This year marks the year I started using Razer products. While much of that was prompted by the expansion of their Sanrio line, I’ve stuck with Razer peripherals because of their quality, but let’s be honest, they evoke nostalgia. While original products like the Joro, which has become my travel keyboard, are really in the collaboration products that I’ve found myself recommending to everyone, the Razer Pokémon Edition line is no different.
On the outside, it’s easy to just dismiss Razer’s collabs as reskins of existing products. And I get it, adding Kanto region starters: Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle to the Kraken, Cobra, BlackWidow, or Gigantus doesn’t seem like much.
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Still, my search for gaming peripherals that match my aesthetic and keep my attention has meant that I have tried a lot of collab products. The one thing they all had in common before I started using Razer was that the designs were a little more than stickers printed on an item that would wear away extremely easily.
Razer Pokémon Edition Peripherals balance performance, Kanto nostalgia, and price.
That said, Razer’s quality of product has proven how well the art stands the wear and tear of consistent usage. While I’ve only used the new additions to the Pokémon collection for about a week and a half, they don’t show any signs of being different in terms of durability. However, the Razer BlackWidow V4 X – Pokémon Edition’s Kanto starters art covers such a larg surface it will be interesting to see where its at in about a month or two compared to the brand’s Sanrio collection.
However, from the outset, the design choice to use Kanto starters as faces to decorate the collection is thoughtfully laid out on each of the products. Even more importantly, the design is also featured on some of Razer’s more affordable products, making them more accessible for those looking to add something from their favorite franchise to their setup.
With that said, each product offers the standard benefits of its base model, but if you’re like me and using it for the first time, here’s what you need to know.
Razer BlackWidow V4 X – Pokémon Edition
PRICE: $169.99 USD
This isn’t just a pretty face. This RGB mechanical gaming keyboard boasts six macro keys and satisfyingly clicky, tactile Razer Green Switches. Additionally, unlike the Sanrio collection, the Razer BlackWidow V4 X – Pokémon Edition features a full 10-key and a media scroller (along with secondary media keys). The only thing it’s missing is a wrist rest.
The Razer BlackWidow V4 X – Pokémon Edition features a 5052 Aluminum Alloy Top Case, offering a durable feeling, while the Doubleshot ABS keycaps also allow for customization. Since the Razer BlackWidow V4 X – Pokémon Edition is wired, there is no input lag, as expected. However, the cord length did pose a problem for my standing desk, requiring some maneuvering.
While there isn’t anything that truly separates this BlackWidow from others, the fact that the Kanto starter art is across the entire keyboard is a selling point for someone looking to highlight their fandom. Ultimately, it’s a great keyboard with little to no drawbacks. It feels durable, and that’s what really matters.
Razer Kraken V4 X – Pokémon Edition
PRICE: $99.99 USD
The Razer Kraken headsets have been old reliable for me, and that continues with the Razer Kraken V4 X – Pokémon Edition. It features Razer TriForce 40 mm Drivers, a retractable Razer HyperClear cardioid mic, standard 7.1 surround sound, and Razer Chroma RGB. Additionally, the headset is wired with a USB Type-C or USB Type-A port, depending on whether you’re using the included adapter.
The biggest success of the Razer Kraken V4 X – Pokémon Edition is how comfortable the breathable cushions are after prolonged periods of use. When it comes down to it, comfort is key, especially if you use your headset for both work and play like I do. While the wired connection feels awkward after rocking wireless for so long, the quality and comfort are in a great balance.
Compared to my current Kraken V2, the Razer Kraken V4 feels larger on my head, but the comfort isn’t lost. Additionally, the vibrant, candy-colored yellow is absolutely perfect. From a design point, the bright yellow carries the Kanto theme with Pikachu tying the collection together.
Still, while the rest of the collection features a lot of starter Pokémon faces, the Razer Kraken V4 X – Pokémon Edition offers a subtle way to rep the franchise even in work meetings, with only the yellow color visual from the front, with the faces decorating the top band of the headset.
Razer Cobra – Pokémon Edition
PRICE: $99.99 USD
This wired RGB gaming mouse is engineered for lasting performance, and it effectively meets that marketing bullet point. With ultra-durable, ultra-precise optical switches, it’s designed to build a bond that truly clicks from the moment you start your adventure. The 58g lightweight design and optical mouse switches Gen-3 make the mouse extremely responsive.
The Chroma lighting with gradient underglow is minimal, so if the RGB is a driving factor in your purchasing decisions, this isn’t the mouse for you. However, the bright yellow body color is both vibrant and, as of now, has withstood frequent use. Additionally, the wired connection is fairly long and easily replaces my Kuromi Collection DeathAdder mouse, and offers even better custom options. The Razer Cobra is my second Razer mouse, and while I’m still figuring out what I like the most in the mouse collection, the vibrant color is hard not to love.
Razer Gigantus V2 – Medium – Pokémon Edition
PRICE: $99.99 USD
The Razer Gigantus V2 is a soft mouse mat designed for fast and smooth movements, meeting the standards of the other collaboration collection mouse pads. And visually, you really can’t help but smile when you see that big smiling Pikachu in the center.
This officially licensed lineup hits on nostalgia, but in doing so, makes itself appealing to both seasoned Pokémon Trainers and those just coming in with the current generation. By selecting franchise staples, the collection benefits from tapping into gamers who may not have returned to the franchise outside of Kanto, as well as those who are currently playing.
Ultimately, the easiest thing to call out about Razer’s Pokémon collection is that it perfectly blends classic Pokémon charm with Razer’s signature peripherals. And it has me excited to see what the brand collaborates with next.
The Razer Pokémon Edition Collection is available now.
