Overview
Ash's Greninja stands out in the franchise as a unique and transformative Pokémon, evolving from a solitary Froakie into a significant companion with a powerful bond and major impact on the Kalos region. This journey is marked by rivalry, struggle, deep connection with Ash, and a legacy of victories and sacrifices.
Early Origin and Character Development
- Froakie was different from the other members of its group, prioritizing training over play and eventually being ostracized.
- Froakie was repeatedly abandoned by trainers until he met Ash, who recognized his potential.
- Initially, Froakie had difficulty with teamwork, often ignoring Ash's commands and losing confidence after defeats.
- Rivalries developed, including a battle with a ninja Froakadier and Ash's own Hawlucha, which motivated Froakie to improve.
Evolution and Growth
- Froakie evolved into Greninja during a critical battle, proving his strength and earning respect from allies and rivals.
- Continuous skill growth through fights with rivals like Sawyer and major gym matches.
- Olympia, a gym leader, predicted Greninja's latent special power and revealed his history of abandonment, strengthening Ash's resolve.
Discovery of the Bond Phenomenon
- In the ninja village, a historic tale foretold Greninja's unique transformation—Ash-Greninja.
- The first activation of the bond phenomenon occurred during battle, creating a powerful synergy where Ash shared Greninja's pain.
- The new form was equivalent to Mega Evolution, attracting attention from top trainers like Alain and Champion Diantha.
Challenges and Failures
- Ash and Greninja struggled to control the transformation, leading to dangerous situations and battle losses.
- A series of defeats shook Ash's confidence, affecting the synergy with Greninja.
- Both Ash and Greninja experienced self-doubt, ending in a period of isolation and introspection.
Mastery and Achievements
- Through mutual understanding, Ash and Greninja mastered the bond phenomenon, achieving major victories including the eighth gym badge.
- In the Kalos League, Ash and Greninja were widely recognized, defeating major rivals and reaching the finals against Alain.
- Despite a brave effort, they narrowly lost in the finals to Alain's Mega Charizard X.
Final Contributions and Farewell
- Ash and Greninja helped save Kalos from Team Flare and Zygarde, earning the title "Heroes of Kalos."
- Greninja chose to stay in Kalos to help eliminate remaining threats, leading to an emotional farewell with Ash.
Legacy and Later Reunion
- Greninja returned during Pokémon Journeys to help train Ash's Lucario, providing guidance and restoring confidence.
- After training, Greninja resumed his watch over Kalos, maintaining a strong bond with Ash despite the distance.
Conclusion
- Greninja remains in Kalos: Chose to stay and fight ongoing threats rather than rejoin the traveling team.