The Pokemon Company has announced that the current Pokemon anime series Pokemon Ultimate Journeys: The Series will be the last season to star Ash and Pikachu.

The Pokemon anime series will end with 11 special episodes next year as things wind up for the next chapter in Pokemon, with a new set of protagonists.

Introducing Riko and Roy, our two new protagonists for the Paldea region. Riko begins her journey with a Sprigatito alongside Roy who seems to have the other two Scarlet and Violet starters.

It’s unclear what their relationship is and how much each one will be featured. The two protagonist format worked well in Pokemon Journeys with Ash and Goh and Riko is definitely our stand-in for Ash.

Fans quickly noticed that her “V” shaped hairpin matched the green symbol on Ash’s hat throughout most of his journey.

You can check out the announcement for the new Pokemon anime series below:

The special episodes from Pokemon Ultimate Journeys featuring Ash’s last adventure will begin on January 13.