The Unbeatable Pokémon: Ash’s Most Powerful Pokémon From Every Region

Summary

Pikachu's refusal to evolve into Raichu hindering its battling prowess is a limitation to its strength, but it has proven its power numerous times.

Despite initially being disobedient and defiant, Charizard became one of Ash's most beloved and memorable Pokémon as their bond grew stronger over the years.

Ash's Greninja, known for its distinctive form called Ash-Greninja, is highly powerful and maintains a close bond with him. However, Ash's controversial decision to release it has sparked ongoing debate.

Across the span of 1,232 episodes, Ash Ketchum emerged as the iconic lead in the Pokémon anime. His travels encompassed numerous regions within the Pokémon world, with a commendable tally of 8 major expeditions. Throughout these voyages, Ash managed to capture an impressive count of 78 Pokémon, including the acquisition of 30 Tauros creatures. Notably, Ash formed distinct and diverse teams in each region he ventured into. Consequently, amidst such an assemblage of Pokémon, it begs the question: which of Ash's Pokémon truly reigns supreme in each region?

Regarding Ash's Pokémon collection, certain individuals have etched their place in our memory more significantly than others. Among these notable contenders, both Charizard and Greninja undoubtedly stand tall. Yet, determining the absolute superiority of one Pokémon over all others remains a subjective matter. Nonetheless, as Ash explored fresh territories, certain Pokémon immediately distinguished themselves, cementing their vital roles within his team and earning the status of esteemed comrades. Now that Ash's extraordinary journey has concluded, which Pokémon truly shine above all others in each region he ventured into?

9 Honorable Mention: Pikachu

Pikachu serves as both Ash's best friend and closest companion, in addition to being one of his most formidable Pokémon. Throughout the anime, Pikachu undergoes various transformations, experiencing a slight decline in power during the Black & White series without much explanation. Nevertheless, in the latest seasons, Pikachu once again demonstrates its impressive and formidable abilities.

Despite its strengths, Pikachu's battling capabilities may be hindered by its refusal to evolve into Raichu. Throughout Ash's journey, Pikachu remains a steadfast member of his team, consistently displaying its incredible power on numerous occasions. Notable examples include its showdown against Tobias' Latios during the Lily of the Valley conference and its final match against Leon in the Masters' Eight tournament.

8 Kanto: Charizard

Charizard, one of Ash's most beloved Pokémon, has had quite the journey alongside its trainer. It starts off as an abandoned Charmander, following a pattern of Ash's Fire-type starters being rejected by other trainers. As it evolves into a spirited Charmeleon, its loyalty to Ash is tested. However, when it reaches its final stage as Charizard, it initially refuses to obey Ash and even defies him at times. Despite this rocky start, Ash and Charizard gradually grow closer over the years, and Charizard eventually returns to help Ash even after their temporary separation in "Charizard's Burning Ambitions." Notably, Charizard engages in a legendary battle against an illusionary Entei in the third Pokémon movie, created by the Unown.

Their paths temporarily diverge when Ash leaves Charizard in the Charicific Valley, a habitat for many Charizard, in order to train and become stronger. Eventually, Ash is able to reunite with Charizard, who now resides at Professor Oak's Lab as the series comes to an end.

7 Johto: Heracross

Heracross was Ash's first Pokémon caught in the Johto region. This dual Bug/Fighting-type quickly became one of his key Pokémon, and Ash relied on it during important battles. It showcased its abilities in the Lily of the Valley conference against Tobias' Darkrai, although it ultimately didn't come out on top. Ash also utilized Heracross in the climactic Silver Conference battle against Gary Oak, where it successfully defeated Gary's Magmar before being defeated by his Blastoise.

Heracross has a strong desire to battle but can easily get distracted. Its love for sap is a recurring joke in the series, and it often steals sap from Bulbasaur's bulb, much to the annoyance of the Seed Pokémon. Heracross made its final return to Ash's team in "Ride, Lapras, Ride!" where it played a crucial role in freeing a trapped Wailmer. Similar to Charizard, Heracross is seen residing at Professor Oak's Lab at the conclusion of the series.

6 Hoenn: Sceptile

Sceptile, the second fully-evolved starter that Ash owned, holds a special place as his most powerful Grass Pokémon. Unlike his Bulbasaur and Chikorita, which never reached their final evolutions, Sceptile stood out with its unwavering composure and impressive strength. Even as a Treecko, Sceptile exuded a cool and collected attitude, accompanied by its undeniable pride and stubbornness, making it an even more formidable opponent in battle. Notably, Sceptile achieved a remarkable victory against Tobias' Darkrai, solidifying its standing as one of Ash's most remarkable Pokémon.

Sceptile also played a crucial role in training Ash's Sirfetch'd for the Masters' Eight tournament and made a final return in "The Road Most Traveled!" to defend an injured Latias. Similar to Charizard and Heracross, Sceptile is last seen at Professor Oak's Lab, alongside many of Ash's other Pokémon.

