The latest episode of Pokémon Journeys’ Masters Eight Tournament aired on November 12 in Japan, featuring the thrilling conclusion of the grand finals between Ash and Galar Region Champion Leon. After a tense battle, Ash triumphed over the previously unbeatable Leon, becoming the world champion in the Pokémon anime series. This victory is especially touching, considering Ash’s long journey and previous failures to become a Champion in other regions (except for Alola). It’s incredible to realize it’s been over 25 years since the Pokémon anime began. Many of us who watched the show as kids are now adults. It took Ash two and a half decades of our lives, but he’s finally achieved the title of Pokémon Master.
From Humble Beginnings to Grandiose Adventures
Ash’s journey began humbly, like a slice of pie. The young trainer set off from Pallet Town with the goal of becoming a Pokémon Master—to be the very best like no one ever was. The anime has since gone through many iterations, covering stories from various Pokémon games set in different regions and even original areas.
Staying relevant in an ever-changing anime landscape is challenging, so the series had to reinvent itself continually. One significant change occurred when the show replaced Misty with new companions in the Hoenn region. This set a precedent for frequent changes in Ash’s companions with each new Pokémon game release.
The series underwent a soft reboot with Black and White, introducing an entirely new cast and dropping Brock. Pokémon XY retooled the series with a more shonen style, while Sun and Moon (Alola) brought a more comedic tone and a drastically different art style that drew criticism. Pokémon Journeys broke the mold again, featuring a globe-trotting adventure inspired by Pokémon Go. Unlike previous series, Journeys has only one side character, Goh, traveling with Ash.
Could This Be the End?
During its 25-year tenure, the Pokémon anime has showcased a plethora of central protagonists, individual series, and alternating head writers.It took Ash over 1,000 episodes to achieve his dream, prompting speculation that this milestone might signal the end of his journey.
According to The Gamer, only three episodes remain of Pokémon Ultimate Journeys. ‘Seize the Future’ and ‘Project Mew’ will conclude Goh’s storyline, but the final episode’s title is causing concern among fans. Translated from Japanese, the title is ‘Pokémon – I’m Glad I Chose You’ or ‘Pokémon – I’m Glad I Got to Meet You,’ which echoes the title of the first Pokémon episode, ‘Pokémon – I Choose You.’ This could signify a full-circle moment. While it’s uncertain if this will end Ash’s journey, the series’ reference to every Pokémon he’s caught, including Butterfree and Pidgeot, suggests Pokémon Journeys may be Ash Ketchum’s final adventure.
Life Goes On
While Ash’s tenure as the main protagonist might conclude, the Pokémon anime isn’t ending. We still have characters like Goh, Ash’s latest companion, who, despite some controversy among fans, could potentially carry the franchise forward.
With the impending release of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, introducing the Paldea region and new Pokémon, the series is likely to start afresh with a new protagonist and cast (Team Rocket might still stick around). Although Ash might not be a central figure anymore, he could still appear in films or cameos. Ash’s future remains uncertain, but the anime will undoubtedly continue into new regions or eras, with or without him.
Not seeing Ash weekly anymore brings a touch of melancholy, especially for those of us who grew up alongside him. Interestingly, Ash Ketchum embodies what every manager seeks in a perfect employee: a 10-year-old with 25 years of experience.
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