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←Redirected page to List of generation I Pokémon#Magikarp
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{{Short description|Pokémon species}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=May 2024}}
{{good article}}
{{Infobox character
| name = Magikarp and Gyarados
| series = [[Pokémon]]
| franchise = Pokémon
| multiple = Yes
| image = Magikarp_and_Gyarados.png
| caption = Magikarp (bottom) and Gyarados (top) as they appear in ''[[Pokémon Legends: Arceus]]''
| first_major = {{noitalic|[[Pokémon Red and Blue|''Pokémon Red'' and ''Blue'']]}}
| designer = [[Ken Sugimori]] (Gyarados, finalized Magikarp)
| voice = [[Unshō Ishizuka]] (Japanese)
| species = Pokémon
| lbl21 = Type
| data21 = Water (Magikarp) <br> Water and Flying (Gyarados) <br> Water and Dark (Mega Gyarados)
}}
'''Magikarp''' (Known as '''Koiking''' コイキング, ''Koikingu'' in Japan) and '''Gyarados''' (ギャラドス ''Gyaradosu'' {{IPAc-en|ˈ|g|ær|ə|d|oʊ|s|,_|ˈ|g|ɪər|ə|-|,_|-|d|ɒ|s}}) are a pair of [[Pokémon species]] in the ''[[Pokémon]]'' franchise. Both Pokémon first appeared in [[Pokémon Red and Blue|''Pokémon Red'' and ''Blue'']], going on to appear in almost every subsequent installments in the series. Magikarp is a weak, fish-like Pokémon, who is inept and almost useless in battle, while Gyarados is the evolved form of Magikarp, boasting significant strength and power.
Since their debut, Magikarp and Gyarados have received mostly positive responses. While Gyarados and its evolution from Magikarp were met with positive commentary, many were more mixed over Magikarp's inability in battle and overall pointlessness. However, Magikarp's weakness has been met with praise. Both have been cited as among the most well-known Pokémon of all time.
== Design and characteristics ==
Magikarp and Gyarados are fictional species of Pokémon created for the [[Pokémon|''Pokémon'' franchise]]. Developed by [[Game Freak]] and published by [[Nintendo]], the series began in Japan in 1996 with the release of the video games [[Pokémon Red and Blue|''Pokémon Red'' and ''Blue'']] for the [[Game Boy]].<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Hilliard |first=Kyle |date=December 25, 2016 |title=Pokémon Red & Blue – A Look Back At The 20-Year Journey To Catch 'Em All |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2016/12/25/pok-233-mon-red-amp-blue-a-look-back-at-the-20-year-journey-to-catch-em-all.aspx |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231001192920/https://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2016/12/25/pok-233-mon-red-amp-blue-a-look-back-at-the-20-year-journey-to-catch-em-all.aspx |archive-date=October 1, 2023 |magazine=[[Game Informer]] |accessdate=January 22, 2024}}</ref> In these games, the player assumes the role of a Pokémon Trainer whose goal is to capture and train creatures called Pokémon. Players use the creatures' special abilities to combat other Pokémon, and some can transform into stronger species through a process called [[Gameplay of Pokémon#Pokémon evolution|evolution]].<ref name="millenial">{{cite book |last=Allison |first=Anne |title=Millennial Monsters: Japanese Toys and the Global Imagination |date=May 2006 |publisher=University of California Press |isbn=9780520938991 |pages=192–197}}</ref>
Magikarp are small, fish-like Pokémon, and appear to be inspired by usual types of carp, such as the [[common carp]] and [[asian carp]].<ref>Journal of Geek Studies. ''The ichthyological diversity of Pokémon''.</ref> Gyarados, on the other hand, is a Pokémon whose design is inspired by dragons,<ref name="Dragon Majesty">{{cite web |title=Description of the "Dragon Majesty" expansion of the Trading Card Game |url=https://drm.pokemontcg.com/en-us/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181203123556/https://drm.pokemontcg.com/en-us/ |archive-date=3 December 2018 |access-date=27 September 2018 |website=NA website of Dragon Majesty |publisher=Nintendo |quote=The Dragon Majesty expansion is loaded with Dragon-type Pokémon, plus many other Pokémon inspired by different kinds of dragons, such as Gyarados and Charizard.}}</ref> specifically [[Chinese dragon|dragons seen in Chinese mythology]]. The concept of Magikarp evolving into Gyarados is based on the Chinese [[Mythological|mythological tale]] of the [[Carp#Jumping carp the Chinese folk tale|carps leaping over the Dragon Gate]]. According to the legend, carps that leap over a legendary waterfall called the Dragon Gate are rewarded for their perseverance and transformed into dragons.<ref name=":1" />
