Summary Highlights
- Ash and Pikachu’s legendary adventure concludes after an impressive 25 seasons and 1,232 episodes of the Pokémon anime.
- With Ash’s exit, the new protagonists, Roy and Liko, lead the way in “Pokémon Horizons: The Series.”
- Ash’s extensive journey included facing numerous rivals, evolving his Pokémon team, and rebuilding friendships across various regions.
Ash Ketchum and Pikachu’s iconic saga has reached its finale after 25 memorable seasons and an astounding 1,232 episodes of Pokémon. First debuting in 1997, the anime has become an integral part of a multifaceted franchise that includes video games, manga, and an extensive range of merchandise, solidifying its place in both Japanese and American popular culture.
Across the many seasons, Ash embarked on thrilling adventures alongside diverse companions, encountering rivals in his quest to become a Pokémon Master. Certain seasons stand out, both for their contributions to the Pokémon universe and as exceptional examples of animated storytelling.
As of January 16, 2025, by Ben Painter: Following Ash Ketchum’s departure from the series, fans are now introduced to refreshed characters in a new narrative landscape. Roy and Liko are at the forefront in their inaugural chapter, “Pokémon Horizons: The Series.”Since its inception, the Pokémon anime landscape has been expansive, featuring 25 seasons and various spin-offs. This update completes the official record of the anime series, incorporating “Pokémon Horizons: Season 2—The Search for Laqua.”
30
Pokémon Origins
Air Date: November 15, 2013
- Key Moment: Join Red and Blue on an adventure closely tied to the original video game storyline.
Beyond the classic tale of Ash and Pikachu, the Pokémon universe comprises a variety of short anime series available online for fans. Titles like Pokémon: Generations, Pokémon: Twilight Wings, and Pokémon Evolutions provide unique narratives.
Pokémon Origins distinguishes itself by closely mirroring the original game plots, focusing on Red’s journey. Initially available on YouTube, this series has transitioned to purchasable formats or streaming platforms, now comprising episodes that extend approximately 25 minutes—longer in comparison to its counterparts. While some may debate its status as a true anime series, it is undoubtedly a rewarding experience for avid Pokémon fans.
29
Pokémon Horizons: The Series
Air Date: March 7, 2024
- Key Moment: A fresh start with a completely new cast of characters.
In a significant shift orchestrated by the Pokémon Company, Ash Ketchum no longer leads the narrative after 25 years. New protagonists Roy and Liko take center stage, although beloved Pokémon like Pikachu and Charizard continue to have respectable appearances, albeit not in Ash’s possession.
The new series has been largely welcomed by fans, although a segment still yearns for Ash and his iconic friends. Pokémon Horizons: The Series offers a fresh experience for new generations of Pokémon fans, albeit some argue it lacks the legacy that Ash’s character established over the years.
28
Pokémon Horizons: Season 2—The Search For Laqua
Air Date: February 7, 2025
- Key Moment: The protagonists enroll at the Nanjara Academy and receive Tera Orbs.
This upcoming season has already aired in Japan, with availability in countries like the United Kingdom. Roy and Liko are now more developed characters, allowing fans to transition smoothly from the legacy characters of the past.
This new chapter also aligns more closely with the themes explored in Pokémon Scarlet & Violet, particularly focusing on characters enrolling in an academy to master the Terastal Phenomenon—reflecting the plot of the games. Considering the ongoing nature of this series, we refrain from giving spoilers or final rankings for now.
27
Pokémon XY: Kalos Quest
Air Date: February 7, 2015
- Key Moment: Ash secures four gym badges while striving to become Champion of the Kalos region.
As the second installment of the Pokémon XY saga, Kalos Quest positions itself as a transitional phase. The excitement of exploring unfamiliar Pokémon has diminished, and the thrilling conference battles and evildoers yet to be dealt with create a sense of limbo.
Despite being in this transitional phase, several significant moments shine through. A poignant scene involves Ash’s Goodra as it bids farewell to the team for the sake of protecting its homeland, while a newly hatched Noibat takes its place. Gym battles, including one against fellow trainer Clemont in the Luminose City Gym, add noteworthy encounters to this season.
26
Pokémon: Advanced Challenge
Air Date: September 11, 2004
- Key Moment: Ash earns three Gym Badges in his Hoenn journey.
Typically, Pokémon series can be divided into three segments, and the middle parts often lack the narrative drive of their counterparts. Pokémon: Advanced Challenge is no exception, with less advancing of the overarching storyline of the Hoenn region.
Significant moments include Misty’s return for a brief two-episode appearance, along with Ash acquiring Torkoal, who rounds out the team. Despite defeating Gym Leaders Flannery, Norman, and Winona for the Heat, Balance, and Feather badges, these middle segments often feel underwhelming compared to the more exciting beginnings and conclusions.
25
Pokémon: BW Rival Destinies
Air Date: February 18, 2012
- Key Moment: Ash confronts Giovanni, marking a major encounter since Mewtwo Returns.
