Ash Ketchum
Ash Ketchum is the main protagonist of the Pokémon anime series, which debuted in 1997. Ash Ketchum has been the central figure in the Pokémon anime for the initial 25 seasons, spanning from the original series to Pokémon Journeys: The Series.
Additionally, he takes the lead role in several manga adaptations derived from the anime, such as The Electric Tale of Pikachu, Ash & Pikachu, and Pocket Monsters Diamond & Pearl.
| Gender: | Male |
| Region: | Kanto |
| Position: | Pokémon Trainer, Champion |
| Generation Appearance: | Generations I, II, III, IV, VII, VIII and IX |
| Debut Appearence | Pokémon – I Choose You! |
Ash is a Pokémon Trainer from the town of Pallet in the Kanto region. He started his Pokémon journey at the age of 10, the typical age when trainers begin their journey in the Pokémon world. Ash’s primary goal is to become a Pokémon Master. His dream is to catch and train Pokémon to the best of his ability, compete in Pokémon battles, and ultimately win Pokémon League championships.
In the first episode of the Pokémon anime, Ash receives his first Pokémon, Pikachu, from Professor Oak.
Throughout the series, Ash travels with various companions, including Misty, Brock, May, Dawn, Iris, Cilan, Serena, Clemont, Bonnie, and others. These companions join him on his journey, each with their own goals and aspirations.
During Pokémon the Series: Sun & Moon, he achieves the distinction of being the first Champion of the Alola region‘s Pokémon League. Subsequently, in Pokémon Journeys: The Series, he ascends to the titles of Monarch and World Champion in the Pokémon World Coronation Series.
Anime appearances
Pre-series
Ash grew up in Pallet Town in the Kanto region, where he lived with his mother, Delia Ketchum. Little is known about his father, as he is rarely mentioned in the series, as he devoted the majority of his time to traveling.
Ash’s passion for Pokémon training was ignited at a young age. When Ash was six years old, he discovered that Professor Oak was organizing a Pokémon Summer Camp and excitedly requested permission from his mother, Delia, to attend. She granted him permission. However, Ash encountered an unfortunate setback when he accidentally broke his alarm clock while sleeping, causing him to oversleep and miss the camp.
Subsequently, Ash had the opportunity to participate in another of Professor Oak’s Pokémon Summer Camps, where he encountered a camper named Serena. She got lost in the forest and injured her leg, prompting Ash to come to her rescue. He provided first aid by wrapping a handkerchief around her injured knee and helped her safely navigate out of the forest.
In “Lights, Camerupt, Action!”, it was revealed that Ash and Gary were once friends who enjoyed watching movies together. In “The Ties That Bind” Ash recalled a moment from his past where he and Gary found an old Poké Ball before starting their Pokémon journeys. They argued over ownership but ultimately decided to split it in half, each keeping a piece as a reminder of their friendship.
Original series
At the age of 10, in the first episode of ”Pokémon anime, ”Pokémon – I Choose You!”, Ash sets out from his hometown of Pallet Town to fulfill his dream of becoming a Pokémon Master. He receives Pikachu from Professor Oak as his first Pokémon but initially struggles to bond with the Electric-type Pokémon. However, Pikachu initially dislikes Ash and refuses to go inside his Poké Ball. Despite their rocky start, they develop a strong bond as the series progresses.
During his journey, Ash is accompanied by a diverse group of companions, each with their own unique goals and dreams, adding depth and diversity to their shared adventures.
In “Pokémon Emergency!”, Misty confronts Ash when she discovers her bike, which he borrowed without permission to save Pikachu, is destroyed. Team Rocket becomes fixated on capturing Pikachu after witnessing its power. Misty, seeking repayment for her bike, decides to accompany Ash to Pewter City, vowing to stick with him until her debt is settled.
In “Ash Catches a Pokémon”, Ash captures his first Pokémon, a Caterpie. The following day, he adds a Pidgeotto to his growing team of Pokémon companions.
Ash’s primary goal is to earn Gym Badges by defeating Pokémon Gym Leaders across the Kanto region in battles. These badges are necessary to qualify for entry into the Pokémon League Championships in ”Showdown in Pewter City”.
