Pocket Monsters (2023) Speculation Thread
Welcome to the thread, where you can share your theories on the new Pocket Monsters anime.
Please mind the following:
Please be considerate to fellow members. Thanks!
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Pocket Monsters, or "Pokémon" for short:
The mysterious creatures that live on our planet.
You can see them all over the world; In the sky, in the sea, in forests, in cities... Everywhere.
Liko is a Paldean girl with a mysterious pendant,
and Roy is a Kantonean boy with a strange monster ball.
A new adventure set throughout the vast world of Pokémon
now begins for Liko and Roy!
What encounters and what destiny lies in wait for them?!
This is a story of "finding" something important by going on an adventure!
LIKO:
A girl from the Paldea region.
Has been attending Sekiei Academy ever since the decisive battle against the Explorers in Rakua.
Reunited with Roy after finding out he's learned something about Rakulium, but...
MASQUERNYA:
Magician Pokémon, Grass/Dark type.
Liko's partner. Nyarote evolved.
Catches opponents off guard by battling in a deceitful way utilizing its flower bombs.
PAGOGO (LIKO'S TERAPAGOS):
Terastal Pokémon, Normal type.
Laid dormant in its pendant form for a long time, but turned back into its Pokémon form upon which Liko got it.
Has never come out of its monster ball after the decisive battle in Rakua.
ROY:
A boy from the Kanto region.
After the decisive battle in Rakua, he continued adventuring and grew stronger.
Came to Sekiei Academy to ask Liko for help after learning about the Pokémon affected by Rakulium.
ACHIGATOR:
Fire Croc Pokémon, Fire type.
Roy's partner. Hogator evolved.
Can unleash powerful moves by singing.
LUCARIO/MEGA LUCARIO:
Wave Guidance Pokémon, Fighting/Steel type.
An alternately colored, yellow Lucario. Roy's new companion.
The power of its wave guidance increases when it undergoes "Mega Evolution", evolution beyond evolution made possible through the bond between Trainer and Pokémon.
CAPTAIN PIKACHU:
Mouse Pokémon, Electric type.
Was Friede's partner, but now works with Roy.
Wears Friede's goggles.
Its nickname is "Cap".
DOT:
A girl the same age as Liko and Roy.
Went back home after the decisive battle at Rakua.
She is also the popular content creator Gurumin.
WELKAMO:
Lesson Pokémon, Water type.
Dot's Partner Pokémon. Kuwassu evolved.
The hardworking Welkamo incorporates all kinds of movements into its dance routines to improve them.
URUTO:
A young boy that appeared before Roy.
The two apparently trained together in the Kalos region...?
Has ultimate confidence in his own strength, and is capable of using Mega Evolution.
YAMIRAMI/MEGA YAMIRAMI:
Darkness Pokémon, Dark/Ghost type.
Uruto's partner. Gemstones is its favorite food.
Can also "Mega Evolve" and battle!
SPINEL:
Previously an executive of the Explorers, but has now taken the positions of leader of the Explorers and director of Exceed.
BLACKY:
Moonlight Pokémon, Dark type.
Spinel's partner.
Skilled at Pokémon battles and overwhelms its enemies with Snarl.
Series Staff:
Executive Director: Daiki Tomiyasu
Director: Saori Den
Series Construction: Dai Sato
Character Design: Rei Yamazaki
Sub-Character Design: Kyoko Ito
Sound Director: Masafumi Mima
Music: Conisch
Animation: OLM
Voice of Liko: Minori Suzuki
Voice of Masquernya: Megumi Hayashibara
Voice of Roy: Yuka Terasaki
Voice of Achigator: Daiki Yamashita
Voice of Dot: Yoshino Aoyama
Voice of Welkamo: Daisuke Namikawa
Voice of Uruto: Natsumi Fujiwara
Voice of Orio: Ayane Sakura
Voice of Murdock: Kenta Miyake
Voice of Molly: Kei Shindo
Voice of Randou: Ikkyu Juku
Voice of Amethio: Shun Horie
Voice of Zir: Kohsuke Tanabe
Voice of Conia: Arisa Shida
Voice of Captain Pikachu: Ikue Ohtani
Opening:
DOKIMEKI DIARY
(Sony Music Labels)
Lyrics/Composition/Arrangement: Chinozo
Vocals: asmi feat. Chinozo
Opening 2:
HALO
(Sony Music Labels)
Lyrics/Composition: Botchi Boromaru and yama
Arrangement: Botchi Boromaru
Vocals: yama x Botchi Boromaru
Opening 3:
WILL
(Sony Music Labels)
Vocals: IVE
Lyrics/Composition: YHEL, gratia, Sorato and Ryo Ito
Arrangement: Sorato
Opening 4:
ONLY ONE STORY
(Sony Music Labels)
Vocals: ZEROBASEONE
Lyrics: Tomoki Tamatani, KUSHITA
Composition: Tomoki Tamatani, KUSHITA, Sora Tansho
Arrangement: Sora Tansho
Opening 5:
GET BACK
(SENHA)
Vocals: Yuzu
Lyrics: Yujin Kitagawa, Koji Iwasawa
Composition: Yujin Kitagawa, TeddyLoid
Arrangement: TeddyLoid, Yuzu
Ending:
RVR: RISING VOLT TACKLERS RAP
(Sony Music Labels)
Lyrics: Fuma no KTR, Ryogo Matsumaru & Kaiyu Fujimoto (from RIDDLER Inc.) and the Pokémon Rap Yattemi-tai
Composition: WAZGOGG, Fuma no KTR and Joe Ogawa
Arrangement: Joe Ogawa
Vocals: Liko (voiced by Minori Suzuki) and Roy (voiced by Yuka Terasaki)
The members of the Rising Volt Tacklers will join in as guests to sing alongside Liko and Roy! Look forward to seeing who will sing with them each week!
Ending 2:
RVR: RISING VOLT TACKLERS RAP PART 2
(Sony Music Labels)
Lyrics: Fuma no KTR, Ryogo Matsumaru & Kaiyu Fujimoto (from RIDDLER Inc.) and the Pokémon Rap Yattemi-tai
Composition: WAZGOGG, Fuma no KTR and Joe Ogawa
Arrangement: Joe Ogawa
Vocals: Liko (voiced by Minori Suzuki) and Roy (voiced by Yuka Terasaki)
The members of the Rising Volt Tacklers will join in as guests to sing alongside Liko and Roy! Look forward to seeing who will sing with them each week!
Ending 3:
LET ME BATTLE
(Sony Music Labels)
Vocals: 9Lana
Lyrics: TOPHAMHAT-KYO (from FAKE TYPE.)
Composition/Arrangement: Giga & TeddyLoid
LET ME BATTLE FEAT. TUGLANAWAKAMYO
(Sony Music Labels)
Vocals: 9Lana & Tug & Wakabayashi & Myomyo
Lyrics: TOPHAMHAT-KYO (from FAKE TYPE.)
Composition/Arrangement: Giga & TeddyLoid
LET ME BATTLE FEAT. MUTO
(Sony Music Labels)
Vocals: 9Lana & Muto
Lyrics: TOPHAMHAT-KYO (from FAKE TYPE.)
Composition/Arrangement: Giga & TeddyLoid
LET ME BATTLE FEAT. KANKAN
(Sony Music Labels)
Vocals: 9Lana & Kankan
Lyrics: TOPHAMHAT-KYO (from FAKE TYPE.)
Composition/Arrangement: Giga & TeddyLoid
Ending 4:
PIKKAAN!
(Sony Music Labels)
Vocals: Rina Matsuda & Hikaru Morita (from Sakurazaka46)
Lyrics: DECO*27 (from OTOIRO)
Composition: Giga & TeddyLoid
Arrangement: Giga & TeddyLoid
Ending 5:
READY GO
(LAPONE GIRLS)
Vocals: ME:I
Lyrics: Masami Kakinuma
Composition: Daisuke "D.I" Imai and MINTAKHA
Arrangement: Daisuke "D.I" Imai
A comment from Minori Suzuki, the voice of Liko:
I first encountered Liko when I was given reference material for the audition, and I remember being filled with strong emotions the likes of which I had never felt before at that moment. I really wanted to go on an adventure with Liko, to take a step forward! I wanted to play this character so badly that it felt like our meeting here was meant to be. This is why I'm so very happy these people that created Pokémon with love and care entrusted this character to me.
Just like the Pokémon anime, I was born in 1997, so Pokémon has always been there as a natural part of my life. I hope this is how it will be for everyone around the world in the future as well. I will pour all my heart and soul into playing Liko. The Pokémon anime will continue to be the greatest thing ever, so please look forward to the new series!
A comment from Yuka Terasaki, the voice of Roy:
I really treasure the three years I got to go on adventures with Satoshi and Pikachu when I played Corni in the "Pocket Monsters XY" TV series. It's precisely because of the passion for the show that I picked up from my seniors during those three years that I feel so much pressure and responsibility now that I've been given the role of one of the protagonists of this new series, so I'm going to approach the new series while embracing the love for the show that I saw and felt in my seniors back then.
I hope the children that will start watching the Pokémon anime from here on will think of Liko and Roy as their friends, and I promise to approach both the show and the role with everything I've got, doing my best to make it enjoyable for all so that existing fans will come to love Liko and Roy as well! Please join us as we start a new chapter of history.
A comment from Taku Yashiro, the voice of Friede:
I still remember dreaming about going on an adventure with Pokémon back when I was watching the Pocket Monsters anime in grade school, so I was trembling with joy and surprise when I first learned I was getting the chance to be in my beloved show, one that's got so much history and is so loved all around the world now.
I want to play the Friede character with whole-hearted devotion, not just so that children can experience such dreams, but so that adults that grew up together with the franchise can do so as well.
A comment from Shun Horie, the voice of Amethio:
I thought I might just be hallucinating... I was so worried that when I arrived at the studio they might just ask me what I was doing there... but now that we've actually started recording, it seems that I'm actually seriously going to be in the Pokémon anime! I'm so happy.
I hope I'll be able to give people courage through my acting the same way the Pokémon used to give me courage. The first video game I ever bought with my own money was Pocket Monsters Sapphire; Back then I just bulldozed through using nothing but attack moves, but now I'm able to battle using Growl and Screech most effectively.
That adult me is now playing Amethio, a character that seems to be charged with a weighty mission despite just being a teenager. Make sure to watch the show to see how he gets involved with Liko and the others.
A comment from asmi:
When I think back to when I was in elementary school, when I had the anime, the video games and the plushies, yearning after a world filled with Pokémon, I can't think of a more gratifying future than the one I now have. Day by day, the slight anxiety I got when it was decided I would sing the theme song is gradually turning into confidence. And now, I'm convinced the only person that can sing this song is the person I am now, the one that can continue on, anxiety and all! It's a great pleasure to accompany you as we begin this new Pokémon anime story.
I sang this song with all my might so that it could give you a supportive push whenever you get cold feet from here on. I want you all to believe in yourselves and enthusiastically set off on a journey, having a good sense of "Dokidoki" and "Tokimeki", words describing hearts pounding with excitement. May Dokimeki Diary forever resound in your ears!
A comment from Chinozo:
Hello. My name is Chinozo, and I'm the one who made the opening for the new Pokémon anime. Dokimeki Diary is a song that I filled, in my own way, with the utmost love for this series. I've loved Pokémon since I was little, and it still feels like a dream that they approached me about a theme song for it.
I really love each and every one of the Pokémon theme songs and can't put a number to how many lives they have saved. It's a true honor to get to work on a franchise I'm this emotionally attached to. Please enjoy the new Pokémon anime series!
A comment from Kotaro Koizumi, the voice of Liko's homeroom teacher:
I'm Kotaro Koizumi, and this time I'll be playing the role of the protagonist Liko's homeroom teacher in the Pocket Monsters anime.