Magikarp and Gyarados were two of one hundred and fifty one different designs conceived by Game Freak's character development team and finalized by [[Ken Sugimori]] for the first generation of ''Pocket Monsters'' games ''Red'' and ''Green'', which were localized outside Japan as ''Pokémon Red'' and ''Blue''.<ref>{{cite web |author=Staff |title=2. 一新されたポケモンの世界 |url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ds/interview/irbj/vol1/index2.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100913024041/http://www.nintendo.co.jp/ds/interview/irbj/vol1/index2.html |archive-date=13 September 2010 |access-date=10 September 2010 |work=Nintendo.com |publisher=[[Nintendo]] |page=2 |language=ja}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author=Stuart Bishop |date=30 May 2003 |title=Game Freak on Pokémon! |url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=91965 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080116030930/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=91965 |archive-date=16 January 2008 |access-date=7 February 2008 |publisher=CVG}}</ref> In the beta for the game, Gyarados had a vastly different design, which resembled an eyeless, worm-like creature with sharp teeth.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Writer |first1=Nadia Oxford Staff |last2=USgamer |date=2018-12-19 |title=Pokemon Red and Green Beta Images Show Us a Nightmare Alternative Gyarados |url=https://www.vg247.com/pokemon-red-and-green-beta-images-show-us-a-nightmare-alternative-gyarados |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=VG247 |language=en |archive-date=2023-12-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231216230900/https://www.vg247.com/pokemon-red-and-green-beta-images-show-us-a-nightmare-alternative-gyarados |url-status=live }}</ref> Nintendo decided to give the various Pokémon species "clever and descriptive names" related to their appearance or features when translating the game for western audiences as a means to make the characters more relatable to American children.<ref name="Time">{{cite news |last=Chua-Euan |first=Howard |date=22 November 1999 |title=PokéMania |url=http://www.time.com/time/asia/magazine/99/1122/cover2.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010220055311/http://www.time.com/time/asia/magazine/99/1122/cover2.html |archive-date=20 February 2001 |access-date=15 September 2008 |magazine=[[Time (magazine)|Time]]}}</ref> As a result, Gyarados's beta name was "Skulkraken", a combination of "skull" or "skulk" and "[[kraken]]", but in the final release the original Japanese name was used.<ref>{{cite web |title=Pokemon Strategy Guide - IGNguides |url=http://guides.ign.com/guides/12045/gyarados.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120925225251/http://guides.ign.com/guides/12045/gyarados.html |archive-date=25 September 2012 |access-date=1 April 2011 |magazine=[[IGN]]}}</ref>
Magikarp are incredibly common and plentiful, but notoriously weak, and are only capable of knowing a select few moves by level up. They are notable for their ability to flop around on land and can leap up to seven feet in the air.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Magikarp {{!}} Pokédex {{!}} More at Pokemon.com |url=https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokedex/magikarp |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=www.pokemon.com |language=en |archive-date=2024-02-10 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240210165540/https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokedex/magikarp |url-status=live }}</ref> By contrast, Gyarados are large, blue, snake-like Pokémon. They are well-known for their power, and they frequently go on violent rampages.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Gyarados {{!}} Pokédex {{!}} More at Pokemon.com |url=https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokedex/gyarados |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=www.pokemon.com |language=en |archive-date=2024-02-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240203215001/https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokedex/gyarados |url-status=live }}</ref> Magikarp and Gyarados were both voiced by [[Unshō Ishizuka]] in Japanese.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Norkey |first=Trevor |date=2018-08-18 |title=Pokemon and Dragon Ball Voice Actor Unsho Ishizuka Dies at 67 |url=https://movieweb.com/unsho-ishizuka-dead-death-japanese-voice-actor-pokemon/ |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=MovieWeb |language=en |archive-date=2022-12-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221222001410/https://movieweb.com/unsho-ishizuka-dead-death-japanese-voice-actor-pokemon/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
== Appearances ==
=== In the video games ===
[[File:Red Gyarados.png|thumb|The Red Gyarados as it appears in promotional art. It has been described as iconic.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2017-03-23 |title=Famous red Gyarados among the first Shinies added to Pokémon Go in latest update |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/famous-red-gyarados-among-the-first-shinies-added-to-pokemon-go-in-latest-update |access-date=2024-03-11 |work=Eurogamer.net |language=en |archive-date=2023-12-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231206035411/https://www.eurogamer.net/famous-red-gyarados-among-the-first-shinies-added-to-pokemon-go-in-latest-update |url-status=live }}</ref>]]
