It appears that in their next wave of character reveals, Pokémon have paid homage to KISS with one particular new creature: Obstagoon.
The bipedal weasel with black and white markings not only matches up pretty closely to bassist/vocalist Gene Simmons facially, but also comes complete with his signature massive flailing tongue, leading many people to believe that the character – who will feature on Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield for the Nintendo Switch – is indeed based on Gene. Even Obstagoon's pre-evolved characters – the Galarian forms Zigzagoon and Linoone – feature similar characteristics. Which is, obviously, awesome.
In a statement to Newsweek, Gene reportedly said: "Pokémon has been a part of our household for decades, ever since our kids first discovered them. And to see Pokémon pay homage to KISS is flattering."
On Twitter, though, he simply commented, "Welp."