Ash’s Return in the Pokémon Anime: Key Element for a Successful Comeback

The conclusion of the Pokémon anime featuring Ash Ketchum almost two years ago has ignited ongoing discussions among fans about the possibility of his return. A significant factor in making any comeback believable is the need for Ash to show signs of maturation.

With Pokémon Horizons currently making waves, the narrative has taken on a more focused storytelling format that sets it apart from its predecessor. The dynamic duo of Liko and Roy is proving to be effective in driving the series forward, allowing the narrative to thrive without Ash’s presence. Moreover, fan-favorite Pikachu continues to make regular appearances, courtesy of Captain Pikachu. Despite this, numerous fans still express a desire to see Ash return, albeit with the concern that he might overshadow the new leads.

The Case for Aging Ash Ketchum

Ash’s Appearance: A Reflection of Growth

Within the fan community, the idea of aging Ash Ketchum is highly regarded; many had anticipated that his final episode would depict a matured Ash who continues his training adventures. However, this did not materialize. The lingering reluctance to age Ash stems from concerns that he might become less relatable to the target audience. This notion, however, seems unfounded. Other series like Naruto and Dragon Ball have successfully aged their protagonists, often enhancing their popularity rather than diminishing it. For many fans, Goku’s adult form is what springs to mind, not his childhood version.

For over 25 years, Ash has remained a ten-year-old, and the community has been vocal about the need for evolution in his character. If the opportunity for Ash to appear in Horizons or any upcoming Pokémon project arises, such as a movie, the consensus among fans remains: Ash needs to reflect the time that has passed. A fresh design that showcases his growth and experiences would enhance his return.

Interestingly, Ash’s video game counterpart, Red, has been allowed to age, showing the producers’ willingness to evolve characters. Notably, Red has appeared in various roles throughout different game titles, showcasing a significant time lapse as he matures from the protagonist of Red and Blue to an adult in Sun and Moon. If Red is permitted to grow, Ash should be as well.

Embracing Change: Ash’s Age Can Vary

Exploring Age Flexibility

Ash and Pikachu after clearing the Battle Frontier

While many enthusiasts advocate for Ash’s transformation into an adult like Red, it’s not necessary for him to age drastically. A mere two-year advancement could still signify meaningful growth from his decade-old persona. Additionally, showcasing him at approximately 15, the age of Brock at the series’ onset, would highlight Ash’s maturation without overshooting the mark. Regardless of the specific age chosen, it’s essential that Ash exhibits change during his hiatus, and even a five-year gap could effectively convey this notion.

Despite fans’ sentiments, the producers seem resistant to altering Ash’s age, indicating that should he return, he would likely still be the same beloved ten-year-old. This standpoint, while frustrating, isn’t an unchangeable decision; producers should seriously rethink their approach to Ash’s character development. Since Ash’s role would likely transition from protagonist to mentor, concerns about relatability to the audience diminish significantly.

In conclusion, to reintroduce Ash as more than just a fleeting cameo, Pokémon must consider aging him. This not only marks his personal growth but also opens avenues for him to mentor characters like Liko and Roy, fostering interest from both old fans and new viewers alike.

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