Kalos

Kalos  is a region of the Pokémon world. It is the setting of Pokémon X and Y. It is based on the northern part of France. The Kalos region is shaped like a five-pointed star, with one of its biggest cities being Lumiose City to the north-central part of the region. It features a vast network of rivers and waterways snaking through much of its landscape, cities and towns. North-east of Lumiose City, lies a mountain range where more frigid temperatures exist, extending down into the plains below. Western Kalos features a vast ocean, where the shore side city of Shalour City lies in the middle of a cove.

Etymology

According to Junichi Masuda, the name "Kalos" comes from the Greek wordκάλλος, meaning beauty.^[2]

Cities, routes, and other locations

Kalos has sixteen cities and towns, and a Pokémon League.

Like in Unova, the routes of Kalos start counting again from 1, likely to represent its geographical isolation from the previously introduced regions. There are 22 routes in total.

Demographics

The Kalos Region has a total population of 868 including all the towns, cities, and areas.

Geography

The geography of Kalos varies greatly within the region. The region is naturally bordered by a vast ocean to the west and northwest, and the eastern and southern borders are formed by mountain ranges. These borders give Kalos its signature star-like shape, as a large peninsula reaches out to the sea in the northwest, creating one point, and elsewhere the mountain ranges and rivers create the remaining four points. Kalos is made up of three distinct divisions, all with their own unique characteristics in both geography and Pokémon; Central Kalos, Coastal Kalos and Mountain Kalos. Lumiose City is located near the point where all three areas meet.

Central Kalos is located in the centric and southern parts of the region. The area is dominated by large forested plains with multiple rivers crossing it. Most towns are surrounded by walls of some sort, and there are also many old castles and châteaus. Many important human settlements and landmarks are located here, such as the player’s hometown, Santalune City, a portion of Lumiose City, and the Parfum Palace.

Coastal Kalos is located by the vast sea in the western parts of Kalos. The mainly explored area is a strip between mountains and the sea. This strip is dominated by rocky shores in the southwest and lush beaches and forests in the northwest. Most human settlements are located by the sea. The peninsula in the northwest is known for its menhir stones. There are many important locations, such as the Reflection Cave, Geosenge Town, and Shalour City with its Tower of Mastery.

Mountain Kalos is located in the eastern reaches of the region. The area is largely mountainous and the temperatures tend to be cooler than in the other parts, with some routes and settlements having snow covering them. To the north there is a marshy area that is said to be haunted. However, the settlements are plentiful, and there are some important landmarks, such as the Kalos Power Plant that is built on a harsh wasteland, the Poké Ball Factory in Laverre City, and the Pokémon League.

Trivia

• The English names of cities and towns in Kalos are derived from various ingredients used in fragrances. Likewise, the names in the European versions are derived from various terminologies related to art.
• The word "Kalosian", as seen in Kiloude City's description, is the adjectival form of Kalos.
• Kalos is the only core series region that does not have a department store.
• Kalos is the only core series region that does not have a notable Ghost-type specialist at any point.