Magikarp and Gyarados first appear in [[Pokémon Red and Blue|''Pokémon Red'' and ''Blue'']]. They can be commonly obtained by fishing, though one notable [[Non-player character|NPC]] will sell a Magikarp to the player before fishing is available for the player character.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mastrogiacomo |first=Max |date=2021-03-13 |title=Pokémon Let's Go Player Hilariously Manages To Outwit Scammer NPC |url=https://screenrant.com/pokemon-lets-go-scammer-npc/ |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=ScreenRant |language=en |archive-date=2022-11-19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221119223243/https://screenrant.com/pokemon-lets-go-scammer-npc/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In their sequels, [[Pokémon Gold and Silver|''Pokémon Gold'' and ''Silver'']], a specially colored『[[Gameplay of Pokémon#Shiny Pokémon|shiny]]』Gyarados that is red appears in the game's Lake of Rage area as a boss opponent.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last1=Slackie |first1=Kevin |last2=Taveras |first2=Moises |title=The 150 Best Pokémon |url=https://www.pastemagazine.com/games/pokemon/the-top-100-pokemon-of-all-time |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230731073520/https://www.pastemagazine.com/games/pokemon/the-top-100-pokemon-of-all-time |archive-date=2023-07-31 |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=Paste Magazine |language=en-US}}</ref> It must be captured or defeated in order for the story to progress. The pair have appeared in many subsequent games in the series, including [[Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire|''Pokémon Ruby'', ''Sapphire'']],<ref>{{Cite web |date=May 8, 2017 |title=Pokemon Ruby Player Takes Six Years to Beat Game Using Magikarp |url=https://gamerant.com/pokemon-ruby-beat-game-magikarp/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709183631/https://gamerant.com/pokemon-ruby-beat-game-magikarp/ |archive-date=July 9, 2021 |access-date=July 7, 2021 |website=Game Rant}}</ref> [[Pokémon Diamond and Pearl|''Diamond'', ''Pearl'']],<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Dornieden |first1=Nadine |last2=McQ |first2=Jim |last3=DeFreitas |first3=Casey |last4=Moreupdated |first4=+1 1k |date=2012-03-29 |title=Route 222 - Pokemon Diamond, Pearl and Platinum Guide |url=https://www.ign.com/wikis/pokemon-diamond-pearl-platinum-version/Route_222 |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=IGN |language=en |archive-date=2024-03-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328220051/https://www.ign.com/wikis/pokemon-diamond-pearl-platinum-version/Route_222 |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Pokémon Sun and Moon|''Sun'', ''Moon'']],<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hillier |first=Brenna |date=November 28, 2016 |title=Someone beat Pokemon Sun & Moon using only a Magikarp, for some reason |url=https://www.vg247.com/2016/11/28/someone-beat-pokemon-sun-moon-using-only-a-magikarp-for-some-reason/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709184238/https://www.vg247.com/2016/11/28/someone-beat-pokemon-sun-moon-using-only-a-magikarp-for-some-reason/ |archive-date=July 9, 2021 |access-date=July 7, 2021 |website=[[VG247]] |language=en}}</ref> [[Pokémon Sword and Shield|''Sword'', ''Shield'']],<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hernandez |first=Patricia |date=December 3, 2019 |title=I sent my worthless Magikarp to do jobs in Pokémon Sword and Shield |url=https://www.polygon.com/2019/12/3/20993484/pokemon-sword-shield-pokejobs-magikarp-game-freak-nintendo-switch |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709184942/https://www.polygon.com/2019/12/3/20993484/pokemon-sword-shield-pokejobs-magikarp-game-freak-nintendo-switch |archive-date=July 9, 2021 |access-date=July 7, 2021 |website=Polygon}}</ref> [[Pokémon Scarlet and Violet|''Scarlet'', and ''Violet'']].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Reyes |first=Jess |date=2022-11-24 |title=6 must-have Pokémon to catch for 'Scarlet and Violet's late game |url=https://www.inverse.com/gaming/pokemon-scarlet-violet-tier-list-best-pokemon-endgame-late-game |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=Inverse |language=en |archive-date=2024-03-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328220052/https://www.inverse.com/gaming/pokemon-scarlet-violet-tier-list-best-pokemon-endgame-late-game |url-status=live }}</ref> In [[Pokémon X and Y|''Pokémon X'' and ''Y'']], Gyarados received a Mega Evolution, which changes its Flying type into the Dark type.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Webb |first=Ethan |date=2022-10-16 |title=How To Find (& Catch) Mega Gyarados in Pokémon GO |url=https://screenrant.com/find-catch-mega-gyarados-pokmon-go/ |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=ScreenRant |language=en |archive-date=2022-11-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221104131930/https://screenrant.com/find-catch-mega-gyarados-pokmon-go/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
