New information on the new series of the popular anime Pocket Monsters (airs on the TV Tokyo Network every Friday at 6:55pm, officially abbreviated "Anipoke"), which will be broadcast starting with a 1 hour special on April 14th, 2023, has been revealed.


In a newly released trailer, we can see Liko and Nyahoja's meeting and battle scenes, as well as our first look at how the mysterious pendant related to Liko shines. In addition, we learned the objective of Pokémon Professor Friede and Captain Pikachu's Rising Volt Tacklers, as well as the dream of Roy, the other protagonist holding a strange monster ball, and got to see Hogator in action for the first time.

We could also see the Duckling Pokémon Kuwassu standing next to the popular online streamer Gurumin, as well as a tense scene showing Amethyo's Explorers closing in on Liko's pendant.

The opening theme was also revealed for the first time: "Dokimeki Diary (asmi feat. Chinozo)" will be sung by asmi and produced by the unparalleled creator Chinozo, who's active in the online scene. This is a song that depicts Liko's adventurous spirit through pop music, made by a special unit created specifically for this show.

YouTube Clip - New Series Trailer 2

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_KdHc6Pi9nE


A comment from asmi:
When I think back to when I was in elementary school, when I had the anime, the video games and the plushies, yearning after a world filled with Pokémon, I can't think of a more gratifying future than the one I now have. Day by day, the slight anxiety I got when it was decided I would sing the theme song is gradually turning into confidence. And now, I'm convinced the only person that can sing this song is the person I am now, the one that can continue on, anxiety and all! It's a great pleasure to accompany you as we begin this new Pokémon anime story.
I sang this song with all my might so that it could give you a supportive push with a "Daijobu! Itterasshai!" whenever you get cold feet from here on. I want you all to believe in yourselves and enthusiastically set off on a journey, having a good sense of "Dokidoki" and "Tokimeki", words describing hearts pounding with excitement. May Dokimeki Diary forever resound in your ears!

A comment from Chinozo:
Hello. My name is Chinozo, and I'm the one who made the opening for the new Pokémon anime. Dokimeki Diary is a song that I filled, in my own way, with the utmost love for this series. I've loved Pokémon since I was little, and it still feels like a dream that they approached me about a theme song for it.
I really love each and every one of the Pokémon theme songs and can't put a number to how many lives they have saved. It's a true honor to get to work on a franchise I'm this emotionally attached to. Please enjoy the new Pokémon anime series!

Press Release (Japanese):

テレビ東京系で毎週金曜よる6時55分から放送中のテレビアニメ「ポケットモンスター」は、少女・リコと少年・ロイをW主人公として新シリーズ「ポケットモンスター」を4月14日（金）に1時間スペシャルで放送スタート。不思議で広大な「ポケットモンスター」の世界に飛び込むリコとロイの冒険を予感させる最新映像を初公開しました！

本日公開した映像では、リコとニャオハの出会いやバトルシーンのほか、リコと関係があるという不思議なペンダントが光り輝く瞬間を初公開！　また、ポケモン博士・フリードとキャプテンピカチュウ率いるライジングボルテッカーズの目的や、「謎のモンスターボール」を手にするもう一人の主人公・ロイの夢も明かされ、動くホゲータの姿も初お披露となりました。さらに、人気動画配信者の「ぐるみん」の側には、「こがもポケモン」のクワッスの姿が！　そして、アメジオ率いるエクスプローラーズがリコの持つペンダントに迫る緊張感漂うシーンも描かれ、怒涛の展開に目が離せません！

また、オープニングテーマも本日初公開！『「ドキメキダイアリー」 asmi
feat.Chinozo』を歌うのはasmi、プロデュースするのはネットシーンで活躍する稀代のクリエイター・Chinozo。本作の為に結成されたスペシャルユニットが贈る、リコの冒険心をポップに描いた楽曲に是非ご注目ください！　その他、物語に登場するキャラクターやポケモンたちの新情報も解禁！　続報は今後のテレビアニメ「ポケットモンスター」をご覧ください。

asmiさん＆Chinozoさんからコメント到着！

asmiasmi
アニメにゲームにぬいぐるみ。ポケモンのいる世界に憧れていた小学生の頃を思うと、こんなに悦ばしい未来はありません。 主題歌を歌うことが決まった当初に漠然と抱いていた不安は、日に日に自信に繋がることとなりました。今ではこの曲を歌えるのは、抱えた不安ごと歩みを進めていける今の自分しかいないという確信となっています。アニポケの新しい物語にご一緒出来ること、心から嬉しく思います。
これから始まる何かに足がすくむとき、この曲が「大丈夫！いってらっしゃい！」と背中を押せるように全力で歌いました。 ''ドキドキ''と''ときめき''に敏感に、自分を信じて張り切って旅に出てほしいと思っています。そこにいつもドキメキダイアリーが鳴っていますように！