When I was first approached about this role I was so honored I couldn't believe my ears, and I immediately accepted.
Of course the actual protagonists of the show are the children, but I hope you'll look forward to seeing what kind of role the teacher I play will have in the proceedings as well.
A comment from Eri Kitamura, the voice of Nemo:
It was both fun and educational for me to bounce ideas off the anime staff as we fine-tuned Nemo's characterization based on both my personal interpretation of her characterization from when I played the Pocket Monsters Scarlet/Violet video game and the characterization they wanted to do.
The Pokémon battle fanatic Nemo you know from the video game is super intense in the anime as well! Everything she did was so filled with energy I was dripping with sweat while playing her!! I've played several Pocket Monsters characters before, both anime and video game ones, and I'm extremely honored I once again get to play such a wonderful character! I'm really looking forward to seeing what kind of expressions we'll get from Nemo in the anime myself, so please look forward to this episode!
A comment from Kazuya Nakai, the voice of Colza:
I was initially really worried about this role because Colza is a character that attracted so much attention from everyone that played the game, but when I first started playing him I had so much fun my worries were instantly blown away. Colza seems very gloomy and hard to please at first, but it's obvious that the children that live nearby love him dearly. He's very picky, but also extremely open minded and tries to see the best in others. I just love his constantly swinging emotional state, he's such a good person. I myself am also really looking forward to seeing what Liko and Roy will get out of their encounter with him and what he'll get out of his encounter with them.
A comment from Kaede Hondo, the voice of Nanjamo:
I was jumping with joy when I first learned I was going to play Nanjamo! I've been playing the video games ever since Pocket Monsters Leaf Green, and I love the franchise so much I used to dream of turning into a Rayquaza when I was a kid. It makes me so happy to be able to be a part of the Pokémon world!
Nanjamo is a Gym Leader who's also a wonderful entertainer that makes sure everyone has a good time. I took great care to get across both her constant alertness and her professionalism while playing her.
Look forward to seeing how she'll get involved with Liko and the others!
A comment from Makoto Furukawa, the voice of Spinel:
This is my first Pocket Monsters role, but the dubbing sessions made me understand the "weight" of a series with as much history as this.
Spinel is an enemy opposing Liko and the other Rising Volt Tacklers, but the way he orders his Pokémon around from a distance makes him a type of Trainer we've rarely seen before, so me and the sound director agreed on how to play him during the dubbing sessions.
Spinel has appeared in 6 episodes so far and is characterized by how he carries out his plans step by step, I thought this conspicuous villain-like behavior was very interesting.
I'm very intrigued by the fact that his partner is a Blacky, a unique evolution of Eievui. I feel like there are parts to him that are still shrouded in mystery, so I myself am also looking forward to learning what kind of person Spinel really is and seeing how this will be depicted in the show.
I... definitely don't want to ask you to show Spinel your support (laughs), but I would really appreciate you keeping an eye on how Spinel will get involved with Liko and the other Rising Volt Tacklers in the future.
A comment from Hiroki Tochi, the voice of Kabu:
This is my first time appearing in the Pokémon anime ever since I played Achroma in Pocket Monsters Best Wishes Season 2: Episode N. This time I'm going to play Kabu, a character whose lines of advice for Liko and Roy I feel really make an impression on you. Kabu is so skilled as a Pokémon Trainer he's able to serve as a Gym Leader, and I felt like his words are based on his own past experiences. I found him a very appealing person, and I love the way he has a huge smile on his face when he praises someone.
I feel that one of the things that makes Pokémon so much fun is how you can feel Pokémon and Trainers grow through battle, and I think episode 20 really gets that charm across as it shows the challenges both Liko and Nyahoja with their lack of being on the same page, and Roy and Hogator with their presumably somewhat stronger bonds, will have to face. I hope you'll look forward to the episode itself as well as Kabu-san's debut.
A comment from Nanase Nishino, the voice of Eteboth:
I've loved the Pokémon video games ever since I was a child, so I was extremely happy to learn that I would be appearing in the Pocket Monsters anime TV show.
I was initially surprised that I had been cast as an Eteboth, since I wasn't expecting that I'd play an actual Pokémon, but I'm considering this a great honor.
I actually found it to be quite difficult since the way I had to approach my lines was so different from when I'm doing live action. It required a strong sense of imagination since I needed to get across my character's thoughts and current situation purely through making noises.
I got the hang of it little by little though, and it made me really happy when the sound director told me I was "getting close to being an Eteboth now"!
This entire thing was a really good experience for me, and one that really made me fall in love with Eteboth.
The episode won't be airing for a while though, but look forward to it!
A comment from yama:
When I was little, I was particularly fond of the Pokémon movies, which moved me to tears as I kept watching them over and over. This wasn't because I was a particularly emotional child, but because I found the deep bond between Pokémon and humans, along with the music in these movies, to be so moving. I still play video games even as an adult, and Pokémon ones bring up these therapeutic, warm and exciting memories for me. It's a genuine honor to be allowed to handle the theme song this time.
It will make me really happy if this song wil help ease its listeners' anxieties and insecurities and make them recall how cheerful and exciting their daily life can be, even if just a little. Botchi Boromaru-san and I poured our hearts and souls into this song, so I hope its message will reach as many people as possible.
A comment from Botchi Boromaru:
Pokémon has been there with me in some shape or form ever since I was little, not just as video games, but also as a card game, stickers included with sweets, and plushies. I was especially into the anime, taping it every week and watching the episodes over and over, and singing the opening and ending themes at karaoke competitions during grade school. I even used to draw manga starring Pikachu that I'd show to my friends.
But I never even dreamed that I'd one day get to sing a theme song for the Pokémon anime I loved so much! If I tried telling this to my past self that hadn't even started playing the guitar yet, it'd probably sound too ridiculous to believe. This is hands down the greatest thing that has ever happened to me, no exaggeration! yama-san and I took great care in creating this song as we remembered our past selves and thought about our present selves at the same time. Please enjoy!!!
A comment from Ryogo Matsumaru:
When I was writing the lyrics for the first version of this song, I wanted to make a song that the listeners would love for years to come and want to hum to themselves no matter how old they were, so it made me really happy that I got to make another version of it too!
Just like the previous lyrics, these new ones are really fun and will make you want to try rapping along just by hearing them. While the first version was airing on TV the "Pokémon to Doko Iku?" show received a lot of videos of Pokénds singing the song, so I'd be delighted to see lots of Pokénds sing this new one too. I'm looking forward to it already!
The anime has finally started a new chapter too! Liko's pendant, the mystery of the Black Rayquaza, the Six Hero Pokémon... there are so many intriguing mysteries in this show that I can't help but go "Nice, it's Pokémon anime day today!" every Friday!
More than anything, seeing Liko and Roy, two characters that had so much to learn at first, gradually grow and mature thanks to their Pokémon really tugs at my heart and encourages me! "Kore kara donna Pokémon ni aeru no ka na, boken ga tanoshimi"!!
A comment from Minori Suzuki, the voice of Liko:
It's been half a year since the new series started, and I feel like I'm in the middle of a rich adventure both as Liko and as myself. Liko used to keep her thoughts and emotions to herself, but her encounter with Nyahoja led to her gradually starting to become able to express them with words.
In this second chapter, she sets off on a new adventure alongside Roy, Hogator and all the Rising Volt Tacklers in order to grant Terapagos' wishes. I want you to continue to follow the show and see what new Pokémon they'll encounter; I believe we'll be able to showcase even more of the fascinating world of Pocket Monsters, so I hope you'll look forward to it.
A comment from Yuka Terasaki, the voice of Roy:
I think the reason Roy set off on his adventure was specifically because of his fateful encounter with Hogator, an encounter that felt like getting struck by lightning. Please look forward to the battles in Chapter 2 as well, where you'll get to see how this duo that act more like siblings than like Trainer and Partner Pokémon will grow from here!
There are still lots of aspects of the show that are shrouded in mystery, like the legend of the Ancient Adventurer Lucius, as well as the whereabouts of the Black Rayquaza, one of the Six Hero Pokémon. There are tons of amazing twists and turns waiting for you, so I hope you'll watch the show and feel like you're on an adventure with Liko and Roy yourself.
A comment from Nanase Nishino, the voice of Eteboth:
Hello, everyone. This is Nanase Nishino! I am going to play the voice of Eteboth in the Pocket Monsters anime! This is the first time I've been asked to play a Pokémon voice, so I initially reacted with shock and was wondering if I'd be able to do it... However, as I was doing the voice, I gradually... the sound director also told me that I was gradually "getting close to being an Eteboth". I ended up getting really attached to Eteboth, and actually have this plushie here that they gave me displayed at home. So with that said, the Pokémon anime episodes the Eteboth I play will appear in are "The Song in the Mist", airing December 1st, and "Laplace's Thoughts For Its Companions", airing December 8th. The Pocket Monsters TV show airs every Friday at 6:55pm. Also, the TV serial "Pocket ni boken wo tsumekonde", where I play the protagonist, airs every Thursday at 24:30. Make sure to watch them both!
A comment from Hikaru Takahashi:
When I was initially appointed Pokémon Anime Debut Ambassador, I just wondered what on earth that meant (laughs). However, I'm actually completely obsessed with the Pokémon anime myself, so I'm really happy to have been given such a perfect assignment, and I really want to make the Pokémon anime community grow so that everyone can enjoy the new chapter Terastal Debut!
I'm currently in my twenties, so it's been a while since I watched the Pokémon anime as a child, but I still regain that same thrill from the show I had back then when I watch it nowadays! There is this certain excitement you can only get from this anime, no matter how old you are! I want to show off the Pokémon anime's appeal specifically so that I can share that sensation with as many Pokénds as possible!
A comment from Mitsuki Saiga, the voice of Chili:
My name is Mitsuki Saiga, and I will be playing Chili-chan, one of the Elite Four. My first impression of her was that she's a very cool and handsome lady, but I also really like how open-hearted she is and the way she gets people around her involved in what she's doing. I'm having a lot of fun playing her. I believe you'll all get to meet her soon, so please look forward to seeing her!
A comment from Miria Takagishi, the voice of Poppy:
When I first learned I had been cast as Poppy, I thought it was a dream! I was really shocked that someone as young as Poppy-chan could be an Elite Four member, but also really happy that I get to play her in the anime. I want to give it my all when playing her so that everyone will love how strong and cute she is.
A comment from Kohsuke Toriumi, the voice of Aoki:
My name is Kohsuke Toriumi, and I will be playing Aoki, one of the office workers that are out there supporting modern-day society, as well as one of the Elite Four. Aoki was seen eating in silence back in episode 18, and apparently a lot of people have been waiting for him to make another appearance. I'd like to do my best to portray an Aoki-san that lives up to, or maybe even surpasses, the expectations of all those people that are looking forward to seeing if he'll actually talk this time (laughs).
A comment from Ryotaro Okiayu, the voice of Hassaku:
As a teacher that watches over his students, Hassaku-san has some very serious sides to him, but as some of you might now, he's also very expressive and can be really cute. Since he's not just a teacher, but also a member of the Elite Four, I hope I managed to get that passionate side of the character across. Look forward to seeing this fascinating character make his debut!
A comment from 9Lana:
When I first learned I was going to do the ending theme, I got so shocked my hands were trembling, but I also got extremely happy! I feel like this song is perfect for this exciting and thrilling spring when you'll be plunging head first into new encounters and new environments, and I hope you'll enjoy listening to "Let me battle" as you watch the anime! The first Christmas gift I ever got from Santa was a Pokémon video game, and I remember playing it for hours every day because it was so much fun I didn't know when to stop. It's such an honor both to do the ending theme for the Pocket Monsters anime, as well as to get to sing a song written by people I looks up to as much as Giga-san, TeddyLoid-san and TOPHAMHAT-KYO-san, that I still think this is just a dream.
