The new series is all about making new friends: Susumu Fukunaga

The new series is all about making new friends: Susumu Fukunaga

Hungama has been the home of Pokémon since 2014, engaging millions of fans.

Susumu Fukunaga

Mumbai: The Pokémon Company (TPC) has announced the launch of 'Pokémon Horizons: The Series,' a new animated series which is currently airing on Hungama. For the first time in Pokémon’s history, the series stars a female lead named Liko, who, alongside her partner Pokémon Myaoha, embarks on adventures in the vibrant Pokémon world with fellow trainer Roy.

Pokémon has captivated children's imaginations for over two decades and remains a beloved entertainment choice, solidifying its place as a pop-culture phenomenon. Hungama has been the home of Pokémon since 2014, engaging millions of fans and amassing 87 million views across Disney Kids Channel in India last year alone.

In this series, viewers encounter new characters like Liko and Roy, along with fascinating groups such as the Rising Volt Tacklers and the Explorers. The series introduces numerous new Pokémon, each showcasing unique abilities. Captain Pikachu leads daring voyages across sea and sky, adding thrilling adventures to the storyline.

The Pokémon Company's collaboration with Vishal-Sheykhar to produce original songs for the series in India highlights its commitment to establishing a strong presence in the Indian market and nurturing partnerships with local artists and enterprises. This initiative not only enriches the series with a local flavor but also celebrates the diverse appeal of Pokémon to fans worldwide.

Indiantelevision.com reached out to The Pokemon Company’s Susumu Fukunaga where he briefly touched upon some insights about the show and more…

Edited excerpts

On the creative process behind developing the storyline and characters for the new series

Our intent has been to create a new story that appeals to the new generation. If you watch the episodes you will realize that many elements in the story are very contemporary and reflect the day and age we live in.

On the new series integrate elements of adventure, friendship, and teamwork, which are central themes in the Pokemon universe

The new series is all about making new friends by going on an adventure and taking on challenges. The journey becomes more enjoyable and difficulties appear to be simpler when everybody comes together and supports each other as a team.

On Pokemon anime receiving criticism for being too simplistic, repetitive and bland from a storytelling perspective even from a kids genre point of view

We appreciate all feedback. We are grateful to our audiences across the globe for supporting us for all these years and we hope to remain relevant in the future as well.

On conducting the first ever Pokemon VGC event in India, since online gaming industry in this country is booming

We cannot disclose future plans at this point, but we are working on new initiatives and hope to make strides in the Indian market with a variety of content.