The Pokemon anime franchise continues to evolve, with the recent stateside premiere of Pokemon Horizons: The Series garnering high praise.
In a conversation with Variety, Taito Okiura and Andy Goes, both executives at The Pokemon Company International and long-time producers of the anime, shed light on the future trajectory of the beloved series, particularly with regard to its iconic protagonist, Ash.
When asked about Ash’s potential return, Andy Goes remained cryptic, stating, “We’ve said farewell. Ash is still in the world. Anything is possible, I suppose.
In the world of Pokemon, there are so many possibilities.” Echoing this sentiment, Taito Okiura emphasized that Ash and Pikachu’s journey persists in the vast Pokemon world, albeit unseen by the audience.
“We hope Ash and Pikachu continue in their journey. Their journey is ongoing somewhere in the Pokemon world. It’s totally up to our fans’ imagination. For the time being, we would love to focus on the new story of Liko and Roy. Horizons invites a new beginning.”
The departure of Ash Ketchum and Pikachu marked a significant chapter in Pokemon history, concluding with the end of Pokemon Master Journeys.
Having amassed over 1,000 episodes and decades of adventures, Ash was given the opportunity to step away from the limelight and explore the Pokemon world without the constant gaze of the audience.
The current focus of Pokemon Horizons introduces new protagonists, Liko and Roy, as they embark on a journey through the Paldea region.
While Ash may no longer be at the forefront, the executives’ comments hint at the possibility of unexpected encounters along the road, leaving fans to speculate about potential crossovers in the expansive Pokemon universe.
As Pokemon Horizons unfolds with its fresh narrative, the executives’ subtle teasers create an air of anticipation, inviting fans to embrace the new stories while keeping the door open for surprises from the past.
The dynamic world of Pokemon continues to captivate audiences, showcasing the boundless potential that lies within its diverse and ever-expanding universe.