A comment from Giga:
When I first learned I was doing this song, I screamed "All right!!!" in my mind! Both the feel and the rhythm of this song changes completely at all the various key points throughout it, so I think it'll be fun to picture various scenes from the anime as you listen to it, going "this is a battle scene, this is a...". It's! Such! A! Good! Song! Please give it a listen!
A comment from TeddyLoid:
It made me really happy to be asked to work on a show I'm so deeply emotionally attached to. We incorporated all kinds of elements into this song, such as the intense Pokémon battles that take place in a vast world, meetings and partings with friends, etc. "Let me battle" evolves as the curtain rises on a new adventure. Stay tuned.
A comment from Yujin:
I'm very honored and very happy to be singing the opening theme for the Pocket Monsters anime. This is a very fun song, so I had fun recording it as well. My favorite Pokémon is Eievui, and I always keep an Eievui plushie I got from Rei in my room. I want all you viewers to listen to "Will" as soon as you can, and I'm truly grateful for all the constant support we've been getting.
A comment from Gaeul:
I've been a huge fan of Pokémon since I was a child, so I'm really happy I get to sing one of its opening themes. Pokémon is of course a famous anime everyone in Japan knows, and this is also the case in Korea, so I was really honored to get this assignment and knew I had to do my absolute best. There was a huge Pocket Monsters card game craze back when was in elementary school, so I played that a lot with my cousins, and also collected cute Pokémon menko in all kinds of colors. I sang this song with all my might in order to fill it with the kind of cheerfulness and energy that's so unique to the Pocket Monsters anime, so please look forward to it!
A comment from Rei:
I've been very close to this anime ever since she was little, so I was extremely happy to hear we were doing an opening theme for it. All the members were really excited about it, and couldn't believe they were actually doing the opening theme (smile). When I was little, I would always be sitting in front of the TV on the days the anime was airing, looking forward to learning what kind of adventure we'd be getting that day (smile). I'd be really happy if I could share all the dreams, courage and sparkling memories I gained from watching the anime back then with you all. Please look forward to seeing IVE alongside Pokémon.
A comment from Wonyoung:
I'm very happy and honored to get to sing the opening theme for an anime as extremely famous as Pocket Monsters, which I'm a big fan of myself as well. I've loved Pikachu since childhood and wanted to live with Pokémon in real life back then, so I'm very happy to get to sing the opening theme. We'll be singing a cheerful song that will make you happy as you watch the show!
A comment from Liz:
I've enjoyed the anime ever since I was a child, and also played the video games a lot and collected a ton of Pokémon cards, menko and plushies together with my little brother, so I was extremely honored when I learned we were singing the opening theme. It made me so excited and happy I can't even put it in words. Since I was so excited about this song, I did my absolute best when recording it as well! I hope you guys are all excited for it as well, and would be really happy if you'd root for us a lot!
A comment from Leeseo:
It was like a dream come true to learn we were getting to sing this song. We've been graced with the wonderful opportunity it is to get to sing an anime opening theme, so I really wanted to do a good job with it. I regularly have fun collecting the "Decochara seal" stickers that come with Pokémon Pan pastry, and would put the stickers featuring my favorite Pokémon on my cell phone. I did my absolute utmost singing "Will", so it'd make me happy if lots of people liked it.
A comment from Minori Suzuki, the voice of Liko:
A new chapter is just about to begin. Liko and the others can't contain their dokimeki, glimmering like they're Terastallized themselves as they take another step forward when they enter Orange Academy in order to make their Terastal Debut! You'll get to see fascinating characters you know from the video games make their appearance, fierce battles both Trainer and Pokémon throw their heart and soul into, and the bond between a more experienced and mature Liko, Roy and Dot and their respective partners...! And they're going to grow more and more, bond more and more, and then meet the Black Rayquaza again and take Terapagos to Rakua! I'm positive Liko, Nyarote and the others will all get their feelings through to you!
Everything will continue to be fine this spring as well, as long as you have Pokémon and the Pokémon anime with you! Let's go to another place far far away alongside Liko and the others! It's time to adventure!
A comment from Yuka Terasaki, the voice of Roy:
At long last, Liko, Roy and Dot's journey towards their Terastal Debut begins. Tomorrow's episode is going to be a bonanza of new characters! We had lots of new people join us at the dubbing studio too, so the recording session for this episode was really lively and fun, and it felt like I got my beginner's spirit back and made a new step forward with a fresh mindset and attitude, just like Liko and the others are doing as they leap headlong into an all new location, and just like all you who are starting new lives in April are doing! Let's all amass a mountainload of excitement and thrills together!
Make sure to keep an eye on the battles in the new chapter as well, the cool and glimmering battle scenes featuring Terastallizing are an absolute must see! Please enjoy the "Terastal Debut" portion of the anime as well, okay?
A comment from Yoshino Aoyama, the voice of Dot:
This new chapter has a lot of highlights, including those resulting from the unique new characters and the all new ways of battling we'll get to see. One aspect I think is particularly worthy of attention is Dot's clever battle style, where she battles with her brain while fully mobilizing all the knowledge she's aquired so far. However, knowledge alone won't get you anywhere...
Liko and Nyarote, Roy and Hogator, and Dot and Kuwassu all have their own unique type of partnership, and I want you to focus on their respective bonds and on what they each have to learn in order to make progress. The relationship between the energetic Kanuchan and the awkward Dot is the one I personally find to be the heart of the matter, and I find that relationship absolutely lovely, so make sure to keep some of your focus on that too...!
A comment from Kotono Mitsuishi, the voice of Kaede:
I am Kotono Mitsuishi, and I will be playing Kaede in the Pocket Monsters anime TV series. In episode 47, Kaede will be battling Liko-chan, a character whose distress I think a lot of people will empathize with. I put a lot of care into how I played Kaede, and particularly emphasized her sentiments towards Liko-chan by virtue of her role as a Gym Leader. I believe you'll enjoy both the "sweet" Kaede and the "bitter" Kaede you'll get to see in this episode, so please look forward to it!
A comment from Kazuya Nakai, the voice of Colza:
While it makes me really happy that people have been waiting for Colza's return appearance after his lengthy absence, I guarantee nobody's been waiting for it more than I have. I had actually resigned myself to thinking he just wasn't going to ever appear again (laughs).
The last time we saw Colza I'd say he came across as the kind of person you feel worried about, but this time around he has it all together. I did try to show how he's still kind of an oddball at the end of the day though, so I hope you'll find that aspect of him entertaining.
A comment from Eri Kitamura, the voice of Nemo:
It's been quite a while since Nemo had a major role in the show, but in this episode she'll once again be showcasing her assured, confident and firm energy. She made a strong impression in her debut episode, and she's definitely going to leave a solid impact this time as well; Nemo may be a very steadfast character, but I've played her in a way that lets you feel how she's developed and grown over time.
This episode has a lot of scenes that really make you feel how important a character she is to Liko and Roy's development, so I hope you'll enjoy it!
A comment from Kaede Hondo, the voice of Nanjamo:
When we were recording this episode, the "batori" had a tremendous impact on me. I played my part with enough intensity to keep up with the energy I felt from it, so I'd say this episode is an absolute must-see! The episode doesn't just depict a battle either, it also shows Dot growing and developing mentally, which I think you should pay attention to as well.
Nanjamo is inherently an entertainer, and acting out the intense Nanjamo's even more intense battling required some serious energy, but before I knew it I got completely caught up in the moment and had tons of fun with these scenes! I'll be really happy if you guys have fun watching it as well!
A comment from Kimiko Saito, the voice of Lime:
My name is Kimiko Saito, and this time I will be playing "Lime". I've always been a big fan of Pokémon, and my house is full of Pokémon merch... but this is actually my first time playing a Pokémon role!! As you probably understand, I'm vibing pretty good right now. Lime-san is a really heartful and soulful character, she kind of reminds me of myself (laughs).
When you think of Lime, you think of rapping, the obvious question is how that's going to translate to the anime. But don't worry, I'll be bringing you her passionate enthusiasm in the form of hot beats. I really hope you'll enjoy the episode.
A comment from Hikaru Takahashi, the voice of Luka:
It was difficult to act to the animation. And as I was performing the role, it was also constantly hitting me that I was actually talking to Liko, Roy and Dot! I was really nervous about voice acting in the Pokémon anime for the first time in quite a while, but I did my utmost, so please enjoy the result!
A comment from Chiaki Kobayashi, the voice of Grusha:
Since I'd played the Pocket Monsters Scarlet/Violet video game myself and was already familiar with the Trainer named Grusha, I got both shocked and really happy when I was told I'd be voicing him.
Grusha comes off as a very calm and collected person that doesn't seem to view his opponents as threats at all, but that actually hides a keen interest in them, as well as a fierce passion. I play the character in a way that manages to get that perfect balance across.
Being a fan myself, I'm looking just as much forward to seeing what I'll be doing in the anime as anyone; who I'll battle and what Pokémon I'll Terastallize. But no matter who I going to face, I'll give it my absolute utmost in my role as a Gym Leader that takes on challengers, so I hope you'll all look forward to it!
A comment from Ryo Hirohashi, the voice of Botan:
My darling little friends all love Eievui, so according to my somewhat ridiculous train of thought that all Eievui fans are friends, I'm sure they can befriend Botan-san as well, since she's sporting an Eievui backpack. Make sure to slowly open up to her to avoid startling her by being too sudden, though.
It makes me really happy to be able to be a part of a world I myself love, but I'm also extremely grateful to get such an opportunity to be part of a world someone I care about loves.
Best regards.
A comment from 9Lana:
This time around I've invited some people I really love and respect to sing with me. Each of the "feat." versions has its own unique quality to it, and it's a really fun song in general! I hope you'll enjoy it alongside the anime!
A comment from Tug:
This is Tug from TugLanaWakaMyo, who just did a feat. version of this song. The Pokémon I first met in the video game are such lovely and reliable companions, and the kind atmosphere and emotional story made me start crying during the stream lol
It's an unbelievable honor to get to sing an ending theme for my beloved Pokémon, written by beloved creators, together with beloved friends and colleagues, and I was taking in all the happiness this brought me as I sang it! I hope our song will make you feel the appeal of the Pokémon world, with its kind companions and its excitement towards its ever-expanding world, more than ever.
A comment from Wakabayashi:
This is Wakabayashi, who just participated in a feat. version of this song. I'm so happy to be part of the Pokémon world I was so obsessed with as a kid that I still wonder if this is all just a dream. We in TugLanaWakaMyo give it our all as we compete against each other, but also respect each other as both colleagues and rivals. Thus, I feel the version of "Let me battle" the four of us sing is a perfect fit for the Pokémon setting, where people grow and develop together with their partners and rivals. Please enjoy our super effective type of singing!
A comment from Myomyo:
My name is Myomyo. It's written with two small "yo"s! I'm really happy to have been given the opportunity to be part of my beloved Pokémon world through my song...! My favorite Pokémon is Milokaross, by the way. Long ago I fished up a Hinbass at Mt. Tengan and raised it with lots of love and care. It's precisely because TugLanaWakaMyo's "Let me battle" is sung by four people that support each other as much as we do that it gains the power and idiosyncratic blend that gives it its appeal. I hope you'll enjoy it alongside the anime!
A comment from Muto:
My name is Muto, and I participated in a feat. version of this song. When I first heard "Let me battle", I was really shocked by the different ways I perceived 9Lana-san's singing, like her expressiveness that can bring out by cuteness and coolness, her incredible skill as a singer, and more. It's a true honor to get to sing the ED to Pocket Monsters, the super popular anime I've known and loved since I was little, together with her. I put a lot of emotion into this song, so please enjoy it alongside the anime!
