Best Pokémon Funko Pop Guide for Gen 1 Exclusives

I choose you, Pikachu, Squirtle, Bulbasaur, and Charmander! Take it from me, a Pokémon obsessor and collector; the first-generation legends are the most collectible Pokémon Funko Pop. Writing the best Pokémon Funko Pop guide revealed how many exclusive legends are available for next-level collections.

I watched the first episode in 1998, following the fandom. My kids remain avid fans, and we collect all things Pokémon, from model kits to replicas and statues. Pokémon action figures and Nendoroids are new ventures for our family of collectors. I’d love to share the gen-1 exclusive legends with you. Let’s begin.

Bottom Line Up Front

The bottom line is that Pokémon holds one of the largest collectible potentials, and combining it with Funko Pop is like becoming a child again, stuck in a candy store. However, exclusives are available for the most legendary Pokémon from generation one, including glitter models, convention exclusives, and jumbos.

There are plenty of gen-1 legends to collect, but only a few Pokémon come in various exclusive options. I’m guessing you’re an avid collector, or you wouldn’t be here. That’s why I did something special. I sourced the most exclusive versions of gen-1 Pokémon legends. Would you love to see them? Take a peek quickly.

The Best Pokémon Funko Pop at a Glance

Squirtle, Pikachu, Charmander, Bulbasaur, Eevee, and Vulpix are some gen-1 legends with exclusive versions for better collectibility. I’ll give you a peek at my top picks, and you can jump into the details if they intrigue you. Here are the best Pokémon legend collectibles:

  1. Convention Edition Squirtle Funko Pop
  2. Convention Edition Vaporeon Funko Pop
  3. Diamond Edition Bulbasaur Funko Pop
  4. Diamond Edition Charmander Funko Pop
  5. Diamond Edition Eevee Funko Pop
  6. Diamond Edition Flareon Funko Pop
  7. Diamond Edition Jolteon Funko Pop
  8. Diamond Edition Pikachu Funko Pop
  9. First Edition Pikachu Funko Pop
  10. Flocked Bulbasaur Funko Pop
  11. Flocked Charmander Funko Pop
  12. Flocked Eevee Funko Pop
  13. Flocked Squirtle Funko Pop
  14. Flocked Vulpix Funko Pop
  15. Jumbo Charmander Funko Pop
  16. Jumbo Bulbasaur Funko Pop
  17. Jumbo Charizard Funko Pop
  18. Jumbo Vulpix Funko Pop

The Ultimate Guide to Pokémon Funko Pop

I’m dying to share what makes each legend collectible and precious. I’ll share essential details that help you select more collectible Funko Pop. I’ll give you the exclusive types and share how I chose the top picks. I can nearly see the smoke coming from my typing fingers because I’m excited!

Pokémon Collectibles

Pokémon smashed its way into our collector’s hearts in 1998. Japanese creator Tsunekazu Ishihara never knew how his creation would explode into the collectible world faster than most anime and game franchises. As a result, Pokémon merch hit the scenes the same year as the show’s release.

Pokémon stood to become one of the most collectible merchandise franchises, and everyone loved the series and games. The merchandise collector’s potential ranged from trading cards to game booster packs and decks. Today, there’s a new collectible treasure for Pokémon. Funko Pop joined the merch scene in 2018.

Admittedly, Funko Pop and Pokémon are a blend of collectors’ dreams.

Advice for Pokémon and Funko Pop Collectors

Pokémon Funko Pop is likely one of the largest ranges available to the collectible brand. You’ll quickly feel overwhelmed with the choices, and how do you know which Pokémon are more collectible than others? First-generation Pokémon is an excellent start, but you might spot some collector’s pieces with unique aspects.

