After 26 years, 1232 episodes, and 23 movies, the Pokémon anime series aired its last episode with the beloved protagonists Ash Ketchum and Pikachu in Japan on Friday. In their place are two new trainers named Liko and Roy who will be the new stars of the Pokémon series.
Without spoiling too much, the last episode titled “Rainbow and the Pokémon Master!” doesn’t feel all too final. Rather it is more of a send-off for them to continue on their own adventures. In the episode, Ash is seen reuniting with the original cast, Misty and Brock as they venture off to Pewter City and Cerulean City. He also returns to where it all began, Pallet Town, where he connects with the likes of Professor Oak, his old rival Gary, and Team Rocket’s Jesse, James, and Meowth.
Below is the official synopsis:
“When Ash and Pikachu return to Pallet Town, they reunite with Gary who asks Ash the question: How much closer to becoming the Pokémon Master are you now that you’ve become the Champion? Becoming a Pokémon Master has been Ash’s dream ever since he set off on his journey with Pikachu. Will Ash be able to find the answer to this question?”
The English dubbed version of the final episode is connected to a Netflix deal and will release in the second half of this year. Looking forward, the next season titled Pokémon Horizons premieres on April 14 in Japan with the new protagonists. Take a look at the trailer below.
Man this is sad, can’t believe Ash & Pikachu’s journey is offcially done. Grew up watching this series before any other anime, will miss em. Here’s to a new series! pic.twitter.com/yngZwrWVyu
— SLO (@SLOplays) March 24, 2023
Where it all began…
1st April 1997
“This is just the beginning of the amazing adventures of Ash and Pikachu… And as their story unfolds, we’ll unlock the magic and mystery of a most wondrous place: The incredible world of Pokémon.” ??❤️ #ThankYouAshAndPikachu #Anipoke pic.twitter.com/2oH7JeAnBP
— Rafi (@ThePokeRaf) March 23, 2023
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