There's the Nike Swoosh. The Target Bullseye. And now, the Pokémon Center.
As of yet-to-be-released Pokémon Black/White, the game's healing hub has undergone eight different redesigns. Although graphics have evolved since Pokemon was first released in 1996, the building has maintained one iconic look.
The bright building has become so recognizable that its original "Poké" text was shortened to just "P.C." by the release of Fire Red and Leaf Green. By the time Diamond and Pearl came out, no text was required. Players recognized the red-orange roof by itself.
Likewise, the interior decor hasn't changed much in the past 14 years. The tile flooring with a Pokéball icon has stayed the same for generations. The healing desk has sported a red varnish ever since the game was capable of color. And which seasoned Pokémon trainer can't identify the soothing melody of Pokémon being healed?
Along with the Pokéball and Pikachu's neon mug, the Pokémon Center has become one of the most distinguishable icons of the Pokémon universe. Over five game generations, the Pokémon Center's design has come to represent comfort and reprieve after a long day of battling.
Click through the photos to see our commentary.
Red/Blue: The very first time we see the Pokémon Center. In grayscale, the only way to determine its usage is the "Poké" inscribed on the side of the door.
Red/Blue (GBC): The Center takes on a soothing green in the GameBoy Color version. Once again, the building blends in with its like-colored surroundings, save that telltale Poké text.
Gold/Silver: Now that color is a reality, the designers went for the brightest pink imaginable. With a roof this bright, the Poké text is outliving its use.
Gold/Silver (Kanto): The building is toned down on the Kanto continent of the Poké universe. This is a trend that will continue in generation III, where the designers opt for dark maroon roofs, but only in Johto.
Fire/Leaf (Kanto): On the second continent, the roof is the flat and simplistic predecessor to Heart Gold and Soul Silver.
Diamond/Pearl: It's Fire/Leaf, only with better graphics. The curved, orange roof is enough of an indicator for the designers to remove even the "P.C." text.
Heart/Soul: A minimalist, textless, neon design ushers forth Generation IV. Glowing windows allow the game to discern whether it's daytime or nighttime.
Black/White: Even more windows and a brighter roof characterize the latest Pokémon Center. While its part of a larger building, the iconic color and shape allow this healing station to stand alone.
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