Chinozo
初めまして。このたびポケモン新アニメのオープニングを作らせていただきました、Chinozoと申します。「ドキメキダイアリー」、自分なりに本作品への最大限の想いを込めて書かせていただいた楽曲です。 小さい頃から大好きだったポケモン、さらにその主題歌のお話をいただいたことを今だに夢のように感じています。
ポケモンの主題歌がどれも本当に好きで、どれくらい人生を救われたか数え切れません。それくらい自分にとって思い入れがあり、そんな作品に携わらせていただき、本当に光栄です。 ポケモンアニメ新シリーズ、よろしくお願いします！

Today, The Pokémon Company International unveiled the official title and logo of the upcoming Pokémon animated series, “Pokémon Horizons: The Series,” premiering around the world in 2023 and beyond. Set sail for a new journey in Pokémon Horizons: The Series! Follow Liko and Roy as they unravel the mysteries that surround them and encounter Friede, Captain Pikachu, Amethio, and others during their exciting adventures! High resolution artwork from the press release has been added to an Imageboard thread.

YouTube Clip - Pokémon Horizons: The Series | Official Trailer

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_c_hMehCORQ

Pokémon Reveals ‘Pokémon Horizons: The Series’ as Official Title of Next Animated Series

New Full-Length Trailer for ‘Pokémon Horizons: The Series’ Offers Closer Look at New Characters, Storyline

The Pokémon Company group also released a new full-length trailer featuring never-before-seen footage from select episodes of the series. The trailer provides an early look at the storyline for “Pokémon Horizons: The Series,” which focuses on uncovering the mysteries of the Pokémon world.

In “Pokémon Horizons: The Series,” dual protagonists Liko, whose partner Pokémon is Sprigatito, and Roy will encounter many characters during their journey, including a group led by Friede and Captain Pikachu called the Rising Volt Tacklers. Traveling across the Pokémon world on an airship, the Rising Volt Tacklers include Orla, who enjoys mechanical and electrical work and is accompanied by her partner Pokémon, Metagross; Murdock, who is skilled at cooking, and his partner Pokémon, Rockruff; Mollie, who specializes in healing treatments, and her partner Pokémon, Chansey; and Ludlow. Liko and Roy will also come across Amethio, who is joined by his partner Pokémon, Ceruledge, and belongs to an organization called the Explorers, as well as a popular video streamer known as Nidothing.

“‘Pokémon Horizons: The Series’ is set to be a thrilling journey that explores new wonders and makes fascinating discoveries about the Pokémon world,” said Taito Okiura, vice president of marketing for The Pokémon Company International. “The latest ‘Pokémon Horizons: The Series’ trailer sheds further light on the mysterious adventures that await Liko and Roy, and we invite Trainers to join in unraveling these secrets when the series begins premiering outside of Japan later this year.”

More details regarding “Pokémon Horizons: The Series” will be announced in the future, including premiere timing and availability outside of Japan.

Press Release Artwork:

Today, The Pokémon Company International announced the latest expansion of the best-selling Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG), Scarlet & Violet Paldea Evolved, available at participating retailers worldwide beginning June 9, 2023. The set has been added to our TCG database and will be updated as details are announced.

New Pokémon Trading Card Game: Scarlet & Violet Paldea Evolved Expansion Coming Soon

Scarlet & Violet—Paldea Evolved will introduce more Pokémon ex, which sport high HP as well as powerful attacks and Abilities but give up two Prize cards when Knocked Out. Trainers will also continue to see Tera Pokémon ex in the new expansion, including Slowking, Forretress and Dedenne, displayed in full-art illustrations to capture the unique crystal effects of the characters. Alternate art styles will also be introduced for illustration rare and special illustration rare cards, allowing Trainers to collect unique art cards that spotlight the Pokémon’s personality traits or Evolutions.


Noteworthy cards from the expansion include:

• 15 Pokémon ex and three Tera Pokémon ex
• 36 illustration rare Pokémon
• 18 ultra rare Pokémon ex and eight ultra rare Supporter cards
• 15 special illustration rare Pokémon and Supporter cards
• Nine hyper rare gold etched cards, which can include Pokémon ex, Trainer and Energy cards

Trainers can find Scarlet & Violet—Paldea Evolved in booster packs, Elite Trainer Boxes and special collections at Pokémon Center in the US, Canada and UK, as well as other participating retailers worldwide. In addition, certain products are now available for preorder at Pokémon Center, including the Scarlet & Violet—Paldea Evolved Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box, which includes two additional booster packs and two copies of an illustration rare style promo card, with one featuring the Pokémon Center logo.

