Ash and co. discover that the latest town they are visiting is swarming with Gligar, led by a Gliscor, and they are stripping the town of all the available food they can find, including food being eaten by people! It turns out that strong winds from a powerful storm blew Gliscor into the town from a nearby forest some time ago and its presence attracted a group of Gligar, enough to form a colony. Strong winds throughout the town are preventing them from trying to leave due to their use of gliding rather than flight, so Ash and co. decide to help the Gliscor and Gligar, including one who always seems to get left behind, return to their forest home. Unfortunately, Paul and Team Rocket are also in town and their presence complicates things.
Tropes
- The Bad Guy Wins: Paul catching Gliscor, the leader of the flock of Gligar.
- Lack of Empathy: Once Paul catches Gliscor, he leaves the scared flock of Gligar to fend for themselves, without their leader, without having a care in the world.
- Not Quite Flight: Gligar and Gliscor glide using the air currents rather than purely flying.
- Rule of Symbolism: Ash and Paul both catching a Pokémon (essentially of the same species) in the same episode reflects upon their contrasting characteristics.
- Paul catches a Gliscor, which was naturally fierce, intimidating, and powerful, all characteristics suiting Paul’s battling style, reflecting in his personality and desire for power.
- During Ash’s time in town, one of the Gligar takes quite a liking to Ash, and never hesitates to let Ash know. Gligar represents Ash’s characteristics. Affectionate, eager, and loving.
- Took a Level in Badass: Turtwig masters Energy Ball.
