Just when it seemed Pokémon fever couldn’t burn any hotter, Google has stealth-dropped a delightful surprise for fans: a hidden mobile browser game that lets users catch Pokémon right from the search bar. And yes, the goal is to collect all the original 151 pocket monsters—straight from your phone.
This unexpected Easter egg was quietly launched in early April 2025 and is only accessible via mobile devices. All you need to do is type the name of a Pokémon into Google Search. Once the search results appear, a Poké Ball icon will show up in the bottom right corner. Tap it, and just like that—you’ve “caught” that Pokémon, which gets added to your very own virtual Pokédex.
If you’re signed into your Google account, your Pokédex progress is saved, meaning you can catch them over time without losing your collection. Pokémon you haven’t discovered yet appear only as dark silhouettes, turning the experience into a game of “Who’s That Pokémon?”. If you’re stuck, you can tap “start with a hint” to get a clue, like “evolves from Pikachu” to help you guess Raichu.
Google says this surprise feature is a response to the ever-growing global fascination with Pokémon. In fact, according to internal search data, “Pokémon card” reached its highest search volume ever in the U.S. this February 2025. With interest soaring, this game adds a new interactive twist to the nostalgia-fueled fandom.
To make things even more rewarding, as players capture more Pokémon, they’ll unlock Master Balls, which allow them to snag rare legendary or mythical creatures like Mewtwo. These powerful items are a nod to the original game mechanics, adding an extra layer of thrill for long-time fans.
So what happens if you catch all 151 Pokémon? That part’s still a mystery. Michelle Chou, Google’s entertainment product manager, hints that there may be something in store for hardcore fans:
“Keep testing your knowledge, and the superfans will be in for a surprise once they’ve collected all of them.”
What that surprise entails remains unclear, but it has already sparked curiosity online among players racing to complete their collections. The mini-game offers no material rewards—just the joy of the hunt, the nostalgia of Gens 1 Pokémon, and maybe a wink from Google at the finish line.
For now, this fun and nostalgic experience is exclusive to mobile devices, so desktop users will have to sit this one out. Whether you’re a seasoned Poké-veteran or a curious newcomer, this hidden feature is a clever blend of Google’s tech and Nintendo’s enduring magic.
So grab your phone, open Google, and start typing those Pokémon names—Gotta catch ’em all has never been more literal.