Source: https://pokemon.gamespress.com/MEDIA-ALERT-New-Pokemon-Trading-Card-Game-Scarlet-VioletPaldea-Evolved

Fans of the iconic Pokémon animated series can now ‘prepare for trouble’ with the launch of an exclusive memorabilia range from Akedo. Launching at 6pm on March 24th, 2023, the fully licensed collection is an ode to the infamous criminal organisation, Team Rocket, who feature in the TV adaptation. High resolution pictures from the press release have been added to an Imageboard thread.

AKEDO LAUNCHES EXCLUSIVE ‘TEAM ROCKET’ COLLECTION

Fans of the iconic Pokémon animated series can now ‘prepare for trouble’ with the launch of an exclusive memorabilia range from Akedo.

Launching this March, the fully licensed collection is an ode to the infamous criminal organisation, Team Rocket, who feature in the TV adaptation.

Inspired by the gang, the range includes t-shirts, hoodies, a duffle bag, Akedo high-top trainers and a reversible bucket hat, as well as a limited-edition collector's box.

The wearable merchandise comes in a solid colour palette of red, black and white with the characters brought to life with fun prints and creative designs. All items are emblazoned with the distinctive trio from Team Rocket; Jessie, James and Meowth, as well as ‘Team Rocket’ in Katakana in each design.

The new and official Pokémon collection will be available exclusively at Zavvi.com, from March 24th 2023.

Source: https://pokemon.gamespress.com/AKEDO-LAUNCHES-EXCLUSIVE-TEAM-ROCKET-COLLECTION

A new art exhibit called the POKÉMON X KOGEI Playful Encounters of Pokémon and Japanese Craft (ポケモン×工芸展―美とわざの大発見―) is being held at the National Crafts Museum in Kanazawa, Japan from March 21st, 2023 until June 11th, 2023.

About the Exhibition

Put Pokémon and Kogei face to face, and what sorts of chemical reactions will occur? Twenty craft artists, from a Living National Treasure to youngsters, have seriously tackled that question. Works that evoke Pokémon shapes, gestures, touch. Works that reach back into memories of video games—evolution, trade, locations for journey, super-effective moves. Plus invitations to Pokémon to become part of the vessels that adorn our daily lives and even ultra cool attire—kimono and obi clasps. The result is about 70 works—all new creations! What will your encounter with the works lying in wait for you in the exhibition gallery bring? Thrills, rapture, grins, tremors? The power of multiplication rides again! Please enjoy the quantum leaps in beauty and technique it has generated.

Hours & Admissions

Location: National Crafts Museum
Date: March 21-June 11,2023
Time: 9:30 - 17:30 ※Last admission is 30 minutes before closing.
Closed: Mondays except May 1; and May 14
Ticket: Advance ticket is recommended to avoid lines forming at the entrance.
Online purchase: 【e-tix】
Tickets can be purchased on site at the ticket counters, subject to their availability.

Admission: Adults ¥900 (¥600; ¥800)
College and University students ¥500 (¥350; ¥450)
High school students ¥300 (¥200; ¥250)
* The price in brackets is for the group of 20 persons or more; and for discount coupon holders.
* Admission is free for junior high school students, and those with Disability Certificates and one
caregiver accompanying each of them.
* All prices include tax.

Organizer: National Crafts Museum, NHK ENTERPRISES INC. Nagoya Branch Office, The Yomiuri Shimbun Hokuriku Branch Office
Special cooperation: The Pokémon Company
Produced: NHK Promotions Inc.
Supported: Ishikawa Prefecture, Kanazawa City, THE HOKKOKU SHIMBUN, Television Kanazawa Corporation

YouTube Clip - POKÉMON X KOGEI #1

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMJymR-Z4D0

YouTube Clip - POKÉMON X KOGEI #2

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5j6mCDWyfmc

Goods / Catalog:

Available at: National Museum of Arts and Crafts Museum Shop and the Pokémon Center Kanazawa




Notebook Yoshida Taiichiro / Kasumi Ueba - 1,430 yen (tax included)
T-shirt Yuki Tsuboshima - 3,960 yen (tax included)
Masking Tape Keiko Masumoto / Yoshida Taiichiro / Kasumi Ueba - 495 yen (tax included)
Logo Tote Red/Black - 3,740 yen (tax included)
Logo Sacoche - 1,650 yen (tax included)
Free Cup Navy/Red/Green - ¥1,320 (tax included)

Pikachu Plushie Playful Encounters of Pokémon and Japanese Craft - 2,640 yen (tax included)

This plushie commemorates the exhibition Pokémon x Crafts Playful Encounters of Pokémon and Japanese Craft where Pokémon and craftspeople put their skills to the test. Pikachu is dressed in a kimono with the traditional Japanese Kouji-tsunagi pattern.

