Ash Ketchum has been Pokemon's main man since the very beginning and has entertained multiple generations for the past 25 years; however, the time has come for him to pass the baton. Not all fans are on board with this abrupt change and can't comprehend Pokemon without their beloved Ash-Pikachu-combo (while others are just glad that Goh isn't taking the reins).

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Some viewers agree that it is about time that Ash relinquished the MC title of Pokemon and give way to some fresh new faces before things get too stale and end on a sour note. Regardless of conflicting opinions, most can agree that his enthusiastic, empathetic, and encouraging energy will be sorely missed from the franchise; inconspicuous in its absence.

9 The Perfect Pokemon Partner: Pikachu!

ash and pikachu pokemon journeys

It is safe to say that fans are just as heartbroken (if not more so) by the news of Pikachu's departure as the iconic sidekick of all things Pokemon, as this lovable Electric-Type will undoubtedly remain by Ash's side, wherever he may go. No Pokemon has received as much attention as this feisty fuzzball, whose personality shines brighter than most trainers in the series!

Even the rare Pokemon virgin can identify Pikachu from a lineup of animated icons; this little guy is plausibly the Mickey Mouse of the 21st century. Pikachu is the vital link between humanity and Pokemon, as he often does a better job at breaking down the communication barriers than Meowth himself while providing plenty of cuteness without interfering with his fierce attitude and exemplary charm.

8 Goofball (With A Serious and Mature Side)

Pokemon Will Miss Ash Laughter and Tears From First Movie to Pokemon Journeys

Not many people can turn a simple task such as brushing one's teeth into an enjoyable, side-splitting scene yet still be capable of summoning fans' tears as soon as his empathetic superpowers kick in. Although many of his humorous moments are more slap-stick than witty, Ash's comedic skills are arguably unmatched, as he manages to get a giggle or two without irritating viewers with mediocre material (such as with Iris or Principal Samson Oak).

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Ash's overall character design is balanced rather eloquently, as even his sentimental moments are perfectly timed and rarely come across as whiny (unlike Lillie, who always looks to be on the verge of tears). This well-rounded combination of emotional entertainment will be tough to match, that's for sure!

7 Always Keen For Battle

Ash Ketchum (Pokemon)

It is likely an impossible task to find a Pokemon episode (with over a thousand to choose from) where Ash refuses to battle, as this particular trainer is always up for a challenge and ready to put his skills to the test. Although in some cases, opting out might have been the wiser choice, Ash takes on every opportunity to compete with other trainers with 100% enthusiasm, never letting the fear of potential loss taint his willingness to compete.

Starting "fights" is essentially how Ash has made so many friends along his adventures, as many of his companions were initially at the back end of his Pokeballs. Those who face this raven-haired boy in battle inevitably develop a deep respect for him (unless they are rotten to the core, like Damian and Lysandre).

6 Suave Sportsmanship, No Matter The Outcome

Pokemon Will Miss Ash Sportsmanship Gladion

It took Ash 25 years to finally win a Pokemon tournament; so best believe there are countless losses collected along the way to greatness, which has all been met with maturity. For a pre-teen, this young trainer accepts both his successes and failures with pride and conducts himself accordingly, without pouting pity parties, nor rubbing his victory in his opponent's face. Ash is everyone's best friend; even his rivals have a hard time truly disliking him, and merely wish to surpass his skill level to cure their bruised egos.

Regardless of the severity of the battle, Ash always prioritizes his Pokemon's safety (well, besides his previous rookie mistakes) and will not hesitate to end things when his teammate's health comes into question. And regardless of Team Rocket's refusal to follow the rules, Ash prefers to stick to the guidelines and avoids underhanded tactics to get his way.

5 Realistic Skill Improvement

Pokemon Will Miss Ash Skill Development Ash and Leon World Coronation Series; Ash catches Caterpie, episode 2

Goh's introduction into the Pokemon franchise was met with a great deal of hate, as he essentially transformed from a noob into a master overnight (and conveniently eliminating the need to battle Pokemon in order to catch them; so broken). In stark contrast, the fan-favorite Ash paid his dues and went through the growing pains of understanding the intricacies of being a Pokemon trainer, and learning from his mistakes as opposed to miraculously thriving for no reason.

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Ash's first official "battle" involved leading a lamb to the slaughter, as poor defenseless Caterpie is chosen to face a Pidgeotto; whereas his final feat involves taking down the undefeatable Champion, Leon. It only took a quarter century to achieve, but impressive nonetheless!

4 Not A Slave Driver

A screenshot of Ash and Goodra from the Pokemon anime

Although some of the most heartbreaking moments in the series have been when Ash parts ways with one of his Pokemon, this compassionate trainer always has his comrades' best interests at heart. Instead of just forcing Pokemon to join his team, Ash regularly asks for consent first and selflessly rehomes them when necessary, as difficult as that may be. The evolution process is not obligatory either, regardless of how it would benefit Ash's chances in combat; the choice is left up to the Pokemon alone.

Ash did not inhibit Butterfree's love life and released him into the wild when Cupid's arrow struck, and Pidgeot also heard a higher calling as a protector of the weak in Viridian forest. He never gave up on Froakie despite the Pokemon's prickly personality and sacrifices his best fighter, Greninja, to the Giant Rock root situation (a loss felt by all!) Lapras, Charizard, and Goodra were also valuable teammates who needed more than Ash could offer; however, rather than being offended or power-hungry, he gave his Pokemon the best opportunities to grow.

3 Strategic Battling Style

ash ketchum lifting the pokemon world champion trophy with pikachu on his shoulder

Ash's choice of Pokemon during battles can often frustrate viewers as he does not always take the easiest route and chooses strange counters in combat, such as Grovyle against Charizard, Snorlax vs. Medicham, and Pikachu's infamous battle with Onyx (and more). Ash takes great effort in strategizing and formulates unique game plans against each opponent, ultimately leading him to claim the title of the Monarch of the Masters Eight.

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Many great Pokemon trainers met along the way to give the aura of invincibility, and while brute strength is often not the solution, careful planning can go a long way. Predictability is certainly not in Ash's repertoire and while not all his strategies have been successful, he gets a well-deserved A for effort!

2 Ash And Serena's Unfinished Business

ash giving a present to serena

Arguably one of the most frustrating components of Ash's departure leaves his juvenile love life in the lurch, as the Serena-fueled romantic vibes have yet to be clarified; although there may still be time before his grande finale (expected to air in March 2023). While many girls have cycled through Ash's adventures, nobody has made an impression quite like Serena, and the tension between the pair is palpable.

Cultivating a ten-year-old's flirtations has never been a priority in Pokemon (rightfully so). However, now that Ash is stepping away from the spotlight, he may get the chance to age for a change and potentially dip his toes in the dating pool; Serena will surely bite!

1 Nostalgic Necessities

pokemon journeys anime ash pikachu leave scarlet violet gen 10 future games

Several stories have stood the test of time and have been carried across generations, although often receiving a makeover somewhere along the way. While the kiddos see no problem in these updates, the original fan clubs struggle to accept the loss of their favorite iconic characters. Prime examples of such "disasters" include Teen Titans, Go!, The Powerpuff Girls, Ducktales, Scooby-Doo, and many more.

The Pokemon franchise is not likely to receive such a drastic change in animation style; however, the new series is likely to have the same effect. Watching episodes of Pokemon without Ash and Pikachu in the picture seems like an absurd concept and will likely take some time to get used to, which is not a prediction of doom, merely a trip outside the comfort zone.

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