A comment from Kankan:
Hi, my name is Kankan, and I worked with 9Lana-san for this song. When I first got word of this, I couldn't believe it, my mind just went blank. I love the Pokémon setting so much that I daydream about living there myself, and I've always wanted to sing a song for the Pokémon anime. I'm extremely happy that I get to sing this wonderful song with 9Lana-san, whose singing I'm a huge fan of. I put a lot of myself in the song I had as I sang it, filling it with the strong sense of thrilling excitement you get when you start a new journey with Pokémon! Please enjoy this slightly different take on "Let me battle"!
A comment from Chiaki Kobayashi, the voice of Grusha:
Grusha is a character I had already encountered in the Pocket Monsters Scarlet/Violet video game when I got cast, so it made me very happy to learn I would be playing him; I had never imagined I'd get to play such a memorable character.
When I played the role, I hoped I managed to properly get across how he truly felt between the seemingly harsh words he uses. Since they've entrusted this role to me, I'm going to do my absolute utmost to avoid giving you an uncool battle, so I hope you'll look forward to Liko's match!
A comment from Misato Fukuen, the voice of Seille:
I've been given the opportunity to play Seille in the Pocket Monsters TV show! I've been with this franchise for quite a while through my roles in past series, so I'm really and truly happy to be able to make a return to it in this manner. At first glance, Seille comes across as a very beautiful and aloof girl, but she's actually a very distinctive character with intense emotions, as well as an abnormally sore loser, so I had tons of fun playing her. We spent a lot of time on the dubbing sessions, but it felt like the time just flew by in an instant. Look forward to Seille's anime debut, okay?
A comment from Yu Shimamura, the voice of Briar:
My name is Yu Shimamura, and I'll be playing Briar in the Pocket Monsters TV show. I've been in a Pokémon movie before, and back then my heart was fluttering with excitement at hearing the Pokémon voices too, but the Pocket Monsters TV show is just so soulful and really gave me the feeling that THIS truly is Pokémon. Briar turned out to be a lot more passionate that I thought she'd be, and I'm looking forward to facing Pokémon alongside her with all the excitement that comes with it. Even though I'm technically a teacher in the eyes of Liko and Roy, I look forward to working with everyone as a fellow adventurer on the same quest.
A comment from Marika Kohno, the voice of Sazare:
It's no exaggeration to say that Pokémon was the start of my voice acting life. It's already been an entire 10 years since I first started saying I'll take any role I get offered if it's in the Pokémon anime, and I never thought I'd actually get to play Sazare-san of all characters. I'm a gamer myself, and Sazare-san was a very memorable character to me due to her rewarding story in the Pocket Monsters Scarlet/Violet: The Hidden Treasure of Zero video game. While she looks very cool and aloof at first glance, I hope my voice will make her come across as sociable and kind. Just like everyone else that know her from the game, I'm looking forward to seeing how she'll get involved with Liko and the others. I can't spoil too much, but... I really want to get to know her better, you know! I hope you'll all come to love Sazare-san through the anime alongside me!
A comment from Zerobaseone:
Pokémon is one of our favorite anime series, and we've been watching it since we were kids. We've always wanted to do an opening theme for it, so we're really happy for this opportunity! Only One Story's chorus is extremely catchy, and we don't think you'll be able to get it out of your heads once you hear it. The end of the chorus also has some really memorable lyrics that go "Nankai mo naitatte kimi nara so daijobu", so make sure to keep your attention on those as well. This is a really fun song everyone will be able to sing and dance to, so please enjoy it alongside the anime!
A comment from Minori Suzuki, the voice of Liko:
The experiences at Orange Academy have made Liko grow as a person, as well as made her stronger. She's no longer the same girl she was back in episode 1; Now she's been losing herself in battle and have learned things that go beyond simply winning and losing. This goes for Roy and Dot as well; I'm sure they're capable of overcoming any hurdle now! The new chapter Rayquaza Rising is one surprise after another, and these surprises will no doubt be accompanied by a never-ending sense of excitement; I once again truly feel that what makes the Pokémon anime so appealing is that both adults and children can get invested in it and become fired up! So let's go, everyone! It's time to set off on a new adventure with the Rising Volt Tacklers!
A comment from Yuka Terasaki, the voice of Roy:
The Terastal Debut arc had Liko and Roy complete their Terastal training and gave them some valuable experiences. Now, the new chapter "Rayquaza Rising" features a new beginning, where we'll finally get to learn more about Terapagos and Rakua, the main focal points of their story. I think it might even have an episode that will bring Roy a lot closer to his goal of getting Rayquaza. This series still has a lot of mysteries to it: The Terastal Debut arc felt like it really changed the way Roy battles, so now that it's over, will he be able to get the Black Rayquaza the next time they battle? What is Rakua? What is Rakulium, or the "Eternal Blessing" as they call it? What's the deal with Lucius and the Six Heroes? I think the answer to a lot of these will be revealed in this chapter, so look forward to it!
A comment from Yoshino Aoyama, the voice of Dot:
Now that Liko, Roy and Dot have all completed their Terastal training and bonded further with their partners, it's finally time for the Rising Volt Tacklers to continue their adventure towards the Six Heroes and Rakua! This time they will finally be faced with the truth behind the mysteries that have been presented thus far. I hope you'll keep watching so that you'll see with your own eyes how Liko and the others will react and what they'll do afterwards. As long as they're together, they'll surely make it there in the end! Oh, and if you look at the poster, you'll see that Dot's Kanuchan has somehow...?! Well, don't miss out on THAT! Please look forward to the new chapter Rayquaza Rising!
A comment from Rina Matsuda:
Giga-san and TeddyLoid-san's song Pikkaan! is the perfect mix of a memorable earworm of a melody and lyrics jam-packed with Pokémon's greatness, which made it really fun to sing. This song is actually what made me a Pokémon fan! I'm sure all our super supportive fans will be happy with it as well. The song is sprinkled with little things Pocket Monsters fans will enjoy as well, so I hope you'll discover those as you sing it!
A comment from Hikaru Morita:
I've always been a big fan of Pokémon, but even though I've been professionally involved with the franchise in a number of ways already, I never thought the day would come where I'd get to sing an ending theme for the Pokémon anime! It feels like a dream come true, and made me extremely happy. We paid a lot of attention to the little details while recording this song to ensure that both Sakurazaka46 fans and Pocket Monsters fans would enjoy the result. I think we managed to create an ending theme that can be enjoyed even after the anime is over, so I hope you'll listen to it a lot and love it a lot.
A comment from Giga:
Pikkaan! I really love both the name and the song itself! Pikkaan! Pikkaan! Pikkaan! Pikkaan! Pikkaan! Pikkaan! Pikkaan! Pikkaan! Pikkaan! Pikkaan!!!!
A comment from Teddyloid:
Pikkaan! was created by the best there is. It's a song that expresses the fun of the show through music and will definitely cheer you up as you listen to it. Please look forward to it!
A comment from DECO*27:
Pikkaan! My name is DECO*27, and I'm Kanto-born and Jouto-bred. When I wrote these lyrics, I poured my hope for you all to have fun and challenging adventures into them! So come on, go adventure with a Hop Step Get!!
A comment from Kei Mochizuki:
I gave it my absolute best when I drew the CD jacket illustration so that I'd be able to visualize the ultimate song Pikkaan! I hope I managed to create a CD jacket filled with my love for the Pokémon anime and my love for the artists that produced the song.
A comment from Yujin Kitagawa:
I feel extremely honored to do an opening theme for Pokémon anime, which is loved all over the world by both men and women, boys and girls of all ages. Yuzu made its debut in 1997, the same year the Pokémon anime premiered, so it's a collaboration between "contemporaries" so to speak... which made me feel like we and the show shared a deep bond and a sense of destiny. Something entirely new and unexpected was born between Yuzu and Pokémon as we came together under the banner of Get Back. I hope this song will stay with those who love Pokémon and continue to evolve by their side.
A comment from Koji Iwasawa:
When I first got the news, I was very honored, but honestly also very surprised, wondering if Yuzu was really the right choice for this show. Just the fact that many of the earlier theme songs have been very "poppy", as well as emotionally aligned with the anime, made me think a lot about how well Yuzu would be able to align with the anime, as well as whether Pokémon anime fans would accept our song. Yuzu has filled this opening theme with as much respect for Pokémon as they possibly could, and I hope watching and listening to it will bring you a weekly dose of excitement.
A comment from MOMONA:
Pocket Monsters is a franchise that's beloved all around the world, and which has also been near and dear to me ever since I was born, so it's genuinely like a dream come true to get to be part of it in the form of music by handling an ending theme! Ready Go is a poppy and charming song full of words associated with Pocket Monsters. Pocket Monsters is beloved by both men and women, boys and girls of all ages, and I hope that this song, which is filled with a unique charm the likes you've never heard from Me:I before, will likewise make our singing reach all kinds of people. Look forward to it!
A comment from Minori Suzuki, the voice of Liko:
Ever since the day Liko first met Nyahoja, she has been growing as a person, continuously pushing herself forward alongside her companions. The new chapter Mega Voltage is a story set one year after the events of Rayquaza Rising, and while it starts off with Liko's life having come to a standstill as she's unsure how she feels about her current situation, all those things she discovered and all those experiences she had on her initial adventures still remain etched into her mind and have definitely made her a better Trainer and improved her bonds with her Pokémon! Join me as we enjoy a mega awesome new adventure the likes of which only these present iterations of Liko, Roy and the others can have! Ready when you are! If you haven't checked out the Pokémon anime yet, make sure to do like the new character Uruto and join Liko and the others this April!
A comment from Yuka Terasaki, the voice of Roy:
The new chapter Mega Voltage is about to begin, and it will be quite different from the adventures Liko and Roy have had thus far. Their adventures may have begun with them under the protection of the adult members of the Rising Volt Tacklers, but I think the events of Terastal Debut gave them the confidence to set out on their own, and I think that's precisely what this new chapter is all about; The children making their own decisions and their own progress without any adult assistance. Liko, Roy and Dot have grown up just a little, and are now setting off on a new adventure alongside their new companion Uruto in order to restore the truth about the Rising Volt Tacklers. Look forward to it!! Lucario is a Pokémon I have very happy memories of, and while it almost feels like a dream that I get to go on an adventure with one again, I'll also continue to love my precious companions Achigator, Taikaiden, and now also Cap, who I'm currently taking care of for Friede! Please keep an eye on the intense battles to come, which will even feature Mega Evolution!
A comment from Yoshino Aoyama, the voice of Dot:
Mega Voltage is finally about to begin. This is a new chapter that begins with a sudden 1 year timeskip from the slow and careful progress of the previous adventures, and I'm extremely excited to see how it will be received. Liko is somewhat more mature than before, Roy has grown taller, and seeing what Cap is carrying around just brings me to tears. Then there's Dot, who's gone back home; What in the world is SHE up to now? And above all, there's the new character Uruto, a perfect fit for this mega new adventure! What will HE bring to the group? To be perfectly honest, I'm still in shock over how Rayquaza Rising ended, but I still hope you'll all continue to support Liko and the others' decisions and adventures! Ready Go!!!!
MODEL SHEETS:
THE BRAVE ASAGI
THE BRAVE ASAGI (WITH WING DECK UNFOLDED)
STERN
DECK
OBSERVATION DECK EXTERIOR
WING DECK
WHEELHOUSE
ENGINE ROOM
KITCHEN
FIRST AID ROOM
OBSERVATION DECK INTERIOR
MEETING ROOM
Welcome to the thread, where you can share your theories on the new Pocket Monsters anime.
Please mind the following:
- Don't diss or mock others if their predictions differ from yours. If you think someone's speculation is unlikely to happen, too farfetched or flat-out impossible, you can debate with them, but please stay respectful at all times.
