The Pokémon Company International is actively expanding its universe with the launch of new content designed to celebrate "Pokémon Horizons: The Series." This new chapter invites fans to embark on a journey through iconic locations that have made appearances across both Pokémon video games and animated series.
The inaugural season of "Pokémon Horizons: The Series" marked the introduction of the Paldea region into the Pokémon animated franchise. This season featured beloved locations that fans first encountered in the "Pokémon Scarlet" and "Pokémon Violet" games, including picturesque spots like Cabo Poco and the Artazon Gym. As the series progresses into Season 2, aptly titled "The Search for Laqua," viewers can look forward to exploring the breathtaking landscape of Kitakami, which makes its animation debut. This season not only revisits familiar Paldea landmarks from earlier games but also introduces nostalgic elements from the classic "Pokémon Gold" and "Pokémon Silver" titles, particularly the vibrant Johto region.
Throughout Season 2, Liko, Roy, and Dot—the main characters—embark on thrilling adventures that take them to six notable locations that fans can also explore in the corresponding video games. Here’s a closer look at some of these exciting destinations:
Episode 1: "Welcome to Naranja Academy!"
In the first episode, we get a more in-depth view of Naranja Academy, a setting that made a brief appearance in Season 1 when the Brave Olivine first touched down in Paldea. With Liko, Roy, and Dot now enrolled in Tera Training at the academy, viewers gain a better understanding of this pivotal institution featured prominently in "Pokémon Scarlet" and "Pokémon Violet." Unlike in the games, where players assume the role of full-time students, Liko and her friends are temporary attendees. Nevertheless, their time at Naranja Academy is filled with excitement, particularly in the schoolyard, where Pokémon battles take center stage.
Episode 2: "Put Your Heart Into It!"
The excitement continues as the series explores the dynamic world of Pokémon Gym Leaders, particularly focusing on Cortondo Gym Leader Katy. This episode perfectly showcases the thrill of witnessing Gym Leaders in action, a delightful experience for fans familiar with the video games. Katy’s Patisserie Soapberry, a charming bakery renowned for its delectable pastries, also draws the attention of Liko, Roy, and Dot. The combination of battling a Gym Leader and indulging in Katy’s exquisite treats makes Cortondo an irresistible destination in both the animated series and the video games.
Episode 20: "Liko and Amethio"
In a heartfelt moment, Roy suggests a trip to Paldea’s Highest Peak to help lift Liko’s spirits after a tough loss in battle. Their journey to Glaseado Mountain offers breathtaking views of the Paldea region, showcasing the stunning landscape that fans have come to love. While hiking to the summit might require some effort in the series, players of "Pokémon Scarlet" and "Pokémon Violet" can conveniently reach this peak through the Flying Taxi feature, making it easy to explore various breathtaking sights across Paldea.
Episode 24: "Roy is Crocalor, and Crocalor is Roy!"
Upon arriving in Kitakami, the Rising Volt Tacklers immerse themselves in the festivities of a harvest festival at Kitakami Hall. Dressed in vibrant festival attire, they enjoy the culinary delights and engaging games on offer. This celebration bears a striking resemblance to the Festival of Masks found within "Pokémon Scarlet" and "Pokémon Violet," making it a familiar yet exciting experience for fans. Whether you call it a harvest festival or the Festival of Masks, Kitakami Hall is a lively and colorful locale in both the animated series and the video games.
Episode 28: "Kleavor the Solitary Warrior"
In the Pokémon universe, diverse biomes across regions yield unique Pokémon experiences, and both Paldea and Kitakami feature a bamboo forest biome teeming with life. During this episode, Liko, Roy, and Dot encounter Kleavor, a formidable Pokémon that uses the wooded environment to its advantage during battles. The bamboo thicket serves as a strategic backdrop, allowing Kleavor to evade attacks and demonstrating the intricate relationship between Pokémon and their environments. This episode highlights the richness of the bamboo biome while providing thrilling action.
Episode 32: "Ludlow’s Homecoming!"
The adventure culminates in Olivine City, Johto, which holds special significance as Ludlow’s hometown. The Brave Olivine docks alongside the famed Olivine Lighthouse, a landmark cherished by fans of "Pokémon Gold" and "Pokémon Silver." Although the lighthouse doesn’t play a central role in this particular episode, it serves as a nostalgic reminder of the player’s first encounter with Jasmine, the beloved Olivine Gym Leader, who tended to her Ampharos, Amphy, at the lighthouse. This return to Johto adds another layer of depth and nostalgia to the ongoing journey of the Rising Volt Tacklers.
As fans continue to explore the interconnected worlds of Pokémon through "Pokémon Horizons: The Series," they can reminisce about the various locations that have played pivotal roles in their gaming experiences. Each episode unveils new adventures while celebrating the rich history of the Pokémon franchise.
The series not only highlights the synergy between the animated world and the video games but also enriches the experience for viewers, encouraging them to engage with the Pokémon universe on multiple levels. From battling Gym Leaders to immersing themselves in regional festivals, fans are treated to a multifaceted exploration of beloved locations that bridge the gap between gaming and animation.
Throughout these adventures, the series emphasizes themes of friendship, perseverance, and the joy of discovery, making it a must-watch for both longtime fans and newcomers alike. The vibrant landscapes, memorable characters, and thrilling battles continue to captivate audiences, ensuring that the legacy of Pokémon endures. As "Pokémon Horizons: The Series" progresses, fans can look forward to even more exciting explorations, challenges, and the chance to reconnect with the iconic regions they’ve cherished for years.
