The Unseen Endings of Pokémon
For many years, it seemed that the journey of Ash Ketchum would never come to an end. However, behind the scenes, there were discussions about how the series might conclude, even from its original head writer, Takeshi Shudo. While Ash ultimately received a happy ending, there were alternative ideas that could have drastically changed the course of the Pokémon universe.
Takeshi Shudo was the head writer for the first five seasons of Pokémon and also contributed to the first three movies. Although he passed away in 2009, his blog posts revealed some surprising insights into his vision for the series. These writings, later translated, provided a glimpse into what could have been.
Two Very Different Endings
According to information shared on Lava Cut Content, Shudo had two distinct endings in mind for Pokémon, had he continued with the series. He acknowledged that these endings were unlikely to be approved by the powers that be, but he couldn’t think of any other way to wrap up the show.
The first idea involved a major shift in the relationship between humans and Pokémon. In this scenario, Pokémon would realize they are not partners but rather slaves, leading to a rebellion led by Ash’s Pikachu. Team Rocket, using Meowth as a translator, would attempt to mediate, but this only leads to more chaos. This ending would mark the end of Pokémon as a brand, going against the core lessons and morals the series has always promoted.
While this ending would never have been greenlit, it is fascinating to consider how different the series could have been. It raises questions about the direction of the franchise and the values it promotes.
A More Personal Ending
Shudo’s second ending focused more on Ash himself. In this version, Ash is an old man looking back on his life, remembering the good times from when he was ten years old. His life after that point is portrayed as relatively empty. One day, Ash goes to bed and wakes up as a ten-year-old again, on the first day of his journey.
Excited about a second chance, Ash sets off on a new adventure—not to catch Pokémon, but to find himself. This ending contrasts sharply with the traditional narrative of the series, suggesting a more introspective and personal journey for Ash.
Contrasting Shudo’s Vision with the Real Ending
Shudo’s endings both leave the series without a clear path forward. The second ending implies that Ash’s new journey might be his afterlife, adding a layer of melancholy to the story. Despite the differences, there are some parallels between Shudo’s ideas and the actual ending of the anime.
In the real ending, Ash spends much of his final episode reflecting on his dream of becoming a master. He realizes that it wasn’t about battles or catching Pokémon, but about the relationships he built along the way. This conclusion maintains the series’ themes of meaningful connections with Pokémon and the value they bring.
Both Shudo’s ending and the real ending see Ash setting out on a new journey, though one takes place offscreen. Shudo’s version is certainly sadder, as it suggests that Ash reached his peak at ten years old.
The Legacy of Shudo’s Ideas
Although neither of these endings ever made it to the screen, the fact that the original head writer considered them so seriously is worth reflecting on. How would Pokémon be remembered if Shudo’s vision had been realized? The world may never know, but it’s a thought-provoking idea to ponder. The potential impact of such endings on the franchise and its fans remains a mystery, but it adds an interesting layer to the history of Pokémon.