Ketchum Gray acted as the Pokémon protagonist of the anime series for many decades, during which he won the hearts of millions of fans around the world. Children and adults would follow his journey to become the best coach in history, cheering for his victories and sharing his pain in defeats. Despite its iconic nature, over the years many fans have raised concerns about its lack of evolution and development.
Spectators felt as if Ash's character remained stagnant for yearswithout much change about him as a personality or coach. However, when examined closely, the anime makes it clear that Ash's progression, although slow, has always been there. If fans compare the trainer who left Pallet Town with the World Champion, they will discover that the protagonist is truly an incredible and complex character.
Pokémon's Episodic Nature Hurts Ash's Character
Its development was not seen as clearly as it should have been
One of the main characteristics that differentiates the Pokémon other anime series is their episodic nature. Each entry in the series was a mini-adventure, with most of the problems introduced being resolved before the end. Although each season had the main objective of the protagonist defeating the leaders of each of the Pokémon incredible regions of the world and becoming the local champion, many of the episodes had little to do with this mission. Because of this, fans often felt as if the characters didn't evolve.
The character whose slow development was most notable was Ash, as he was the only character who appeared in every main entry in the franchise. As fans were able to see the protagonist's daily life, any slight personality change seemed almost non-existent. Ash has maintained his cheerful and upbeat personality throughout his time as the main character, adding to claims that he has not changed or matured as a person. Still, when comparing its initial and final versions, the drastic change it underwent becomes noticeable.
Ash's progression as a protagonist was a slow but significant process that allowed him to develop naturally as an individual. Upon leaving home, the protagonist was an overconfident and often clueless trainer who knew little about the world he inhabited. He could also be rude to his friends, particularly Misty, with whom he shared a unique and difficult relationship. By the end of the series, Ash left his overconfidence behind, preferring to face his challenges with a clear strategy, as well as a kind and respectful friend.
Ash's constant defeats didn't help his character
Not letting him win a tournament stopped fans from seeing his growth
One of the main reasons why Ash's developments were difficult for fans to evaluate was his repeated failure to win the regional Pokémon League. Although each season gave him ample chances to demonstrate his growth as a trainer and the extremely powerful creatures he had under his control, he rarely managed to rise to the top. With only two trophies under his belt, it has become a tragic habit for fans to expect Ash to lose during the final battles of any League.
However, this was often not the protagonist's fault, as the plot worked against him to continue his journey. From being forced to fight a team of Legendary Pokémon to having your partners not listen to you, Ash was virtually forced to continue his journeydespite already possessing the skills of a true master. This could be proven by his drastic change in strategy as the series progressed. As a rookie, Ketchum tended to make mistakes that would cost him the battle, such as not learning about elemental weaknesses or adding disobedient Pokémon to his team.
The Ash who became World Champion was a completely different trainer, who had a clear understanding of his teammates' strengths and weaknesses. During his most important battles, the hero could be seen planning his every move, always determined to give his all. Ash has had one of the best developments in the series, going from a complete amateur who dreamed of becoming the best, to an experienced trainer capable of giving elite trainers a worthy challenge.
Ash's static age caused a lot of problems
The protagonist never had the chance to grow up
From the day Ash left home to pursue his dream to his coronation as the best trainer in the world, his age remained the same, 10 years. Even though his time as a protagonist spanned over two decades, he never got the chance to truly grow or mature. As such, his character development would often be downplayed in order to maintain his childlike personality. Portraying him as a mature and wise character would go against his canonical age, which is why the series often made him forget the incredible life lessons he learned along his journey.
The reason why Ash was forced to remain 10 years old is probably the need for it to be understandable to younger audiences. Although Pokémon is a franchise that appeals to people of all ages, it's no secret that young children are its main audience. Having a protagonist close in age to viewers helped the show maintain interest and helped fans feel like they could become trainers like Ash. Regrettably, this decision prevents Ash from fully developing into the wise, prepared hero he was meant to become.
Ash Journey is still iconic
There would be no Pokémon anime without it
While at first glance Ash may not be the most complex or interesting character, despite how amazing he can be when examined closely, he is still the face of Pokémon anime. His dream of becoming the best inspired entire generations, letting them know that their desires were also worth pursuing. His determination, bravery and coaching skills are second to none. Without him as the protagonist, it's hard to imagine that the anime would have achieved the same level of success it has today.
Ashes He is and will always be one of the best coaches in Pokémonhistory. His development may be difficult to pinpoint, but he is undoubtedly a complex and unique character. His achievements deserve praise and admiration from fans, because without him the epic adventures they grew up on would not be the same.