Watching the Pokémon franchise can feel like navigating a dense forest filled with pocket monsters. Spanning decades, multiple series, numerous movies, and countless specials, it’s easy to get lost. The simplest, and arguably most satisfying, way to watch everything in order is chronologically by release date, ensuring you experience the evolution of the animation, storylines, and characters as they unfolded for the rest of the world.
Understanding the Pokémon Universe: A Journey Through Eras
The Pokémon world isn’t a monolith. It’s a vibrant tapestry woven with interconnected but distinct narratives, each representing a different generation of Pokémon games. Understanding these eras is crucial to appreciating the overarching narrative (or lack thereof, in some cases) and ensuring a smoother viewing experience.
The Core Anime Series: Generations Unveiled
The core anime series follows Ash Ketchum’s journey to become a Pokémon Master, hopping from region to region, collecting badges, and encountering legendary creatures. While the core narrative remains consistent, the animation style, supporting characters, and specific themes evolve with each new generation.
- Original Series (1997-2002): Kanto, Orange Archipelago, and Johto. This is where it all began.
- Advanced Generation (2002-2006): Hoenn. Introduces May and Max.
- Diamond and Pearl (2006-2010): Sinnoh. Dawn joins the team.
- Best Wishes (2010-2013): Unova. Focus on new Pokémon and a slightly rebooted feel.
- XY (2013-2016): Kalos. Features a more mature and action-packed tone.
- Sun & Moon (2016-2019): Alola. A significant departure in animation style, focusing on school life.
- Pokémon Journeys (2019-2023): Galar and Beyond. Ash finally becomes World Champion.
- Pokémon Horizons (2023-Present): Paldea. A brand new journey with new protagonists, Liko and Roy.
The Pokémon Movies: Cinematic Adventures
The movies offer standalone adventures that often tie into the corresponding series. They typically introduce new Pokémon, explore deeper themes, and feature visually stunning animation. While loosely connected to the main series, most movies are best viewed after reaching a certain point in their respective anime seasons to avoid spoilers. Refer to specific viewing orders (provided below) for recommended placements.
Side Stories and Specials: Bite-Sized Pokémon
Alongside the main series and movies, numerous side stories and specials exist, adding depth to the Pokémon world. These include:
- Pokémon Chronicles: Focuses on side characters from the anime.
- Pokémon Origins: A faithful adaptation of the original Red and Blue games.
- Pokémon Generations: Short animated episodes showcasing significant moments from the games.
- Pokémon: Twilight Wings: A miniseries exploring the Galar region.
- Pokémon: Hisuian Snow: A short series set in the Hisui region (ancient Sinnoh).
The Definitive Viewing Order: A Chronological Journey
This comprehensive list presents the most recommended viewing order, combining the core anime series, movies, and relevant specials, released in chronological order. Note that some minor discrepancies in release dates may exist due to regional differences.
- Pokémon: Indigo League (Season 1)
- Pokémon the Movie: Mewtwo Strikes Back
- Pokémon: Adventures in the Orange Islands (Season 2)
- Pokémon the Movie: Pokémon the Movie 2000
- Pokémon: The Johto Journeys (Season 3)
- Pokémon the Movie: Pokémon 3: The Movie
- Pokémon: Johto League Champions (Season 4)
- Pokémon the Movie: Pokémon 4Ever
- Pokémon: Master Quest (Season 5)
- Pokémon the Movie: Pokémon Heroes
- Pokémon: Advanced (Season 6)
- Pokémon Chronicles (Airing alongside Advanced series, view whenever convenient)
- Pokémon the Movie: Jirachi: Wish Maker
- Pokémon: Advanced Challenge (Season 7)
- Pokémon the Movie: Destiny Deoxys
- Pokémon: Advanced Battle (Season 8)
- Pokémon the Movie: Lucario and the Mystery of Mew
- Pokémon: Advanced Adventure (Season 9)
- Pokémon the Movie: Pokémon Ranger and the Temple of the Sea
- Pokémon: Diamond and Pearl (Season 10)
- Pokémon the Movie: The Rise of Darkrai
- Pokémon: Diamond and Pearl: Battle Dimension (Season 11)
- Pokémon the Movie: Giratina and the Sky Warrior
- Pokémon: Diamond and Pearl: Galactic Battles (Season 12)
- Pokémon the Movie: Arceus and the Jewel of Life
- Pokémon: Diamond and Pearl: Sinnoh League Victors (Season 13)
- Pokémon the Movie: Zoroark: Master of Illusions
- Pokémon: Black & White (Season 14)
- Pokémon the Movie: White—Victini and Zekrom and Black—Victini and Reshiram (Watch either version, they are nearly identical)
- Pokémon: Black & White: Rival Destinies (Season 15)