The pair make many appearances in spin-offs, including the ''[[Pokémon Snap]]'' games,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Boom |first=Daniel Van |title=New Pokemon Snap Requests: 8 rare shots you shouldn't miss |url=https://www.cnet.com/how-to/new-pokemon-snap-requests-8-rare-shots-you-shouldnt-miss/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709191910/https://www.cnet.com/how-to/new-pokemon-snap-requests-8-rare-shots-you-shouldnt-miss/ |archive-date=2021-07-09 |access-date=2021-07-07 |website=CNET}}</ref> the [[Pokémon Mystery Dungeon|''Pokémon Mystery Dungeon'' series]],<ref>{{Cite web |last=Reynolds |first=Spencer |date=2020-03-09 |title=Pokémon Mystery Dungeon DX: New Shiny Pokémon Guide |url=https://screenrant.com/pokemon-mystery-dungeon-dx-shiny-pokemon-guide/ |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=ScreenRant |language=en |archive-date=2020-03-10 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200310162234/https://screenrant.com/pokemon-mystery-dungeon-dx-shiny-pokemon-guide/ |url-status=live }}</ref> ''[[Pokémon Café ReMix]]'',<ref>{{Cite web |last=quence |date=2023-12-30 |title=Pokémon Café ReMix January 2024 events announced |url=https://gonintendo.com/contents/30427-pokemon-cafe-remix-january-2024-events-announced |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=GoNintendo |language=en |archive-date=2024-03-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328220051/https://gonintendo.com/contents/30427-pokemon-cafe-remix-january-2024-events-announced |url-status=live }}</ref> ''[[Pokémon Unite]]'',<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lada |first=Jenni |date=2024-01-02 |title=Magikarp and Gyarados Join Pokemon Unite in January 2024 |url=https://www.siliconera.com/magikarp-and-gyarados-join-pokemon-unite-in-january-2024/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240115160136/https://www.siliconera.com/magikarp-and-gyarados-join-pokemon-unite-in-january-2024/ |archive-date=2024-01-15 |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=Siliconera |language=en-US}}</ref> ''[[Pokémon Go]]'',<ref name="Hernandez2016">{{Cite web |last=Hernandez |first=Patricia |date=September 15, 2016 |title=Magikarp Is The Best Pokemon GO Buddy |url=https://www.kotaku.com.au/2016/09/magikarp-is-the-bestpokmongo-buddy/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709184736/https://www.kotaku.com.au/2016/09/magikarp-is-the-bestpokmongo-buddy/ |archive-date=July 9, 2021 |access-date=July 7, 2021 |website=Kotaku Australia |language=en-AU}}</ref> and ''[[Pokkén Tournament]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=kotakuinternational |date=2016-03-13 |title=Magikarp's Stage On The Pokémon Fighting Game Is Pure Fire |url=https://www.kotaku.com.au/2016/03/magikarps-stage-on-thepokmonfighting-game-is-pure-fire/ |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=Kotaku Australia |language=en-AU |archive-date=2024-03-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328220051/https://www.kotaku.com.au/2016/03/magikarps-stage-on-thepokmonfighting-game-is-pure-fire/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In ''[[Pokémon Stadium]]'', Magikarp featured in its own mini-game called "Magikarp Splash", in which players must Splash high enough to hit the button at the top of the screen as many times as it can.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Clouse |first=Ryan |date=2022-10-06 |title=Every Pokémon Stadium Mini-Game, Ranked Worst To Best |url=https://screenrant.com/pokemon-stadium-every-minigame-ranked-worst-best/ |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=ScreenRant |language=en |archive-date=2023-05-15 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230515112450/https://screenrant.com/pokemon-stadium-every-minigame-ranked-worst-best/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Magikarp later received its own mobile game, ''[[Pokémon: Magikarp Jump]]'',<ref>{{Cite web |last=Carter |first=Chris |date=May 22, 2017 |title=Magikarp finally gets its due in its own game |url=https://www.destructoid.com/magikarp-finally-gets-its-due-in-its-own-game/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211127033833/https://www.destructoid.com/magikarp-finally-gets-its-due-in-its-own-game/ |archive-date=November 27, 2021 |access-date=July 7, 2021 |website=[[Destructoid]] |language=en-US}}</ref> in which players must compete against opponents to see whose Magikarp can jump the highest. Magikarp can evolve into Gyarados in game, though this is only an [[Easter egg (media)|easter egg]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Frank |first=Allegra |date=2017-05-31 |title=In Magikarp Jump, evolving into one of the strongest Pokémon is worthless |url=https://www.polygon.com/2017/5/31/15702192/magikarp-jump-guide-gyarados |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-07-31 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230731210130/https://www.polygon.com/2017/5/31/15702192/magikarp-jump-guide-gyarados |url-status=live }}</ref>
=== In the anime ===
Magikarp has appeared several times, most notably as the subject of a running gag in which a salesman attempts to trick [[Team Rocket]] into buying Magikarp in various guises, the first one being in ''Battle Aboard the St. Anne''. In ''Pokémon Shipwreck'', the salesman succeeds in selling them one, but [[James (Pokémon)|James]] kicked his Magikarp out of frustration, causing it to evolve into a Gyarados and attack him.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Thornton |first=Laura |date=2021-04-04 |title=Team Rocket's James Briefly Owned One of the World's Strongest Pokémon |url=https://www.cbr.com/pokemon-team-rocket-james-gyarados-owner/ |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=CBR |language=en |archive-date=2021-04-17 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210417172157/https://www.cbr.com/pokemon-team-rocket-james-gyarados-owner/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Ash's travelling companion [[Misty (Pokémon)|Misty]] owns a Gyarados, while Ash's companion [[Goh (Pokemon)|Goh]] owns a Magikarp that is significantly stronger than the average of its species.