When Incineroar was announced as a newcomer in Super Smash Bros Ultimate, the decision was equally as controversial. Incineroar was designed by Game Freak what critics would call a "brilliant trolling maneuver". Incineroar was a controversial character from his debut until his announcement as an assumed Fire/Dark-type Pokemon (a disliked trend among Fire-type starters). Decidueye is the final evolved form of Rowlett. The other option was Decidueye, who first appeared in the same game as Incineroar's debut, with the same form as Incineroar. Sakurai chose Incineroar in order to obtain a wrestling character in-game. Masahiro Sakurai announced that Incineroar would be a newcomer in Super Smash Bros Ultimate in 2018, which was released on December 7th of that year. Incineroar first appeared in Pokémon Sun & Moon as the final evolved form of Litten. Incineroar's design was also drawn from the Hawaiian wildlife, which is fitting since the Alola region (where Gen 7 takes place) drew its design from the state of Hawaii. However, Incineroar is said to receive praise and love from children. Incineroar also has wrestler-like behavior and has certain moves inspired by wrestlers.
The "shiny" version of Incineroar replaces his red and black fur with orange and white fur. Incineroar is shown as a muscular red and black anthropomorphic lion or tiger with a flaming championship belt.
Litten is one of the three starter Pokémon in Pokémon Sun & Moon for the player to choose from (the others being Rowlett and Popplio). Incineroar was designed as the final evolved form of the Fire-type starter Litten.