What Pokémon Did Ash See Flying Overhead in the Very First Episode?

As Ash Ketchum and his Pokédex take their first steps into the world of Pokémon, one iconic moment stands out from the very beginning of the Pokémon anime series. In the very first episode titled 'Encounter at the Misty Hills,' a mysterious bird-like Pokémon with wings as wide as a horizon gracefully flies overhead. This Pokémon, initially mistaken by many as Fearow, is none other than the legendary creature known as Ho-oh. However, due to hardware limitations, the original design of Ho-oh was cut and later reintroduced in Generation 2 with the release of Pokémon Gold and Silver. Let's delve deeper into the legend and the significance of this creature in the Pokémon universe.

The Role of Ho-oh: Father of Legendary Beasts

Ho-oh, also known as the Fenghuang or Rainbow Phoenix in some regions, is a powerful Pokémon residing in the region of Johto. In the Pokémon world, Ho-oh is referred to as the agent of the seasons. Legend has it that Ho-oh is the father of the legendary beasts in Johto: Entei (flame), Raikou (thunder), and Suicune (water). It is believed that Ho-oh controls the changing of the seasons, ensuring balance and harmony within the Pokémon world.

Is it Fearow or Ho-oh?

The confusion between Ho-oh and Fearow can be traced back to the early days of the Pokémon series, particularly in Generation 1. Due to the limitations of the hardware at the time, the developers had less time to detail the features of Ho-oh. As a result, many fans initially mistook the creature Ash glimpsed in the first episode for the larger, more robust Fearow. Fearow, with its large wings and brown feathers, has a similar shape to Ho-oh but lacks the majestic golden coloration and flames that are starkly visible in later games and designs.

Ho-oh in the 20th Anniversary Movie

In the 20th anniversary special, I Choose You!, an entirely new story of the first season of Pokémon is explored. In this alternate story, Ash only catches a glimpse of the rainbow phoenix in its all-golden glow. Upon arriving at the Viridian Pokémon Center, Ash mistakenly identifies a carving of Articuno as Ho-oh. This moment emphasizes the mystery surrounding Ho-oh and the importance of visual cues in recognizing this legendary Pokémon.

Ho-oh remains a symbol of grandeur and mystique in the Pokémon world. Its legend continues to intrigue trainers, both young and old, as they gather clues and pieces of the puzzle to understand the true nature of this legendary creature.