Ash and Pikachu’s journey comes to an end soon, as we already know who’s replacing the Pokemon trainer that’s graced our screens for two decades.Liko will be our new hero, journeying alongsideher companion, Roy.
However, it isn’t totally clear who will be replacing the other star of the show: Pikachu. These are far bigger shoes to fill, with Pikachu’s adorable face stamped all over the series, immediately recognisable to super fans and outsiders alike. So which Pokemon has what it takes to be the new series mascot? Well, probably none of them, but that won’t stop us from casting our votes.
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Team Rocket’s Meowth
This definitely isn’t just the opinion of a lapsed Pokemon fan who really only got into the first three generations of the series, but Team Rocket’s Meowth feels like a no-brainer to me. Although Pikachu was plenty expressive during his adventures with Ash, Meowth is one of the only Pokemon out there with the ability to talk, which would be an interesting twist on the formula. It also ensures that Team Rocket still have some kind of involvement in the series, presumably as they try and come up with ways to get Meowth back. Again, definitely not just a big Meowth fanboy here.
Guzzlord
Joe Parlock, Tabletop Editor
I just want to see how the voice actor manages with that near-constant screaming, to be entirely honest.
Marill
Joshua Robertson, New Editor
As much as I’d like Cubone to be the new mascot, it has far too tragic of a backstory to be in the running. If my best boy can’t be the main man, then I’m going to go with my second-best boy Marill. It has a relatively similar cute-to-cool ratio to Pikachu, it’s one of the more instantly recognizable Pokemon, and can be found in Paldea which is the setting for the new anime. There is no better Pikachu replacement in my eyes, so it’s high time Marill was given its time in the spotlight. It also doesn’t talk like a human or constantly scream, which is how I like my Pokemon.
Treecko
Rhiannon Bevan, Deputy News Lead
Alright, George already stole the best answer, so I’m having to tap into my slightly out-of-date Pokemon knowledge for this - but I’m going with Treeko. No, seriously, please hear me out. Treecko is no one’s favourite. Not only is it a Grass-type starter, it’s also sat next to the legendary Torchic and Mudkip, looking really boring by comparison. But that’s why Treecko could work! This series is all about doing something new, taking the incredibly bold step of replacing the protagonist. And what’s riskier than taking a dull Gen 3 starter and turning them into a star? Plus, he looks like he could be a right asshole, and we loved that dynamic with Ash and Pikachu in earlier seasons. So yes, show the Grass starters some love, please.
