Next Pokemon Anime Series Won't Feature Ash Or Pikachu

It looks like Ash and Pikachu's tenure has come to an end, as the next series of the Pokemon anime will focus on Gen 9 with brand-new protagonists.

16th Dec 2022 13:58

Images: The Pokemon Company

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The Pokemon anime series is staple not only of Pokemon, but of video games and anime overall. It was the entry point for many kids to get involved in the world of Pocket Monsters, and it had a bonus effect on children in the West too, who for the most part, had never watched an anime series before.

Ash Ketchum and Pikachu's adventures are immensely popular for a reason, and their presence in Pokemon media has been crucial. But now, it's coming to an end.

Though producers have assured fans that we haven't seen the last of Ash and Pikachu yet, their tenure as the frontmen (and frontmouse) of Pokemon is nearly at an end. And now, we know who exactly will be guiding the Pokemon anime into the future.

Pokemon Reveals New Protagonists For Upcoming Anime Series

As Pokemon Journeys is set to conclude in a pretty emotional fashion, it has been revealed that a new Pokemon anime series is on the way. Two new protagonists are leading the charge into a new era of Pokemon.

The new series is set to take place in Paldea - the brand-new region that was introduced in this year's new mainline Pokemon Scarlet & Violet. Alongside the starter there of Fuecoco, Quaxly, and Sprigatito, there will be two new protagonists, Liko and Roy.

We've got our first look at the characters thanks to a new trailer from Pokemon, and it looks to set up a new adventure for a new era of Pokemon anime.

The trailer says, "Ash and Pikachu have had many encounters, many battles, and many exciting and memorable times. Every adventure is another step on the long path to becoming a Pokémon Master, a dream that never ends."

Ash's Finale Will Be Packed With Nostalgic Cameos

Though Ash might be saying goodbye, he's not doing it alone. It's also been revealed that his final episodes as the star of the Pokemon series will be crammed with familiar faces from Ash's long path to becoming Pokemon Master. Well, it only took you 25 years.

Misty and Brock are confirmed to make appearances, Dawn and Serena are set to show up, as well as Charizard, Lucario and Greninja. The final set of 11 episodes will start on January 13 in Japan, before a larger rollout at a later date.

Considering Ash and Pikachu have appeared in 1,300 episodes, the finale is set to be emotional. Ash has defined the Pokemon series for decades, so here's hoping it's not emotional as the infamous stone scene from Pokemon: The First Movie. Either way, we'll miss you, old pal.

Joseph Kime

About The Author

Joseph Kime

Joseph Kime is the Senior Trending News Journalist for GGRecon from Devon, UK. Before graduating from MarJon University with a degree in Journalism, he started writing music reviews for his own website before writing for the likes of FANDOM, Zavvi and The Digital Fix. He is host of the Big Screen Book Club podcast, and author of Building A Universe, a book that chronicles the history of superhero movies. His favourite games include DOOM (2016), Celeste and Pokemon Emerald.

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