The end of an era: Ash and Pikachu's journey ends after 26 years of adventure

Everything that has a beginning must come to an end. The adventures of Ash Ketchum and Pikachu, the most recognizable characters in the Pokémon franchise, have come to an end. With the airing of the final episode of the anime in which they starred, an era has come to an end, and the franchise is ready to explore new horizons and have new leads that will continue showing us the Pokémon World.

Farewell, Ash and Pikachu: Final episode of Pokémon anime airs in Japan

On March 24 at approximately 6:00 a.m. ET, the final episode of the Pokémon anime starring Ash Ketchum and Pikachu was broadcast in Japan. After 26 years on the air, these fan-favorite characters said their final goodbyes.

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Ash and Pikachu are retiring in style, as we remind you that the boy from Pallet Town fulfilled his dream of being the very best (like no one ever was) by becoming the best Pokémon Trainer of all time with his decisive triumph in the Masters Eight Tournament of the World Coronation Series. A great reminder that with dedication and time, every dream can come true.

The future of Pokémon anime after Ash and Pikachu

With that, 26 years of unforgettable adventures, smiles and tears are over. Although, for obvious reasons (the Pokémon franchise is the most profitable of all time), there will be a new Pokémon anime with new creatures, new protagonists, and new adventures to live through.

Pokémon Horizons is the name of the next anime in the saga, which is set in Paldea, making it the anime of Pokémon Scarlet & Violet. In it, we will follow Liko and Rod on their adventures in this region of Spain and Portugal, and we will also meet other characters such as Friede, Captain Pikachu, and Amethio, among others.

Sources | Pokémon, Twitter/Pokemon