Does Ash Still Have Greninja’s Pokeball?
The answer is a resounding yes, Ash Ketchum still possesses Greninja’s Pokeball. While Greninja is not actively traveling with Ash, having been released to assist Zygarde in maintaining the ecosystem, the visual evidence from the Pokémon anime, specifically Sun and Moon Episode 1, shows Ash holding Greninja’s Pokeball along with all of his other Pokémon. This confirms that he technically still “owns” Greninja, despite its current responsibilities. This often leads fans to ask a lot more questions, so let’s delve into the intricacies of this fascinating topic.
Ash and Greninja: A Bond Like No Other
Ash’s journey with Greninja was particularly unique. The Frogadier that would eventually become Greninja was one of Ash’s key Pokémon in the Kalos region. Their connection was so strong that it led to the unique Ash-Greninja transformation, which was a powerful form born from their synchronization. It wasn’t a Mega Evolution, but rather a phenomenon known as the Bond Phenomenon, a special ability unique to certain Pokémon and their trainers.
The Release: A Necessary Separation
Despite their incredible bond and battle prowess, the circumstances required Ash to release Greninja. The presence of mysterious root-like growths in the Kalos region posed a threat to the land’s stability, and Zygarde, the guardian of the ecosystem, recognized that Greninja’s ability to sense these roots was crucial in locating and neutralizing them. Greninja, accepting this sacred duty, could no longer stay with Ash on his journey. This release wasn’t a rejection, but rather a step forward in Greninja’s own journey, further highlighting Ash’s maturity as a trainer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ash and Greninja
Here are some common questions regarding Ash and Greninja’s unique relationship, their shared journey, and Greninja’s future:
1. Why Did Ash Release Greninja?
As stated before, Greninja was released because of the specific skills that made him able to sense the mysterious roots damaging the Kalos region. Zygarde needed Greninja’s help to protect the region. Greninja accepted this duty, leading to his departure from Ash’s team.
2. Did Ash Ever Catch Greninja?
Yes, Ash caught Greninja. This journey started with a Froakie, that then evolved into Frogadier before its final form of Greninja. Greninja was a core member of Ash’s team during his entire Kalos region journey.
3. How Do You Obtain Ash-Greninja in the Games?
In Pokémon Sun and Moon Special Demo Version, players could unlock Ash-Greninja by completing the main story of the demo. Players would then receive a Greninja that had the Battle Bond ability. In the main games, the Battle Bond ability no longer causes the form change. Instead, it boosts stats when it’s activated. The “Ash Greninja” Form itself is no longer attainable outside the demo.
4. Why Did Greninja Lose to Charizard in the Kalos League?
The loss to Alain’s Charizard in the Kalos League final was primarily because Alain was a more experienced trainer with a stronger Pokémon. It wasn’t a type matchup issue, but more of a matter of experience and training.
5. Is Ash-Greninja a Mega Evolution?
No, Ash-Greninja is not a Mega Evolution. It’s the result of a Bond Phenomenon, a unique ability that strengthens the bond between a trainer and their Pokémon, leading to a temporary form change. While it has now been renamed Mega Greninja, this was more of a retcon and for game purposes only.
6. Will Greninja Ever Permanently Return to Ash?
While Greninja does return for a brief cameo in Pokémon Master Journeys Episode 108, there is no indication that it will be a permanent addition back to Ash’s team. Like other Pokémon Ash has released, Greninja is fulfilling a higher purpose separate from Ash’s personal journey.
7. Did Greninja Fuse with Ash?
No, Greninja did not fuse with Ash in the traditional sense. The Ash-Greninja transformation is a result of their strong bond, allowing them to synchronize.
8. What Level Was Ash’s Greninja?
There is no officially given level to Ash’s Greninja. Based on the general scaling of his team in the show, his Greninja likely ended at around level 36, but this number is a fan-made approximation.
9. Why Does Greninja Have a Tongue Scarf?
The “scarf” around Greninja’s neck is actually its tongue. The Pokémon rips out its tongue upon evolution as a display of its devotion and willpower.
10. Can Ash Feel Greninja’s Pain?
Yes, during the Ash-Greninja transformation, it’s shown that Ash can feel Greninja’s pain, emphasizing the deep connection they share. This also showcases the depth of their synchronicity during battles.
11. Is Ash’s Charizard Stronger Than Greninja?
While both are very powerful, Charizard is generally considered Ash’s strongest Pokémon. This claim is backed by Charizard’s many feats throughout the series and general overall impact. Greninja is extremely close, but Charizard has taken the slight edge.
12. What is the Battle Bond Ability?
The Battle Bond ability, in the games, is an ability that increases a Pokémon’s stats when it knocks out an opponent. This is a change from the anime where it led to a form change. This form change was the Ash-Greninja transformation.
13. What Happened to Ash’s Dad?
Ash’s father left on a journey not long after Ash was born and never returned, leaving his fate ambiguous. This aspect of Ash’s backstory has been left largely unexplored in the anime.
14. Did Ash catch Solgaleo?
At the very end of their adventure in the Alola region, Ash briefly caught Solgaleo as a way to save him and his son from the ultra beast Necrozma. After they had finished their fight and made sure everyone was safe, he released him back to his home in Ultra Space.
15. Who is the Strongest Trainer Who Could Beat Ash?
Many fans agree that Red is one of the strongest trainers who could defeat Ash. Red is a highly skilled trainer, with a powerful team who acts as the final boss of the Kanto region. This is a common debate among Pokémon fans.
The Enduring Legacy of Ash and Greninja
Although Greninja is not traveling with Ash, it’s clear that their bond remains unbreakable. Ash retains Greninja’s Pokeball, a constant reminder of their adventures in Kalos. Greninja’s release showcases Ash’s growth as a trainer, prioritizing the greater good over his personal goals, and leaving an enduring impact on the series and its fans. The complex, emotional, and exciting journey that Greninja went on with Ash will always remain a core memory for any fan of the franchise.