Guinness World Record for Pokémon super fan with 1,200 pieces of Gengar memorabilia
- Published
Lots of us enjoy collecting things that we love or admire.
However big your collection is, it'd need to be pretty big to rival that of Tsang Cheuk Tip.
The 32-year-old from Hong Kong has collected 1,200 pieces of unique Gengar memorabilia over the past 22 years.
Now his adoration of the purple Pokémon has now earned him a Guinness World Record title.
- Published22 April
- Published4 days ago
- Published25 September 2023
The Pokémon games inspired a spin off TV series and movies
"I was eight when I first saw Gengar. Among a batch of Pokémon figures my mom bought, there was this translucent, deep purple one that just grabbed me," Tsang explained in an interview with Guinness World Records.
"Later, playing Pokémon games, I found Gengar wasn't just strong - it was versatile, with that sly, adorable grin. Right then, I knew this little guy was my destined buddy."
Tsang decided to start collecting all kind of memorabilia, including toys, cards, clothing and stationery.
His rule was that the memorabilia had to be official or licensed to Pokémon.
Tsang had to photograph and carefully catalogue thousands of pieces of memorabilia in order to get his Guinness World Record
Collecting this much official Pokémon memorabilia can be expensive, so Tsang needed to think of ways to get his hands on Gengar goods more cheaply.
He asked friends to buy him memorabilia directly in Japan, rather than buying it himself at home in Hong Kong, where it was more expensive.
He says he also enjoyed negotiating with people directly.
"I love the thrill and connection of trading. That's something cash can't buy," he told Guinness World Records.
Pokémon champion Oliver is heading to the US to compete in the World Championships of the Pokémon trading card game
In order to get his Guinness World Record title, Tsang had to picture and catalogue every single piece of Gengar memorabilia.
"Some Gengars look nearly identical, so I had to write descriptions clear enough for someone to pick out the exact piece just by reading," he explained.
While Tsang is pleased with his achievement, he says he's not finished collecting quite yet.
"Collecting toys isn't just owning stuff. It's about the time you spend with them. Treat them well, or they'll get back at you - mould, tears, or getting lost."
Do you collect anything? Let us know in the comments.