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Despite running for 25 years, the classicPokémonanime only had one real spinoff of substance, but that spinoff helped prove the potential that thePokémonworld holds. IfHorizonsis ever to have a spinoff, it would do well to follow in the footsteps of its predecessor.
ThePokémonanime’s 2005 spinoff series,Pokémon Chronicles, was actually an assembly of specials and otherPokémonmedia made into a series in the West, but it was noteworthy for not featuring Ash in any significant capacity. Instead,Pokémon Chroniclesfocused on the many characters whom Ash had met and left behind, revealing what they’re up to now. That includesmajor figures like Brock and Misty, as well as more minor characters like Casey and even completely original characters. This decision helped reveal new corners of the Pokémon world, and gave fans a taste of the series without Ash.
Pokémon Chronicles Put Fan-Favorites in the Spotlight
Without Ash, These Fan-Favorite Characters Could Shine
Pokémon Chroniclesput Ash’s supporting cast in the starring role, and many of them flourished when given the chance to take the lead. The series was set in continuity with the main series, so events that occurred inChronicleswould eventually be present in the main anime, such as Misty overcoming her fears and catching a Gyarados. It allowed for different types of episodes as well; one episode, for example, is a flashback to Team Rocket’s training, revealing how the trio came together.
While it often echoed the main series' plots, and usedTeam Rocket’s Butch and Cassidya little too often, simply having someone other than Ash in the spotlight made them a refreshing watch. Episodes deal with subjects that have never really come up before, such as where Gym Badges come from, or the Pokérus, a mysterious Pokémon virus.It also changes the dynamic a lot to not have Ash and Pikachu around, as the two have a tendency to hog the spotlight over other characters. It’s just plain fun to catch up with side characters who won’t show up again as Ash travels farther away.
Pokémon Chronicles Was a Perfect Testing Ground for Other Spinoffs
Chronicles Could’ve Provided a Place to Debut New Potential Protagonists
Because of its episodic structure and focusing on different characters each episode,Pokémon Chroniclesmade for an excellent way to test the marketability of certain characters. The first episodes ofChronicles, for example, focus on a new character named Jimmy and his friend Marina as they attempt to stopTeam Rocketfrom getting their hands on a Raikou. Had Jimmy and Marina been substantially popular, it would’ve been easy to have them appear again, and potentially even become leads of a spinoff anime.
The series' nature of having rotating protagonists made sure that things changed from week-to-week, so it never got stale. While it only ran for 22 episodes, many of the events in this series would have a surprising impact on the main series moving forward, when some of these characters did finally reappear.Chroniclesjust felt a little less restrained by formula than the main series, and that made it a joy to watch overall. It gave the writers a little more freedom than when writing about Ash, and that led to some excellent episodes.
A Chronicles-Like Spinoff Would Work Great for Pokémon Horizons, Too
Horizons' Format Makes a Chronicles-style Spinoff a Brilliant Idea
Pokémon Horizons, with its globetrotting premise, leaves characters behind constantly, as not everyone can join them and travel on the ship. However, this makes it arguably even better for aChronicles-like spinoff than even the original series.The series has introduced and gotten to know a great number of characters who would be interesting to watch, from video game favorites like Nemona to original characters like Liko’s grandmother, Diana. It could even potentially have episodes that actually featureLucius, the Ancient Adventurer, back when he was active.
A spinoff like this would also help with the relative absence of Paldea and its Pokémon fromHorizons, allowing it to focus more on Liko’s home region, the way Ash’s series might’ve handled it.Horizonsshould absolutely stick to its overarching plot, but a spinoff wouldn’t be beholden to the plot of its parent series, and would be free to explore the world in whatever way it sees fit. This would give it a chance to answer some of the complaints about Horizons, while also giving these popular characters the focus they deserve.Pokémon Horizonsis simply a perfect set-up for aPokémon Chronicles-style spinoff, and would benefit immensely from its existence.
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Pokémon follows Ash Ketchum on his journey to become a Pokémon Master, accompanied by his loyal Pikachu. Released in 1997, the series explores Ash’s travels through various regions, where he encounters new friends and challenges, underscoring the themes of adventure and teamwork.
