Tuesday, March 28, 2023
Daily Dose of Anime reminded fans on its Facebook page that Ash and Pikachu's final episode will air in Japan on March 24.
Ever since the news about Ash and Pikachu's last adventure broke out in December 2022, fans have been counting down the episodes until they had to say goodbye to two characters they have grown up beside for 25 years -- and that time is coming soon.
In the preview for Episode 11 of Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series, Ash reminisces how he has always dreamed of becoming a Pokémon Master since he met Pikachu.
The last episode teases Ash reuniting with his old Pokémon friends like Butterfree, Bulbasaur, Charizard and Squirtle. Ash even meets up with his old rival Gary Oak.
While there are still a lot of Pokémon in the world he still hasn't had a chance to meet, he's looking forward to meeting more people and making more friends.
Anipoke Fandom pointed out one touching change: At the end of the preview, instead of telling fans, "Everyone, go out and catch Pokemon," Ash promises his best friend, "Pikachu, let's stay together forever."
In the episodes leading up to Ash and Pikachu's final episode, Pokémon Ultimate Journeys have taken fans down a nostalgic road.
Misty and Brock, who were Ash's first traveling companions, returned. Ash also met his old Pokémon friends such as Lapras and Butterfree, whom he caught all the way back in Season 1 and subsequently let go, making for some heart wrenching reunions.
Following Ash and Pikachu's exit, Liko and Roy will take center stage as the new protagonists. Not only does Liko possess an "awe-inspiring pendant," but the young girl also has a strong personality.
Her companion Roy has a mysterious Poké Ball and a goal of challenging the Pokémon from the legends. The two will be joined by Friede and Captain Pikachu as they embark on their adventures. The new series airs on April 14 in Japan.
Ash and Pikachu's final episode, "The Rainbow and the Pokémon Master!," airs on March 24 in Japan.
