Iono’s Pokémon Anime Debut: What to Expect, How to Watch, and More

The Pokemon Horizons series has been gradually unveiling the wonders of the new Paldea region from the Pokemon Scarlet and Violet video games in its latest episodes. And now, it’s preparing to introduce a new character who will become a regular in the anime: Iono. Departing from the traditional storyline centered around Ash Ketchum, Pokemon Horizons has been exploring a fresh era with a focus on new characters. With each passing episode, viewers have been getting to know these characters better. However, the anime is now expanding its horizons by incorporating elements from the Paldea region.

While hints and glimpses of the Paldea region have been dropped before, it was only in the recent episodes of Pokemon Horizons that the region was fully integrated into the anime. As a result, several Paldea faces have already made appearances in the series so far. Now, a preview for an upcoming episode of Pokemon Horizons teases the arrival of the Levincia Gym Leader, Iono. 

How to Watch Pokemon Horizons

Currently, new episodes of Pokemon Horizons are airing weekly in Japan. However, viewers in other regions do not yet have access to these episodes. Fortunately, an international release for Pokemon Horizons: The Series is in the works, although the specific release date or window has not been announced at the time of writing. Fans can expect an international release soon, as Pokemon is also planning to release Ash Ketchum’s final episodes internationally in the near future.

What to Expect from Pokemon Horizons

The Pokemon Company has provided a glimpse of what to expect from this new era of Pokemon anime. In Pokemon Horizons: The Series, the story follows dual protagonists named Liko and Roy. Liko’s partner Pokemon is Sprigatito, and together they embark on a journey encountering various characters, including the group led by Friede and Captain Pikachu called the Rising Volt Tacklers. Traveling across the Pokemon world on an airship, the Rising Volt Tacklers features Orla, who specializes in mechanical and electrical work and is accompanied by her partner Pokemon, Metagross.

What’s Next for Iono in Pokemon Horizons?

Now that Iono is making her debut in the Pokemon anime, fans are eagerly anticipating how her character will be portrayed. Iono is a significant figure in the Paldea region and the Scarlet and Violet games, known for her controversial personality. As the leader of the Levincia City Gym, she has gained a reputation as a popular streamer in the region, placing a strong emphasis on engagement in her videos. Iono evokes mixed reactions among Pokemon fans, with some loving her eccentricity while others find her challenging to appreciate.

Furthermore, Iono has also made an impact in the Pokemon Trading Card Game (TCG) community. Collectors have sought after two valuable Iono Trainer cards, which are among the most expensive cards in the recently released Paldea Evolved TCG set. Her Special Illustration Rare card currently holds the highest market price ($126.24) on TCGPlayer compared to other cards in the set.