed to put together a list of the five most Chris Kringle-friendly monsters that can be obtained in the Pokemon franchise.
So, with jingle bells echoing over the horizon, here's our list of the top five Pokemon that are perfect for Christmas.
-
Staryu
While not seen initially as Christmas-centric as some of the other creatures on this list, the reason for Staryu's appearance in our top five should be made apparent when put in the right scenario. That's right, who wouldn't want this Water-type placed on top of their tree in lieu of an actual star? Admittedly, probably a few people, but Pokemon fans would have quite a challenge finding a better candidate to top their hand-picked pine.
Starmie, the evolved form of Staryu, would also make for an interesting tree-topper, but the golden skin and red jewel of the original pocket monster puts it a step above its final form. When everything is said and done, the starfish-inspired Pokemon establishes itself as a perfect addition to anyone's team during the holiday season.
-
Cryogonal
Despite astounding Sir Isaac Newton and defying his theory of gravity, readers will be hard-pressed to deny that Cryogonal belongs on this list. This Ice-type is essentially just a face in the shape of a snowflake, but if it doesn't get those sleigh bells jingling, ring-ting-tingling too then we don't know what will.
Albeit perpetually wearing a frown, trainers can't blame the monster because its face is literally frozen that way. But what about after all the snow melts, what happens to Cryogonal then? Well, the sad news is that it will melt and eventually evaporate. However, just like Frosty the Snowman, it'll be back again someday, as the creature-turned-companion has no problem regaining its form when it becomes cold enough.
-
Abomasnow
What do you get when you cross the abominable snowman with a tree? Abomasnow, of course! There are few symbols that represent Christmas as well as a decorated tree and, while this monster is sans lights and ornaments, its appearance is immediately reminiscent of the tree that occupies so much space in families' living rooms during this time of the year.
This beast may be a little more intimidating (and animate) than the traditional festive foliage, but it's easy to see why the Grass/Ice-type made it onto our list. Add in the fact that it has a Mega Evolution and the ability to make it snow on command, and this monster is sure to bring everyone a white Christmas.
-
Sawsbuck (Winter Form)
Debuting in Pokemon Black and White, Sawsbuck is unique because its very appearance changes based on the season. Out of all four of the creature's forms, the Winter one is easily the most appropriate during Christmas. It's not hard to imagine a herd of this deer-looking Pokemon pulling Santa along to deliver gifts to all of the children.
A trait that's reminiscent of every other deer on the planet is that Sawsbuck doesn't like to hangout with people – hence why it dons new camouflage for each and every season. Given Santa's stealthy nature and generally sneaky profession, this makes Sawsbuck a perfect partner-in-crime for the cookie-eating geriatric.
-
Delibird
If you didn't see this coming then you can't know Pokemon that well. Surprise, surprise, the one Pocket Monster that's based off of Santa Clause himself has scored the coveted number one spot. Yes, Delibird is the catchable version of everyone's favorite holly jolly icon, but the character's cutesy demeanour also has its own appeal outside of the festive season.
Aside from the tuft of feathers that resembles a beard, Delibird also has a hollow tail that it uses to store all kinds of goodies. While the bulk of the contents in its sack-like appendage usually pertain to food designated for the Pokemon's babies, the creature isn't afraid to share its edible wealth with humans and other monsters alike. 'Tis better to give than receive, after all.
-
That wraps up our list of the top five Pokemon we felt were perfect for Christmas. Since there are over 700 of the little creatures kicking around, it was quite challenging to narrow this list down to just a handful. With that in mind, feel free to point out any omissions you felt should have made the cut.
We hope you enjoy a splendid holiday season and, as always, wish you a very happy holidays!
___
Follow Riley on Twitter @TheRileyLittle.