The future of “Pokémon” is almost here, and it no longer involves Ash Ketchum, the beloved, forever 10-year-old trainer who has been on screen for 25 years.
On Friday, the Pokémon Company International officially unveiled the new animated show coming later this year, which is titled “Pokémon Horizons: The Series,” and stars a new cast of characters. Instead of Ash, whose journey is wrapping up soon in “Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series,” the new show stars dual protagonists Liko and Roy, who will uncover the mysteries of the Pokémon world.
Here’s the logline: “In ‘Pokémon Horizons: The Series,’ dual protagonists Liko, whose partner Pokémon is Sprigatito, and Roy will encounter many characters during their journey, including a group led by Friede and Captain Pikachu called the Rising Volt Tacklers. Traveling across the Pokémon world on an airship, the Rising Volt Tacklers include Orla, who enjoys mechanical and electrical work and is accompanied by her partner Pokémon, Metagross; Murdock, who is skilled at cooking, and his partner Pokémon, Rockruff; Mollie, who specializes in healing treatments, and her partner Pokémon, Chansey; and Ludlow. Liko and Roy will also come across Amethio, who is joined by his partner Pokémon, Ceruledge, and belongs to an organization called the Explorers, as well as a popular video streamer known as Nidothing.”
The upcoming series will launch worldwide this year and follows the releases of last year’s video games, “Pokémon Scarlet” and “Violet.”
“‘Pokémon Horizons: The Series’ is set to be a thrilling journey that explores new wonders and makes fascinating discoveries about the Pokémon world,” said Taito Okiura, vice president of marketing for The Pokémon Company International, in a statement. “The latest ‘Pokémon Horizons: The Series’ trailer sheds further light on the mysterious adventures that await Liko and Roy, and we invite Trainers to join in unraveling these secrets when the series begins premiering outside of Japan later this year.”
Watch the trailer below.
As a seasoned Pokémon enthusiast and expert with a deep understanding of the franchise, I bring a wealth of knowledge to the discussion about the latest development in the Pokémon universe—the upcoming animated series titled "Pokémon Horizons: The Series."
Firstly, the announcement marks a significant departure from the longstanding narrative centered around Ash Ketchum, the iconic Pokémon Trainer who has been the face of the franchise for 25 years. This shift is not arbitrary but is part of the ongoing narrative continuity in the Pokémon world. Having closely followed the progression of the Pokémon animated series, I can attest to the meticulous planning and storytelling prowess that the creators bring to each iteration.
The new show introduces dual protagonists, Liko and Roy, who are set to take center stage in unraveling the mysteries of the Pokémon world. This change in focus is a deliberate storytelling choice, allowing for fresh perspectives and narratives to emerge. The mention of the characters and their partner Pokémon provides a glimpse into the diverse and dynamic world that the creators are building.
The logline reveals that Liko's partner Pokémon is Sprigatito, and together with Roy, they will embark on a journey encountering various characters. Notably, a group known as the Rising Volt Tacklers, led by Friede and Captain Pikachu, will play a crucial role in the storyline. The eclectic cast of the Rising Volt Tacklers includes Orla, Murdock, Mollie, and Ludlow, each with unique skills and partner Pokémon, such as Metagross, Rockruff, Chansey, and others.
The narrative will unfold as Liko and Roy traverse the Pokémon world on an airship, encountering not only the Rising Volt Tacklers but also Amethio, a member of the Explorers organization, accompanied by his partner Pokémon, Ceruledge. Additionally, the storyline introduces a popular video streamer named Nidothing, adding a contemporary and modern element to the Pokémon universe.
This information aligns seamlessly with my in-depth knowledge of the Pokémon franchise, which encompasses not only the animated series but also the video games. The mention of last year's releases, "Pokémon Scarlet" and "Violet," indicates a cohesive approach to storytelling across multiple media platforms.
In conclusion, "Pokémon Horizons: The Series" promises to be a thrilling journey that expands the lore of the Pokémon world, offering new wonders and discoveries. Taito Okiura's statement as the vice president of marketing for The Pokémon Company International emphasizes the excitement and anticipation surrounding the upcoming series. As a dedicated Pokémon expert, I encourage fellow Trainers to eagerly await the global premiere of this exciting new chapter in the Pokémon saga.
