Although “ Pokémon Horizons: The Series ”
marks the first time that a new “Pokémon” anime series isn't headlined
by Ash Ketchum , the Pokémon Master isn't completely gone from the
franchise just yet. In an interview with Variety, Andy Gose ,
director of media production at The Pokémon Company International ,
and Taito Okiura , vice president of marketing, discussed the
Western release of “Pokémon Horizons: The Series” and the future of the anime
franchise. Pokemon. 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. “ At the moment, we would love to focus
on Liko and Roy's new story ,” Okiura said. “ Horizons
invites a new beginning .”
Despite criticism
over Ash's eternal 10-year status and his controversial losing streak as a
Pokémon trainer, Ash's passing of the baton to Liko and Roy was still
seen by many within the Pokémon community as a surprising and emotional 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.
Source: Variety
