It turns out we’ve been able to see exactly what Cubone looks like under the skull mask this entire time and honestly it’s adorable.
Revealed over on Reddit, Pokémon fans have had a chance to see what the creature looks like under the skull via an old illustration from 1999.
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I don’t think it’s an oversimplification to say Cubone looks a bit like Charmander once the skull is removed, though of course he has ears.
The Reddit post also shows what plush toys look like with the skull unstitched from the head of the toy and the similarities to Charmander are still strong.
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One fan mentions, “It stands to reason that the 99’ picture book is the more concrete reference. With the plushies included, you can assume this is a correct representation aside from the missing ears.”
While I agree, the picture book illustration makes Cubone look a little like a fox which is not the vibe when he has the skull over his head.
There’s no doubt though, in both illustration and plushie form, this little Pokémon is super cute without the trademark mask which makes it look much angrier and sadder, which is understandable, given the mask’s origins.
Apparently, this isn’t the first time Cubone has been compared to Charmander and it’s all in an origin story from fan fiction.
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One Redditor comments, “Fan fiction I read one time was that Cubone was a Charmander whos mom died at the nest before they had hatched. So they wear their moms skull.”
Another fan thinks that seeing this confirms that Cubone should have evolved in a different direction, “Even more reason to believe Kangaskhan should be the 3rd stage evo for Cubone.”
While it’s nice to get a peek under the skull, I do prefer Cubone with it as it creates instant character and backstory.
Topics: Pokemon