When a new major Pokémon game is released, it usually comes with a new anime series. The next installment won’t be named after Sword and Shield, however. The Pokémon anime will be Pokemon: The Series, which debuts in Japan on November 17.
The first episode to broadcast is called “Birth of Pikachu.” From the official TV Tokyo website: “There was a lone Pichu in a forest somewhere in the Kanto region. The young Pichu experiences an encounter and a farewell, just before Satoshi and his partner Pikachu travel. This story is the beginning of Pokémon anime.”
Satoshi is more commonly known as Ash in the North American localization.
From the official episode description, it sounds like Pichu grew close to someone, only to be left behind. It could explain why Pikachu was so hostile towards Ash when they first met.
Viewers will also get a look into why Pikachu doesn’t like to be confined in Pokéballs. Long-time fans know these habits of Pikachu began before he first met Ash, so Pichu’s encounter may have had a significant impact on who Pikachu is today.
The Japanese trailer also shows new Pokémon, both old and new, from the upcoming title Sword and Shield.
Ash will also team up with a new character named Gou, who has a Scorebunny as his partner. Gou is not going to be a sidekick or casual acquaintance of Ash. Gou has his own goals to achieve but seems to be teaming up with Ash to make his dreams happen.
Pokémon: The Series has made several new changes since Sun and Moon. The animation style has a more cartoony look, and the new series appears to keep the same features. Sun and Moon also celebrated Ash’s first win in a Pokémon League, making him a champion for the first time in the series.
Pokémon: The Series is a continuation of Sun and Moon. Ash is fresh from his win as Pokémon League Champion, but he’s not going to stop there. Ash still dreams of being a Pokémon Master.
Although there hasn’t been much news about what other characters may join Ash on his journey, some characters are returning. Team Rocket’s mischievous trio Jessie, James, and Meowth will all return, likely with plans to kidnap Pikachu and failing every time.
It’s currently unknown when Pokémon: The Series will be localized and aired outside of Japan.