Look for special editions as a collector. Some exclusive and more collectible Pokémon Funko Pop include:

  1. Chrome or Metallic Editions look like Pokémon, but they’re solid silver or orange. I don’t like these as a collector because they don’t look authentic.
  2. Convention Editions are rare and collectible. The Pokémon might have glossy effects, glow-in-the-dark, or other stand-out qualities.
  3. Diamond Collection Editions are unique remakes of popular Pokémon, where the brand adds glitter to the Pokémon’s surface. As a result, they’re more collectible than others.
  4. First Editions are insanely collectible. The issue numbers will be as low as Pokémon’s release numbers. Additionally, these issues might have exclusive qualities or be massive compared to other issues.
  5. Flocked Editions have a different feel than vinyl figures. They have fur over the bust to create the same texture as the Pokémon.
  6. Pokémon POP! Jumbos are ten inches tall versus the regular 3.75 inches. They’re massive but take some space in your collection.
  7. Retail Exclusives are available from specific stores and nowhere else. For example, Target, Walmart, and Amazon Funko Pop stores have exclusives for each retailer.
  8. Stance Editions aren’t more collectible, but they look much cuter in the collection. Pikachu has an attack stance.

Collecting the classics from these exclusive types would enhance your collection like crazy.

How to Select the Best Pokémon Funko Pop

There are too many Pokémon to collect them all at once. Therefore, It’s best to start at the beginning. First, I’ll share the top Pokémon Funko Pop from generation one. The classics remain highly collectible. Secondly, I’ll share unique and exclusive versions of gen-1 Pokémon to increase the collection potential.

I’ll add my favorite first-generation Pokémon legends from the First Edition, Convention Edition, Diamond Collection, Flocked, and Jumbo versions. They’re exclusive and collectible.

Best Pokémon Funko Pop Guide: I Choose You!

Which Pokémon legends did I choose? You glanced at my top picks, but let me share why they’re exclusive, unique, and fabulous. I’ll share the sizes, versions, and issue numbers. There’s one issue number that will surprise you. Additionally, I’ll expose the good and the bad of each figure. Let’s do it.

Convention Edition Squirtle Funko Pop

Convention Edition Squirtle Funko Pop

Squirtle is one of the initial Pokémon you meet if you weren’t familiar with the shows or games. It’s one of the Pokémon the Professor offers Ash Ketchum. That alone makes Squirtle a legend. This Squirtle Funko Pop is exclusive for two reasons. It’s a glittery edition and comes from an exclusive convention range.

Features

  • Version/s: 2021 Summer Convention Limited Edition Diamond Collection Squirtle Funko Pop
  • Issue No: 504
  • Size: 3.75″

Pros

  • Squirtle looks like a superstar among legends with glittery skin, and its double-exclusivity increases the collectibility
  • Squirtle’s head is majorly adorable, with massive eyes taking your focus away from the tiny arms and legs, and the Pokémon’s curled tail looks perfect and accurate

Cons

  • The glitter effect can take away from Squirtle’s mouth and the details around it

Convention Edition Vaporeon Funko Pop

Convention Edition Vaporeon Funko Pop

Vaporeon doesn’t come along in the first generation until later in the series. It’s a gorgeous water-type Pokémon evolved from Eevee, one of the show’s cutest creatures. Vaporeon has always made me think of mermaids, and maybe the mythological creatures inspired it. It’s a majestic-looking creature in Pokémon.

Features

  • Version/s: 2021 Spring Convention Limited Edition Diamond Collection Vaporeon Funko Pop
  • Issue No: 627
  • Size: 3.5″

Pros

  • Vaporeon has a double-whammy collectible potential because it comes as a glitter effect Funko Pop with convention exclusivity and an unusual size
  • Vaporeon is one of the most adorable glittering Pokémon Funko Pop because it looks like a mythical creature, even possessing a horn to match unicorns

Cons

  • The unusual size can put some collectors off because it’s not nice to have a smaller-than-usual Funko Pop

Diamond Edition Bulbasaur Funko Pop

Diamond Edition Bulbasaur Funko Pop

Bulbasaur is another legend Ash meets in the first episode. It’s a grass-type Pokémon with leafy accessories. I love the cute features on Bulbasaur’s face, and it makes me think of a grass spider biting a puppy because this creature is what you’ll find. It’s another double-exclusive for legend collectors.