- If you suspect that someone's trolling, please contact a mod via PM or the report function instead of replying to that person.
- Please don't use huge and/or animated sprites for your team speculation posts.
- PLEASE AVOID HUGE WALLS OF TEXT! If your post is very big, please consider using spoiler tags or taking out sprites if you're using any.
Please be considerate to fellow members. Thanks!
----
Pocket Monsters, or "Pokémon" for short:
The mysterious creatures that live on our planet.
You can see them all over the world; In the sky, in the sea, in forests, in cities... Everywhere.
Liko is a Paldean girl with a mysterious pendant,
and Roy is a Kantonean boy with a strange monster ball.
A new adventure set throughout the vast world of Pokémon
now begins for Liko and Roy!
What encounters and what destiny lies in wait for them?!
This is a story of "finding" something important by going on an adventure!
LIKO:
A girl from the Paldea region.
Has been attending Sekiei Academy ever since the decisive battle against the Explorers in Rakua.
Reunited with Roy after finding out he's learned something about Rakulium, but...
MASQUERNYA:
Magician Pokémon, Grass/Dark type.
Liko's partner. Nyarote evolved.
Catches opponents off guard by battling in a deceitful way utilizing its flower bombs.
PAGOGO (LIKO'S TERAPAGOS):
Terastal Pokémon, Normal type.
Laid dormant in its pendant form for a long time, but turned back into its Pokémon form upon which Liko got it.
Has never come out of its monster ball after the decisive battle in Rakua.
ROY:
A boy from the Kanto region.
After the decisive battle in Rakua, he continued adventuring and grew stronger.
Came to Sekiei Academy to ask Liko for help after learning about the Pokémon affected by Rakulium.
ACHIGATOR:
Fire Croc Pokémon, Fire type.
Roy's partner. Hogator evolved.
Can unleash powerful moves by singing.
LUCARIO/MEGA LUCARIO:
Wave Guidance Pokémon, Fighting/Steel type.
An alternately colored, yellow Lucario. Roy's new companion.
The power of its wave guidance increases when it undergoes "Mega Evolution", evolution beyond evolution made possible through the bond between Trainer and Pokémon.
CAPTAIN PIKACHU:
Mouse Pokémon, Electric type.
Was Friede's partner, but now works with Roy.
Wears Friede's goggles.
Its nickname is "Cap".
DOT:
A girl the same age as Liko and Roy.
Went back home after the decisive battle at Rakua.
She is also the popular content creator Gurumin.
WELKAMO:
Lesson Pokémon, Water type.
Dot's Partner Pokémon. Kuwassu evolved.
The hardworking Welkamo incorporates all kinds of movements into its dance routines to improve them.
URUTO:
A young boy that appeared before Roy.
The two apparently trained together in the Kalos region...?
Has ultimate confidence in his own strength, and is capable of using Mega Evolution.
YAMIRAMI/MEGA YAMIRAMI:
Darkness Pokémon, Dark/Ghost type.
Uruto's partner. Gemstones is its favorite food.
Can also "Mega Evolve" and battle!
SPINEL:
Previously an executive of the Explorers, but has now taken the positions of leader of the Explorers and director of Exceed.
BLACKY:
Moonlight Pokémon, Dark type.
Spinel's partner.
Skilled at Pokémon battles and overwhelms its enemies with Snarl.
Series Staff:
Executive Director: Daiki Tomiyasu
Director: Saori Den
Series Construction: Dai Sato
Character Design: Rei Yamazaki
Sub-Character Design: Kyoko Ito
Sound Director: Masafumi Mima
Music: Conisch
Animation: OLM
Voice of Liko: Minori Suzuki
Voice of Masquernya: Megumi Hayashibara
Voice of Roy: Yuka Terasaki
Voice of Achigator: Daiki Yamashita
Voice of Dot: Yoshino Aoyama
Voice of Welkamo: Daisuke Namikawa
Voice of Uruto: Natsumi Fujiwara
Voice of Orio: Ayane Sakura
Voice of Murdock: Kenta Miyake
Voice of Molly: Kei Shindo
Voice of Randou: Ikkyu Juku
Voice of Amethio: Shun Horie
Voice of Zir: Kohsuke Tanabe
Voice of Conia: Arisa Shida
Voice of Captain Pikachu: Ikue Ohtani
Opening:
DOKIMEKI DIARY
(Sony Music Labels)
Lyrics/Composition/Arrangement: Chinozo
Vocals: asmi feat. Chinozo
Opening 2:
HALO
(Sony Music Labels)
Lyrics/Composition: Botchi Boromaru and yama
Arrangement: Botchi Boromaru
Vocals: yama x Botchi Boromaru
Opening 3:
WILL
(Sony Music Labels)
Vocals: IVE
Lyrics/Composition: YHEL, gratia, Sorato and Ryo Ito
Arrangement: Sorato
Opening 4:
ONLY ONE STORY
(Sony Music Labels)
Vocals: ZEROBASEONE
Lyrics: Tomoki Tamatani, KUSHITA
Composition: Tomoki Tamatani, KUSHITA, Sora Tansho
Arrangement: Sora Tansho
Opening 5:
GET BACK
(SENHA)
Vocals: Yuzu
Lyrics: Yujin Kitagawa, Koji Iwasawa
Composition: Yujin Kitagawa, TeddyLoid
Arrangement: TeddyLoid, Yuzu
Ending:
RVR: RISING VOLT TACKLERS RAP
(Sony Music Labels)
Lyrics: Fuma no KTR, Ryogo Matsumaru & Kaiyu Fujimoto (from RIDDLER Inc.) and the Pokémon Rap Yattemi-tai
Composition: WAZGOGG, Fuma no KTR and Joe Ogawa
Arrangement: Joe Ogawa
Vocals: Liko (voiced by Minori Suzuki) and Roy (voiced by Yuka Terasaki)
The members of the Rising Volt Tacklers will join in as guests to sing alongside Liko and Roy! Look forward to seeing who will sing with them each week!
Ending 2:
RVR: RISING VOLT TACKLERS RAP PART 2
(Sony Music Labels)
Lyrics: Fuma no KTR, Ryogo Matsumaru & Kaiyu Fujimoto (from RIDDLER Inc.) and the Pokémon Rap Yattemi-tai
Composition: WAZGOGG, Fuma no KTR and Joe Ogawa
Arrangement: Joe Ogawa
Vocals: Liko (voiced by Minori Suzuki) and Roy (voiced by Yuka Terasaki)
The members of the Rising Volt Tacklers will join in as guests to sing alongside Liko and Roy! Look forward to seeing who will sing with them each week!
Ending 3:
LET ME BATTLE
(Sony Music Labels)
Vocals: 9Lana
Lyrics: TOPHAMHAT-KYO (from FAKE TYPE.)
Composition/Arrangement: Giga & TeddyLoid
LET ME BATTLE FEAT. TUGLANAWAKAMYO
(Sony Music Labels)
Vocals: 9Lana & Tug & Wakabayashi & Myomyo
Lyrics: TOPHAMHAT-KYO (from FAKE TYPE.)
Composition/Arrangement: Giga & TeddyLoid
LET ME BATTLE FEAT. MUTO
(Sony Music Labels)
Vocals: 9Lana & Muto
Lyrics: TOPHAMHAT-KYO (from FAKE TYPE.)
Composition/Arrangement: Giga & TeddyLoid
LET ME BATTLE FEAT. KANKAN
(Sony Music Labels)
Vocals: 9Lana & Kankan
Lyrics: TOPHAMHAT-KYO (from FAKE TYPE.)
Composition/Arrangement: Giga & TeddyLoid
Ending 4:
PIKKAAN!
(Sony Music Labels)
Vocals: Rina Matsuda & Hikaru Morita (from Sakurazaka46)
Lyrics: DECO*27 (from OTOIRO)
Composition: Giga & TeddyLoid
Arrangement: Giga & TeddyLoid
Ending 5:
READY GO
(LAPONE GIRLS)
Vocals: ME:I
Lyrics: Masami Kakinuma
Composition: Daisuke "D.I" Imai and MINTAKHA
Arrangement: Daisuke "D.I" Imai
A comment from Minori Suzuki, the voice of Liko:
I first encountered Liko when I was given reference material for the audition, and I remember being filled with strong emotions the likes of which I had never felt before at that moment. I really wanted to go on an adventure with Liko, to take a step forward! I wanted to play this character so badly that it felt like our meeting here was meant to be. This is why I'm so very happy these people that created Pokémon with love and care entrusted this character to me.
Just like the Pokémon anime, I was born in 1997, so Pokémon has always been there as a natural part of my life. I hope this is how it will be for everyone around the world in the future as well. I will pour all my heart and soul into playing Liko. The Pokémon anime will continue to be the greatest thing ever, so please look forward to the new series!
A comment from Yuka Terasaki, the voice of Roy:
I really treasure the three years I got to go on adventures with Satoshi and Pikachu when I played Corni in the "Pocket Monsters XY" TV series. It's precisely because of the passion for the show that I picked up from my seniors during those three years that I feel so much pressure and responsibility now that I've been given the role of one of the protagonists of this new series, so I'm going to approach the new series while embracing the love for the show that I saw and felt in my seniors back then.
I hope the children that will start watching the Pokémon anime from here on will think of Liko and Roy as their friends, and I promise to approach both the show and the role with everything I've got, doing my best to make it enjoyable for all so that existing fans will come to love Liko and Roy as well! Please join us as we start a new chapter of history.
A comment from Taku Yashiro, the voice of Friede:
I still remember dreaming about going on an adventure with Pokémon back when I was watching the Pocket Monsters anime in grade school, so I was trembling with joy and surprise when I first learned I was getting the chance to be in my beloved show, one that's got so much history and is so loved all around the world now.
I want to play the Friede character with whole-hearted devotion, not just so that children can experience such dreams, but so that adults that grew up together with the franchise can do so as well.
A comment from Shun Horie, the voice of Amethio:
I thought I might just be hallucinating... I was so worried that when I arrived at the studio they might just ask me what I was doing there... but now that we've actually started recording, it seems that I'm actually seriously going to be in the Pokémon anime! I'm so happy.
I hope I'll be able to give people courage through my acting the same way the Pokémon used to give me courage. The first video game I ever bought with my own money was Pocket Monsters Sapphire; Back then I just bulldozed through using nothing but attack moves, but now I'm able to battle using Growl and Screech most effectively.
That adult me is now playing Amethio, a character that seems to be charged with a weighty mission despite just being a teenager. Make sure to watch the show to see how he gets involved with Liko and the others.
A comment from asmi:
When I think back to when I was in elementary school, when I had the anime, the video games and the plushies, yearning after a world filled with Pokémon, I can't think of a more gratifying future than the one I now have. Day by day, the slight anxiety I got when it was decided I would sing the theme song is gradually turning into confidence. And now, I'm convinced the only person that can sing this song is the person I am now, the one that can continue on, anxiety and all! It's a great pleasure to accompany you as we begin this new Pokémon anime story.
I sang this song with all my might so that it could give you a supportive push whenever you get cold feet from here on. I want you all to believe in yourselves and enthusiastically set off on a journey, having a good sense of "Dokidoki" and "Tokimeki", words describing hearts pounding with excitement. May Dokimeki Diary forever resound in your ears!
A comment from Chinozo:
Hello. My name is Chinozo, and I'm the one who made the opening for the new Pokémon anime. Dokimeki Diary is a song that I filled, in my own way, with the utmost love for this series. I've loved Pokémon since I was little, and it still feels like a dream that they approached me about a theme song for it.
I really love each and every one of the Pokémon theme songs and can't put a number to how many lives they have saved. It's a true honor to get to work on a franchise I'm this emotionally attached to. Please enjoy the new Pokémon anime series!
