Ash Ketchum, the iconic hero of the original Pokémon anime series, has captivated audiences for over twenty years with his remarkable strategies, tenacity, and relatable persona. However, not every version of Ash has resonated equally with viewers, which has sparked significant debate among fans regarding his varying competence throughout different eras of the show.
Arguably, one of the most criticized portrayals of Ash occurs during the Black & White era, often viewed as an unsuccessful reboot of the franchise. This sentiment is vividly illustrated during his infamous battle against Elesa, the Electric-Type Gym Leader, which showcases the flaws in Ash’s character and decision-making during this time.
Ash vs. Elesa: A Frustrating Experience
Nonsensical Decisions and Embarrassing Defeats
In episode #50 of Pokémon: Black & White, Ash is seen entering Nimbasa City Gym with the intention of challenging Elesa. In a surprising move, he chooses to battle with Palpitoad, a Ground-Type Pokémon, likely aiming for type advantage against Electric-Types. However, this decision is perplexing considering Ash’s extensive experience facing Gym Leaders. Unsurprisingly, Palpitoad is quickly overwhelmed by Elesa’s Emolga, forcing Ash to retreat to the Pokémon Center in search of reinforcements.
Although Ash eventually secures a win, the ordeal leaves both him and the audience filled with embarrassment. His overconfidence and disregard for strategic planning during this encounter indicate a regression into novice behavior. Notably, Elesa could have justly disqualified Ash, thereby reinforcing the integrity of the Gym challenge for future contestants.
Many fans despise this encounter, as it symbolizes Ash’s decline from a seasoned trainer to a reckless novice, particularly glaring when compared to his growth during the Diamond & Pearl saga. The Ash of that era had gained invaluable lessons from battles, crafting him into a more competent fighter. Yet when he ventured into Kalos, much of his hard-earned progress appeared to evaporate, raising questions about his character consistency.
Ash’s Issues Extend Beyond Strategy
Weakening of His Pokémon
The Sinnoh Region Pokémon League is often regarded as one of Ash’s most significant achievements, even if he did not clinch the championship title. Among the fierce competitors, Ash stood out by managing to win against two of Tobias’ Pokémon, highlighting his exceptional capabilities. However, this development was overshadowed during the Black & White seasons, where even his most formidable companion, Pikachu, was portrayed as significantly weaker.
In his first clash with Trip—a new trainer with little battlefield experience—Pikachu’s lackluster performance was disheartening. Once renowned for his agility and combat prowess, Pikachu failed to land any hits on the beginner’s Snivy, succumbing almost immediately. This moment starkly contradicts Pikachu’s established reputation as a battle-hardened Pokémon and raises serious concerns about the regression of Ash’s skills as a trainer.
While Ash’s encounter with Elesa can be attributed to his poor decision-making, the loss against Trip is particularly humiliating, revealing how drastically the narrative had diminished Ash’s longstanding progress during the Black & White period.
A Decline in Personality
A Return to His Season 1 Self
Another factor contributing to the negative reception of Ash during the Black & White seasons is his considerable personality shift. Although he had previously displayed moments of rudeness, Ash’s character development throughout his journey usually showcased his emotional growth and empathy. Conflicts with comrades like Dawn and May would typically resolve with mutual understanding and apologies. However, the Black & White arc seemed to regress Ash to his earlier, less mature self.
His behavior toward Iris often crossed a line, mocking her and displaying an unsettling level of insensitivity. This shift could have worked if the humor had landed effectively, but most attempts at comedy fell flat, only serving to diminish his character further. In contrast, the original series successfully balanced Ash’s abrasive humor with more significant comedic moments, a standard that was not met in the newer installments.
Redemption in X & Y
A Higher-Caliber Ash
Fortunately for fans, the series writers took note of the critiques stemming from the Black & White seasons. In Pokémon: X & Y, Ash re-emerges as a character with enhanced maturity, capability, and kindness. He not only regains his formidable skills but also assembles one of his strongest teams to date, propelling him to the finals of an official Pokémon League for the first time in his journey.