Official Catalog POKÉMON X KOGEI Playful Encounters of Pokémon and Japanese Craft - 3,300 yen (tax included)

20 craft artists, from a Living National Treasure to youngsters have created artpieces featuring Pokémon using Kogei materials and techniques. The exhibition features approximately 70 works born from their inspiration, hard work and enjoyment. Visitors will be able to enjoy the unexpected expressions of Pokémon, achieved through the rich materials of crafts and the mastery of exceptional craftsmanship. This is the official catalog of the POKÉMON X KOGEI Playful Encounters of Pokémon and Japanese Craft exhibit.

Goods List (Japanese):

ノート 吉田泰一郎/植葉香澄 ￥1,430（税込）
Tシャツ 坪島悠貴 ¥3,960（税込）
マスキングテープ 桝本佳子/吉田泰一郎/植葉香澄 ¥495（税込）
ロゴ トート Red/Black ¥3,740（税込）
ロゴ サコッシュ ¥1,650（税込）
フリーカップ Navy/Red/Green ¥1,320（税込）
ぬいぐるみ ポケモン×工芸展のピカチュウ 2,640円（税込）
公式図録『ポケモン×工芸　美とわざの大発見』 3,300 円（税込）

Sources: https://www.momat.go.jp/english/cg/exhibition/pokemon-x-kogei-playful-encounters-of-pokemon-and-japanese-craft/ and https://kogei.pokemon.co.jp/

Information on new characters and cast members of the new series of the popular anime Pocket Monsters (airs on the TV Tokyo Network every Friday at 6:55pm, officially abbreviated "Anipoke"), which will be broadcast starting with a 1 hour special on April 14th, has been revealed. High resolution artwork and screenshots from the press release have been added to an Imageboard thread.

The characters announced today are Amethyo (voiced by Shun Horie) and his partner, the Paldean Pokémon Soublades, as well as Amethyo's fellow members of the organization "Explorers", Zir (voiced by Kohsuke Tanabe) and his partner Pokémon Sidon, and Conia (voiced by Arisa Shida) and her Partner Pokémon Golduck.


In the trailer, Amethyo is seen blocking Liko and Nyahoja's way... What could the Explorers' goal be? The costumed celebrity and online streamer "Gurumin" (voiced by Yoshino Aoyama) was shown as well.

YouTube Clip - Trailer for New Characters

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rN3ftowru8Q

Press Release - March 17th, 2023
A comment from Shun Horie, the voice of Amethyo:
I thought I might just be hallucinating... I was so nervous that when I arrived at the studio they might just ask me what I was doing there... but now that we've actually started recording, it seems that I'm actually seriously going to be in the Pokémon anime! I'm so happy.
I hope I'll be able to give people courage through my acting the same way the Pokémon used to give me courage. The first video game I ever bought with my own money was Pocket Monsters Sapphire; Back then I just bulldozed through using nothing but attack moves, but now I'm able to battle using Growl and Screech most effectively.
That adult me is now playing Amethyo, a character that seems to be charged with a weighty mission despite just being a teenager. Make sure to watch the show to see how he gets involved with Liko and the others.

Press Release (Japanese):

テレビ東京系で毎週金曜よる6時55分から放送中のテレビアニメ「ポケットモンスター」は、主人公の少女・リコと少年・ロイをW主人公として迎えた新シリーズ「ポケットモンスター」を4月14日（金）に1時間スペシャルで放送スタート。リコとロイが出会う少年・アメジオと人気動画配信者の「ぐるみん」が新たに登場することを発表。さらにアメジオ役の堀江瞬さんのコメントが到着しました！

今回新たに発表になったのは、パルデア地方のポケモン、ソウブレイズがパートナーのアメジオ（CV：堀江瞬）と、アメジオが所属する組織・エクスプローラーズのメンバーであるジル（CV：田邊幸輔）とパートナーポケモンのサイドン、そしてコニア（CV：志田有彩）とパートナーポケモンのゴルダック。公開された映像ではリコとニャオハの前に立ちふさがり、行く手を阻むが…。エクスプローラーズの目的とは！？　さらに、きぐるみ姿の人気者・動画配信者の「ぐるみん」（CV：青山吉能）も登場！　謎に包まれた素顔とは…？