A comment from Kotaro Koizumi, the voice of Liko's homeroom teacher:
I'm Kotaro Koizumi, and this time I'll be playing the role of the protagonist Liko's homeroom teacher in the Pocket Monsters anime.
When I was first approached about this role I was so honored I couldn't believe my ears, and I immediately accepted.
Of course the actual protagonists of the show are the children, but I hope you'll look forward to seeing what kind of role the teacher I play will have in the proceedings as well.
A comment from Eri Kitamura, the voice of Nemo:
It was both fun and educational for me to bounce ideas off the anime staff as we fine-tuned Nemo's characterization based on both my personal interpretation of her characterization from when I played the Pocket Monsters Scarlet/Violet video game and the characterization they wanted to do.
The Pokémon battle fanatic Nemo you know from the video game is super intense in the anime as well! Everything she did was so filled with energy I was dripping with sweat while playing her!! I've played several Pocket Monsters characters before, both anime and video game ones, and I'm extremely honored I once again get to play such a wonderful character! I'm really looking forward to seeing what kind of expressions we'll get from Nemo in the anime myself, so please look forward to this episode!
A comment from Kazuya Nakai, the voice of Colza:
I was initially really worried about this role because Colza is a character that attracted so much attention from everyone that played the game, but when I first started playing him I had so much fun my worries were instantly blown away. Colza seems very gloomy and hard to please at first, but it's obvious that the children that live nearby love him dearly. He's very picky, but also extremely open minded and tries to see the best in others. I just love his constantly swinging emotional state, he's such a good person. I myself am also really looking forward to seeing what Liko and Roy will get out of their encounter with him and what he'll get out of his encounter with them.
A comment from Kaede Hondo, the voice of Nanjamo:
I was jumping with joy when I first learned I was going to play Nanjamo! I've been playing the video games ever since Pocket Monsters Leaf Green, and I love the franchise so much I used to dream of turning into a Rayquaza when I was a kid. It makes me so happy to be able to be a part of the Pokémon world!
Nanjamo is a Gym Leader who's also a wonderful entertainer that makes sure everyone has a good time. I took great care to get across both her constant alertness and her professionalism while playing her.
Look forward to seeing how she'll get involved with Liko and the others!
A comment from Makoto Furukawa, the voice of Spinel:
This is my first Pocket Monsters role, but the dubbing sessions made me understand the "weight" of a series with as much history as this.
Spinel is an enemy opposing Liko and the other Rising Volt Tacklers, but the way he orders his Pokémon around from a distance makes him a type of Trainer we've rarely seen before, so me and the sound director agreed on how to play him during the dubbing sessions.
Spinel has appeared in 6 episodes so far and is characterized by how he carries out his plans step by step, I thought this conspicuous villain-like behavior was very interesting.
I'm very intrigued by the fact that his partner is a Blacky, a unique evolution of Eievui. I feel like there are parts to him that are still shrouded in mystery, so I myself am also looking forward to learning what kind of person Spinel really is and seeing how this will be depicted in the show.
I... definitely don't want to ask you to show Spinel your support (laughs), but I would really appreciate you keeping an eye on how Spinel will get involved with Liko and the other Rising Volt Tacklers in the future.
A comment from Hiroki Tochi, the voice of Kabu:
This is my first time appearing in the Pokémon anime ever since I played Achroma in Pocket Monsters Best Wishes Season 2: Episode N. This time I'm going to play Kabu, a character whose lines of advice for Liko and Roy I feel really make an impression on you. Kabu is so skilled as a Pokémon Trainer he's able to serve as a Gym Leader, and I felt like his words are based on his own past experiences. I found him a very appealing person, and I love the way he has a huge smile on his face when he praises someone.
I feel that one of the things that makes Pokémon so much fun is how you can feel Pokémon and Trainers grow through battle, and I think episode 20 really gets that charm across as it shows the challenges both Liko and Nyahoja with their lack of being on the same page, and Roy and Hogator with their presumably somewhat stronger bonds, will have to face. I hope you'll look forward to the episode itself as well as Kabu-san's debut.
A comment from Nanase Nishino, the voice of Eteboth:
I've loved the Pokémon video games ever since I was a child, so I was extremely happy to learn that I would be appearing in the Pocket Monsters anime TV show.
I was initially surprised that I had been cast as an Eteboth, since I wasn't expecting that I'd play an actual Pokémon, but I'm considering this a great honor.
I actually found it to be quite difficult since the way I had to approach my lines was so different from when I'm doing live action. It required a strong sense of imagination since I needed to get across my character's thoughts and current situation purely through making noises.
I got the hang of it little by little though, and it made me really happy when the sound director told me I was "getting close to being an Eteboth now"!
This entire thing was a really good experience for me, and one that really made me fall in love with Eteboth.
The episode won't be airing for a while though, but look forward to it!
A comment from yama:
When I was little, I was particularly fond of the Pokémon movies, which moved me to tears as I kept watching them over and over. This wasn't because I was a particularly emotional child, but because I found the deep bond between Pokémon and humans, along with the music in these movies, to be so moving. I still play video games even as an adult, and Pokémon ones bring up these therapeutic, warm and exciting memories for me. It's a genuine honor to be allowed to handle the theme song this time.
It will make me really happy if this song wil help ease its listeners' anxieties and insecurities and make them recall how cheerful and exciting their daily life can be, even if just a little. Botchi Boromaru-san and I poured our hearts and souls into this song, so I hope its message will reach as many people as possible.
A comment from Botchi Boromaru:
Pokémon has been there with me in some shape or form ever since I was little, not just as video games, but also as a card game, stickers included with sweets, and plushies. I was especially into the anime, taping it every week and watching the episodes over and over, and singing the opening and ending themes at karaoke competitions during grade school. I even used to draw manga starring Pikachu that I'd show to my friends.
But I never even dreamed that I'd one day get to sing a theme song for the Pokémon anime I loved so much! If I tried telling this to my past self that hadn't even started playing the guitar yet, it'd probably sound too ridiculous to believe. This is hands down the greatest thing that has ever happened to me, no exaggeration! yama-san and I took great care in creating this song as we remembered our past selves and thought about our present selves at the same time. Please enjoy!!!
A comment from Ryogo Matsumaru:
When I was writing the lyrics for the first version of this song, I wanted to make a song that the listeners would love for years to come and want to hum to themselves no matter how old they were, so it made me really happy that I got to make another version of it too!
Just like the previous lyrics, these new ones are really fun and will make you want to try rapping along just by hearing them. While the first version was airing on TV the "Pokémon to Doko Iku?" show received a lot of videos of Pokénds singing the song, so I'd be delighted to see lots of Pokénds sing this new one too. I'm looking forward to it already!
The anime has finally started a new chapter too! Liko's pendant, the mystery of the Black Rayquaza, the Six Hero Pokémon... there are so many intriguing mysteries in this show that I can't help but go "Nice, it's Pokémon anime day today!" every Friday!
More than anything, seeing Liko and Roy, two characters that had so much to learn at first, gradually grow and mature thanks to their Pokémon really tugs at my heart and encourages me! "Kore kara donna Pokémon ni aeru no ka na, boken ga tanoshimi"!!
A comment from Minori Suzuki, the voice of Liko:
It's been half a year since the new series started, and I feel like I'm in the middle of a rich adventure both as Liko and as myself. Liko used to keep her thoughts and emotions to herself, but her encounter with Nyahoja led to her gradually starting to become able to express them with words.
In this second chapter, she sets off on a new adventure alongside Roy, Hogator and all the Rising Volt Tacklers in order to grant Terapagos' wishes. I want you to continue to follow the show and see what new Pokémon they'll encounter; I believe we'll be able to showcase even more of the fascinating world of Pocket Monsters, so I hope you'll look forward to it.
A comment from Yuka Terasaki, the voice of Roy:
I think the reason Roy set off on his adventure was specifically because of his fateful encounter with Hogator, an encounter that felt like getting struck by lightning. Please look forward to the battles in Chapter 2 as well, where you'll get to see how this duo that act more like siblings than like Trainer and Partner Pokémon will grow from here!
There are still lots of aspects of the show that are shrouded in mystery, like the legend of the Ancient Adventurer Lucius, as well as the whereabouts of the Black Rayquaza, one of the Six Hero Pokémon. There are tons of amazing twists and turns waiting for you, so I hope you'll watch the show and feel like you're on an adventure with Liko and Roy yourself.
A comment from Nanase Nishino, the voice of Eteboth:
Hello, everyone. This is Nanase Nishino! I am going to play the voice of Eteboth in the Pocket Monsters anime! This is the first time I've been asked to play a Pokémon voice, so I initially reacted with shock and was wondering if I'd be able to do it... However, as I was doing the voice, I gradually... the sound director also told me that I was gradually "getting close to being an Eteboth". I ended up getting really attached to Eteboth, and actually have this plushie here that they gave me displayed at home. So with that said, the Pokémon anime episodes the Eteboth I play will appear in are "The Song in the Mist", airing December 1st, and "Laplace's Thoughts For Its Companions", airing December 8th. The Pocket Monsters TV show airs every Friday at 6:55pm. Also, the TV serial "Pocket ni boken wo tsumekonde", where I play the protagonist, airs every Thursday at 24:30. Make sure to watch them both!
A comment from Hikaru Takahashi:
When I was initially appointed Pokémon Anime Debut Ambassador, I just wondered what on earth that meant (laughs). However, I'm actually completely obsessed with the Pokémon anime myself, so I'm really happy to have been given such a perfect assignment, and I really want to make the Pokémon anime community grow so that everyone can enjoy the new chapter Terastal Debut!
I'm currently in my twenties, so it's been a while since I watched the Pokémon anime as a child, but I still regain that same thrill from the show I had back then when I watch it nowadays! There is this certain excitement you can only get from this anime, no matter how old you are! I want to show off the Pokémon anime's appeal specifically so that I can share that sensation with as many Pokénds as possible!
A comment from Mitsuki Saiga, the voice of Chili:
My name is Mitsuki Saiga, and I will be playing Chili-chan, one of the Elite Four. My first impression of her was that she's a very cool and handsome lady, but I also really like how open-hearted she is and the way she gets people around her involved in what she's doing. I'm having a lot of fun playing her. I believe you'll all get to meet her soon, so please look forward to seeing her!
A comment from Miria Takagishi, the voice of Poppy:
When I first learned I had been cast as Poppy, I thought it was a dream! I was really shocked that someone as young as Poppy-chan could be an Elite Four member, but also really happy that I get to play her in the anime. I want to give it my all when playing her so that everyone will love how strong and cute she is.
A comment from Kohsuke Toriumi, the voice of Aoki:
My name is Kohsuke Toriumi, and I will be playing Aoki, one of the office workers that are out there supporting modern-day society, as well as one of the Elite Four. Aoki was seen eating in silence back in episode 18, and apparently a lot of people have been waiting for him to make another appearance. I'd like to do my best to portray an Aoki-san that lives up to, or maybe even surpasses, the expectations of all those people that are looking forward to seeing if he'll actually talk this time (laughs).
A comment from Ryotaro Okiayu, the voice of Hassaku:
As a teacher that watches over his students, Hassaku-san has some very serious sides to him, but as some of you might now, he's also very expressive and can be really cute. Since he's not just a teacher, but also a member of the Elite Four, I hope I managed to get that passionate side of the character across. Look forward to seeing this fascinating character make his debut!
