The Pokémon Horizons: The Series anime is set to embark on its sixth main story arc, titled “Pocket Monsters: Rising Again” (Japanese: 「ポケットモンスター ライジングアゲイン」), which will premiere in Japan on Friday, October 31st. This new chapter will see protagonists Liko and Roy, along with their companions, head to the familiar setting of Blueberry Academy, a location first introduced in The Indigo Disk DLC for the Pokémon Scarlet and Violet video games.
This announcement follows the conclusion of the anime’s fifth arc, “Mega Voltage,” which aired its final episode in Japan on September 19th. Before the “Rising Again” arc kicks off, fans can also look forward to a three-episode mini-arc, “Episode: Mega Evolution,” starting October 10th. This special mini-arc will fill in a one-year timeskip between the fourth and fifth main arcs, focusing on Roy and a new character, Uruto, during their Mega Evolution training in Lumiose City, connecting to the upcoming Pokémon Legends: Z-A game.
What to Expect in the “Rising Again” Arc
The “Rising Again” arc is anticipated to delve into new adventures as Liko and company explore Blueberry Academy. Blueberry Academy is known as a school for Pokémon trainers, hinting at a focus on battle training and character development for the main trio—Liko, Roy, and Dot. New cast members and characters Lacey (Taro) and Drayton (Kakitsubata), members of the BB League’s Elite Four, have been teased, suggesting their involvement in the upcoming storyline. Additionally, characters like Emma (Matiere) from the Pokémon Legends: Z-A game and Master Mayonnaise are set to debut in the “Special Episode: Mega Evolution” mini-arc, potentially carrying over their roles or influences into the “Rising Again” arc.
The Journey So Far: Previous Arcs of Pokémon Horizons
Pokémon Horizons: The Series introduced a fresh narrative with new dual protagonists, Liko and Roy, departing from the long-running saga of Ash Ketchum. The series premiered in Japan in April 2023 and has since navigated through several distinct story arcs, each contributing to the protagonists’ journey and the overarching mystery of Terapagos and the ancient adventurer Lucius.
Liko and Roy’s Departure
The initial arc, “Liko and Roy’s Departure” (spanning the first 25 episodes), established the main characters, Liko and Roy, as they joined the Rising Volt Tacklers. Their early adventures involved exploring the Pokémon world, including the Paldea region, and encountering the mysterious organization known as the Explorers, who were after Liko’s pendant. Roy’s ancient Poké Ball, containing a Shiny Rayquaza, also played a crucial role.
The Sparkling of Terapagos
This arc, covering episodes 26-45, centered on the protagonists researching Liko’s pendant, which was revealed to be a Terapagos. The Rising Volt Tacklers continued their pursuit of the Six Heroes, ancient Pokémon connected to Lucius, while fending off the Explorers.
Terastallization and Key Battles
Throughout the series, the Terastallization phenomenon, originating from the Pokémon Scarlet and Violet games, has been a significant element in battles, allowing Pokémon to change their type and gain strategic advantages. Characters like Friede with his Charizard and Amethio with his Ceruledge have demonstrated this powerful mechanic.
Mega Voltage Arc and Timeskip
The most recently concluded arc, “Mega Voltage,” began with the 45th episode and saw Liko, Roy, and Dot appearing as teenagers, marking the first time a significant timeskip has occurred in the main Pokémon anime series. This arc focused on the continuing adventures of the main protagonists and a new character named Uruto, a year after the collapse of Laqua. They aimed to uncover the mystery of Laquium’s remains and clear the Rising Volt Tacklers’ name after being falsely accused by the Explorers.
International Release Information
While the new “Rising Again” arc is set for a Japanese premiere, international release details for these upcoming arcs, including “Mega Voltage” and the “Episode: Mega Evolution” mini-arc, have not yet been announced. Currently, the second season of Pokémon Horizons: The Series (encompassing the third and fourth Japanese arcs) is being released in the United States and most territories exclusively on Netflix, with the final batch of episodes dropping on September 26th. The series is also available on other platforms in various regions, such as BBC iPlayer in the UK and Cartoon Network in Canada.