続報は今後のテレビアニメ「ポケットモンスター」をご覧ください！アメジオ役の堀江瞬さんからコメントが到着！是非この機会にご紹介のご検討を頂けますよう、お願い申し上げます。

【アメジオ役 堀江瞬さんコメント】
幻覚を見せられているのかと思いました。
もしスタジオに着いて「何しに来たんですか？」と言われたら…とどきどきしていましたが、予定通り収録が始まったので僕はちゃんとアニポケに出演出来るみたいです！　とても嬉しいです。あの日、ポケモン達に勇気をもらったように、今度は僕が演者としてみんなに勇気を与えられたらと思います。
初めて自分のお金で買ったゲームが『ポケットモンスターサファイア』でした。あの頃は攻撃技でゴリ押しタイプだった僕も、今や立派に「なきごえ」や「いやなおと」も使いながらバトルできるようになりました。そんな大人な僕が演じるアメジオは、ティーンエイジャーながら何やら重たい使命を背負っているようです。彼がリコ達とどう関わっていくのか。是非、その目でお確かめください！

Information on new characters and cast members of the new series of the popular anime Pocket Monsters (airs on the TV Tokyo Network every Friday at 6:55pm, officially abbreviated "Anipoke"), which will be broadcast starting with a 1 hour special on April 14th, 2023 has been revealed.

The new characters are all members of the "Rising Volt Tacklers" led by Professor Friede: The machinery enthusiast Orio (voiced by Ayane Sakura) with her partner Metagross, the great cook Murdock (voiced by Kenta Miyake) with his partner Iwanko, the medical specialist Molly (voiced by Kei Shindo) with her partner Lucky, as well as Landau (voiced by Ikkyu Juku), who looks like a fisherman. The Rising Volt Tacklers use a blimp as their base when they go out on adventures.

YouTube Clip - Trailer for New Characters

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sVqObKMFeUY

Press Release (Japanese):

テレビ東京系で毎週金曜よる6時55分から放送中のテレビアニメ「ポケットモンスター」は、主人公の少女・リコと少年・ロイをW主人公として迎えた新シリーズ「ポケットモンスター」を4月14日（金）に1時間スペシャルで放送スタート。ポケモン博士・フリード率いる「ライジングボルテッカーズ」のメンバーを公開しました！

今回新たに発表になったのは、メタグロスがパートナーの「メカ好き」のオリオ（CV：佐倉綾音）、イワンコがパートナーの「料理上手」のマードック（CV：三宅健太）、ラッキーがパートナーの「治療のスペシャリスト」モリー（CV：真堂圭）、そして釣り人のような風貌のランドウ（CV：塾一久）の4人。フリード率いるライジングボルテッカーズは、飛行船を拠点に冒険をしています。

続報は今後のテレビアニメ「ポケットモンスター」をご覧ください！夢と謎に満ち溢れた「ポケットモンスター」の世界を舞台に、リコとロイの新たな冒険が始まる！ ふたりを待ち受ける出会い、そして運命とは！？是非この機会にご紹介のご検討を頂けますよう、お願い申し上げます。

Source: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000851.000002610.html

The Pokémon Company International announced that they have partnered with Funko to release the Pokémon Pearlescent Pops! Collection and will be available only at the Pokémon Center with releases throughout 2023.

The Pokémon Company International, Funko Reveal Pokémon Pearlescent Pops! Collection

Pop Games: Pokémon – Pikachu (PRLS) Now Available Only at Pokémon Center, with Additional Figures to Be Released Throughout 2023

London, United Kingdom — March 8, 2023 — Today, The Pokémon Company International and Funko, Inc. (“Funko” or “the Company”) (Nasdaq: FNKO) launched Pop Games: Pokémon – Pikachu (PRLS), the first figure in an all-new collection of Pokémon Pops! featuring a unique pearlescent finish releasing this year only at Pokémon Center.

Each Pop! features a special pearlescent finish and comes packaged in an iridescent box, adding a unique touch to each Trainer’s collection. Pop Games: Pokémon – Pikachu (PRLS) is available now only at Pokémon Center in the US, Canada and UK, while supplies last. Additional Pokémon Pearlescent Pops! will be released throughout the year at Pokémon Center, the premier online destination for official Pokémon merchandise.

