The Evolution of Ash's Charizard: A Comprehensive Guide

Ash's Charizard is one of the most iconic and recognizable Pokémon from the franchise, second only to Pikachu. Their long history together may not be familiar to modern fans due to the extensive time span of the episodes, dating back over 20 years to the first season. Here's everything a fan needs to know about Ash and his Charizard.

Charizard didn't start out as a Charizard. Ash first encountered his Charmander in the 11th episode of Pokémon, where he found the abandoned Pokémon in a rainstorm, desperately trying to keep the flame on its tail lit under a small leaf. Rushing Charmander to the Pokémon Center, Ash and his friends helped the suffering Fire-type recover. The image of Charmander huddling under that leaf continues to evoke strong emotions, even in those who haven't watched the show in years.

Pokemon: Charmander shields its tail flame with a leaf in an iconic scene. - After finding Charmander's original trainer who abandoned it, Ash is able to take in Charmander as his own Pokémon and begins training him to be a valuable member of the team

After finding Charmander's original trainer who abandoned it, Ash is able to take in Charmander as his own Pokémon and begins training him to be a valuable member of the team.

Ash's Charmeleon Became Disobedient

How the anime introduced the concept of trainers needing badges to make higher-level Pokémon obey them.

Ash's Charmeleon - How the anime introduced the concept of trainers needing badges to make higher-level Pokémon obey them. - Ash's Charmeleon Became Disobedient

Charmander transformed into Charmeleon in episode #43, engaging in a fiery battle against Exeggutor, a Pokémon vulnerable to fire attacks. As Charmeleon, it started to defy Ash's commands in battles, reflecting a game mechanic where high-level Pokémon can act disobediently. Charmeleon even resorted to attacking Ash with flames when provoked. Luckily, this rebellious phase was short-lived as it evolved into Charizard in episode #46. The newly evolved Charizard showcased its power by battling an Aerodactyl in an impressive aerial showdown.

Despite his initial disobedience****, Charizard's struggles continued beyond Kanto. In the Indigo Conference, Charizard's refusal to battle resulted in Ash's loss to Ritchie in the top 16 round. Throughout the Orange Island arc, Charizard's disobedience**** persisted until a critical moment when he was frozen solid during a battle with a Poliwrath. Concerned for Charizard's well-being and the risk of his tail flame going out again, Ash and his friends worked hard to help Charizard recover. Ultimately, their efforts paid off and Charizard finally earned enough respect to obey Ash's commands.

Charizard came back in Johto and Unova

Pokemon: Ash's Charizard breathing fire. - Charizard came back in Johto and Unova - Ash's Charizard's Appearances Beyond Kanto

Ash brought Charizard with him to Johto and often used him in battles, where Charizard clearly surpassed the level of his opponents. Misty and Brock criticized Ash for not being fair to his opponents, which later influenced Ash's decision to leave his previous Pokémon in each region. Despite using Charizard in the first gym battle in Johto, it was time for Charizard to step back from the spotlight.

In episode #134, Ash and his friends discovered the Charicific Valley, home to many wild Charizards. Ash's Charizard was smaller than most and struggled to gain respect from the other Charizards. Charizard ended up defending the valley from Team Rocket, who attacked in an attempt to help Charizard gain acceptance. Ultimately, Ash decided to leave Charizard in the valley, where it stayed with a female Charizard named Charla, with whom it had developed a fondness.

Charizard made a comeback in episode #253 for Ash's final Johto badge in Blackthorn City. It fought alongside Ash in the Silver Conference, reaching the top eight. Another return happened in episode #410 for the Battle Frontier challenge, and in the final match of the Battle Frontier arc in episodes #463 and #464. Despite fighting well, Charizard was defeated by a Dusclops and returned to the valley.

Charizard was absent during the Sinnoh era but reappeared in episode #773 in Unova. Ash was reminded of Charizard by a Charmander and had it sent to him by Professor Oak. While in Unova, Charizard developed a rivalry with Iris's Dragonite. It stayed with Ash until the end of the series in Unova, then returned to Professor Oak's lab along with the rest of Ash's Pokémon. Charizard continued to live at the lab and did not go back to the Charicific Valley.

Where is Ash's Charizard Now?

Charizard has taken on a mentor role at Professor Oak's lab.

Pokemon-Ash-Charizard-Journeys - Charizard has taken on a mentor role at Professor Oak's lab. - Where is Ash's Charizard Now?

In Pokémon Journeys, Charizard was last spotted at Professor Oak's lab, assisting Ash's other Pokémon like Gengar in their training and learning new techniques. During the World Coronation Series tournament, Charizard could be seen observing Ash's battles and even appeared in Pikachu's memories during a crucial match to show support. Despite various speculations, Ash's Charizard did not undergo mega evolution in Pokémon XY or Gigantamax in Pokémon Journeys, thus Charizard has yet to showcase any of its newer forms.

While Ash doesn't appear in the successor series Pokémon Horizons , another Charizard, owned by Professor Friede, plays a major role, carrying the torch from Ash's Charizard.

As one of Ash's oldest and now most loyal Pokémon, Charizard appeared in the final episodes of Ash's run, where it reunited with Bulbasaur and Squirtle, giving the original trio a final farewell. While Charizard in general has always been a popular Pokémon, Ash's Charizard certainly increased its appeal with its many cool performances in battle, and its reappearances have helped introduce Charizard to new generations of Pokémon fans. With a role in some of Pokémon's most memorable moments, Ash's Charizard undoubtedly made its mark in the memory of fans.

How Does Ash's Charizard Stack Up Against Other Charizard?

Pokemon: Magmar and Charizard battle it out. - How Does Ash's Charizard Stack Up Against Other Charizard?

Ash's Charizard may be smaller than the average Charizard, but it compensates for its size with a wealth of battle experience. Throughout the series, it has proven to be a reliable and skilled Pokémon in Ash's roster.

In the anime, there are notable rivals for the title of the strongest Charizard. Alain's Charizard from Pokémon XY showcases impressive strength through its ability to Mega Evolve and its streak of 10 consecutive victories. On the other hand, Leon's Charizard in Pokémon Journeys boasts an undefeated record and the powerful Gigantamax transformation. Despite its dominance, Leon's Charizard was eventually defeated by Pikachu in a significant battle.

Ash's Charizard has repeatedly demonstrated its strength and skill in battles, solidifying its reputation as a powerful and experienced Pokémon. It serves as one of Ash's most notable achievements and serves as evidence of his prowess as a top-tier Pokémon trainer.

WATCH ON NETFLIX

Editor's P/S:

This comprehensive article delves into the fascinating history of Ash's Charizard, capturing the essence of its journey and profound impact on the Pokémon franchise. It evokes a sense of nostalgia and admiration for this iconic Pokémon, reminding us of the unbreakable bond it shares with Ash. The article's detailed account of Charizard's transformations, battles, and triumphs offers a captivating read for both long-time fans and newcomers to the Pokémon world.

The article also provides valuable insights into the significance of Ash's Charizard as a testament to his growth as a trainer. It highlights the challenges and rewards of fostering a deep connection with Pokémon, showcasing the power of friendship, loyalty, and perseverance. The article's exploration of Charizard's enduring legacy leaves readers with a deep appreciation for its character and the enduring impact it has had on the Pokémon universe.