In his initial battle with Brock, the Pewter Gym Leader, Ash suffers a resounding defeat. However, during their rematch, Ash comes close to victory, showcasing his growth as a Trainer. Touched by Ash’s compassion for Pokémon and inspired by the return of his estranged father, Flint, Brock decides to join Ash on his journey. He entrusts Ash with the Boulder Badge, signifying their newfound friendship and Brock’s decision to pursue his dream of becoming the world’s greatest Pokémon Breeder alongside Ash.
In “The Water Flowers of Cerulean City” Ash encounters Misty, who surprises him as one of the Cerulean Gym Leaders. Despite an interruption from Team Rocket, Pikachu’s valor earns Ash the Cascade Badge from Misty’s sisters. Their journey together continues, with Misty aspiring to become the world’s premier Water Pokémon Master.
Ash completes his collection of Kanto’s first partner Pokémon by acquiring Bulbasaur in “Bulbasaur and the Hidden Village”. Initially guarded, Bulbasaur gradually warms up to Ash after witnessing his compassion towards an Oddish in danger. Agreeing to join Ash’s team after a victorious battle, Bulbasaur becomes an invaluable addition to Ash’s roster. In “Charmander – The Stray Pokémon”, Ash and his companions encounter a Charmander abandoned by its previous Trainer, Damian, in the rain. After Charmander rescues Pikachu from Team Rocket, Ash decides to catch him. In “Here Comes the Squirtle Squad” Ash and friends meet the Squirtle Squad, abandoned by their Trainers. Manipulated by Team Rocket, they capture Pikachu but are betrayed. Touched by Ash’s kindness, the Squirtle leader joins his team, while the rest train as firefighters with Officer Jenny.
Despite his efforts, Ash often finds himself encountering his childhood rival, Gary. Their interactions, along with reminders from Professor Oak, serve as constant reminders to Ash that he’s consistently one step behind Gary.
Several of Ash’s initial Gym Badges were bestowed upon him as tokens of gratitude for his aid rather than as a result of outright victories in battles against Gym Leaders. Out of the first five Gym Badges Ash obtained in Kanto, only Lt. Surge’s Thunder Badge in “Electric Shock Showdown” was earned through a genuine victory in battle.
As Ash remained committed to his objective, his perseverance eventually yielded results. Following the acquisition of his initial eight Badges, he proceeded to participate in the Indigo Plateau Conference. Surpassing Gary by reaching the fifth round and ultimately landing in the Top 16, his journey was halted due to his Charizard‘s refusal to battle.
After his defeat in the Indigo League, Professor Oak tasks Ash with retrieving the GS Ball from Pokémon Professor Ivy on Valencia Island in the Orange Archipelago. While there, Ash discovers the Orange Crew, akin to Gym Leaders, offering challenges for Trainers to tackle in the Orange League. With Brock staying to assist Professor Ivy, Ash and Misty are joined by Pokémon Watcher Tracey Sketchit. Together, they traverse the Orange Islands atop a lost Lapras, which Ash later catches. Overcoming the challenges posed by the Orange Crew, Ash eventually defeats the Supreme Gym Leader, Drake, and wins the Orange League, earning a place in the Orange League Hall of Fame. Before departing, Ash reunites his Lapras with its pod in the wild.
Upon his return to Pallet Town, Ash finds Brock has come back as well. Meanwhile, Tracey remains at Professor Oak’s Lab to assist him, and Brock reunites with Ash and Misty. Following his triumph in the Orange League, Ash crosses paths with Gary once more. Despite losing a one-on-one battle, Ash discovers Gary has been diligently training for the Silver Conference in Johto.
Excited to encounter new Pokémon and reunite with an old rival, Ash and his companions embark on a journey to the Johto region. Their goal is to earn eight Badges from Johto’s Gym Leaders and compete in the Johto League. Throughout their travels, much like in Kanto, Ash, Misty, and Brock leave a positive impact on the people and Pokémon they meet.
During the Grass Tournament in “The Grass Route”, Ash competes with Bulbasaur but falls short in the final round against Ephraim’s Skiploom. In the Whirl Cup at the Whirl Islands, Ash reaches the Top 16 alongside Misty. However, he is defeated by Misty. Ash and his friend Ritchie later join forces to rescue Silver, a young Lugia, and its parent from the clutches of Team Rocket’s sinister plans.