A comment from 9Lana:
When I first learned I was going to do the ending theme, I got so shocked my hands were trembling, but I also got extremely happy! I feel like this song is perfect for this exciting and thrilling spring when you'll be plunging head first into new encounters and new environments, and I hope you'll enjoy listening to "Let me battle" as you watch the anime! The first Christmas gift I ever got from Santa was a Pokémon video game, and I remember playing it for hours every day because it was so much fun I didn't know when to stop. It's such an honor both to do the ending theme for the Pocket Monsters anime, as well as to get to sing a song written by people I looks up to as much as Giga-san, TeddyLoid-san and TOPHAMHAT-KYO-san, that I still think this is just a dream.
A comment from Giga:
When I first learned I was doing this song, I screamed "All right!!!" in my mind! Both the feel and the rhythm of this song changes completely at all the various key points throughout it, so I think it'll be fun to picture various scenes from the anime as you listen to it, going "this is a battle scene, this is a...". It's! Such! A! Good! Song! Please give it a listen!
A comment from TeddyLoid:
It made me really happy to be asked to work on a show I'm so deeply emotionally attached to. We incorporated all kinds of elements into this song, such as the intense Pokémon battles that take place in a vast world, meetings and partings with friends, etc. "Let me battle" evolves as the curtain rises on a new adventure. Stay tuned.
A comment from Yujin:
I'm very honored and very happy to be singing the opening theme for the Pocket Monsters anime. This is a very fun song, so I had fun recording it as well. My favorite Pokémon is Eievui, and I always keep an Eievui plushie I got from Rei in my room. I want all you viewers to listen to "Will" as soon as you can, and I'm truly grateful for all the constant support we've been getting.
A comment from Gaeul:
I've been a huge fan of Pokémon since I was a child, so I'm really happy I get to sing one of its opening themes. Pokémon is of course a famous anime everyone in Japan knows, and this is also the case in Korea, so I was really honored to get this assignment and knew I had to do my absolute best. There was a huge Pocket Monsters card game craze back when was in elementary school, so I played that a lot with my cousins, and also collected cute Pokémon menko in all kinds of colors. I sang this song with all my might in order to fill it with the kind of cheerfulness and energy that's so unique to the Pocket Monsters anime, so please look forward to it!
A comment from Rei:
I've been very close to this anime ever since she was little, so I was extremely happy to hear we were doing an opening theme for it. All the members were really excited about it, and couldn't believe they were actually doing the opening theme (smile). When I was little, I would always be sitting in front of the TV on the days the anime was airing, looking forward to learning what kind of adventure we'd be getting that day (smile). I'd be really happy if I could share all the dreams, courage and sparkling memories I gained from watching the anime back then with you all. Please look forward to seeing IVE alongside Pokémon.
A comment from Wonyoung:
I'm very happy and honored to get to sing the opening theme for an anime as extremely famous as Pocket Monsters, which I'm a big fan of myself as well. I've loved Pikachu since childhood and wanted to live with Pokémon in real life back then, so I'm very happy to get to sing the opening theme. We'll be singing a cheerful song that will make you happy as you watch the show!
A comment from Liz:
I've enjoyed the anime ever since I was a child, and also played the video games a lot and collected a ton of Pokémon cards, menko and plushies together with my little brother, so I was extremely honored when I learned we were singing the opening theme. It made me so excited and happy I can't even put it in words. Since I was so excited about this song, I did my absolute best when recording it as well! I hope you guys are all excited for it as well, and would be really happy if you'd root for us a lot!
A comment from Leeseo:
It was like a dream come true to learn we were getting to sing this song. We've been graced with the wonderful opportunity it is to get to sing an anime opening theme, so I really wanted to do a good job with it. I regularly have fun collecting the "Decochara seal" stickers that come with Pokémon Pan pastry, and would put the stickers featuring my favorite Pokémon on my cell phone. I did my absolute utmost singing "Will", so it'd make me happy if lots of people liked it.
A comment from Minori Suzuki, the voice of Liko:
A new chapter is just about to begin. Liko and the others can't contain their dokimeki, glimmering like they're Terastallized themselves as they take another step forward when they enter Orange Academy in order to make their Terastal Debut! You'll get to see fascinating characters you know from the video games make their appearance, fierce battles both Trainer and Pokémon throw their heart and soul into, and the bond between a more experienced and mature Liko, Roy and Dot and their respective partners...! And they're going to grow more and more, bond more and more, and then meet the Black Rayquaza again and take Terapagos to Rakua! I'm positive Liko, Nyarote and the others will all get their feelings through to you!
Everything will continue to be fine this spring as well, as long as you have Pokémon and the Pokémon anime with you! Let's go to another place far far away alongside Liko and the others! It's time to adventure!
A comment from Yuka Terasaki, the voice of Roy:
At long last, Liko, Roy and Dot's journey towards their Terastal Debut begins. Tomorrow's episode is going to be a bonanza of new characters! We had lots of new people join us at the dubbing studio too, so the recording session for this episode was really lively and fun, and it felt like I got my beginner's spirit back and made a new step forward with a fresh mindset and attitude, just like Liko and the others are doing as they leap headlong into an all new location, and just like all you who are starting new lives in April are doing! Let's all amass a mountainload of excitement and thrills together!
Make sure to keep an eye on the battles in the new chapter as well, the cool and glimmering battle scenes featuring Terastallizing are an absolute must see! Please enjoy the "Terastal Debut" portion of the anime as well, okay?
A comment from Yoshino Aoyama, the voice of Dot:
This new chapter has a lot of highlights, including those resulting from the unique new characters and the all new ways of battling we'll get to see. One aspect I think is particularly worthy of attention is Dot's clever battle style, where she battles with her brain while fully mobilizing all the knowledge she's aquired so far. However, knowledge alone won't get you anywhere...
Liko and Nyarote, Roy and Hogator, and Dot and Kuwassu all have their own unique type of partnership, and I want you to focus on their respective bonds and on what they each have to learn in order to make progress. The relationship between the energetic Kanuchan and the awkward Dot is the one I personally find to be the heart of the matter, and I find that relationship absolutely lovely, so make sure to keep some of your focus on that too...!
A comment from Kotono Mitsuishi, the voice of Kaede:
I am Kotono Mitsuishi, and I will be playing Kaede in the Pocket Monsters anime TV series. In episode 47, Kaede will be battling Liko-chan, a character whose distress I think a lot of people will empathize with. I put a lot of care into how I played Kaede, and particularly emphasized her sentiments towards Liko-chan by virtue of her role as a Gym Leader. I believe you'll enjoy both the "sweet" Kaede and the "bitter" Kaede you'll get to see in this episode, so please look forward to it!
A comment from Kazuya Nakai, the voice of Colza:
While it makes me really happy that people have been waiting for Colza's return appearance after his lengthy absence, I guarantee nobody's been waiting for it more than I have. I had actually resigned myself to thinking he just wasn't going to ever appear again (laughs).
The last time we saw Colza I'd say he came across as the kind of person you feel worried about, but this time around he has it all together. I did try to show how he's still kind of an oddball at the end of the day though, so I hope you'll find that aspect of him entertaining.
A comment from Eri Kitamura, the voice of Nemo:
It's been quite a while since Nemo had a major role in the show, but in this episode she'll once again be showcasing her assured, confident and firm energy. She made a strong impression in her debut episode, and she's definitely going to leave a solid impact this time as well; Nemo may be a very steadfast character, but I've played her in a way that lets you feel how she's developed and grown over time.
This episode has a lot of scenes that really make you feel how important a character she is to Liko and Roy's development, so I hope you'll enjoy it!
A comment from Kaede Hondo, the voice of Nanjamo:
When we were recording this episode, the "batori" had a tremendous impact on me. I played my part with enough intensity to keep up with the energy I felt from it, so I'd say this episode is an absolute must-see! The episode doesn't just depict a battle either, it also shows Dot growing and developing mentally, which I think you should pay attention to as well.
Nanjamo is inherently an entertainer, and acting out the intense Nanjamo's even more intense battling required some serious energy, but before I knew it I got completely caught up in the moment and had tons of fun with these scenes! I'll be really happy if you guys have fun watching it as well!
A comment from Kimiko Saito, the voice of Lime:
My name is Kimiko Saito, and this time I will be playing "Lime". I've always been a big fan of Pokémon, and my house is full of Pokémon merch... but this is actually my first time playing a Pokémon role!! As you probably understand, I'm vibing pretty good right now. Lime-san is a really heartful and soulful character, she kind of reminds me of myself (laughs).
When you think of Lime, you think of rapping, the obvious question is how that's going to translate to the anime. But don't worry, I'll be bringing you her passionate enthusiasm in the form of hot beats. I really hope you'll enjoy the episode.
A comment from Hikaru Takahashi, the voice of Luka:
It was difficult to act to the animation. And as I was performing the role, it was also constantly hitting me that I was actually talking to Liko, Roy and Dot! I was really nervous about voice acting in the Pokémon anime for the first time in quite a while, but I did my utmost, so please enjoy the result!
A comment from Chiaki Kobayashi, the voice of Grusha:
Since I'd played the Pocket Monsters Scarlet/Violet video game myself and was already familiar with the Trainer named Grusha, I got both shocked and really happy when I was told I'd be voicing him.
Grusha comes off as a very calm and collected person that doesn't seem to view his opponents as threats at all, but that actually hides a keen interest in them, as well as a fierce passion. I play the character in a way that manages to get that perfect balance across.
Being a fan myself, I'm looking just as much forward to seeing what I'll be doing in the anime as anyone; who I'll battle and what Pokémon I'll Terastallize. But no matter who I going to face, I'll give it my absolute utmost in my role as a Gym Leader that takes on challengers, so I hope you'll all look forward to it!
A comment from Ryo Hirohashi, the voice of Botan:
My darling little friends all love Eievui, so according to my somewhat ridiculous train of thought that all Eievui fans are friends, I'm sure they can befriend Botan-san as well, since she's sporting an Eievui backpack. Make sure to slowly open up to her to avoid startling her by being too sudden, though.
It makes me really happy to be able to be a part of a world I myself love, but I'm also extremely grateful to get such an opportunity to be part of a world someone I care about loves.
Best regards.
A comment from 9Lana:
This time around I've invited some people I really love and respect to sing with me. Each of the "feat." versions has its own unique quality to it, and it's a really fun song in general! I hope you'll enjoy it alongside the anime!
A comment from Tug:
This is Tug from TugLanaWakaMyo, who just did a feat. version of this song. The Pokémon I first met in the video game are such lovely and reliable companions, and the kind atmosphere and emotional story made me start crying during the stream lol
It's an unbelievable honor to get to sing an ending theme for my beloved Pokémon, written by beloved creators, together with beloved friends and colleagues, and I was taking in all the happiness this brought me as I sang it! I hope our song will make you feel the appeal of the Pokémon world, with its kind companions and its excitement towards its ever-expanding world, more than ever.
A comment from Wakabayashi:
This is Wakabayashi, who just participated in a feat. version of this song. I'm so happy to be part of the Pokémon world I was so obsessed with as a kid that I still wonder if this is all just a dream. We in TugLanaWakaMyo give it our all as we compete against each other, but also respect each other as both colleagues and rivals. Thus, I feel the version of "Let me battle" the four of us sing is a perfect fit for the Pokémon setting, where people grow and develop together with their partners and rivals. Please enjoy our super effective type of singing!
A comment from Myomyo:
My name is Myomyo. It's written with two small "yo"s! I'm really happy to have been given the opportunity to be part of my beloved Pokémon world through my song...! My favorite Pokémon is Milokaross, by the way. Long ago I fished up a Hinbass at Mt. Tengan and raised it with lots of love and care. It's precisely because TugLanaWakaMyo's "Let me battle" is sung by four people that support each other as much as we do that it gains the power and idiosyncratic blend that gives it its appeal. I hope you'll enjoy it alongside the anime!
