Warning: Spoilers for Pokémon Horizons, episode #82
As it approaches the two-year milestone, Pokémon Horizons seems to be moving toward the conclusion of its main storyline, suggesting that the series may reach its finale sooner than many fans anticipated. This notion gained traction in the latest episode when a pivotal, series-long objective was finally achieved.
Initially, Pokémon Horizons presented two interconnected plot threads: the enigmatic pendant belonging to Liko, which is now known to be linked to the Legendary Pokémon, Terapagos, and the mission to recapture the Black Rayquaza, which escaped from Roy’s Ancient Poké Ball. Both elements are tied to Liko’s ancestor, Lucius, who, over a century ago, discovered a Pokémon Paradise known as Laqua. To protect this paradise, Lucius made a significant sacrifice by sealing himself away. Driven by their heritage, Liko and Roy embarked on a quest to locate the Pokémon that belonged to Lucius, including the elusive Black Rayquaza, in hopes of reaching Laqua.
Pokémon Horizons Finally Defeats the Black Rayquaza
After Several Failed Attempts, the Black Rayquaza is Conquered At Last
Equipped with four of Lucius’ six Pokémon, Liko and Roy journeyed to Area Zero to pursue the fifth, initially believed to be Entei. However, upon confrontation, they discovered it was actually a Paradox Pokémon named Gouging Fire. After a fierce battle, they triumphed over Gouging Fire, only to be confronted by the Black Rayquaza, demanding to challenge them. Despite their Pokémon being fatigued, Liko, Roy, Dot, and Friede bravely engaged in a fierce battle. Ultimately, Terapagos and Crocalor succeeded in overpowering Rayquaza.
Energized by their victory, Roy successfully recalled Rayquaza into the Ancient Poké Ball, thus securing the final Pokémon belonging to Lucius. The resilient Rayquaza acknowledged that Terapagos had significantly regained its power and agreed to guide the Rising Volt Tacklers towards Laqua. With Lucius’ Pokémon accompanying them, the crew set sail for Laqua aboard the Brave Olivine, following Rayquaza’s lead.
Conquering the Black Rayquaza was a monumental accomplishment for the series, as it had been Roy’s aspiration since joining the crew. Although still not wholly owned by Roy, Rayquaza’s return to its Poké Ball is a sign of its growing acceptance of Roy’s skills. As they approach Laqua, Roy is eager to continue building trust with Rayquaza, aiming for a more definitive partnership with the Legendary Pokémon.
Pokémon Horizons Moves Into the Series’ Endgame
The Story is Approaching a Climactic Showdown in the Pokémon Paradise of Laqua
After episode #82, a special preview of upcoming episodes presented some unexpected revelations. Lucius was shown to still be alive within Laqua, despite his prior sacrifice and the considerable time that has elapsed. A significant moment in the series depicts Liko meeting her ancestor, and the Explorers managed to track the Rising Volt Tacklers to Laqua, setting the stage for a climactic confrontation with Gibeon, the leader of the Explorers, and his shiny Legendary, the White Zygarde. Interestingly, it seems that Amethio may join forces with the heroes against his grandfather.
With the storyline surrounding the Black Rayquaza now resolved, and Laqua heading into its concluding phase, the likelihood of Pokémon Horizons reaching its conclusion is growing stronger. Currently, with fewer than 100 episodes, this would render it the shortest Pokémon series so far, which is quite unusual. While this confrontation may usher in a new narrative arc for Pokémon Horizons, it would require a notable shift in direction from the themes explored thus far.
Previously, in the 2024 Game Freak “Teraleak, ” details about the overarching plot of Pokémon Horizons emerged, although it remains uncertain if these plans are still being adhered to or have evolved. According to the leak, the series was expected to uncover Laqua at its midway point, making it possible that the end may not be as imminent as it seems. Should the series persist, it will usher in a new phase, but the specifics remain unpredictable. Regardless, it is clear that the narrative centered around discovering Laqua and the Six Heroes is concluding.
Typically, new anime series from Pokémon launch in conjunction with new game releases, indicating that a successor to Pokémon Horizons may not debut until the 10th generation of games is available. If so, that could extend the conclusion further into the future. Nevertheless, the existing story arcs of Pokémon Horizons are nearing their climax, leading to the impression that the series’ conclusion may be approaching.
Leave a Reply