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Greenall |first=Jonathon |date=2021-02-15 |title=Pokemon Journeys: Goh's Magikarp (Yes, MAGIKARP) Is a Terrifyingly Strong Pokemon |url=https://www.cbr.com/pokemon-journeys-goh-magikarp-strong-space-jump/ |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=CBR |language=en |archive-date=2022-05-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220502011327/https://www.cbr.com/pokemon-journeys-goh-magikarp-strong-space-jump/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The character [[Lance (Pokemon)|Lance]] captured the Red Gyarados, and it is used as one of his primary Pokémon when the character returned in ''[[Pokémon Journeys: The Series]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Valdez |first=Nick |title=Pokemon Journeys Hints at Red Gyarados' Return |url=https://comicbook.com/anime/news/pokemon-journeys-red-gyarados-lance-ash-battle-anime/ |access-date=2024-04-15 |website=Comicbook.com |language=en |archive-date=2022-06-12 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220612131151/https://comicbook.com/anime/news/pokemon-journeys-red-gyarados-lance-ash-battle-anime/ |url-status=live }}</ref> A special [[Pokétoon]] short was released that starred Magikarp.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tolentino |first=Josh |date=July 3, 2021 |title=Pokétoon Anime Short Shows a Magikarp's Journey |url=https://www.siliconera.com/poketoon-anime-short-shows-a-magikarps-journey/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709184216/https://www.siliconera.com/poketoon-anime-short-shows-a-magikarps-journey/ |archive-date=July 9, 2021 |access-date=July 7, 2021}}</ref> The Red Gyarados featured in an episode of ''[[Pokémon Generations]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=G. R. |date=2016-09-30 |title=Pokemon Generations Episode Features Red Gyarados |url=https://gamerant.com/pokemon-generations-ep-4/ |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=Game Rant |language=en |archive-date=2022-09-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220922091442/https://gamerant.com/pokemon-generations-ep-4/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
=== In other media ===
In ''[[Pokémon Adventures]]'', a Gyarados is owned by Misty, who eventually trades it to [[Red (Pokémon Adventures)|Red]], who uses it as part of his team. It is later temporarily given to [[Rivals (Pokémon)|Blue]], though it is eventually given back to Red.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kurten |first=Guillermo |date=2023-12-21 |title=Red's Best Pokémon From The Pokémon Adventures Manga |url=https://www.cbr.com/pokemon-adventures-manga-red-best-pokemon/ |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=CBR |language=en}}</ref> A Magikarp appears in the 2019 live action film ''[[Detective Pikachu (film)|Detective Pikachu]]'', where Detective Pikachu threw a Magikarp to help battle a rogue [[Charizard]]. It evolved into Gyarados in order to win the fight.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Casey |first=Connor |title=Detective Pikachu Artist Teases Scrapped Charizard vs Gyarados Battle |url=https://comicbook.com/anime/news/detective-pikachu-artist-teases-charizard-vs-gyarados-battle-photos/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709185131/https://comicbook.com/anime/news/detective-pikachu-artist-teases-charizard-vs-gyarados-battle-photos/ |archive-date=2021-07-09 |access-date=2021-07-07 |website=Comicbook.com}}</ref>
== Promotion and reception ==
[[File:Pokemon Magikarp Taiyaki Pancake from Kurikoan, Akihabara shop, Sotokanda 1-15-1 (コイキング焼き, 秋葉原 くりこ庵, 外神田1-15-1) (2017-04-06 13.23.04 by Tokyo Girl).jpg|thumb|A Magikarp shaped [[taiyaki]] served in a restaurant in [[Akihabara]], Tokyo, Japan in 2017.<ref>{{Cite web |author=Oona McGeeOona |date=December 24, 2016 |title=Magikarp now appearing in Japan as a traditional taiyaki sweet 【Taste Test】 |url=https://soranews24.com/2016/12/24/magikarp-now-appearing-in-japan-as-a-traditional-taiyaki-sweet-%e3%80%90taste-test%e3%80%91/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210728012538/https://soranews24.com/2016/12/24/magikarp-now-appearing-in-japan-as-a-traditional-taiyaki-sweet-%E3%80%90taste-test%E3%80%91/ |archive-date=July 28, 2021 |access-date=July 7, 2021}}</ref>]]
