Ash Ketchum Is Ending Pokemon Journey After 26 Years, Tokyo Ad Pays Tribute

The Pokémon animated series is saying goodbye to its famous protagonist, Ash Ketchum, after 26 years - and finally a championship win. The renowned trainer's journey began in 1997, and he has since captivated viewers with his adventures, intense battles, and never-ending drive to be the "very the best."

The Pokémon Company revealed in a video released on Twitter in December 2022 that 11 special episodes titled 'Aim to be a Pokémon Master' will be the concluding chapter in Ash and Pikachu's story. The series finale is set for March 24, 2023, with the last episodes currently showing in Japan.

Tributes have begun to stream in as the Pokémon community comes to terms with the end of an era. One of the most impressive comes from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo, where an advertisement for Ash's final episode shows a long loop of the trainer's highlights in the lead-up to his departure, according to Nintendolife.

Japan Ad Pays Tribute to Ash's Finale Season

The advertisement features scenes from Ash's entire stint as a Pokemon trainer, including every catch, evolution, and league final battle. It lasts for about 90 seconds and runs in a loop. According to Oricon News, the clips span the whole tunnel at Shinjuku Station, making it a must-visit location for every Pokémon enthusiast in Tokyo.

New Pokemon Series Await Fans

While the final episodes are now only available in Japan, fans worldwide are excited to see how the series concludes for Ash and Pikachu. The Pokémon Company has assured a fitting send-off for the iconic trainer, who has encouraged generations of fans to never give up on their dreams.

But as one adventure comes to an end, another begins. Along with the news that Ash's journey is ending, The Pokémon Company also revealed that a fresh new anime series would debut in Japan in April 2023. The new series will feature two new heroes named Riko and Roy, as well as the Paldea starter Pokémon.

While fans are obviously sad to see Ash leave, they are equally thrilled to see what the future holds for the Pokémon series. With over two decades of history and countless significant events, Pokémon has become one of the most beloved and enduring franchises in gaming history.

What We Know About Paldea

With the introduction of the ninth generation of Pokémon game, namely "Pokémon Scarlet and Violet," we are given a great peek at Paldea, the setting of the forthcoming Pokemon series.

Back in August 2022, a Paldea teaser revealed a slew of new details, including the addition of all-new battle mechanics and the whereabouts of a long-theorized Paldea region modeled from Spain and Portugal.

"Pokemon Scarlet and Violet" introduces a slew of new gaming features, items, and Pokemons, ranging from the cutest to the most powerful legendaries.

The Paldea region, like many recent experiences, has regional variants like the poison and ground-type Wooper, the Alolan variant of Raichu, a Diglett variant, and others. It is safe to say that all of this will be featured in the upcoming series.

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