“The partnership between Pokémon and Funko is treasured by the dedicated fan communities for both brands,” said Cindy Ruppenthal, senior director of Pokémon Center and ecommerce at The Pokémon Company International. “We’re eager to continue providing fans with unique Pokémon figures, and the pearlescent finish is a wonderful way to introduce Funko’s Pops! to Pokémon’s avid fans.”

Source: https://pokemon.gamespress.com/The-Pokemon-Company-International-Funko-Reveal-Pokemon-Pearlescent-Pop

The Pokémon Company International announced today that Pokémon celebrated another record-breaking year at retail in 2022, seeing a significant increase in sales across Europe for its Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) and toy ranges. Photos from the press release have been added to an Imageboard thread.

ANOTHER RECORD-BREAKING YEAR FOR THE POKÉMON COMPANY INTERNATIONAL AS SALES SOAR FOR POKÉMON TRADING CARD GAME, TOYS IN EUROPE

This incredible growth was recognized by NPD, who awarded Pokémon three significant awards at Europe’s largest Toy Fair Spielwarenmesse in Germany. The brand won Global Top Toy Property of the Year, Europe’s Top Gaining Property Total Toys and Europe’s Top Gaining Property Games & Puzzles.

Pokémon maintained its position as the No. 1 property in France, Belgium and the Netherlands, and it achieved its highest-ever annual position in the U.K., Germany and Italy, according to figures recorded by NPD Group.

Pokémon was the No. 1 NPD toy property in France once again, with sales almost double that of the No. 2 brand for a second successive year, achieving 14 percent growth year over year. The best-performing top 15 property, Pokémon also had 14 items in the top 50 toys of the year.

In 2022, Pokémon achieved its highest-ever annual position in Germany, the U.K. and Italy. It was No. 4 in Germany (up from No. 9) with 44 percent growth, was the best-performing top 15 property and featured two products in the year’s top 50 toys by revenue. In the U.K., Pokémon was No. 4 (up from No. 7), and also No. 4 in Italy — its first time in the top 15 there, with the strongest growth among top 15 properties at 101 percent year over year.

Pokémon was again No. 1 in both Belgium and the Netherlands, with four products in the top 50 items for the year in the latter country.

The Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet expansion will launch on 31 March, adopting an updated take on the Pokémon ex gameplay mechanic and introducing Tera Pokémon ex featuring unique etched artwork that spotlights their Tera Types.

Pokémon offers a fantastic and varied toy range for fans, including Jazwares’ hugely popular, award-winning toy line — with highlights including Battle Figures, 8-inch plush and the Clip-’N’-Go Belt Set — and Mattel’s MEGA sets.

“We built on the success of our 25th anniversary celebrations with another packed programme of exciting activity and innovative product launches, creating huge demand and buoyant sales,” said Mathieu Galante, licensing director EMEA for The Pokémon Company International. “We are delighted with the superb performance at retail, which demonstrates the brand’s continued iconic cultural relevance, and we continue to work hard to bring more innovation to fans over the coming months.”

“2022 saw another sensational year for the Pokémon TCG,” said Simon Benton, vice president of Pokémon TCG sales for Europe. “We would like to thank our retail partners and distributors for their amazing support, which has continued to raise the profile of our products — and TCG in particular — to consumers. In another record-breaking year, Pokémon is the No. 1 NPD property in three countries and achieved its highest-ever position in other key territories, and we look forward to building on this success further in 2023.”

The global phenomenon of Pokémon was first launched in Japan in 1996 as a role-playing game for Nintendo’s Game Boy system and reached the United States and Europe in 1998–99. Pokémon has since grown into one of the most popular entertainment properties in the world, encompassing video games, the Pokémon Trading Card Game, mobile games and apps, animation and movies, Play! Pokémon competitive events and licensed products.

It is one of the most successful video game franchises of all time with more than 440 million video games sold worldwide. In addition, more than 22 billion Pokémon TCG cards have been shipped to 77 countries and regions in 13 languages, while the mobile game sensation Pokémon GO has received more than 1 billion downloads globally since launch in 2016. More than 1,000 episodes of the animated TV series span 25 seasons, with the series licensed for broadcast in 177 countries and regions in more than 30 languages.

Source: https://pokemon.gamespress.com/ANOTHER-RECORD-BREAKING-YEAR-FOR-THE-POKEMON-COMPANY-INTERNATIONAL-AS-

Gear up for adventure in this upcoming new animated Pokémon series! Introducing the new protagonists, Liko and Roy, as they set off on an exciting, action-packed journey! Artwork and pictures from the press release have been added to an Imageboard thread. Staff Bio pages for: Minori Suzuki (鈴木みのり) who plays Liko, Yuka Terasaki (寺崎裕香) who plays Roy and Taku Yashiro (八代拓) who plays Professor Friede have been updated.