Features

  • Version/s: Diamond Collection 2021 Spring Convention Limited Edition Bulbasaur Funko Pop
  • Issue No: 453
  • Size: 6.5″

Pros

  • The Bulbasaur Funko Pop comes as a double-whammy collectible because it has glittery skin and flaunts a badge for the 2021 Spring Convention
  • Bulbasaur’s shiny effects look better than most because they aren’t as bold against the green background, and the facial features are adorably accurate

Cons

  • This Pokémon Funko Pop should be a deluxe exclusive because of the size, but it doesn’t show it

Diamond Edition Charmander Funko Pop

Diamond Edition Charmander Funko Pop

Charmander was always one of my most-loved Pokémon, even when he evolved to Charmeleon and Charizard. I have a thing for fire-type Pokémon, even though there are types that would shred them today. Every element has weaknesses and strengths. It works the same way in real life because some elements overpower others.

Features

  • Version/s: Diamond Collection 2021 Spring Convention Limited Edition Charmander Funko Pop
  • Issue No: 455
  • Size: 3.75″

Pros

  • The Charmander Funko Pop is a double-exclusive with glitter effect and convention edition, and it almost looks metallic against the orange background
  • I love Charmander’s details because he seems like he’s about to attack another Pokémon with fierceness, and the tail is impressive

Cons

  • I’d prefer to have Charmander’s mouth closed if I could choose, but the Funko Pop is impressive

Diamond Edition Eevee Funko Pop

Diamond Edition Eevee Funko Pop

My cat’s name is Eevee, and I can’t think of anyone who hates the little creature. I mean the cat and Pokémon. Sure, my cat has an attitude fit for a queen. But, the Pokémon is calmer, and it’s a roll-of-the-dice to see which evolution you get when you play with Eevee. I love the pre-evolution the most because it’s super adorable.

Features

  • Version/s: Diamond Collection 2021 Fall Convention Limited Edition Eevee Funko Pop
  • Issue No: 626
  • Size: 4″

Pros

  • The Eevee Funko Pop is so cute that it’s funky, and it’s another double-exclusive collectible with glitter effect and convention edition status
  • Eevee is the most adorable Pokémon, so there isn’t much Funko Pop can do to mess it up, meaning the cuteness levels are off the charts

Cons

  • Eevee comes in a random size again (please note that some convention editions are abnormally sized)

Diamond Edition Flareon Funko Pop

Diamond Edition Flareon Funko Pop

Flareon is the only evolution that still looks like Eevee on some level. Combining my love for Eevee’s cuteness with fire-type Pokémons undoubtedly wins my heart. The special-edition Flareon Funko Pop is on fire! I’m sure this Pokémon Funko Pop set the NYC convention on fire in 2021. It’s a beautiful collector’s piece.

Features

  • Version/s: Diamond Collection Wondercon NYC Exclusive Flareon Funko Pop
  • Issue No: 629
  • Size: 3.75″

Pros

  • The Flareon Funko Pop is a limited edition with glittering effects to double its collectible potential, and it’s an NYC special edition, which is rarer
  • Flareon looks incredible with the flaming effects and similarities to Eevee, and the orange background makes the glitter pop brighter to draw more attention

Cons

  • I would’ve skipped the glitter effect on the flames around Flareon, but I know the molds can’t differentiate them

Diamond Edition Jolteon Funko Pop

Diamond Edition Jolteon Funko Pop

Jolteon is admittedly my least-favorite evolution from Eevee. I can’t explain why I don’t like it, but I love the newer generations more than Jolteon. It doesn’t matter because I’m here to share the exclusive legends from generation one. I’ve learned to be objective with collectibles because my clients love it about me.

Features

  • Version/s: Diamond Collection Retail Exclusive Jolteon Funko Pop
  • Issue No: 628
  • Size: 3.75″

Pros

  • The Jolteon Funko Pop comes as a double-collectible because it has the diamond collection glitter effect and comes from an exclusive retailer
  • Jolteon’s electric fur and mane look adorable, and its massive head takes attention away from how it indeed looks in the series and games

Cons

  • I’m not a fan of Jolteon and wouldn’t collect it, but you might love the electric-type Pokémon

Diamond Edition Pikachu Funko Pop

Diamond Edition Pikachu Funko Pop

Pikachu still rules the world of Pokémon favorites among many fans and collectors. I also love the electric Pokémon, and it’s a legend from the gen-1. Pikachu is Ash’s best friend and first Pokémon. My son never found more love for a Pokémon than he did with Pikachu. He doesn’t like Raichu or Pichu nearly as much.