During Ash’s Johto adventures, his rivalry with Gary evolves as Gary starts respecting him more. Ash’s maturity is showcased as he prioritizes his Pokémon’s well-being. After earning all eight Johto Gym Badges, Ash and Gary face off in the Silver Conference, where Ash emerges victorious for the first time. Their rivalry ends on friendly terms, signifying Ash’s growth. As Ash’s journey through Kanto and Johto ends, he bids farewell to Brock and Misty as they return home.
Pokémon the Series: Ruby and Sapphire appearences
In the Pokémon the Series: Ruby and Sapphire, Ash embarks on a new journey in the Hoenn region, accompanied by his trusty Pikachu.
Ash is joined by two new companions, May and her younger brother Max. May is an aspiring Pokémon Coordinator, while Max is a Pokémon enthusiast with a vast knowledge of Pokémon. Shortly after departing from Petalburg City, Brock rejoined Ash and his companions.
Ash sets out to collect Hoenn’s eight Gym Badges to qualify for the Hoenn League. Along the way, he faces formidable Gym Leaders such as Roxanne, Brawly, Wattson, and others.
Ash becomes entangled in the conflict between the villainous organizations Team Aqua and Team Magma, who seek to control legendary Pokémon to manipulate the region’s ecosystems.
Alongside May, Max, and their friends, Ash works to thwart their plans and protect the Hoenn region. Thanks to Team Rocket’s unwitting assistance, they played a role in saving the entire Hoenn region.
Although Ash lacked a prominent recurring rival in Hoenn, he developed friendly rivalries with certain Trainers he encountered multiple times. Morrison, a competitive and similar-minded Trainer, became one of Ash’s close friends, appearing towards the end of their journey in Hoenn. Despite coming close, Ash fell short of winning the Ever Grande Conference, losing to Tyson in the finals, who ultimately claimed victory in the tournament.
After saying goodbye to his companions, Ash returns to Pallet Town. Along the way, he learns about the Battle Frontier from Scott and Agatha in Viridian City. Eager to take on the challenge, he decides to participate. Joined by Brock, May, and Max, Ash embarks on this adventure. Despite defeating the seven Frontier Brains and being offered a position, Ash opts to decline, opting to continue his journey as a Pokémon Trainer.
Pokémon the Series: Ruby and Sapphire chronicles Ash’s adventures as he explores the Hoenn region, faces new challenges, and forms strong bonds with his friends and Pokémon.
Pokémon the Series: Diamond and Pearl appearences
In Pokémon the Series: Diamond and Pearl, Ash journeys through the Sinnoh region alongside his trusty Pikachu, encountering new Pokémon, challenges, and friends.
Ash is joined by two new companions, Dawn, an aspiring Pokémon Coordinator from from Twinleaf Town (he aspires to follow in her mother Johanna’s footsteps and become a top-tier Coordinator), and Brock, who returns to travel with Ash once again. Together, they form a strong team as they explore Sinnoh and pursue their respective goals.
During his journey through Sinnoh, Ash developed a fierce rivalry with a Trainer named Paul, which intensified following their participation in a Tag Battle Tournament.
Inspired by Dawn’s goal of becoming a top Pokémon Coordinator, Ash also becomes involved in Pokémon Contests, participating in various events throughout the Sinnoh region. During his time in Sinnoh, Ash participated in two Pokémon Contests, first in Jubilife City and later in the Wallace Cup at Wallace’s suggestion. Additionally, he showcased his talents in the Hearthome Collection fashion show in “Arriving in Style!”, where he claimed third place and received the Unique Award for his innovative performance.
As Ash and his friends journeyed through Sinnoh, they delved into its legendary lore, with Ash chosen by Azelf, one of the lake guardians. Together with Cynthia, Looker, and even Team Rocket, they confronted threats like Pokémon Hunter J and Team Galactic. Their combined efforts prevented Cyrus’s dangerous plans, ensuring the safety of the Sinnoh region.
Ash sets out to collect Sinnoh’s eight Gym Badges to qualify for the Sinnoh League. Along the way, he faces Gym Leaders such as Roark, Gardenia, Maylene, and others, showcasing his battling skills and determination to succeed. After earning all the necessary Sinnoh Gym Badges, Ash qualified for the Sinnoh Pokémon League Conference. In the ”Lily of the Valley Conference”, he successfully progressed to the Top 4 through his skillful battles.
