I was around five or six when it came out, and obsessed with cartoons in general. A cartoon that came with lots of toys, games, and trading cards? My little heart couldn't give enough love. I remember my first card, before I could afford them, someone gave me a Caterpie and then someone else stole it after "beating me" with their Sandshrew.
Nowadays my parents couldn't care less what I'm interested in, as long as I'm not spending their money.