5 Sinnoh: Infernape

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Similar to Charmander, Chimchar was abandoned by its previous trainer, Paul. Despite the pain, it found inspiration and decided to join Ash on a journey that would ultimately transform it into Ash's most powerful Sinnoh Pokémon. Chimchar is known for its expressive nature in the anime, often shedding tears during its early days with Ash. When it evolved into Infernape and unleashed its Blaze ability, it would become uncontrollable and even harm Ash. It took a considerable amount of effort from Ash to calm down this fiery primate. Interestingly, Infernape shares a similar personality with its trainer, as both are constantly seeking out opponents who are stronger than themselves.

During the Journeys series, Infernape had a prominent episode titled "Advice to Goh," where it expressed a desire to challenge a formidable Moltres to a battle. Although it proved to be no match for the Legendary Pokémon, fans were treated to more screen time featuring this beloved Pokémon. In the episode "Rocket Revengers!," Infernape made its final appearance as it aided in protecting Pikachu from Team Rocket's onslaught by utilizing all of its previous Pokémon allies. Like most of Ash's other signature Pokémon, Infernape can be last seen residing at Professor Oak's Lab, alongside many of Ash's other trusted companions.

4 Unova: Pignite

3 Kalos: Greninja

Ash's Unova team is not particularly memorable. Despite catching all the starters, only one of them evolves, and even then, it never reaches its final form. Similar to Chimchar and Charizard in the past, Tepig's previous trainer also abandoned it. However, Tepig willingly joins Ash's team after he shows it kindness, though it remains unsure of itself. Eventually, during a battle against its former owner, Seamus, Tepig evolves into Pignite, boosting its self-esteem and even developing a hint of vanity. Pignite greatly admires Ash's Charizard and has a friendly rivalry with his Infernape. Despite this, Pignite does not rejoin Ash's team and currently resides at Professor Oak's Lab, living alongside Ash's other Fire-type Pokémon.

In Kalos, Ash possesses a myriad of notable Pokémon, including the remarkable Goodra, Noivern, and Talonflame. However, it is Greninja who surpasses them all in iconic status. Despite its seemingly withdrawn disposition, Greninja stands as one of Ash's mightiest allies, forging an extraordinary bond with him. This profound connection enables Greninja to assume a distinctive form, referred to as Ash-Greninja. The mastery of this form requires time and effort from both trainer and Pokémon, as Greninja's injuries inflict physical anguish upon Ash.

Ash's decision to release Greninja in "Facing the Needs of the Many!" continues to divide the community, but fans still hold the Pokémon's spirit close to their hearts. Greninja made a comeback in the Journeys episode "Catching the Aura of Fate!", playing a crucial role in training Ash's Lucario to harness its Aura abilities. Presently, Greninja resides in the Kalos region, tirelessly combating the sinister forces that pose a threat to the region's safety.

2 Alola: Melmetal

Melmetal and its pre-evolution, Meltan, might not be familiar to most Pokémon GO players. However, in the Pokémon anime, Meltan can be found living in the wild, with one eventually becoming a member of Ash's team. Through fusing with a group of wild Meltan, it evolves into the powerful Melmetal. Despite being a curious and independent Pokémon, Melmetal often strays away, causing frustration for Ash. Additionally, it tends to take its own initiative, even during battles.

Melmetal, a Mythical Pokémon, holds the distinction of being owned solely by Ash, making it a unique addition to his roster. After departing from the Alola region, Ash made the decision to leave behind several of his Pokémon, including Melmetal, under the care of Professor Kukui. This allowed the professor to conduct further research on the rare and fascinating Pokémon. While Melmetal did have the opportunity to reunite with Ash on a few occasions, it ultimately chose to remain with Professor Kukui instead of rejoining Ash's team.

1 Galar: Dracovish

Dracovish is an incredibly peculiar Pokémon. Not only is it a fusion of two incorrect fossils, but its behavior is just as bizarre as its appearance. Similar to James' Victreebel, Dracovish shows its affection by playfully nibbling on Ash's head. However, beyond its quirks, Dracovish possesses remarkable resilience and immense power. It even managed to defeat the formidable Dragonite of Iris, solidifying its position as Ash's trusted companion in the Galar region. During the intense Masters' Eight tournament, Dracovish proved its worth again by engaging in a fierce battle against Leon's Dragapult and unexpectedly exhibiting a peculiar new ability. This newfound power turned the tide of the match in its favor, ultimately securing victory for both Dracovish and Ash.

After becoming the World Champion, Ash decided to leave Dracovish and the rest of his Journeys team at Professor Oak's Lab. His plan was to rotate through his various Pokémon for future adventures. Consequently, Dracovish now resides at the Lab as the series concludes.

Although Ash shares a strong bond with many of his Pokémon, the ones mentioned above have proven to be his most trustworthy companions throughout his journey. Not only were these Pokémon willing to evolve and become stronger, but they also shared Ash's excitement for battles. With such compatible personalities, it's no surprise that these Pokémon hold a special place in Ash's heart and are invaluable assets in combat. While Ash's expedition may have ended, the relationships he forged throughout the Pokémon anime highlight the qualities that eventually led him to become a World Champion.