Generation II/Discussion of Generation II/Johto Thematic Motif

The second generation of Pokémon games were more directed towards mythology and tradition. The three starters were all "pure" element types, fitting the classic Water > Grass > Fire cycle all starters adhere to. Unlike other generations, all of the Johto starters maintain their single types through their final evolutions.

This was the first installment that put emphasis on Legendary Pokémon being actual legends in-game, in contrast to and the Legendary birds of Generation I. Ecruteak City fleshed out the legends of  and the three beasts, their relationship with one another, and the story behind their departure (the Burned Tower). Lugia was also glimpsed by an elderly man in Ecruteak City, and others, who stated it looked like a dragon in the sky. Even the uncatchable was mentioned as the "Forest's Protector" at the shrine in Ilex Forest.

The Kimono Girls upheld ancient tradition in both battling Pokémon and dancing. The buildings in both Ecruteak City and Violet City have an older structure to them as well. Kurt offered a more traditional means of creating Poké Balls via Apricorns which proved variably superior to manufactured Poké Balls.