Pokémon the Series: Diamond and Pearl chronicles Ash’s adventures as he explores the Sinnoh region, faces new challenges, and forms strong bonds with his friends and Pokémon. Following Pokémon the Series: Diamond and Pearl, Ash, Dawn, and Brock part ways, each embarking on their own individual journeys.
Pokémon the Series: Black & White appearences
In Pokémon the Series: Black & White, Ash ventures to the Unova region with his Pikachu, ready to embark on new adventures and challenges.
Ash is joined by two new companions, Iris and Cilan. Iris is a spirited Pokémon Trainer with a deep connection to Dragon-type Pokémon, while Cilan is one of the Striaton Gym Leaders and a knowledgeable Pokémon Connoisseur with a passion for gourmet food.
During their stay in Unova, in addition to pursuing Gym Badges, Ash and his friends also participated in local competitions such as the Club Battle, Clubsplosion, and Pokémon World Tournament Junior Cup. Despite putting up strong battles, Ash fell short of winning any of the tournaments and ended up as the runner-up in two out of the three.
During their journey, Ash and his friends got caught up in Team Rocket’s plot led by Giovanni. Team Rocket sought to control the world using a Meloetta befriended by Ash and harness the power of the Forces of Nature. With help from Cynthia and Ridley, Ash and his friends managed to foil Team Rocket’s scheme.
Ash sets out to collect Unova’s eight Gym Badges, facing Gym Leaders such as Cilan’s brothers Chili, Cress, and Cilan himself, as well as other formidable opponents like Lenora, Clay, and Skyla. Upon earning eight Unova Gym Badges, Ash earned the opportunity to compete in the Vertress Conference alongside both his existing and some new rivals. He advanced to the Top 8 of the Vertress Conference.
After the Vertress Conference, Ash, Dawn, and Brock explore ruins discovered by Professor Juniper’s father, Cedric Juniper. Along the way, they encounter a mysterious young man named N and become embroiled in the schemes of Ghetsis, Colress, and Team Plasma, who seek to use Reshiram’s power to conquer the world. With the help of Looker, Team Rocket, Professor Cedric, N, Anthea, and Concordia, they thwart Team Plasma’s plot.
As their journey nears its end, Ash and his friends opt for a leisurely route back to Kanto, traveling through the Decolore Islands on luxury liners. Along the way, Ash meets Alexa, a Pokémon Journalist, who introduces him to the Kalos region. Upon reaching Kanto, Ash bids farewell to Iris and Cilan, who wish to pursue their own dreams in different directions.
Overall, Pokémon the Series: Black & White follows Ash’s journey as he explores the Unova region, encounters new Pokémon and friends, and strives to become a Pokémon Master.
Pokémon the Series: XY appearences
In Pokémon the Series: XY, Ash embarks on a new journey in the Kalos region alongside his lovely Pikachu, eager to explore new adventures and challenges.
After a brief stop in Pallet Town, Ash leaves his Pokémon with Professor Oak and heads to the Kalos region with Alexa. Upon arriving in Lumiose City, he attempts to challenge the Lumiose Gym but is ejected due to not having any Kalos Badges. Clemont and Bonnie rescue him and introduce him to Professor Sycamore. Ash learns about Mega Evolution and helps calm down an enraged Garchomp. Witnessing Mega Evolution for the first time, he captures Froakie and is joined by Clemont and Bonnie on his journey.
Ash is joined by two new companions, Serena, a Pokémon Performer with dreams of becoming a Kalos Queen, and Clemont, a Gym Leader with a passion for inventing. Together, they form a close-knit team as they traverse the Kalos region.
Ash sets out to collect Kalos’s eight Gym Badges to qualify for the Kalos League. Along the way, he faces Gym Leaders such as Viola, Grant, Korrina, Olympia and others, showcasing his battling skills and determination to succeed.
Ash earned his first Kalos Badge, the Bug Badge, by defeating the Santalune Gym Leader, Viola. Serena, who remembered Ash from their childhood encounter, joins the group in pursuit of reuniting with him, despite Ash initially not recalling their meeting. Together, they discover that Clemont is the exiled Lumiose Gym Leader and assist him in resolving the issue with Clembot.
