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Generation IV introduced obtaining promotional things via Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. At first, only key items were distributed. These items allowed players to enter areas normally inaccessible. Last June 2009, Pokémon began being distributed via Wi-Fi as well with the distribution of a Jirachi. Owners of the Japanese versions of the Sinnoh-based games, no matter where they are, may use Wi-Fi to receive the Pokémon. Later on, Japan began having distributions occurring simultaneously via events and over Wi-Fi. In March 2010, the Pikachu-colored Pichu became available for North American and PAL versions of Pokémon Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum. This became the first event Pokémon to be available to non-Japanese games via Wi-Fi.

Outside of Japan, there are very few countries or areas of the world where events tend to be held:

• United States
• South Korea
• Australia
• Various countries of Western Europe

While it is not unheard of for event Pokémon to be distributed outside of these countries, for whatever logistical reason, it is incredibly rare. Indeed, some countries may see several years pass between promotional events, and most have never had one held in their country. The establishment of wireless internet has made the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection a much better distribution model to reach Pokémon players around the world.

Generation I

Generation II

Generation III

Generation IV

Generation V

Nintendo promotional event Pokémon

Periodically, Nintendo hosts or sponsors parties and events for fans, often in connection to the premier of a new game or movie. They are especially notable in that certain rare Pokémon and items in the games, as well as cards and other things, are only available for a limited time from them. The methods used to transfer Pokémon and items to a game have varied over time, and include direct link trading and physical reception from an e-Card viaMystery Events. Wireless reception from a Wonder Spot and Nintendo Wi-FI Connection via Mystery Gift were also used. Other methods may occur in the future.

Note that all of the Pokémon with specific natures cannot have a different nature, gender, ability or shiny condition. For Pokémon obtained in Generation IV, the dates do not need to be the dates the events were held. This is because the date is based on the one set on the DS.