A variety of merchandise depicting Magikarp and Gyarados have been produced. [[Pokéfuta|Pokefuta]] featuring the duo were released in Japan's [[Chūbu region]].<ref>{{Cite web |author= Marc Kaliroff |date=November 27, 2020 |title=Magikarp-themed Poké Lids land in the Chubu region of Japan |url=https://nintendowire.com/news/2020/11/27/magikarp-themed-poke-lids-land-in-the-chubu-region-of-japan/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709190032/https://nintendowire.com/news/2020/11/27/magikarp-themed-poke-lids-land-in-the-chubu-region-of-japan/ |archive-date=July 9, 2021 |access-date=July 7, 2021 |website=Nintendo Wire}}</ref> Toys,<ref>{{Cite web |author=Jacob Whritenour|date=9 August 2020 |title=Venusaur and Gyarados Receive DX Pokémon Gallery Figures - Hardcore Gamer |url=https://hardcoregamer.com/news/venusaur-and-gyarados-receive-dx-pokemon-gallery-figures/384748/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709191138/https://hardcoregamer.com/news/venusaur-and-gyarados-receive-dx-pokemon-gallery-figures/384748/ |archive-date=9 July 2021 |access-date=7 July 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title='Detective Pikachu' Toys Coming to Retailers Next Week |author=Russ Burlingame|url=https://comicbook.com/anime/news/detective-pikachu-toys-coming-to-retailers-next-week/ |website=CBR|access-date=2024-03-11 |archive-date=2024-03-12 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240312005143/https://comicbook.com/anime/news/detective-pikachu-toys-coming-to-retailers-next-week/ |url-status=live }}</ref> plushies,<ref>{{Cite web |date=August 13, 2019 |title=This Magikarp Plush Flops And Splashes All Over The Place, Just Like The Real Thing |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2019/08/this_magikarp_plush_flops_and_splashes_all_over_the_place_just_like_the_real_thing |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709183616/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2019/08/this_magikarp_plush_flops_and_splashes_all_over_the_place_just_like_the_real_thing |archive-date=July 9, 2021 |access-date=July 7, 2021 |website=Nintendo Life}}</ref> jewelry,<ref>{{Cite web |date=March 19, 2020 |author=Jeff Yeung|title=U-Treasure Immortalizes Magikarp in 18k Gold and Silver |url=https://hypebeast.com/2020/3/u-treasure-pokemon-magikarp-silver-18k-gold-necklaces |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709183509/https://hypebeast.com/2020/3/u-treasure-pokemon-magikarp-silver-18k-gold-necklaces |archive-date=July 9, 2021 |access-date=July 7, 2021 |website=HYPEBEAST}}</ref> and cards in the [[Pokémon Trading Card Game]] have been produced.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dwyer |first=Theo |date=June 26, 2021 |title=Gyarados VMAX To Feature In Pokémon TCG: Sky Stream |url=https://bleedingcool.com/games/gyarados-vmax-to-feature-in-pokemon-tcg-sky-stream/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240128165944/https://bleedingcool.com/games/gyarados-vmax-to-feature-in-pokemon-tcg-sky-stream/ |archive-date=January 28, 2024 |access-date=July 7, 2021 |website=Bleeding Cool News And Rumors}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |author=
John Walker|date=2023-07-11 |title=Useless Magikarp Is One Of The Most Valuable Pokémon Cards In New TCG Set |url=https://kotaku.com/pokemon-tcg-paldea-evolved-iono-card-highest-value-1850626089 |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=Kotaku |language=en |archive-date=2023-12-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231225094119/https://kotaku.com/pokemon-tcg-paldea-evolved-iono-card-highest-value-1850626089 |url-status=live }}</ref> Magikarp was cosplayed by a baby on [[Honolulu]] [[Comic book convention]]<ref>{{Cite web |last=Devore |first=Jordan |date=July 6, 2015 |title=I hope this adorable Magikarp baby never evolves |url=https://www.destructoid.com/i-hope-this-adorable-magikarp-baby-never-evolves/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220819142304/https://www.destructoid.com/i-hope-this-adorable-magikarp-baby-never-evolves/ |archive-date=August 19, 2022 |access-date=July 7, 2021 |website=Destructoid |language=en-US}}</ref> being described by ''[[Game Informer]]'' as "the cutest cosplay ever."<ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Reiner |first=Andrew |title=Perhaps The Cutest Pokémon Cosplay You'll Ever See |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2015/07/06/pokemon-cosplay-story.aspx |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709185311/https://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2015/07/06/pokemon-cosplay-story.aspx |archive-date=2021-07-09 |access-date=2021-07-07 |magazine=Game Informer}}</ref> In 2022, Magikarp featured on the side of a jet.<ref>{{Cite web |author=Stephanie Liu|date=2022-05-04 |title=New Pokemon Plane Will Feature Wailord and Magikarp |url=https://www.siliconera.com/new-pokemon-plane-will-feature-wailord-and-magikarp/ |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=Siliconera |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-09-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230929002617/https://www.siliconera.com/new-pokemon-plane-will-feature-wailord-and-magikarp/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
Magikarp has been regarded as one of the weakest Pokémon in the series, as well as one of the worst Pokémon of all time.<ref name=":2" /><ref name=":3" /><ref name=":4" /> Its weakness has resulted in beating the game with it proving to be a popular challenge among fans,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Buckley |first=Sean |date=2016-11-29 |title=The Pokémon constant: Someone will always beat it with Magikarp |url=https://www.engadget.com/2016-11-29-the-pokemon-constant-someone-will-always-beat-it-with-magikarp.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231129210059/https://www.engadget.com/2016-11-29-the-pokemon-constant-someone-will-always-beat-it-with-magikarp.html |archive-date=2023-11-29 |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=Engadget |language=en-US}}</ref> and its weakness has further been highlighted in official media, which often pokes fun at its own uselessness.