Upon returning to Lumiose City, Ash participated in the Lumiose Conference. Following a series of impressive wins, Ash had Goodra rejoin his team for the semi-final battle against Sawyer. In the Lumiose Conference finals, Ash and Alain engaged in an intense battle that culminated in Alain’s Mega Charizard X facing off against Ash’s Greninja in its Ash-Greninja form. Despite a valiant effort, Greninja was ultimately defeated, resulting in Ash becoming the Runner-Up. Despite the outcome, Ash displayed admirable sportsmanship by shaking Alain’s hand after the battle.
Ash becomes entangled in the conflict with Team Flare, a sinister organization seeking to create a beautiful world by harnessing the power of Legendary Pokémon. Alongside Serena, Clemont, and their friends, Ash works to thwart Team Flare’s plans and protect Kalos from their destructive ambitions.
During the Lumiose Conference’s closing ceremony, Team Flare launches their final operation, causing destruction in Lumiose City using Zygarde’s power. Ash and his Pokémon are captured by Team Flare atop Prism Tower, intending to use Ash and Greninja’s Bond Phenomenon for their plans. However, Ash resists, convincing Greninja to do the same. With Pikachu’s help, they break free and engage Lysandre in battle, ultimately defeating him. Together, they confront the Giant Rock crisis, ultimately saving Chespie with everyone’s combined effort.
After resolving issues with Alain and Serena, Ash bids farewell to his rivals. With the group’s effort, they thwart Xerosic’s plans and reunite with Squishy and Z2, who request Greninja’s help. Understanding the importance, Ash bids farewell to Greninja, and they part ways. Ash then says goodbye to his friends and returns to Pallet Town after releasing Greninja.
In Pokémon the Series: XY, we witness Ash’s adventures as he explores the Kalos region, makes new friends, encounters unique Pokémon, and works towards his goal of becoming a Pokémon Master.
Pokémon the Series: Sun & Moon appearences
In Pokémon the Series: Sun & Moon, Ash’s journey takes him to the beautiful and vibrant Alola region, where he enrolls in the Pokémon School to further his education and training. Here, he meets new friends like Lillie, Kiawe, Mallow, Lana, and Sophocles, as well as his mischievous classmate, Team Rocket’s Jessie and James, and their companion Meowth.
Unlike previous series, the Sun & Moon series takes a more relaxed approach to Ash’s adventures, with a focus on character development, slice-of-life episodes, and comedic moments. Throughout the series, Ash encountered Tapu Koko, the guardian deity of Melemele Island, who bestowed upon him a Z-Ring along with an Electrium Z Crystal. Following this encounter, Tapu Koko challenged Ash and Pikachu to a battle. During the battle, Ash’s Electrium Z Crystal shattered as they unleashed the powerful Z-Move Gigavolt Havoc against Tapu Koko. Motivated by this experience, Ash resolved to embark on the island challenge to acquire new Z-Crystals and demonstrate his skills.
Alongside his trusty Pikachu, Ash forms strong bonds with his Pokémon team, which includes new additions like Rowlet, Lycanroc, and Incineroar, as well as familiar faces from previous regions. He also learns about the unique Z-Moves of Alola and develops new battling techniques to adapt to the region’s diverse battling styles.
Ash acquired a Normalium Z following his battle with Totem Gumshoos on Melemele Island. After winning his grand trial against Melemele Island Kahuna Hala, Tapu Koko presented him with a new Electrium Z Crystal. Additionally, Ash developed a friendly rivalry with Lillie’s brother, Gladion. Throughout his journey on Akala Island, Ash obtained a Grassium Z and Rockium Z during his trials and grand trials. He also had a brief reunion with Brock, Misty, and some of his Pokémon during a field trip to Kanto for an extracurricular activity.
Ash was entrusted with caring for a Cosmog by Solgaleo and Lunala, after encountering them in a dream. Dubbed Nebby by Lillie, the Cosmog developed a fondness for Ash but often caused trouble with its teleportation ability. When Nebby was kidnapped by Faba, Ash, Lillie, Gladion, and Lusamine teamed up to rescue it. Faba forced Nebby to summon a Nihilego from an Ultra Wormhole, causing Nebby to evolve into Cosmoem. With the help of the guardian deities, Nebby evolved into Solgaleo, upgrading Ash’s Z-Ring into a Z-Power Ring. Ash used Solgaleo’s Z-Move to open an Ultra Wormhole, allowing them to enter Ultra Space. Using a special Z-Crystal, Ash and Pikachu defeated Nihilego, rescuing Lusamine. With their mission complete, Lusamine returned to the Altar of the Sunne through the Ultra Wormhole.