Features

  • Version/s: Diamond Collection Retailer Exclusive Stance Edition Pikachu Funko Pop
  • Issue No: 553
  • Size: 4″

Pros

  • Pikachu is a triple-exclusive because the electric Pokémon has glitter effects, is a Gamestop exclusive, and comes with a cute stance version
  • Pikachu looks fantastic with the waving stance, and the little Pokémon looks like its carrying enough excitement for the entire collection

Cons

  • It’s another weird Funko Pop size because it’s an exclusive, and some fans don’t love the odd sizes

First Edition Pikachu Funko Pop

First Edition Pikachu Funko Pop

This Pikachu Funko Pop is my treat for collectors. There’s no better feeling than finding an exclusive Pokémon Funko Pop with this issue number. You need this Pikachu in your collection. I feel like I need it today. It’s massive and has so much collectible value. Pikachu also looks innocent and sweet, as he does before he attacks.

Features

  • Version/s: First Edition Pikachu Funko Pop
  • Issue No: 1
  • Size: 18″

Pros

  • This Pikachu Funko Pop is more collectible than most Pokémon figures because it’s the first issue and design, and it’s a larger-than-life collectible from Funko Pop
  • Pikachu steals your heart with its adorably friendly demeanor, and the giant Funko Pop’s colors pop brighter than the sun as it stands tall over your collection

Cons

  • Some fans might not love the giant version because they’d need plenty of space to display it

Flocked Bulbasaur Funko Pop

Flocked Bulbasaur Funko Pop

Turning Bulbasaur into an exclusive flocked version is a treat for any collector. Imagine how the Pokémon would feel if you could touch it. That’s how the Funko Pop feels. You can feel the textures on the back leaves, and the body feels like a type of jello. It’s how I’d imagine the grass-type Pokémon to feel.

Features

  • Version/s: 2020 Spring Convention Exclusive Flocked Bulbasaur Funko Pop
  • Issue No: 453
  • Size: 2.75″

Pros

  • The Bulbasaur Funko Pop is a double-exclusive with collectible potential because it’s a special flocked version with convention edition status
  • Bulbasaur oddly looks adorable as a mini-figure from Funko Pop, and the brand didn’t skimp on any details around its face

Cons

  • Just as some fans dislike giant Funko Pop Pokémon, other fans dislike the little guys

Flocked Charmander Funko Pop

Flocked Charmander Funko Pop

Charmander also comes as a flocked exclusive for collectors. Imagine how a dragon would feel if you could touch one, and that’s how Charmander feels. You can feel the rough scale effects on the skin, and the Pokémon has a fitting touch for the type of animal it represents. Charmander reminds me of a dragon.

Features

  • Version/s: Flocked 2020 Spring Convention Limited Edition Charmander Funko Pop
  • Issue No: 455
  • Size: 6.3″

Pros

  • The Charmander Funko Pop is another double-whammy for collectors because it has a textured exterior and comes from a convention line
  • The textured design of this Funko Pop makes Charmander look more cartoon-like, if you love that, but the tail’s flame is impressive

Cons

  • It’s another oddly-sized Funko Pop Pokémon that should also be a deluxe exclusive

Flocked Eevee Funko Pop

Flocked Eevee Funko Pop

Close your eyes to imagine petting the softest kitten you’ve ever felt. The flocked Eevee Funko Pop feels softer than a kitten, and it’s the ideal texture because the Pokémon maintains the most adorable status. I’d have 100 Eevee Funko Pop figures if that many were available. I love the little Pokémon more than Pikachu.