- Pokémon the Movie: Kyurem vs. The Sword of Justice
- Pokémon: Black & White: Adventures in Unova (Season 16)
- Pokémon the Movie: Genesect and the Legend Awakened
- Pokémon Origins
- Pokémon: XY (Season 17)
- Pokémon the Movie: Diancie and the Cocoon of Destruction
- Pokémon: XY Kalos Quest (Season 18)
- Pokémon the Movie: Hoopa and the Clash of Ages
- Pokémon: XYZ (Season 19)
- Pokémon the Movie: Volcanion and the Mechanical Marvel
- Pokémon Generations (Watch whenever convenient)
- Pokémon: Sun & Moon (Season 20)
- Pokémon the Movie: Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! (A retelling of the Indigo League events)
- Pokémon: Sun & Moon – Ultra Adventures (Season 21)
- Pokémon the Movie: Pokémon the Movie: The Power of Us
- Pokémon: Sun & Moon – Ultra Legends (Season 22)
- Pokémon the Movie: Pokémon the Movie: Mewtwo Strikes Back—Evolution (A CGI remake of the first movie)
- Pokémon: Twilight Wings
- Pokémon Journeys: The Series (Season 23)
- Pokémon: Secrets of the Jungle
- Pokémon Master Journeys: The Series (Season 24)
- Pokémon: Hisuian Snow
- Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series (Season 25)
- Pokémon Horizons: The Series (Season 26) (Ongoing)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: Is it necessary to watch all the movies?
While not essential to understanding the core anime series, the movies enhance the Pokémon experience. They often introduce fascinating new Pokémon, explore compelling themes, and provide stunning visuals that complement the main series.
FAQ 2: Are the movies canon?
This is a hotly debated topic. Generally, the movies are considered semi-canon. They exist in a separate continuity but may occasionally reference events from the main series. It’s best to enjoy them as standalone adventures within the Pokémon universe.
FAQ 3: What’s the best place to stream Pokémon?
Pokémon TV (official app and website) offers a selection of episodes and movies for free. Other streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video often have different seasons and movies available, depending on your region. Always check for availability in your area.
FAQ 4: Should I watch Pokémon Origins before or after the main series?
Pokémon Origins is best viewed after the Original Series (Seasons 1-5) or even after Advanced Generation (Seasons 6-9). It provides a more faithful adaptation of the original games and can be appreciated more fully with a foundational knowledge of the Pokémon world.
FAQ 5: Is the Pokémon anime worth watching?
Absolutely! Despite its episodic nature, the Pokémon anime is a fun and engaging series that appeals to viewers of all ages. It offers a heartwarming story of friendship, perseverance, and the importance of believing in yourself.
FAQ 6: Is there a significant difference between the dub and the original Japanese version?
Yes, there are differences. The dub often changes music, dialogue, and sometimes even plot points. Some prefer the original Japanese version for a more authentic experience, while others find the dub more accessible.
FAQ 7: Is Pokémon Horizons a reboot? Do I need to watch everything before starting it?
Pokémon Horizons is a new series with new protagonists. While set in the same world, it’s a fresh start. You don’t need to watch previous seasons to enjoy it, but familiarity with Pokémon lore will enhance your experience.
FAQ 8: What’s the easiest way to keep track of my progress?
Creating a spreadsheet or using a note-taking app to log watched episodes and movies is a great way to stay organized. Many online communities and forums also offer viewing checklists and guides.
FAQ 9: What is the “Pokémon League”?
The Pokémon League is a tournament held at the end of each region’s journey. Ash aims to win each League, testing his skills against other trainers. Winning a League is a major milestone for any Pokémon trainer.
FAQ 10: Are there any filler episodes I can skip?
While some episodes are considered filler, they often provide character development or humorous moments. Skipping them is a matter of personal preference. Websites like Bulbapedia often identify filler episodes.
FAQ 11: How long does it take to watch all of Pokémon?
Watching every episode and movie would take hundreds of hours. Be prepared for a long-term commitment! Pace yourself and enjoy the journey.
FAQ 12: What’s the difference between the Victini and Zekrom and Victini and Reshiram versions of the movie?
These movies are largely the same. The only difference lies in some minor scenes showcasing either Zekrom or Reshiram more prominently, depending on which Pokémon Ash aligns with in the story. You only need to watch one version.