After Kukui and Burnet’s wedding, Ash and friends joined the Ultra Guardians to handle Ultra Beasts. Their first mission involved capturing a Buzzwole at Mahalo Trail. They found Buzzwole enjoying flexing rather than battling. Ash and Kiawe distracted it while Ash captured it with a Beast Ball. Later, Professor Burnet opened a wormhole at Melemele Meadow to return Buzzwole home.
Subsequently, Ash encountered a Poipole that exhibited a peculiar attachment to Pikachu. It was later confirmed that Poipole was indeed an Ultra Beast.
Ash tried to partake in the Ula’ula Island challenge, only to be turned down by Nanu and defeated in an unexpected “pre-trial”. Undeterred, Ash chose to remain on the island and undergo training with Tapu Bulu.
Ash led the Ultra Guardians’ investigation into mysterious dark clouds over Alola, caused by Necrozma pursuing Lunala. A battle ensued, during which Necrozma possessed both Lunala and Nebby. The Ultra Guardians ventured into Poipole’s world, discovering Necrozma’s need to regain its true form to release Nebby. After acquiring Z-Crystals, they shared their Z-Power with Necrozma, restoring its light and transforming it into Ultra Necrozma. With their mission accomplished, Ash bid farewell to Poipole, who opted to remain in its world.
Later, Ash and his classmates journeyed to Poni Island for their school research projects. Ash’s project involved a grand trial battle, where he faced the island’s new kahuna, Hapu, in a one-on-one battle. Emerging victorious, Ash let Pikachu choose their reward, and they received a Steelium Z.
After his triumph, Ash entered the inaugural Manalo Conference alongside his classmates. Advancing to the semifinals, he confronted the Team Skull Boss Guzma in a heated battle. Following a grueling match, Ash emerged victorious, defeating Guzma and securing his spot in the finals. With determination and skill, he clinched the championship title, becoming the Alola League Champion. Upon clinching the Alola League championship, Ash earned the privilege of engaging in an exhibition match against the Masked Royal.
Following the conclusion of the Manalo Conference, Ash found himself uncertain about his next steps. Inspired by Olivia’s words, he resolved to return home and embark on a journey around the globe. Ash’s journey in Pokémon the Series: Sun & Moon was filled with excitement, laughter, and heartwarming moments as he strives to become a Pokémon Master in this tropical paradise.
Pokémon Journeys: The Series appearences
In Pokémon Journeys: The Series, Ash embarks on a new adventure alongside Goh, a fellow Pokémon Trainer with a passion for research. Together, they travel across regions, including familiar ones like Kanto and Johto, as well as newer areas like the Galar region. Throughout their journey, Ash and Goh encounter legendary Pokémon, participate in Pokémon battles, and tackle challenges unique to each region.
After returning to Kanto, Ash attended the opening of the Cerise Laboratory in Vermilion City with Professor Oak. At the ceremony, Professor Cerise revealed that a rare Pokémon, Lugia, would appear at the port. Ash rushed there and encountered Lugia, meeting Goh in the process. Together, they rode Lugia across Kanto. Impressed by their knowledge, Professor Cerise invited them to become his research assistants, and they accepted. Delia left Mimey at the lab to care for Ash, who now resides there with Goh.
Later, Ash and Goh journeyed to the Galar region to witness the World Coronation Series finals (global competition where Trainers battle to increase their rank and become the world’s top Pokémon Trainer), where Leon emerged victorious, solidifying his status as the world’s strongest Trainer. Inspired by Leon’s prowess, Ash expressed his desire to challenge him. Despite losing their initial battle, Ash resolved to enter the World Coronation Series himself, aiming to rise through the ranks and eventually challenge Leon once more. Following his defeat, Ash resolved to join the World Coronation Series, aiming to ascend its ranks and eventually earn another opportunity to challenge Leon.
Upon joining the World Coronation Series, Ash swiftly began amassing victories, eventually advancing to the Great Class by defeating Korrina. After a rematch with Bea, he embarked on another series of triumphs, steadily climbing the rankings. His journey took an intriguing turn when he received a challenge letter from Iris, inviting him to a World Coronation Series battle.
