Reviews Anime / Pokemon Origins

Too good, too short

Pokémon Origins is, to put it simply, vastly superior to the main anime series. The animation is overall better, the characters (especially Red and Giovanni) experience very good character development, battles are much more interesting, and most importantly, mature themes are explored (with one Pokémon actually dying, for example). It greatly helps it doesn't suffer from many of the anime problems, like fillers, or the main character losing battles against beginners to make way for a new season. Even the introduction of Mega Evolution at the end is portrayed well, while it could seem like a Deus Ex Machina at first.

But the problem is, Pokémon Origins is short. Too short.

The OVA feature four episodes, which only cover two Gym Leaders battle, Cubone's story, and the final battle with Mewtwo. As such, the anime is rushed. Important characters like Misty and co only get cameos, the anime doesn't have enough time to properly develop Red's characters beside Charizard, and good plot developments like Red's rivalry with Blue and Giovanni are rushed. Pokémon Origins could, no, should have lasted a full season to make use of its full potential.

Overall, Pokémon Origins is vastly superior to the main anime series, but should have lasted longer. I advise everyone to check it out and prey they make it a full/side series.