Ash's Most Remarkable Pokémon Character Development Doesn't Involve Pikachu

Article Overview

Ash's Goomy has one of the best character arcs in the Pokémon anime, dealing with issues like PTSD and overcoming them to become a hero.

With Ash's assistance, Goomy overcomes its traumatic past and fear of battling, gradually building up its confidence until it evolves into the formidable Pokémon, Goodra.

Once Goodra emerges, it returns to its rightful place and teams up with others to reclaim its home from the clutches of Florges and the Bug-types, symbolizing its remarkable growth and maturity.

Ash's Pokémon in the Pokémon anime have had captivating character arcs, but Goomy stands out as one of the best. With its journey of overcoming difficulties and becoming a true hero, Goomy becomes an exemplary model for young viewers.

In the episode "A Slippery Encounter" of Pokémon XY, Ash stumbles upon Goomy. It literally falls from the sky and lands on his head. The timid Goomy is afraid of Dedenne, a Fairy-type Pokémon owned by one of Ash's companions. Later on, it is revealed that Goomy used to reside in the nearby wetlands, which were attacked by a swarm of Bug-type Pokémon, led by the Fairy-type Florges.

After facing a crushing defeat at the hands of Bug-types, Goomy and its companions, who dwell in the wetlands, were left vulnerable. This traumatic encounter has left Goomy feeble and filled with fear, making it hesitant to engage in battles.

Goomy's Character In Pokémon Arc Deals With Complex Issues Like PTSD

Goomy experiences PTSD-like flashbacks that cause it to freeze up and become inactive in battle. Ash helps Goomy overcome this challenge and stay focused in the present moment. Despite being dismissed as "the weakest Dragon-type," Ash remains committed to Goomy's growth. Dedenne also goes out of its way to rescue Goomy, which helps Goomy realize that not all Fairy-types are a threat. As Goomy gains confidence, it evolves into a Sliggoo and eventually into a Goodra, becoming one of Ash's most formidable Pokémon.

In the two-part episodes "Defending the Homeland" and "Beyond the Rainbow," Goodra returns to its original wetlands habitat. However, despite its growth, Goodra still feels unsettled being there. While it is happy to reunite with its friends, the wetlands are still controlled by Florges and the Bug-types. Although Ash is discouraged from interfering in a territorial conflict among wild Pokémon, he allows Goodra to take a stand. With its newfound strength, Goodra leads the charge to reclaim their home. Throughout the struggle, it is revealed that Florges attacked the wetlands to obtain special healing water for a sick Floette.

Goodra sets aside its past grievances and teams up with Florges to eliminate Team Rocket. Goodra's Rain Dance replenishes the special healing pool that Team Rocket previously drained. Seeing Goodra's growth, Ash decides to part ways with it, leaving the fully-evolved Goodra to protect its home. Goomy undergoes a meaningful character development during its time in the anime and eventually reunites with Ash. The show tackles difficult issues that children may face in their real lives, handling Goomy's story arc exceptionally well. This showcases the Pokémon anime's ability to deliver excellent writing. Pokémon XY: Kalos Quest can be streamed on Hulu.

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Editor's P/S

Ash's Goomy has one of the best character arcs in the Pokémon anime, dealing with issues like PTSD and overcoming them to become a hero. With Ash's assistance, Goomy overcomes its traumatic past and fear of battling, gradually building up its confidence until it evolves into the formidable Pokémon, Goodra.

This is a powerful narrative that captivates audiences and serves as an exemplary model for young viewers. The way in which Goomy's character development is handled is exceptional, showcasing the Pokémon anime's ability to deliver excellent writing.