Pokémon has recently unveiled a captivating new type of Poké Ball in the latest episode of Pokémon Horizons, igniting curiosity among fans about its unique design, potential special functions, and implications for the future of the series. With a rich history of special and unique Poké Balls, such as the iconic GS Ball introduced prior to Pokémon Gold and Silver, new variations often pique the interest of the Pokémon community. The recent addition to Pokémon Horizons has drawn attention reminiscent of the fascination surrounding the GS Ball, hinting at deeper lore.
Several factors contribute to the intrigue of this new Poké Ball, from its distinctive aesthetic to the specific Pokémon it houses. While the long-term impact on Pokémon Horizons and the mainline games remains to be seen, early glimpses of this Poké Ball in the series present numerous details worth examining and speculating upon.
SPOILERS for the Pokémon Horizons anime follow.
Dissecting the New Poké Ball in Pokémon Horizons
The new Poké Ball makes its debut during a flashback in episode seventy-five, showcased with a mechanical, gear-like design wielded by the series antagonist, Gibeon. This ball is notable for containing a shiny white variant of the Legendary Pokémon Zygarde. Throughout the episode, viewers are immersed in Gibeon’s backstory, including his obsession with Laquium crystals and Zygarde’s previous attempts to remove these crystals from his possession. Zygarde’s perceived betrayal adds depth to Gibeon’s character and may explain the unique design of the Poké Ball he utilizes.
Yet, whether the new ball’s appearance is purely decorative or serves a functional purpose remains uncertain. Its striking design could simply be a thematic tool employed by Pokémon Horizons to distinguish both the Poké Ball and Zygarde. Historical context shows that previous Pokémon series and films have also introduced bespoke Poké Ball variants, like the Old and Dark Balls from Pokémon 4Ever and the already established Ancient Ball in Pokémon Horizons. These instances primarily served narrative purposes within their respective stories, suggesting a similar trajectory for the newly introduced Poké Ball.
A Nod to the GS Ball Mystery?
Beyond the visual variations of Gibeon’s new Poké Ball, its mysterious nature—especially containing a Legendary Pokémon—evokes memories of the much-debated GS Ball from the original Pokémon anime. Initially associated with the Mythical Pokémon Celebi, the GS Ball’s story arc regrettably fell flat, particularly after Celebi’s role in Pokémon 4Ever overshadowed it. While the GS Ball ultimately faded from the narrative, early indicators suggest that the new Poké Ball in Pokémon Horizons may have a more significant role.
Anticipating Connections to Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Given that this new Poké Ball contains Zygarde, it’s possible that it may be linked to the upcoming Pokémon Legends: Z-A, where Zygarde is anticipated to play a prominent role as its mascot. Notably, the episode’s title, which translates to “The Entrusted Future, the Shine of This World,”could provide insight into the storyline of Legends: Z-A, particularly concerning the future of Lumiose City in Kalos and its redevelopment themes associated with light. The steampunk-inspired aesthetics of the new Poké Ball may hint at a broader connection between Pokémon Horizons and Legends: Z-A.
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