YouTube Clip - Trailer for the Upcoming New Animated Pokémon Series

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bAav4UAT7zk

YouTube Clip - Trailer for the Upcoming New Animated Pokémon Series (Japanese)

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-JYRKGNk-qQ

Press Release:

Information on the cast of the new series of the popular anime Pocket Monsters (airs on the TV Tokyo Network every Friday at 6:55pm, officially abbreviated "Anipoke"), which will be broadcast starting with a 1 hour special on April 14th, has been revealed. The old protagonists Satoshi and Pikachu will be replaced with a new set of dual protagonists, where Minori Suzuki will be playing the role of Liko and Yuka Terasaki will be playing the role of Roy, while Taku Yashiro will play the Pokémon Professor Friede. Ikue Ohtani handles the voice of the current protagonist Satoshi's partner Pikachu, but will also be in charge of the new series' new character and Pokémon Professor Friede's partner Captain Pikachu. You can listen to their voices in the new trailer that just got released.


A new promo image shows Liko, the Paldean girl with a mysterious pendant and Roy, the Kantonean boy with a mysterious monster ball, as well as Friede and Captain Pikachu, against a majestic sky, alongside all kinds of Pokémon from various regions, including Nyahoja from the video games "Pocket Monsters Scarlet/Violet".

The image also shows a boy standing next to the "Fire Swordsman Pokémon" Soublades, staring at Liko and Roy, as well as the alternately colored legendary Pokémon "Black Rayquaza", creating excitement for how these elements will play a part in Liko and Roy's adventure.

Suzuki is known as the voice of Hajime Fujiwara in the video game The Idolmaster Cinderella Girls and Freyja Wion in the anime series Macross Δ, Terasaki as the voice of Tenma Matsukaze in Inazuma Eleven GO and Kudelia Aina Bernstein in Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans, and Yashiro as the voice of Tsubasa Kashiwagi in The Idolmaster SideM and Tatsuhisa "Luke" Kamijo in Yu-Gi-Oh Sevens.

Staff list:

Director: Saori Den (でんさおり)
Creative Director: Daiki Tomiyasu (冨安大貴)
Action Director: Tetsuo Yajima (矢嶋哲生)
Series Composition: Dai Sato (佐藤大)
Character Design: Rei Yamazaki (山崎玲愛)
Character Drafts: Ken Sugimori, Game Freak (杉森建)
Sub-Character Design: Kyoko Ito (伊藤京子)
Sound Director: Masafumi Mima (三間雅文)
Music: Conisch
Animation production: OLM

A comment from Minori Suzuki, the voice of Liko:

I first encountered Liko when I was given reference material for the audition, and I remember being filled with strong emotions the likes of which I had never felt before at that moment. I really wanted to go on an adventure with Liko, to take a step forward! I wanted to play this character so badly that it felt like our meeting here was meant to be. This is why I'm so very happy these people that created Pokémon with love and care entrusted this character to me.

Just like the Pokémon anime, I was born in 1997, so Pokémon has always been there as a natural part of my life. I hope this is how it will be for everyone around the world in the future as well. I will pour all my heart and soul into playing Liko. The Pokémon anime will continue to be the greatest thing ever, so please look forward to the new series!


【リコ役　鈴木みのりさんコメント】
オーディション資料を頂き、リコと出会った瞬間。絶対にリコと一緒に冒険の旅に出たい！　一歩を踏み出したい！　と、感じた事のない熱い強い気持ちが込み上げてきたのを覚えています。この出会いは運命なんじゃないかと思えるくらい、何が何でも演じたいと思いました。だからこそ、ポケモンを愛し創り上げてきたスタッフの皆様に、こうしてリコを任せて頂いたことが、今はただとても幸せです。

私はアニポケと同じ1997年に生まれました。そして生まれてからずっと、当たり前の様にポケモンが傍に居ました。これからも世界中の皆様にとって、ポケモンがそうであるように。全身全霊をかけてリコを演じます。 今度のアニポケも、最高に素敵なものになっています。ぜひ楽しみにしていてください！

A comment from Yuka Terasaki, the voice of Roy:

I really treasure the three years I got to go on adventures with Satoshi and Pikachu when I played Corni in the "Pocket Monsters XY" TV series. It's precisely because of the passion for the show that I picked up from my seniors during those three years that I feel so much pressure and responsibility now that I've been given the role of one of the protagonists of this new series, so I'm going to approach the new series while embracing the love for the show that I saw and felt in my seniors back then.

