2019, Animation, Family
WISE Score
Ash finally stops repeating the same grade and goes global in a series that actually rewards fans for paying attention for 25 years.
Journeys is the most 'complete' version of the Pokémon anime. It finally acknowledges that the world is bigger than just one new region, and it gives Ash the character growth fans have been waiting decades for.
It’s safe, high-energy, and surprisingly emotional toward the end. If your kid is into the games or the cards, this is the definitive companion show to let them run with.
Perfect for ages 6 and up. It's simple enough for younger kids to follow the 'creature of the week' fun, but the World Coronation Series arc has enough tactical depth to keep 12-year-olds and nostalgic parents engaged.
Ash and Goh model a solid, supportive friendship. The show emphasizes empathy for creatures and the value of hard work over raw talent.
By visiting every known region in the Pokémon world, the show expands its lore significantly, encouraging kids to think about geography and diverse ecosystems.
Standard cartoon 'violence' where creatures faint rather than get hurt. No language or mature themes to worry about.
Teaches strategic thinking through battles and persistence through Ash's long-term goal of becoming the world champion.
For years, the Pokémon anime felt like it was stuck in a time loop. Ash would arrive in a new region, forget everything he learned, and start over. Journeys (and its follow-up seasons Master Journeys and Ultimate Journeys) finally breaks that cycle. By making Ash a research fellow who travels to all previous regions—Kanto, Johto, Sinnoh, etc.—the show turns into a victory lap for the entire franchise.
The addition of Goh is a smart move. He represents the Pokémon GO generation—kids who are more interested in the 'Catch 'em All' aspect than the 'Battle 'em All' grind. Their dynamic is genuinely healthy; they don't compete with each other, they support each other's very different goals.
Parents should know that this series leads up to Ash's final episodes as the protagonist. It’s a massive cultural moment in the 'mon' world. The stakes in the final tournament are high, and the show handles the concept of 'retirement' and passing the torch with a lot of grace. It's one of the few kids' shows that actually rewards viewers for sticking around for the long haul.
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