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Carter |first=Chris |date=2021-04-02 |title=Pokemon Sword and Shield put in an impossible to catch Magikarp for April Fools' |url=https://www.destructoid.com/pokemon-sword-and-shield-put-in-an-impossible-to-catch-magikarp-for-april-fools/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230528132147/https://www.destructoid.com/pokemon-sword-and-shield-put-in-an-impossible-to-catch-magikarp-for-april-fools/ |archive-date=2023-05-28 |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=Destructoid |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Coulson |first=Josh |date=2022-07-07 |title=Pokemon Sword & Shield's Newest Competition Is All About Magikarp |url=https://www.thegamer.com/pokemon-sword-shield-magikarp-competition/ |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=TheGamer |language=en |archive-date=2022-07-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220708042147/https://www.thegamer.com/pokemon-sword-shield-magikarp-competition/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In ''Pokémon Sword'' and ''Shield'', Magikarp was one of the most hated Pokémon due to in game NPCs and some players using Magikarp during the game's multiplayer raids.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hernandez |first=Patricia |date=November 20, 2019 |title=Pokémon fans are sick of trolls bringing Magikarp to raids |url=https://www.polygon.com/2019/11/20/20974445/pokemon-sword-shield-magikarp-raid-dynamax-gigantamax-nintendo-switch |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709185529/https://www.polygon.com/2019/11/20/20974445/pokemon-sword-shield-magikarp-raid-dynamax-gigantamax-nintendo-switch |archive-date=July 9, 2021 |access-date=July 7, 2021 |website=Polygon}}</ref> ''[[IGN]]'' regarded it as being "[[comic relief]]" until it evolves into Gyarados.<ref>{{cite web |author=pokemonofthedaychick |date=October 21, 2002 |title=Pokemon Crystal Version Pokemon of the Day: Magikarp (#129) - IGN FAQs |url=http://faqs.ign.com/articles/374/374951p1.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090205003104/http://faqs.ign.com/articles/374/374951p1.html |archive-date=February 5, 2009 |access-date=2009-10-14 |publisher=[[IGN]]}}</ref> Gyarados itself has been highlighted for its power, being cited as a top design in the series.<ref>{{Cite web |author=Steven Bogos Legacy |date=2016-02-27 |title=The Top 10 Pokemon of All Time |url=https://www.escapistmagazine.com/the-top-10-pokemon-of-all-time/ |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=The Escapist |language=en-US |archive-date=2024-03-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240307203552/https://www.escapistmagazine.com/the-top-10-pokemon-of-all-time/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Webster |first=Andrew |date=2016-02-27 |title=The 10 best Pokemon of all time |url=https://www.theverge.com/2016/2/27/11116786/best-pokemon-20th-anniversary-eevee-squirtle-gyarados-nintendo-day |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=The Verge |language=en-US |archive-date=2022-11-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221127090150/https://www.theverge.com/2016/2/27/11116786/best-pokemon-20th-anniversary-eevee-squirtle-gyarados-nintendo-day |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=ElijahCWatson |title=The 50 Best Pokemon Up to "Pokemon Crystal" |url=https://www.complex.com/pop-culture/a/elijah-watson/best-pokemon-crystal-nintendo |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=Complex |language=en-us |archive-date=2023-12-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231203051712/https://www.complex.com/pop-culture/a/elijah-watson/best-pokemon-crystal-nintendo |url-status=live }}</ref> Khee Hoon Chan of ''Paste'' said it "exemplifies power through perseverance,"<ref name=":0" /> while TheGamer writer Cian Maher praised it as an iconic staple of the series.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Maher |first=Cian |date=2021-05-05 |title=It's Ridiculous That Gyarados Isn't In New Pokemon Snap |url=https://www.thegamer.com/new-pokemon-snap-gyarados/ |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=TheGamer |language=en |archive-date=2022-07-21 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220721225438/https://www.thegamer.com/new-pokemon-snap-gyarados/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Magikarp's evolution into Gyarados has been analyzed for its symbolism and representation of Chinese mythology.<ref name=":1">Pellitteri, Marco. ''Mutual Images: A Transcultural Research Journal''.</ref>
