'Pokemon Journeys: The Series' Part 2 Review: Ash sets his sights on defeating new Monarch Leon in battle
Spoilers for 'Pokemon Journeys: The Series' Part 2
The English release of the popular 'Pokemon Journeys: The Series' has just hit Netflix, furthering the adventures of Ash Ketchum (Sarah Natochenny) and Goh (Zeno Robinson) for viewers in the US as it catches up to the original Japanese dub. Continuing to embody the spirit of discovery and adventure, the series is an advocate for the 'Pokemon Go' generation, leaning into the game's influences a lot more in its second season while introducing new ideas to the Pokemon mythos.
The stakes are relatively low in Part 2 of the series. After an initial battle with a rampaging Drednaw - which saw Pikachu (Ikue Ōtani) take on its new, enlarged Gigantamax form - Ash sets his eyes on an all-new goal. He wants to battle the new Monarch Leon (Alejandro Saab) in the World Coronation Series tournament. He's already lost to Leon once, but Ash is already looking to improve himself for a rematch in the official arena. It's a long way to go before Ash can qualify, however - he has to prove himself in a series of battles with other players, recorded online, and prove himself worthy of the Master Class. Goh, in the meanwhile, is perfectly happy to continue to join Ash on his adventures in the hopes of capturing as many new Pokemon as he can get his Pokeball on.
A series of adventures highlight the many aspects of the game – in fact, as well animated as the battles are, the show's action is very much held back by its devotion to a turn-based game, as trainers take turns calling out their Pokemon's moves until one's inevitable defeat. The show's many logical consistencies are easily stomached, however, considering how well the series continues to stick through its core message: the wonders of exploration with your friends, and the bonds you form with your pets. Throughout Part 2 of the season, in between classic Pokemon battles and scuffles with Team Rocket, Ash and Goh explore ancient ruins, find new Pokemon, explore mysteries and help various Pokemon sort out issues of their own, earning the love and respect of the various battle monsters.
Part 2 of 'Pokemon Journeys: The Series' might not be as earth-shaking as the revelations of Part 1, but where it lacks in stakes, it makes up for with charm. Inspiring an all-new generation of Pokemon fans, both within the series and for audiences watching, 'Pokemon Journeys: The Series' continues a long tradition of bringing the thrill of adventure, friendship, and adorable pets to the small screen.
All episodes of 'Pokemon Journeys: The Series' Part 2 are now available to stream on Netflix.
