Preliminary observations
Helpy: I'm using some help to filter your comments because I can’t check them all on my own anymore. To avoid mistakes, I’ll need your help too. I think I'll suggest using a format like: Name (Origin | Artist) - Link - Comment
NSH Exclusion Principle: NSH characters belong in their own category. I've kept some fringe cases that might overlap because they're difficult to discriminate—like characters with minor animal traits (e.g., cat ears or a tail).
Exceptions: As explained here. Similar to Digimon or Yu-Gi-Oh!, Pokémon was designed as a multimedia franchise. But Pokémon games didn't use to suck hard and in the games and anime, the characters share designs and personalities in a 1:1 relationship. Because of this, Pokémon characters exist in both categories.
Rules
I'm taking artistic liberties for preference, creativity, or feasibility, I believe. You'll get a better visual reference on the Finals' previews.
Take into account that signifcant changes will be in order in these cases:
Adult version is required.
Condensed/Uncanny references provided (e.g. Pixel Art)
Obscure/Specific Artist references provided
Reference was understood but I require changes due to preference, creativity, or feasibility reasons
Only the most popular options in the Entries were accepted. Vote time! ;3
We had too many entries so I have to split. Check Part 1