I hope the children that will start watching the Pokémon anime from here on will think of Liko and Roy as their friends, and I promise to approach both the show and the role with everything I've got, doing my best to make it enjoyable for all so that existing fans will come to love Liko and Roy as well! Please join us as we start a new chapter of history.


【ロイ役　寺崎裕香さんコメント】
テレビアニメ「ポケットモンスターXY」シリーズで、コルニ役としてサトシとピカチュウと共に冒険出来た3年間は私にとって宝物のような時間でした。その時に先輩方から学んだ事、作品に対する熱い想い、あの3年があったからこそ、今回新シリーズで主人公の1人を任せていただいたと言う事に、より大きなプレッシャーと責任を感じています。あの時見て感じた先輩方の作品への愛を、しっかり胸に抱きしめて、今回の新シリーズに挑もうと思っています。

これから初めてアニポケを見る子供達にとって、リコとロイが友達のような存在になってくれる事を願いつつ、アニポケファンのみなさんには、リコとロイのことも愛して頂けるように、全力で役と作品と向き合い、楽しい時間をお届けできるよう頑張ります！どうか、新たな歴史のはじまりを一緒に見届けてください。よろしくお願いします。

A comment from Taku Yashiro, the voice of Friede:

I still remember dreaming about going on an adventure with Pokémon back when I was watching the Pocket Monsters anime in grade school, so I was trembling with joy and surprise when I first learned I was getting the chance to be in my beloved show, one that's got so much history and is so loved all around the world now. I want to play the Friede character with whole-hearted devotion, not just so that children can experience such dreams, but so that adults that grew up together with the franchise can do so as well.


【フリード役　八代拓さんコメント】
小学生の時に、テレビアニメ「ポケットモンスター」を観て、自分もポケモンと一緒に冒険したい！　と夢見たことを今でも覚えています。これだけの歴史を積み重ねてきて世界中から愛され続けている大好きな作品に自分が出演できると知った時は、嬉しさと驚きで身震いしました。ポケモンの歴史と一緒に成長してきた大人はもちろん、かつての自分のように、胸いっぱいの夢を子供達に感じていただけるように、フリードというキャラクターを誠心誠意演じていきたいと思っています。

新シリーズ テレビアニメ「ポケットモンスター」初回は4月14日（金）１時間スペシャルで放送スタート！

テレビ東京系で毎週金曜よる6時55分から放送中のテレビアニメ「ポケットモンスター」は、主人公の少女・リコと少年・ロイをW主人公として迎えた新シリーズ「ポケットモンスター」を4月14日（金）に1時間スペシャルで放送スタートすることを発表。さらに、本作のメインビジュアルやリコ、ロイ、フリードら登場人物の声を務めるキャストなど最新情報を初公開しました！

【最新情報①】　新シリーズ テレビアニメ「ポケットモンスター」メインビジュアル公開 今回公開したメインビジュアルは、壮大な空を背に、リコとロイ、フリードとキャプテンピカチュウに加え、ゲーム『ポケットモンスター スカーレット・バイオレット』で登場したニャオハをはじめ、各地方の様々なポケモンたちが描かれています。

また、「ひのけんしポケモン」のソウブレイズの傍らでリコとロイを見つめる少年は一体…？ 伝説のポケモン・色違いの「黒いレックウザ」はリコとロイの冒険にどのように関わってくるのか、続報は今後のテレビアニメ「ポケットモンスター」をご覧ください！

【ストーリー概要】
ポケットモンスター、縮めてポケモン。
この星の不思議な不思議な生き物。
空、海、森、街の中と至る所でその姿を見ることができる。
不思議なペンダントを持つパルデア出身の少女、リコ。
謎のモンスターボールを持つカントー出身の少年、ロイ。
広大なポケットモンスターの世界を舞台に
リコとロイの新たな冒険が始まる！
ふたりを待ち受ける出会い、そして運命とは―！？
これは、冒険を通じて大事な何かを「見つける」物語。

【最新情報②】　キャラクター原案イラスト公開
さらに、リコ、ロイ、フリードの原案イラストも初公開！　3人を通して、不思議で広大なポケットモンスターの世界を皆さんにお届けします。

【最新情報③】　キャスト情報公開
　そして、リコ・ロイ・フリードたちメインキャラクターの声を務めるキャストも発表！　リコ役・鈴木みのりさん、ロイ役・寺崎裕香さん、フリード役・八代拓さんのコメントが到着しました！

Source: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000846.000002610.html