Features

  • Version/s: Wondrous Convention Limited Edition Flocked Eevee Funko Pop
  • Issue No: 577
  • Size: 6.3″

Pros

  • The Eevee Funko Pop has a flocked edition status combined with a convention exclusive collectible value that makes it a must-own
  • Eevee looks like a gorgeous little creature from your dreams, and it feels like you’re in heaven when you touch the flocked Pokémon Funko Pop

Cons

  • The size should place Eevee in another exclusive Funko Pop range (deluxe) but doesn’t

Flocked Squirtle Funko Pop

Flocked Squirtle Funko Pop

Squirtle is the only Pokémon I worry about feeling, even if I only have to imagine it. I don’t even eat fish because I can’t stand the texture in my mouth. I’m not into slimy feels and have no interest in imagining how the flocked Squirtle Funko Pop feels. You’re welcome to imagine it if you don’t cringe like me.

Features

  • Version/s: Retailer Exclusive Flocked Squirtle Funko Pop
  • Issue No: 504
  • Size: 2.75″

Pros

  • The Squirtle Funko Pop comes with a Gamestop exclusivity and flocked edition status to double its collectible potential
  • Squirtle looks adorable as a smaller version, and the brand undoubtedly carries on with its attention to detail with the size

Cons

  • The Funko Pop is too tiny for some collectors, and it’s too slimy for me

Flocked Vulpix Funko Pop

Flocked Vulpix Funko Pop

I feel traumatized for even having to write the slimy part, but Vulpix comes to the rescue. The flocked Vulpix Funko Pop is a pleasure to imagine. It feels similar to a puppy with soft fur. Vulpix is another one of my much-loved Pokémon because it’s a fire-type. The Pokémon reminds me of an adorable puppy with flame abilities.

Features

  • Version/s: 2020 Spring Convention Limited Edition Flocked Vulpix Funko Pop
  • Issue No: 580
  • Size: 2.75″

Pros

  • The Vulpix Funko Pop is a beautiful flocked exclusive with double collector’s potential because of the convention edition status
  • I love how Funko Pop designed Vulpix because the colors match it perfectly, and the tiny nose makes me think more of puppies

Cons

  • It’s another smaller version that might not appeal to every collector of Pokémon merch

Jumbo Charmander Funko Pop

Jumbo Charmander Funko Pop

This Jumbo Funko Pop stands ten inches tall, and Charmander looks fantastic as a giant. Then again, I love it in any version and exclusive collector’s piece. I remember playing with Charmander. It wasn’t the easiest Pokémon to defeat the gym leaders in the first game. He was the worst choice, but I loved playing with it anyway.

Features

  • Version/s: Jumbo Charmander Funko Pop
  • Issue No: N/A
  • Size: 10″

Pros

  • The Charmander jumbo Funko Pop is an exclusive because of its size, and it’s a brilliant Pokémon to turn into a giant
  • Charmander’s details remain excellent for an oversized Pokémon Funko Pop, and I still love the flaming tail effect

Cons

  • I get so mad when the sellers (the Funko Pop official store in this case) don’t show the issue numbers

Jumbo Bulbasaur Funko Pop

Jumbo Bulbasaur Funko Pop

Bulbasaur doesn’t feel like a giant. I wouldn’t see it as one in the Pokémon world. Bulbasaur would look like a green monster if it were massive in the games. Sure, the evolutions look monstrous, but the little guy isn’t supposed to look like that. Anyway, Bulbasaur is a legendary exclusive for three collectible reasons.

Features

  • Version/s: Metallic Exclusive Retailer Edition Jumbo Balbasaur Funko Pop
  • Issue No: 453
  • Size: 10″

Pros

  • The jumbo Bulbasaur Funko Pop is also a special-edition metallic version that comes as a retailer’s exclusive, making it three-fold collectible
  • Bulbasaur looks like a silver ghost if you love that kind of Funko Pop, and the giant undoubtedly becomes the center of attention in a collection

Cons

  • I’m not mad about the metallic Pokémon Funko Pop because they have little to no details

Jumbo Charizard Funko Pop

Jumbo Charizard Funko Pop

Charizard is the only Charmander evolution available in an exclusive Funko Pop range. Unfortunately, Charizard is Ash’s nightmare when Charmander evolves. Still, it makes for some of the best Pokémon entertainment when it carries enough attitude to extinguish its flames. I laughed hard every time Charizard ignored Ash.

