While the news of Ash and Pikachu’s departure has saddened manyPokemonfans, others can’t help but get excited about what’s coming next, as new characters are slowly getting introduced into the franchise. First and foremost,Liko and Roy got all the attentionas the two new major protagonists, each hiding some secrets of their own and accompanied by the three Paldea starterPokemon.
The time has finally arrived to begin fleshing out the supporting roles, kicking off with Professor Oak’s replacement and his trusty sidekick. These all-newPokemonepisodes are due to air in Japan on August 04, 2025, hopefully with not much of a gap before its international debut!
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Professor Friede Predictions
Each region has its own Pokemon Professor, so it’s only natural for a new and exciting character to represent the Paldea region, which was first introduced inPokemon Scarlet and Violet(and has yet to make its anime debut.) Friede has likely set up his Pokemon Research Lab in the main city of Mesagoza, for easy access to the whole peninsula, although the power of flight might make traveling around a non-issue. Professor Friede is notably dressed like a pilot, which could indicate some kind of aeronautical theme to his role, either with a cool plane (like Brock’s futuristic jetinThe Arceus Chronicles) or even better, an epic Flying-TypePokemonlike Salamence, Kilowattrel or Iron Jugulis!
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It is safe to assume that Professor Friede is responsible for handing outstarterPokemonto prospective trainers,and therefore facilitates the bond between Liko and Sprigatito, not to mention Roy and Fuecoco (and maybe Quaxly, too.) Friede’s laid-back appearance suggests he might follow in Professor Kukui’s footsteps as the hip father figure for the newbies to rely on, which seems to be in strong contrast to his Pikachu partner’s distinctive no-nonsense attitude.
Captain Pikachu Represents
Removing what is essentiallythePokemonmascotfrom the lineup mightn’t have panned out well with fans, who were relieved to hear thatPokemon Ultimate Journeysis not going to be the last they see of Pikachu. However, instead of forcing the issue and disrupting the narrative,The Pokemon Companyhas decided to createan all-new Pikachu character,wearing a pilot’s hat to give him a unique, recognizable look.
Assessing the concept art, it seems that Captain Pikachu will be even more feisty than Ash’s companion, while his bossy-boots body language suggests that this electric mouse takes his leadership title to heart. The dynamic between Professor Freide and Captain Pikachu’s seemingly contrasting personalities is bound to create some worthy comedic content, especially if it’s thePokemonwho wears the pants in this relationship!
