A new batch of episodes concluding for Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series will premiere on February 24, 2023!
Premiering in 1997 (1998 in the US), the Pokémon anime is an adaptation of the video games of the same name. It centers on 10-year-old Ash Ketchum and Pikachu, who travel across various regions training to be the very best like no one ever was. Although they got off to a shocking start, the two have become best friends over the years. Ash and Pikachu have shown their mettle as they battled powerful Trainers (rivals, Gym Leaders, Champions, etc.), exhibiting the spirit of determination, valor, hard work, humility, and friendship.
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One of the best examples of Ash’s progress is his placement in each successive League Tournament. He placed Top 16 in the Indigo League; although outside factors contributed to his loss, he took steps to become a better Trainer and person. He did not give up on his journey, gradually climbing the ranks before finally winning the Alola League. However, he did not stop there, as he learned to harness the power of Mega Evolution and Dynamax to prepare for the World Coronation Series.
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Just like the Sun and Moon seasons, Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series broke many old trends that stuck with the series since the beginning. Instead of sticking to one region and challenging Gym Leaders for Badges before entering the Pokémon League, Ash and Pikachu visit every region featured up to this point. One of the notable breaks from the series’ formula is having an episode where Ash and Pikachu are completely absent, “Time After Time!”, which focused on Goh’s backstory.
On November 11, 2022, Ash bested Galar’s Champion Leon in the World Coronation Finals, becoming the new Monarch and World Champion. A month after this momentous victory, it is revealed that the upcoming Pokémon anime will focus on new protagonists altogether.
The Final Season of Pokémon Ultimate Journeys Coming to Netflix!
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Part Two of Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series covers Ash’s battles in the World Coronation Series as well as his reunions with previous companions and rivals. Before his battle against Kalos Elite Four member Drasna, Ash visits Clemont and Bonnie, two of his traveling companions from the X and Y seasons. While in Kalos for special training, he remembers his Greninja while bonding with Lucario. Ash’s friend Chloe also meets another of Ash’s friends and enters a Contest Spectacular with her Eevee. Meanwhile, Goh’s final trial missions for Project Mew and trek through Galar’s Crown Tundra has Lillie’s family reunite for the first time.
Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series Part Two will be the conclusion to the story of Ash and Pikachu in the anime. Commemorating their 25-season journey is a collection of special episodes at the end of the season. The series is currently streaming Part One exclusively on Netflix for American audiences. Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series Part Two will be streaming exclusively on Netflix on February 24, 2023
Are you looking forward to the conclusion of Ash and Pikachu’s incredible 25-year story? Will you be emotionally ready to see Ash and Pikachu become champions in Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series? How do you think the 2023 series will follow without the duo so much of the world has grown up with? Let us know in the comments!
Source: Netflix
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