A comment from Muto:
My name is Muto, and I participated in a feat. version of this song. When I first heard "Let me battle", I was really shocked by the different ways I perceived 9Lana-san's singing, like her expressiveness that can bring out by cuteness and coolness, her incredible skill as a singer, and more. It's a true honor to get to sing the ED to Pocket Monsters, the super popular anime I've known and loved since I was little, together with her. I put a lot of emotion into this song, so please enjoy it alongside the anime!
A comment from Kankan:
Hi, my name is Kankan, and I worked with 9Lana-san for this song. When I first got word of this, I couldn't believe it, my mind just went blank. I love the Pokémon setting so much that I daydream about living there myself, and I've always wanted to sing a song for the Pokémon anime. I'm extremely happy that I get to sing this wonderful song with 9Lana-san, whose singing I'm a huge fan of. I put a lot of myself in the song I had as I sang it, filling it with the strong sense of thrilling excitement you get when you start a new journey with Pokémon! Please enjoy this slightly different take on "Let me battle"!
A comment from Chiaki Kobayashi, the voice of Grusha:
Grusha is a character I had already encountered in the Pocket Monsters Scarlet/Violet video game when I got cast, so it made me very happy to learn I would be playing him; I had never imagined I'd get to play such a memorable character.
When I played the role, I hoped I managed to properly get across how he truly felt between the seemingly harsh words he uses. Since they've entrusted this role to me, I'm going to do my absolute utmost to avoid giving you an uncool battle, so I hope you'll look forward to Liko's match!
A comment from Misato Fukuen, the voice of Seille:
I've been given the opportunity to play Seille in the Pocket Monsters TV show! I've been with this franchise for quite a while through my roles in past series, so I'm really and truly happy to be able to make a return to it in this manner. At first glance, Seille comes across as a very beautiful and aloof girl, but she's actually a very distinctive character with intense emotions, as well as an abnormally sore loser, so I had tons of fun playing her. We spent a lot of time on the dubbing sessions, but it felt like the time just flew by in an instant. Look forward to Seille's anime debut, okay?
A comment from Yu Shimamura, the voice of Briar:
My name is Yu Shimamura, and I'll be playing Briar in the Pocket Monsters TV show. I've been in a Pokémon movie before, and back then my heart was fluttering with excitement at hearing the Pokémon voices too, but the Pocket Monsters TV show is just so soulful and really gave me the feeling that THIS truly is Pokémon. Briar turned out to be a lot more passionate that I thought she'd be, and I'm looking forward to facing Pokémon alongside her with all the excitement that comes with it. Even though I'm technically a teacher in the eyes of Liko and Roy, I look forward to working with everyone as a fellow adventurer on the same quest.
A comment from Marika Kohno, the voice of Sazare:
It's no exaggeration to say that Pokémon was the start of my voice acting life. It's already been an entire 10 years since I first started saying I'll take any role I get offered if it's in the Pokémon anime, and I never thought I'd actually get to play Sazare-san of all characters. I'm a gamer myself, and Sazare-san was a very memorable character to me due to her rewarding story in the Pocket Monsters Scarlet/Violet: The Hidden Treasure of Zero video game. While she looks very cool and aloof at first glance, I hope my voice will make her come across as sociable and kind. Just like everyone else that know her from the game, I'm looking forward to seeing how she'll get involved with Liko and the others. I can't spoil too much, but... I really want to get to know her better, you know! I hope you'll all come to love Sazare-san through the anime alongside me!
A comment from Zerobaseone:
Pokémon is one of our favorite anime series, and we've been watching it since we were kids. We've always wanted to do an opening theme for it, so we're really happy for this opportunity! Only One Story's chorus is extremely catchy, and we don't think you'll be able to get it out of your heads once you hear it. The end of the chorus also has some really memorable lyrics that go "Nankai mo naitatte kimi nara so daijobu", so make sure to keep your attention on those as well. This is a really fun song everyone will be able to sing and dance to, so please enjoy it alongside the anime!
A comment from Minori Suzuki, the voice of Liko:
The experiences at Orange Academy have made Liko grow as a person, as well as made her stronger. She's no longer the same girl she was back in episode 1; Now she's been losing herself in battle and have learned things that go beyond simply winning and losing. This goes for Roy and Dot as well; I'm sure they're capable of overcoming any hurdle now! The new chapter Rayquaza Rising is one surprise after another, and these surprises will no doubt be accompanied by a never-ending sense of excitement; I once again truly feel that what makes the Pokémon anime so appealing is that both adults and children can get invested in it and become fired up! So let's go, everyone! It's time to set off on a new adventure with the Rising Volt Tacklers!
A comment from Yuka Terasaki, the voice of Roy:
The Terastal Debut arc had Liko and Roy complete their Terastal training and gave them some valuable experiences. Now, the new chapter "Rayquaza Rising" features a new beginning, where we'll finally get to learn more about Terapagos and Rakua, the main focal points of their story. I think it might even have an episode that will bring Roy a lot closer to his goal of getting Rayquaza. This series still has a lot of mysteries to it: The Terastal Debut arc felt like it really changed the way Roy battles, so now that it's over, will he be able to get the Black Rayquaza the next time they battle? What is Rakua? What is Rakulium, or the "Eternal Blessing" as they call it? What's the deal with Lucius and the Six Heroes? I think the answer to a lot of these will be revealed in this chapter, so look forward to it!
A comment from Yoshino Aoyama, the voice of Dot:
Now that Liko, Roy and Dot have all completed their Terastal training and bonded further with their partners, it's finally time for the Rising Volt Tacklers to continue their adventure towards the Six Heroes and Rakua! This time they will finally be faced with the truth behind the mysteries that have been presented thus far. I hope you'll keep watching so that you'll see with your own eyes how Liko and the others will react and what they'll do afterwards. As long as they're together, they'll surely make it there in the end! Oh, and if you look at the poster, you'll see that Dot's Kanuchan has somehow...?! Well, don't miss out on THAT! Please look forward to the new chapter Rayquaza Rising!
A comment from Rina Matsuda:
Giga-san and TeddyLoid-san's song Pikkaan! is the perfect mix of a memorable earworm of a melody and lyrics jam-packed with Pokémon's greatness, which made it really fun to sing. This song is actually what made me a Pokémon fan! I'm sure all our super supportive fans will be happy with it as well. The song is sprinkled with little things Pocket Monsters fans will enjoy as well, so I hope you'll discover those as you sing it!
A comment from Hikaru Morita:
I've always been a big fan of Pokémon, but even though I've been professionally involved with the franchise in a number of ways already, I never thought the day would come where I'd get to sing an ending theme for the Pokémon anime! It feels like a dream come true, and made me extremely happy. We paid a lot of attention to the little details while recording this song to ensure that both Sakurazaka46 fans and Pocket Monsters fans would enjoy the result. I think we managed to create an ending theme that can be enjoyed even after the anime is over, so I hope you'll listen to it a lot and love it a lot.
A comment from Giga:
Pikkaan! I really love both the name and the song itself! Pikkaan! Pikkaan! Pikkaan! Pikkaan! Pikkaan! Pikkaan! Pikkaan! Pikkaan! Pikkaan! Pikkaan!!!!
A comment from Teddyloid:
Pikkaan! was created by the best there is. It's a song that expresses the fun of the show through music and will definitely cheer you up as you listen to it. Please look forward to it!
A comment from DECO*27:
Pikkaan! My name is DECO*27, and I'm Kanto-born and Jouto-bred. When I wrote these lyrics, I poured my hope for you all to have fun and challenging adventures into them! So come on, go adventure with a Hop Step Get!!
A comment from Kei Mochizuki:
I gave it my absolute best when I drew the CD jacket illustration so that I'd be able to visualize the ultimate song Pikkaan! I hope I managed to create a CD jacket filled with my love for the Pokémon anime and my love for the artists that produced the song.
A comment from Yujin Kitagawa:
I feel extremely honored to do an opening theme for Pokémon anime, which is loved all over the world by both men and women, boys and girls of all ages. Yuzu made its debut in 1997, the same year the Pokémon anime premiered, so it's a collaboration between "contemporaries" so to speak... which made me feel like we and the show shared a deep bond and a sense of destiny. Something entirely new and unexpected was born between Yuzu and Pokémon as we came together under the banner of Get Back. I hope this song will stay with those who love Pokémon and continue to evolve by their side.
A comment from Koji Iwasawa:
When I first got the news, I was very honored, but honestly also very surprised, wondering if Yuzu was really the right choice for this show. Just the fact that many of the earlier theme songs have been very "poppy", as well as emotionally aligned with the anime, made me think a lot about how well Yuzu would be able to align with the anime, as well as whether Pokémon anime fans would accept our song. Yuzu has filled this opening theme with as much respect for Pokémon as they possibly could, and I hope watching and listening to it will bring you a weekly dose of excitement.
A comment from MOMONA:
Pocket Monsters is a franchise that's beloved all around the world, and which has also been near and dear to me ever since I was born, so it's genuinely like a dream come true to get to be part of it in the form of music by handling an ending theme! Ready Go is a poppy and charming song full of words associated with Pocket Monsters. Pocket Monsters is beloved by both men and women, boys and girls of all ages, and I hope that this song, which is filled with a unique charm the likes you've never heard from Me:I before, will likewise make our singing reach all kinds of people. Look forward to it!
A comment from Minori Suzuki, the voice of Liko:
Ever since the day Liko first met Nyahoja, she has been growing as a person, continuously pushing herself forward alongside her companions. The new chapter Mega Voltage is a story set one year after the events of Rayquaza Rising, and while it starts off with Liko's life having come to a standstill as she's unsure how she feels about her current situation, all those things she discovered and all those experiences she had on her initial adventures still remain etched into her mind and have definitely made her a better Trainer and improved her bonds with her Pokémon! Join me as we enjoy a mega awesome new adventure the likes of which only these present iterations of Liko, Roy and the others can have! Ready when you are! If you haven't checked out the Pokémon anime yet, make sure to do like the new character Uruto and join Liko and the others this April!
A comment from Yuka Terasaki, the voice of Roy:
The new chapter Mega Voltage is about to begin, and it will be quite different from the adventures Liko and Roy have had thus far. Their adventures may have begun with them under the protection of the adult members of the Rising Volt Tacklers, but I think the events of Terastal Debut gave them the confidence to set out on their own, and I think that's precisely what this new chapter is all about; The children making their own decisions and their own progress without any adult assistance. Liko, Roy and Dot have grown up just a little, and are now setting off on a new adventure alongside their new companion Uruto in order to restore the truth about the Rising Volt Tacklers. Look forward to it!! Lucario is a Pokémon I have very happy memories of, and while it almost feels like a dream that I get to go on an adventure with one again, I'll also continue to love my precious companions Achigator, Taikaiden, and now also Cap, who I'm currently taking care of for Friede! Please keep an eye on the intense battles to come, which will even feature Mega Evolution!
A comment from Yoshino Aoyama, the voice of Dot:
Mega Voltage is finally about to begin. This is a new chapter that begins with a sudden 1 year timeskip from the slow and careful progress of the previous adventures, and I'm extremely excited to see how it will be received. Liko is somewhat more mature than before, Roy has grown taller, and seeing what Cap is carrying around just brings me to tears. Then there's Dot, who's gone back home; What in the world is SHE up to now? And above all, there's the new character Uruto, a perfect fit for this mega new adventure! What will HE bring to the group? To be perfectly honest, I'm still in shock over how Rayquaza Rising ended, but I still hope you'll all continue to support Liko and the others' decisions and adventures! Ready Go!!!!
MODEL SHEETS:
THE BRAVE ASAGI
THE BRAVE ASAGI (WITH WING DECK UNFOLDED)
STERN
DECK
OBSERVATION DECK EXTERIOR
WING DECK
WHEELHOUSE
ENGINE ROOM
KITCHEN
FIRST AID ROOM
OBSERVATION DECK INTERIOR
MEETING ROOM
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