Excitedly accepting Iris’s challenge, Ash was surprised to learn that she had become the new Champion of Unova after Alder. Despite the intensity of their battle, Ash emerged victorious over his former companion, advancing to the Ultra Class. In his inaugural Ultra Class match, he faced Volkner and emerged triumphant. Volkner then revealed that Cynthia was also competing in the World Coronation Series, having reached the prestigious Master Class.
Ash’s continuous victories propelled him to greater fame as Kanto’s emerging star, drawing widespread media attention to his upcoming Ultra Class battle against Drasna of the Kalos Elite Four. Initially set to face Raihan as an entry match, Ash’s triumph secured his place in the Master Class alongside the reigning regional Champions and Alain.
Ash took part in a special Battle Royal arranged to commemorate the return of the Alola Champion. Throughout the event, the people of Alola rallied behind Ash, urging him to emerge victorious in the Masters Eight Tournament as the region’s representative.
After rigorous training with his Pokémon at Professor Oak’s lab and under Paul’s guidance, Ash returned to Galar to compete in the Masters Eight Tournament alongside other top trainers, including Iris, Alain, and the regional Champions. The final battle culminated in a fierce showdown between Ash’s Pikachu and Leon’s Charizard. In an epic climax, Pikachu emerged triumphant over the undefeated Charizard, realizing Ash’s long-standing dream of defeating Leon and ascending as the new Monarch.
After the Masters Eight Tournament, Ash declared his plan to embark on a solo journey, seeking to deepen his knowledge of Pokémon and strive toward his ultimate goal of becoming a Pokémon Master.
During the Pokémon anime series, Ash is known for his unwavering determination, boundless enthusiasm, and deep bond with his Pokémon partners. Throughout his journey, he exhibits remarkable growth as a Trainer, constantly learning from his experiences and striving to improve his skills. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, Ash remains resilient, always pushing forward with his goal of becoming a Pokémon Master. His kind-hearted nature, bravery, and camaraderie with his friends make him a beloved character in the Pokémon franchise.
Ash's Pokémon team
Ash’s Pokémon team has evolved throughout the anime series as he travels to different regions and competes in various Pokémon Leagues.
Ash, as a Trainer, has formed strong bonds with numerous Pokémon during his anime journey. He believes in treating each Pokémon as an individual and values trust, friendship, and dedication in training. Many of Ash’s Pokémon joined him willingly after he earned their trust, reflecting his compassionate approach. While he excels in battles with agile and powerful Pokémon like Pikachu, he adapts his strategy to work effectively with any Pokémon under his care.
Ash currently possesses 78 Pokémon, which includes all 30 Tauros he owns. If we consider pre-evolved forms, traded, released, and given away Pokémon (excluding the additional Tauros), Ash has officially owned a total of 98 different Pokémon species.
Core series games appearances
Ash Ketchum, the protagonist of the Pokémon anime, is based on Red, the player character from the Pokémon Red and Blue video games. While their journeys share many similarities, such as starting in Pallet Town and aiming to become Pokémon Masters, there are also differences, with Ash’s adventures being more narrative-driven and diverging from the game’s plot in various ways.
In various Pokémon games, players can choose the name “Ash” for their character, and in Pokémon Yellow, the player character starts with Pikachu and later receives Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle, mirroring Ash’s journey. In the Spanish version of Pokémon X and Y, a Rising Star mentions owning a Pokémon named “Ash Ketchum”. In the Special Demo Version of Pokémon Sun and Moon, players receive a Greninja implied to be from Ash, capable of transforming into Ash-Greninja. Additionally, a photo of Ash and Pikachu can be found in Pokémon Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun, and Ultra Moon.
Spin-off games appearances
Pokémon Play It! Series – Ash is not featured in Pokémon Play It! or Pokémon Play It! Version 2. However, in the lesson “How do I evolve my Pokémon?” in the first game, Julie mentions Ash: “I know Ash is good, but I want to be the best that ever was!”.
Pokémon Puzzle League – In the 1P Stadium mode, Ash serves as the player character, and he is also one of the selectable characters in the 2P Stadium mode.
Sega Pico series – Ash makes appearances in ”Pokémon: Catch the Numbers!”, ”I’ve Begun Hiragana and Katakana!”, and ”Pico for Everyone Pokémon Loud Battle!”.
