Since the nineties, the Pokémon anime has been a cornerstone of the franchise. It all started with Pokémon: Indigo League, following Ash Ketchum and his loyal Electric-type Pokémon, Pikachu. Over the years, the anime has grown, with later seasons introducing memorable moments and emotional storylines. While some fans remain loyal to the first season, many episodes across the series are unforgettable.
Classic Episodes From Indigo League
“Island of the Giant Pokémon” is a standout early adventure. Ash’s Pokémon are separated from their Trainer and get to communicate with each other through subtitled dialogue. They meet Team Rocket’s Pokémon, decide to stick together, and show that Pokémon aren’t inherently evil—they act according to their Trainer’s guidance.
Another iconic episode is “Pikachu’s Goodbye.” Pikachu meets a group of other Mouse Pokémon, making Ash question whether he should leave Pikachu with them. In a touching moment, Pikachu chooses to stay with Ash, solidifying their bond.
“Bye Bye Butterfree” is another emotional story. Ash’s first captured Pokémon evolves into Butterfree and falls in love. Ash releases it so it can be with its mate. This episode captures friendship, loyalty, and the bittersweet side of growing up.
Adventures in the Orange Islands and Beyond
In Pokémon: Adventures in the Orange Islands, episodes like “Charizard Chills” show the challenges of training a powerful but stubborn Pokémon. Charizard becomes sick after a battle and Ash nurses it back to health. Through care and patience, Charizard learns to trust Ash again, highlighting themes of friendship and perseverance.
During the Sinnoh League, Chimchar evolves into Infernape under Ash’s guidance. In the intense battle against its former Trainer Paul, Infernape proves itself and wins, showing how a compassionate Trainer can bring out the best in their Pokémon.
Memorable Team Battles and Epic Tournaments
In Pokémon the Series: XYZ, Ash and his friends unite to stop Team Flare and save the Kalos region. With teamwork, bravery, and the help of Pokémon like Zygarde Core, they thwart Lysandre’s plans, showing the importance of unity and trust.
Ash’s crowning achievement comes in Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series. At the Masters Eight Tournament, Pikachu is the only Pokémon left on Ash’s team against Leon’s Gigantamax Charizard. After a fierce battle, Ash and Pikachu triumph, marking one of the most thrilling moments in the anime.
Ash and Pikachu’s First Bond
It all began in “Pokémon – I Choose You!” when Ash overslept and ended up with Pikachu as his starter. Pikachu initially refuses to cooperate, causing chaos with a flock of Spearow. But when Ash protects Pikachu from harm, their bond begins. From this moment, their friendship becomes the foundation of the series, driving countless adventures across Kanto and beyond.
From classic Indigo League episodes to modern tournament arcs, these moments define why the Pokémon anime continues to resonate with fans old and new. Watching Ash and Pikachu grow together through trials, battles, and heartfelt decisions is essential for any Pokémon fan.