The book ''Gaming Cultures and Place in Asia-Pacific'' cited Magikarp as an "example of a common recurring and weak element" in the games, whose presence rather than function was to "emphasize the exclusivity and strength of other, rarer creatures for players to find".<ref name="Surman">{{cite book |last=Hjorth |first=Larissa |title=Gaming Cultures and Place in Asia-Pacific |author2=David Surman |publisher=Taylor and Francis |year=2009 |isbn=978-0-415-99627-3 |chapter=9 |access-date=2009-06-06 |chapter-url=https://newport.academia.edu/documents/0009/2577/MERGEDPOKEMON.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100620001743/http://newport.academia.edu/documents/0009/2577/MERGEDPOKEMON.pdf |archive-date=2010-06-20 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Khee Hoon Chan of ''[[Paste (magazine)|Paste]]'' analyzed Magikarp's role in the games, stating that『Magikarp fits within this universe not as a fighting machine, but as a sarcastic nemesis to the tremendous power of Gyarados and other absurdly powerful Pokémon. This is precisely why it is so memorable.』They highlighted its comedic relief, stating that because it was so bad, it inspired discussion about its true purpose and potential hidden secrets it might have. They further stated that while it was useless in battle, it was designed as such and was a well-thought out creation in conjunction with Gyarados.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Chan |first=Khee Hoon |date=November 5, 2016 |title=Behind The Enduring Appeal of Magikarp |url=https://www.pastemagazine.com/games/pok-mon/the-enduring-appeal-of-magikarp/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210712125007/https://www.pastemagazine.com/games/pok-mon/the-enduring-appeal-of-magikarp/ |archive-date=July 12, 2021 |access-date=July 12, 2021 |website=Paste}}</ref> Its weakness has resulted in Magikarp being described as a lovable Pokémon.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |last=Webster |first=Andrew |date=2016-07-29 |title=The official Magikarp music video is an anthem for lovable losers |url=https://www.theverge.com/2016/7/29/12322114/pokemon-magikarp-music-video-japanese-slowpoke |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=The Verge |language=en |archive-date=2021-07-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709184433/https://www.theverge.com/2016/7/29/12322114/pokemon-magikarp-music-video-japanese-slowpoke |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":4">{{Cite web |last=Farokhmanesh |first=Megan |date=2017-05-28 |title=Magikarp is Pokémon's most lovable punching bag |url=https://www.theverge.com/2017/5/28/15700038/magikarp-jump-pathetic-ios-mobile |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=The Verge |language=en |archive-date=2022-12-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221205220914/https://www.theverge.com/2017/5/28/15700038/magikarp-jump-pathetic-ios-mobile |url-status=live }}</ref> Its appearance in ''Magikarp Jump'' was praised for helping to highlight the series' core themes of bonding with Pokemon, with ''[[The Verge]]'' writer Megan Farokhmanesh stating that "despite centering on a pokémon that most view as a punchline, [it] does a great job in fostering a sense of affection for the fish you’re raising. The more I watch my Magikarp bash its face into a punching bag, the more I love that little idiot. It’s doing the best it can. And when it jumps its way to victory, I feel proud. Genuinely."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Farokhmanesh |first=Megan |date=2017-05-25 |title=The new Pokémon mobile game is about training the best Magikarp you can |url=https://www.theverge.com/2017/5/25/15690800/magikarp-jump-pokemon-mobile-game-ios-android |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=The Verge |language=en |archive-date=2023-06-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230608053220/https://www.theverge.com/2017/5/25/15690800/magikarp-jump-pokemon-mobile-game-ios-android |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Frank |first=Allegra |date=2017-05-25 |title=What the new Pokémon mobile game gets so right about the series |url=https://www.polygon.com/2017/5/25/15691634/pokemon-mobile-game-magikarp-jump |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=2020-07-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200703231517/https://www.polygon.com/2017/5/25/15691634/pokemon-mobile-game-magikarp-jump |url-status=live }}</ref> The game was also praised by Julie Muncey of ''[[Wired (magazine)|Wired]]'' for making the joke of Magikarp's uselessness endearing to players.<ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Muncy |first=Julie |title='Magikarp Jump' Is an Endearing Tribute to Pokemon's Least-Loved Fish |url=https://www.wired.com/2017/06/magikarp-jump/ |access-date=2024-03-11 |magazine=Wired |language=en-US |issn=1059-1028 |archive-date=2018-11-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181124150008/https://www.wired.com/2017/06/magikarp-jump/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
== External links ==
* [[bulba:Magikarp_(Pokémon)|Magikarp on Bulbapedia]]
* [https://www.pokeapi.co/api/v2/pokemon/magikarp Magikarp on Pokemon.com]
* [http://bulbapedia.bulbagarden.net/wiki/Gyarados_(Pok%C3%A9mon) Gyarados on Bulbapedia]
* [https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokedex/gyarados Gyarados on Pokemon.com]
== References ==
{{reflist}}
==External links==
{{Pokémon Generation 1|state=expanded}}
{{Pokémon}}
[[Category:Pokémon species introduced in Pokémon Red and Blue]]
[[Category:Fictional fish]]
[[Category:Fictional sea monsters]]
[[Category:Video game characters introduced in 1996]]
[[Category:Video game characters with water abilities]]
[[Category:Characters created by Ken Sugimori]]
[[Category:Fictional duos]]
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