According to The Pokémon Company official press site, Pokemon announced a new animated series and storyline to premiere worldwide in 2023 following the end of Pokémon Ultimate Journeys. The Japanese version of the series will follow a new storyline and adventure with dual protagonists Liko and Roy. This series will take place in Paldea and features the starter Pokémon Sprigatito, Fuecoco, and Quaxly from the recent Pokémon video game entries Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet.
The Pokémon animated series has been running since April 1, 1997 and has followed the journey of Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town and his partner Pikachu for the last 25 years as Ash continued his dream of becoming a Pokémon master. Ash and Pikachu have gone through many adventures over the span of 25 different seasons and 23 animated films, meeting new Pokémon species and new friends to join their journey along the way. Because of this, many fans are shocked that the duo will no longer be the protagonist of the series especially after becoming the World Champion.
The Pokémon Company official press site claims that the new story will debut after the current season following Ash’s historical win as Pokémon world champion. The season will end with many special episodes which will feature many fan favorite characters such as Brock, and Misty. These special episodes will celebrate not only all of Ash’s achievements, but also will express gratitude towards the fans that have followed him and Pikachu on their long journey. Even Though it feels like the end of an era to many as the electrifying duo will no longer be the main protagonist of the series, the press release states, fans can be reassured that the new installment of the franchise will represent everything they love about Pokémon.
Fans can look forward to the new animated series premiering in 2023.
Below is the Official Pokémon YouTube Channel featuring the new series announcement.