Similar to Pokémon XY: Kalos Quest, BW Rival Destinies faces the challenge of being a bridging series. However, it gains an edge with multiple pivotal events, including an abundance of Gym battles.
Ash, Cilian, and Iris encounter the forces of nature, including Legendary Pokémon Landorus, Thundurus, and Tornadus, which are typically featured in movie formats rather than the series. Competing in a couple of tournaments, Ash’s journey culminates in an encounter with Giovanni, a rare confrontation with the show’s primary antagonist.
24
Pokémon: DP Battle Dimension
Air Date: April 12, 2008
- Key Moment: Ash secures three gym badges while clashing with Gary once more.
While the Diamond & Pearl series is generally considered among the best, DP Battle Dimension falls into the category of middle episodes that leave something to be desired. Aside from Gym Battles, it lacks significant plot progression.
A highlight includes the episode titled Fighting Fear with Fear!, where Ash has a chance encounter with his former rival, Gary, although the battle remains unfinished. Nonetheless, Gary’s gift of a Razor Fang allows Ash to evolve his Gligar into Gliscor, contributing notably to thwarting Team Rocket’s schemes.
23
Pokémon: Advanced
Air Date: September 13, 2003
- Key Moment: Ash and Brock embark on a new journey in the Hoenn region.
Pokémon: Advanced is particularly noteworthy as it marks a pivotal shift in the anime’s structure, introducing new main characters, May and Max, who replaced Misty. This transition mirrored changes in the games, showcasing a new adventure in Pokémon Ruby & Sapphire.
Fans were introduced to the captivating Hoenn region and an entirely fresh roster of Pokémon. Old favorites made rare appearances, alongside Ash’s new lineup—keeping only Pikachu. This season felt like a refreshing start, capturing the interest of audiences and maintaining a successful narrative direction.
22
Pokémon BW Adventures In Unova And Beyond
Air Date: February 2, 2013
- Key Moment: Ash participates in the Unova League and reconnects with Charizard, re-adding him to his team.
In Ash’s concluding series set in Unova, he faces a pivotal moment competing in the Unova League. However, the strength of his team in this particular season was not optimal, reflecting a recurring theme of unevolved Pokémon under Ash’s command.
This season resulted in another bittersweet league outcome for Ash, finishing in the Top 8—a frustrating setback in his ongoing journey to becoming a Pokémon Master. One of the standout moments is the return of fan-favorite Charizard, who rejoined after the Unova League and could have significantly aided Ash’s journey had he been present during the finals.
21
Pokémon Chronicles
Air Date: May 11, 2005
- Key Moment: A unique opportunity to catch up with side characters in this spin-off series.
Pokémon Chronicles is distinct as it is the only spin-off series within the Pokémon franchise, deviating from Ash Ketchum’s adventures and instead updating fans on several side characters he encountered during his journey.
The series commenced with a three-part special titled “Legend of Thunder!”set in the Johto region alongside characters like Jimmy, Marina, and Vincent. Following episodes delve into the lives of Brock, Misty, Professor Oak, and Ritchie, providing fans with enjoyable insights during Ash’s absence. While it diverges from the main anime, its uniqueness offers charm and nostalgia.
20
Pokémon The Series: Sun & Moon—Ultra Adventures
Air Date: March 24, 2018
- Key Moment: Ash & allies battle against Ultra Beasts.
The Sun & Moon series brought a distinctive animation style, continuing with the subsequent chapter, Ultra Adventures, which had significant plot developments.
During this season, Ash and his friends are tasked with combating Ultra Beasts threatening their region. Notably, Ash captures one named Poipole, adding an extra layer of excitement. There are high-energy moments and the introduction of fascinating Pokémon, though some fans found it diverged slightly from traditional elements they are accustomed to in Pokémon seasons.
19
Pokémon: The Johto Journeys
Air Date: August 26, 2000
- Key Moment: Ash explores the Johto region for the first time.
Airing back in 2000, the unveiling of a new Pokémon region was nothing short of spectacular. Fresh Pokémon to catch, towns to discover, and countless new adventures lay ahead. While it may seem dated now, this series undoubtedly had a significant impact.
During his journey, Ash captures key Pokémon such as Heracross, Chikorita, Cyndaquil, and even a shiny Noctowl, who proved integral in his Johto adventures. Heartfelt farewells were also part of the journey, with OGs Charizard and Squirtle departing to continue their own paths, although they would return in later seasons. Gym battles against Falkner and Bugsy mark this season, laying the groundwork for future Johto exploration.
18
Pokémon: Master Quest
Air Date: September 14, 2002
- Key Moment: Ash competes in the Silver Conference, triumphing over Gary and resolving their rivalry.
Pokémon: Master Quest features one of the anime’s most beloved theme songs but fails to fully meet expectations in terms of plot progression. It remains nostalgic for long-time fans, with Ash once again missing opportunities to evolve his Pokémon, affecting his chances at league success just as he did in Johto.
