New ‘Pokémon’ Series Won’t Have Ash, But Welcomes Back A New Pikachu
At the end of 2022, The Pokémon Company announced that after 25 years, Ash and Pikachu’s journey was finally coming to an end. However, it promised a new series, set in the Paldea region featured in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, would be forthcoming.
While the new show’s main protagonists—Liko and Roy—were unveiled soon after by the company, many fans were still left wondering which character would take the place of the iconic Pikachu.
It turns out that Pikachu will be replaced by… Pikachu. The brand recently teased fans with a first look at two new characters from the all-new animated series, officially introducing Friede and his Pokémon partner, Captain Pikachu.
Captain Pikachu looks very much like the original Pikachu, just with a captain’s hat. According to Nintendo Life, which the pair are being marketed as “supporting characters” at the moment, it appears the world’s most famous Pokémon will continue to feature in the series continuation.
“As the Pokémon world expands and evolves, fans will be able to embark on a new journey of action, adventure, and friendship through the eyes of unique characters like Friede and Captain,” said the Vice President of Marketing for The Pokémon Company International, Taito Okiura.
“For 27 years, Pikachu has been synonymous with the Pokémon franchise, and we look forward to seeing this beloved Pokémon continue to have a significant presence in the animated series and remain an icon for the brand.”
We’re giving you a first look at two new characters from the upcoming, all-new Pokémon animated series!
— Pokémon (@Pokemon) February 24, 2023
Introducing Friede and his partner Pokémon, Captain Pikachu, who accompany our protagonists during their adventures!
âš¡ Stay tuned, Trainers—more info will be coming soon! pic.twitter.com/U7oAMVs7CL
[via Nintendo Life and Kotaku, images via The Pokémon Company]