Features

  • Version/s: Retailer Exclusive Jumbo Charizard Funko Pop
  • Issue No: 851
  • Size: 10″

Pros

  • The jumbo Charizard Funko Pop is also a retailer’s exclusive with Target, making it double collectible, and being the only evolved exclusive version increases the collectibility
  • The Charizard Funko Pop looks like Charmander on steroids if you’re into the meaner versions instead of the cute ones, and the details are awe-inspiring

Cons

  • Jumbo Pokémon Funko Pop figures aren’t for every collector unless they have plenty of space

Jumbo Vulpix Funko Pop

Jumbo Vulpix Funko Pop

Vulpix seems like another sweet and tiny Pokémon that doesn’t belong in the jumbo Funko Pop range, but it’s here nonetheless. I prefer the flocked version, but Vulpix is still one of my best Pokémon, so I’ll support every exclusive version available. It doesn’t look bad, and the Funko Pop has exquisite details.

Features

  • Version/s: Retailer’s Exclusive Jumbo Vulpix Funko Pop
  • Issue No: 599
  • Size: 10″

Pros

  • The jumbo Vulpix Funko Pop also has retailer’s exclusivity to double up your collector’s potential
  • The giant version of Vulpix looks adorable from far away, and it towers over a collection to bring full attention to it if the Pokémon is your favorite legend

Cons

  • I’m afraid I have to disagree that Vulpix should come as a jumbo exclusive, and I’d rather see the Pokémon as a glittery exclusive

FAQs

Question: Which Pokémon Funko Pop is the Rarest?

Answer: The rarest Pokémon Funko Pop is one that made my list. The Convention Edition Vaporeon Funko Pop is rarer than you’d think. Sure, you can buy it at Walmart and Gamestop. However, there are four sticker versions to collect, and the chances of getting all four are as likely as jumping to the moon.

Question: Which Pokémon Funko Pop is the Most Expensive?

Answer: Fortunately, collecting Pokémon Funko Pops won’t cost you a fortune. The most expensive version on Amazon is the First Edition Super-Sized Pikachu Funko Pop, and it’s worth every cent for $114. Walmart has the most expensive version listed at $95, and it’s surprisingly the Regular Charmander Funko Pop.

Question: How Many Pokémon Funko Pop Exist in 2022?

Answer: There is 65 Pokémon Funko Pop available in 2022, including regular Funko Pop, jumbo Pokémon Funko Pop, Flocked Pokémon Funko Pop, Diamond Collection Pokémon, Metallic Version Pokémon, and Convention Exclusives. However, unique scenes with Eevee & Friends and Pikachu vinyl are coming out.

Question: What is a Day With Pikachu By Funko Pop?

Answer: A Day With Pikachu by Funko Pop is a new range of vinyl available. The packaging looks different, and the vinyl figures represent Pikachu doing something. These vinyl figures are similar to POP! Moments, but they’re exclusive to Pokémon. Pikachu might be charged up for a game day, or it might be completely thankful.

Question: What is An Afternoon With Eevee and Friends by Funko Pop?

Answer: An Afternoon With Eevee and Friends are exclusive and new vinyl scenes specially designed for Pokémon fans. Funko Pop uses these scenes to bring you unique stands with variations of Eevee because the evolutions are so popular. There’s a Leafeon Vinyl Scene, a Jolteon Vinyl Scene, and a Glaceon Vinyl Scene.

Best Pokémon Funko Pop Guide: Conclusion

Which Pokémon exclusive Funko Pop range appeals the most to you? The Convention Edition Squirtle Funko Pop and the Convention Edition Vaporeon Funko Pop are winners if you love convention editions. The Diamond Edition Eevee Funko Pop and the Diamond Edition Pikachu Funko Pop are excellent for glitter collectors.

The First Edition Pikachu Funko Pop is a must-have for die-hard collectors. The Flocked Eevee Funko Pop and the Flocked Vulpix Funko Pop feel as incredible as the figures look in a collection. Likewise, the Jumbo Charizard Funko Pop has as much attitude as Ash’s Charizard.

I can share the exclusives, but this is the time for you to order one that fits your collection and passions. These Funko Pop treasures are exclusive collectibles, so don’t waste time and lose the chance to buy one.

For more collectibles:

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