Ash's Old Pokémon: What Happens When He Explores New Regions

In the Pokémon series, as Ash begins his journey in new regions, his adventures often leave his old Pokémon in various places. This practice not only makes the exploration of new regions easier but also highlights the diverse and rich universe of Pokémon.

Leaving Them Behind

When Ash starts a new region, his old Pokémon are typically left behind or sent to a safe place. These Pokémon may stay in Professor Oak's lab, where they can live comfortably alongside other Pokémon Ash has caught during his previous adventures. This arrangement allows his old Pokémon to continue their lives in a familiar environment, making them comfortable and content.

Professor Oak's Lab

The most common destination for Ash's old Pokémon is Professor Oak's lab. This place is not just a storage area but a sanctuary where Pokémon can relax, socialize, and enjoy their time without the pressure of constant training and battles. In fact, many of Ash's old Pokémon continue to become friends with the new additions, building a strong and diverse community of Pokémon.

Exceptions and Special Cases

However, not all of Ash's old Pokémon are left at Professor Oak's lab. Some special cases exist where Ash makes arrangements for their care to ensure their well-being:

Alolan Pokémon in Melemele Island

Specific to the Alolan region, Ash left his Alolan Pokémon—those that he caught on Melemele Island—under the care of Professor Kukui. This decision was made to maintain the Pokémon in their natural habitat, ensuring that they wouldn't be uprooted to a new and different ecosystem. Professor Kukui takes excellent care of these Pokémon, allowing them to thrive in their native environment.

Aipom's Journey

One notable exception is Aipom. Despite being left behind during some periods, Aipom followed Ash until the Devon Pokémon League (DP Series) where Ash officially departed with Aipom. Later, Aipom was trained to become a professional in the Traditional Trickery (TT) paddler, focusing on his skills in a specific region. While Aipom is still in Kanto, this shows how close Ash's bond is with his Pokémon, even when they are not actively training with him.

Remembering Old Friends

Despite the physical separation, Ash often references or calls upon his old Pokémon during battles or special events. These interactions not only bring back memories but also symbolize the growth and development both Ash and his Pokémon have undergone over time. In some series, Ash even has the opportunity to reunite with his old Pokémon, making these moments highly cherished and significant.

Conclusion

While Ash's old Pokémon may not feature prominently in every new region, they remain an integral part of his journey and the broader tapestry of the Pokémon world. Their continued friendships and stories add depth and richness to Ash's adventures, cementing the importance of Pokémon in the series.