Pokémon Team Turbo – In ”Team Turbo”, Ash is featured on the main menu screen but doesn’t partake in any races or minigames.
Perdue series – In ”Pokémon Team Rocket Blast Off”, ”Pokémon Poké Ball Launcher”, and ”Pokémon Seek & Find”, players assume the role of Ash, while May serves as his female counterpart in these games.
Pokémon Tretta – In ”Tretta”, various Tretta pucks feature Ash and his Pokémon as part of a cross-promotion with the Pokémon the Series: XY anime.
Pokémon Ga-Olé – Ash and his Pokémon feature in several Ga-Olé pucks, showcasing his Pokémon from Pokémon the Series: Sun & Moon.
Pokémon GO – During specific events, Pikachu, Raichu, and Pichu wearing Ash’s original hat have been released for capture and hatching from Eggs.
Pokémon Mezastar – In Mezastar, there’s an anime-based version of Ash who battles with Pikachu, Gengar, Dracovish, Lucario, and Sirfetch’d.
Pokémon Masters EX – Ash forms a sync pair with with Pikachu in this game.
Manga appearances
The Electric Tale of Pikachu
Ash takes the spotlight in The Electric Tale of Pikachu, a manga based on the anime. His adventures mirror those in the anime, starting with his travels in the Kanto region for the Pokémon League and later venturing through the Orange Archipelago.
Movie adaptations
Ash and his Pikachu have been featured in every Pokémon movie to date, making Ash the central character in each movie manga adaptation as well.
Magical Pokémon Journey
Ash, alongside Misty and Brock, appeared in cameo roles in bonus chapters of Magical Pokémon Journey manga.
Ash & Pikachu
Ash serves as the main protagonist in Ash & Pikachu, which adapts episode plots from the Johto, Hoenn, and Battle Frontier sagas of the Pokémon anime.
Pokémon Newspaper Strip
Ash plays a central role in Pokémon Newspaper Strip.
Pokémon Battle: Pikachu’s Big Exciting Adventure
Ash makes an appearance in this manga, which adapts storylines from the Pokémon anime. One of its chapters is based on “The Green Guardian”.
Pocket Monsters Diamond & Pearl
Ash and Pikachu are main characters in this manga, which is an adaptation of the Pokémon anime series. Alongside Dawn, a Pokémon Coordinator from Twinleaf Town, and her Piplup, they embark on various adventures with the Pokémon they encounter during their travels, diverging from the series’ plot.
Mewtwo Returns
Ash makes an appearance in the Mewtwo Returns manga, released alongside the twenty-second Pokémon movie and its corresponding manga adaptation.
Pokémon Journeys: The Series
Ash is a central character in the Pokémon Journeys: The Series manga, mirroring his role in the Pokémon Journeys: The Series anime.
Summary
Some interesting facts are that initially, Ash hoped for a Squirtle as his first Pokémon, but it was already taken by another Trainer. He’s the sole Champion in the anime to possess a Mythical Pokémon. Throughout his journey, Ash hasn’t officially owned a female-only Pokémon and has captured at least one starter Pokémon from each region except Galar. Additionally, he’s caught a Flying-type Pokémon in every series.
Ash Ketchum’s journey throughout the Pokémon anime has been one of growth, friendship, and perseverance. From his humble beginnings as a novice Trainer in Pallet Town to his triumphs as a Pokémon Champion, Ash has inspired countless fans around the world with his unwavering determination and love for Pokémon. Along the way, he’s formed lifelong bonds with his companions, battled formidable opponents, and discovered the true meaning of being a Pokémon Trainer.
Throughout his adventures, Ash has embodied the spirit of resilience, always bouncing back from setbacks and learning from his experiences. His journey has not only been about becoming a Pokémon Master but also about understanding the importance of empathy, teamwork, and dedication. Ash’s evolution as a character mirrors the growth and evolution of the Pokémon franchise itself, resonating with fans of all ages who continue to be inspired by his passion and optimism.
His story serves as a testament to the power of friendship, the pursuit of dreams, and the boundless possibilities that await those who dare to follow their hearts. Whether he’s battling in the Pokémon League or exploring new regions, Ash Ketchum will always remain a beloved symbol of adventure and camaraderie in the Pokémon universe.