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Can We Get Ash-Greninja? The Definitive Guide

The short answer is: it’s complicated. Getting the exact Ash-Greninja form as it appeared in the anime is not possible in the newer games like Sword, Shield, Scarlet, and Violet. However, you can obtain a Greninja with the Battle Bond ability, which is the key to transforming into Ash-Greninja in the original Sun and Moon games. But there are important caveats, especially concerning the closure of the 3DS eShop. Let’s dive into the specifics.

The Legacy of Ash-Greninja

Ash-Greninja, a phenomenon where Greninja takes on aspects of Ash’s appearance due to their strong bond, was a powerful and visually striking Pokémon introduced in the Pokémon Sun and Moon anime and games. This transformation wasn’t Mega Evolution, but a unique form achieved through the Battle Bond ability.

The 3DS Era: Pokémon Sun and Moon

The original method for obtaining a Greninja capable of becoming Ash-Greninja involved downloading the Pokémon Sun and Pokémon Moon Special Demo Version on the Nintendo 3DS. Completing the demo allowed you to transfer a Greninja with the Battle Bond ability to the full versions of Pokémon Sun or Pokémon Moon. Crucially, this transfer could only be done to Sun or Moon, not Ultra Sun or Ultra Moon.

The eShop Closure: A Turning Point

The Nintendo 3DS eShop closed on March 27, 2023. This means you can no longer download the Pokémon Sun and Moon Special Demo Version. If you did not download the demo before the closure, you cannot obtain a Battle Bond Greninja through the intended method. However, those who downloaded the demo before the closure can still transfer the Greninja to their Pokémon Sun or Pokémon Moon games.

Battle Bond in Modern Games

While you can transfer a Greninja with the Battle Bond ability from Sun or Moon to newer games through Pokémon Bank and Pokémon HOME, the Ash-Greninja transformation itself is absent from Sword, Shield, Scarlet, and Violet. The Battle Bond ability exists, but it typically functions as a generic stat boost upon defeating an opponent, lacking the visual transformation into Ash-Greninja.

The Anime Factor

With the Pokémon anime moving away from Ash Ketchum as the main character, there’s seemingly little reason for Game Freak to maintain the Ash-Greninja transformation in future games. The form was intrinsically linked to Ash’s journey and the special bond he shared with Greninja.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about Ash-Greninja, providing additional valuable information:

Can I still get Ash-Greninja in Pokémon Sun or Moon?

If you downloaded the Pokémon Sun and Moon Special Demo Version before the 3DS eShop closure on March 27, 2023, you can still obtain a Greninja with the Battle Bond ability and transfer it to your copy of Pokémon Sun or Pokémon Moon. However, downloading the demo is no longer possible.
Can I transfer Ash-Greninja to Pokémon Ultra Sun or Ultra Moon?

No, the Greninja obtained from the demo can only be transferred to Pokémon Sun or Pokémon Moon. It is not compatible with Pokémon Ultra Sun or Pokémon Ultra Moon.
Can I transfer a Battle Bond Greninja from Sun/Moon to Sword/Shield/Scarlet/Violet?

Yes, you can transfer a Greninja with the Battle Bond ability to these games using Pokémon Bank and Pokémon HOME. However, the Ash-Greninja transformation will not occur. Instead, Battle Bond will likely function as a standard ability that boosts stats.
Why was Ash-Greninja removed from newer games?

The removal is likely due to a combination of factors. These include the difficulty in balancing the powerful Ash-Greninja form, the departure of Ash Ketchum from the anime, and the desire to introduce new and unique battle mechanics in each generation.
What does the Battle Bond ability do in Sword/Shield/Scarlet/Violet?

In these games, Battle Bond typically provides a stat boost (usually Attack and/or Speed) after the Pokémon defeats an opponent. It does not trigger the Ash-Greninja transformation.
Is there any way to get a visual Ash-Greninja in modern Pokémon games?

Currently, there is no legitimate way to obtain the visual Ash-Greninja form in Pokémon Sword, Shield, Scarlet, or Violet.
Could Ash-Greninja return in future Pokémon games?

While it’s impossible to say for certain, it’s unlikely that Ash-Greninja will return in its original form. Game Freak tends to introduce new mechanics and features with each generation.
Did Ash ever leave Greninja permanently?

In the anime, Ash released Greninja to help protect the Kalos region. While this was a necessary decision within the storyline, it was a poignant moment for fans who had grown attached to Ash and Greninja’s bond.
Why was Greninja so special to Ash?

Greninja was unique because of the Ash-Greninja transformation, which highlighted the incredibly strong bond between Ash and his Pokémon. This bond was a central theme during Ash’s journey in the Kalos region.
Is Ash-Greninja a Mega Evolution?

No, Ash-Greninja is not a Mega Evolution. It’s a distinct phenomenon resulting from the Battle Bond ability and the deep connection between Ash and Greninja.
Who is Ash’s strongest Pokémon?

This is a topic of debate among fans. Pikachu is often cited as Ash’s most iconic and consistently powerful Pokémon. Charizard and Greninja are also strong contenders.
Why was Greninja banned in competitive play?

In the ORAS (Omega Ruby/Alpha Sapphire) meta, Greninja’s Protean ability (which allowed it to change its type with each move) and diverse movepool made it incredibly versatile and difficult to counter, leading to its ban.
What does a Shiny Greninja look like?

A Shiny Greninja is black with a red “scarf” around its neck, a striking contrast to its usual blue coloration.
Is Froakie available in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet?

Yes! Froakie, Frogadier, and Greninja are available through special events (like raids) in Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet. But remember, you will not be able to transform it into Ash-Greninja.
Where can I learn more about the history of Pokémon and its impact on learning?

For more information on how video games such as Pokemon impact learning and society, visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Conclusion: An Era Passed, a Legacy Remains

While the original method of obtaining Ash-Greninja is no longer available due to the 3DS eShop closure, the legacy of this unique Pokémon form lives on. Players can still appreciate the Battle Bond ability in newer games, even if the visual transformation is absent. Ash-Greninja remains a testament to the powerful bond between trainer and Pokémon, a concept that resonates deeply with fans of the franchise. Remember to consult reliable sources and communities for updates and potential future developments.

Can we get Ash Greninja?