While the Pokémon anime has delivered countless memorable battles, some of the most epic showdowns remain confined to the video games and manga. These clashes, often featuring unique characters and stakes, offer a different flavor of Pokémon combat, showcasing strategic depth and emotional resonance that could have translated brilliantly to the screen. Here’s a countdown of ten of the best Pokémon battles that deserve to be adapted into the anime.
1. Red vs. Blue (Pokémon Gold, Silver, Crystal, HeartGold and SoulSilver)
The final battle against Red on Mt. Silver is considered one of the most iconic fights in the entire Pokémon series. This is not the rival Blue, but the silent protagonist from Pokémon Red and Blue. This battle is a true test of skill, with Red’s team being fully trained and at extremely high levels. The fact that it is against the previous protagonist and the player’s past self, makes the battle a nostalgic and epic experience that could be a true spectacle in anime form. This climactic encounter is a stark contrast to the usual battles in the anime, making it a prime candidate for adaptation.
The Significance of Red’s Team
The composition of Red’s team is also noteworthy, featuring the final evolutions of the starter Pokémon from the Kanto region and other powerful creatures. This battle is much more than a regular trainer fight; it’s a clash with a legendary figure, making it a compelling narrative choice for an anime arc. The sheer difficulty and the emotional payoff of defeating Red makes it a standout battle.
2. N vs. Reshiram/Zekrom (Pokémon Black and White)
The confrontation with N in Pokémon Black and White is not just a battle; it’s a clash of ideologies. N, who sees Pokémon as exploited tools, challenges the protagonist with a powerful legendary Pokémon, either Reshiram or Zekrom, depending on the version. This battle is a turning point in the game’s narrative and explores the themes of Pokémon freedom and companionship.
The Philosophical Stakes
The battle’s significance is enhanced by the philosophical debate it represents. N’s extreme views on Pokémon ownership create a deep contrast with the player’s bond with their team. The anime adaptation could explore this conflict, adding layers of emotional depth and moral questioning that goes beyond a typical Pokémon battle.
3. Cynthia Rematch (Pokémon Platinum, Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl)
Cynthia, the Sinnoh League Champion, is renowned for her challenging battles and powerful team. However, her rematch in Pokémon Platinum, Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl elevates her to another level of difficulty. This battle often serves as a major challenge for experienced players and her team composition and strategy make it extremely difficult to overcome.
A True Test of Skill
The rematch against Cynthia in these games is often considered one of the most difficult fights in the franchise. The anime could showcase the intense strategies and tactical thinking required to win, bringing a sense of genuine challenge to a televised format. Her varied team composition, combined with her powerful Garchomp, creates a formidable obstacle for any trainer.
4. Gold vs. Silver (Pokémon Gold, Silver, and Crystal)
The rivalry between Gold and Silver in the Generation II games is much more personal and intense compared to other rivalries in the franchise. Their first battle is one of many encounters throughout the games that showcases Silver’s constant pursuit of power and disregard for the bonds between Pokémon and their trainers.
A Rivalry Forged in Conflict
This initial battle between Gold and Silver, is an excellent representation of their opposing philosophies. The anime could delve deeper into their characters, using their initial encounter as a catalyst for the evolution of their rivalry and personal growth throughout the series. Their constant clashes and philosophical differences make for a compelling story arc, that has not been properly explored within the anime.
5. Professor Kukui (Pokémon Sun and Moon)
In Pokémon Sun and Moon, the player faces Professor Kukui at the end of the game. This battle is significant because it’s the first time a professor is a final boss in the main series. It’s also a battle against someone who has mentored the player throughout their journey, adding a layer of emotional impact.
A Mentor Turned Challenger
This battle could translate beautifully to the anime, with a focus on the mentor-student dynamic. The anime could explore Kukui’s motivations and his deep knowledge of Pokémon combat, adding layers of complexity to his final stand. His team, diverse and powerful, is also a perfect match for an intense anime battle.
6. Red’s Team in Gold and Silver (A Theory)
There’s a common theory that Red’s team in Pokémon Gold and Silver suggests that the canon Gen 1 game is Yellow. This would mean that Red’s Pikachu is his starter, and the other Pokémon he would have are his evolved team throughout his journey in the Kanto region. This would give greater context to his final battle at Mt. Silver.
Adding Depth to a Legendary Figure
The anime could use this theory to create an origin story for Red’s team, adding greater depth to his character. Instead of having his team just appear out of nowhere, the anime could take the time to display and create a visual representation of his journey through Kanto. The idea is very simple, yet could have an outstanding payoff within the story.
7. Yellow and Pika vs. Lance (Pokémon Adventures Manga)
In the Pokémon Adventures manga, Yellow and her Pikachu engage in a special battle against Lance. During this encounter they create a unique combined move. This fight highlights Yellow’s special abilities and her bond with her Pikachu, offering a unique take on Pokémon battles.
An Example of Unique Team Work
The anime could focus on the creativity and teamwork within this battle. The unique combo move is an example of how Pokémon battles do not always have to be a clash of raw power, but instead a mix of strategy, technique, and bond between trainer and pokemon. It’s an unusual situation that could provide fresh elements to the anime.
8. Black Uses a Munna to Catch a Rufflet (Pokémon Adventures Manga)
In the Pokémon Adventures manga, Black uses a Munna’s dream-eating abilities to lure a Rufflet into a trap to catch it. This inventive method of catching Pokémon is a far cry from the standard battles shown in the anime, adding a clever and strategic angle to the battle.
Strategy Over Strength
The anime could use this as an example that not every encounter should be a battle, and that there are a myriad of different strategies to accomplish a goal. The creative approach and clever use of the Munna’s abilities make this a memorable battle, that has not been explored within the anime. This could add a new element that is not commonly seen within the anime.
9. Black and Reshiram vs. N and Zekrom (Pokémon Adventures Manga)
This battle is an epic clash in the manga, featuring two legendary Pokémon and their trainers. The scope and scale of this fight are on a completely different level than most battles in the games, making it an ideal candidate for a grand animated sequence. The manga shows off how epic the battle could be, making it great for an anime adaptation.
High Stakes, High Impact
The anime could benefit from adapting this visually impressive battle, showing the scale of legendary Pokémon combat. The high stakes and intense action could provide an exciting climax for an arc that explores the lore behind the legendary dragons and their conflicting trainers.
10. Red Saves a Unique Eevee (Pokémon Adventures Manga)
In the manga, Red encounters a unique Eevee that can change its type at will. He undertakes a mission to save the Eevee. This storyline is an example of how trainers can bond with Pokémon that are considered to be different. This particular situation allows for a unique battle to emerge.
A Battle Focused on Uniqueness
The anime could use this to show a trainer’s determination and their willingness to protect a Pokémon that is considered to be an outcast. The unique Eevee and the battle to save it, could be an emotional and engaging story arc for the show. This could also explore the theme of finding value in Pokémon that are not considered to be “normal”.
These battles, often overlooked by the anime, offer unique stories, powerful characters, and high stakes, making them ideal for future adaptations. They represent the depth and variety within the Pokémon universe, showcasing narratives that could captivate audiences worldwide.