Ash finally confronts Gary, a long-anticipated battle in which he ultimately prevails, allowing them to reconcile their friendship. However, despite this milestone, Ash faces heartbreak as he is defeated by Harrison in the league’s following round, pushing him onward to the Hoenn region to pursue his Master ambitions.
17
Pokémon Master Journeys: The Series
Air Date: September 10, 2021
- Key Moment: Ash megas evolves Lucario for the first time.
Master Journeys represents the second chapter of the Pokémon Journeys anime, which aired from 2020 to 2021. This series chronicles the adventures of Ash alongside Goh and Chloe from Kanto to Galar, primarily focused on research for the Cerise Laboratory.
The narrative culminates in an intriguing finale where Dawn and Piplup are taken to a world devoid of Pokémon. Here, an unexpectedly capable Team Rocket adds twist and excitement to the storyline, providing an engaging conclusion to an otherwise solid season.
16
Pokémon Journeys: The Series
Air Date: June 12, 2020
- Key Moment: Ash meets Goh, both becoming research fellows for the Cerise Laboratory.
Breaking away from tradition, Ash shares his journey solely with Goh as they travel worldwide in their roles as research fellows at the Cerise Laboratory. Instead of confining themselves to a single region, Journeys invites viewers to reexperience past regions while exploring the newly unveiled Galar region.
This season introduces significant developments, including Ash capturing Dragonite, Gengar, and Galarian Farfetch’d—a wish for many fans since the show’s outset. Had he possessed these formidable allies during the Indigo League, his chances for victory might have drastically improved. Ultimately, Journeys enriches the Pokémon universe, allowing Ash to evolve as a trainer.
15
Pokémon: Adventures In The Orange Islands
Air Date: June 12, 2000
- Key Moment: Ash claims the title of Orange League Champion.
The second series in the Pokémon anime marked the first exploration of a non-Kanto locale. The Orange Islands offered a fresh perspective, as it was not directly drawn from any of the games, instilling a palpable sense of wonder.
Set in a tropical paradise, Ash Ketchum catches iconic Pokémon such as Snorlax and Lapras. This season showcases Ash achieving championship status for the first time, defeating Gym Leader Drake to capture the Winner’s Trophy. Memorable icons from the series include the Crystal Onix and the Pink Pokémon, leaving a lasting impression on fans.
14
Pokémon: Leadership League Champions
Air Date: August 18, 2001
- Key Moment: Ash faces numerous Gym Leaders in his pursuit of the Johto League.
Season four of the Pokémon series aired from 2000 to 2001, quickly ascending to iconic status. Apart from the inaugural season, Johto League Champions is highly regarded, featuring the original trio—Ash, Brock, and Misty—as they journey from Goldenrod City to Snowtop Mountain.
Steeped in history, the Johto region presents various Pokémon mysteries, with Ash facing three thrilling Gym Battles and engaging in classic Team Rocket schemes. This season skillfully wove nostalgia and innovation into the fabric of Ash’s enduring adventure.
13
Pokémon: Advanced Battle
Air Date: September 17, 2005
- Key Moment: Ash competes in the Ever Grande Conference but also finishes among the top eight.
Pokémon: Advanced Battle features another incredible theme song, wrapping up Ash’s adventure in the Hoenn region, though the outcome yet again sees him fall short with a top-eight finish, this time to the eventual champion, Tyson.
Action abounds as May competes in the Hoenn Grand Festival, culminating her contest journey, and Ash finds himself battling a member of the Hoenn Elite Four, Drake. While there are numerous highlights, it’s unfortunate that Ash consistently struggles in these pinnacle competitions.
12
Pokémon: DP Galactic Battles
Air Date: May 9, 2009
- Key Moment: Ash and his friends confront Team Galactic and their formidable Legendary Pokémon.
Set in the Sinnoh region, Galactic Battles depicts Ash and his companions contending with Team Galactic, an imposing threat exceeding the antics of Team Rocket. An unforgettable highlight is the climax of Ash and Paul’s long-standing rivalry, which began in Season 10.
Their final clash features a full 6-on-6 Pokémon battle packed with dramatic moments, showcasing their growth as trainers. Although not as refined as its predecessor, Galactic Battles still delivers thrilling Pokémon encounters.
11
Pokémon: Battle Frontier
Air Date: September 8, 2006
- Key Moment: Ash conquers the Battle Frontier but declines the benevolent offer to become a Frontier Brain.
Pokémon: Battle Frontier, the ninth saga of the Pokémon anime, captures nostalgia as Ash returns to the Kanto region to tackle the newly introduced Battle Frontier.
Featuring remarkable battles against Legendary Pokémon Regice, Regirock, and Registeel—commanded by Frontier Brain Brandon—the series took viewers by surprise. Kamikaze-style evolutions are presented as Ash’s Grovyle evolves into Sceptile, emerging as one of his most formidable Pokémon. This narrative neatly wraps up Ash’s Hoenn chapter, setting the stage for his Sinnoh adventures.
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