Although “Pokémon Horizons: The Series” marks the first time that A new “Pokémon” anime series is not headed by Ash Ketchum, Pokémon Master isn’t completely gone from the franchise yet. In an interview with Variety, Andy Gosedirector of media production at The Pokémon Company Internationaland Taito Okiuravice president of marketing, discussed the Western release of “Pokémon Horizons: The Series” and the future of the Pokémon anime franchise. The new anime features Liko and Roy as the two new child protagonists.
When discussing how the previous series closed the book on the nearly 25-year story of Ash becoming a Pokémon Master, international executives admitted that it might not be his final appearance in the anime. “We have said goodbye“Gose said. “Ash is still in the world. I guess anything is possible. In the world of Pokémon, there are so many possibilities“. Okiura added by saying that Ash and Pikachu hope to continue their new adventure of making more Pokémon friends, but that this adventure is best left to the fans’ imaginations. “For now, we would love to focus on Liko and Roy’s new story“Okiura said. “Horizons invites you to a new beginning“.
Despite criticism over Ash’s eternal 10-year status and his controversial losing streak as a Pokémon trainer, The passing of the baton from Ash to Liko and Roy was still seen by many within the Pokémon community as a surprising and emotional moment for the franchise. Despite the new focus on Liko and Roy, many fans continue to express their desire to see Ash Ketchum return to the Pokémon anime screen, keeping hope alive that their beloved favorite character may make one more appearance in the near future.
Fountain: Variety
