Pokémon Horizons: The Series [Episode 122]

Pokémon Horizons Episode 122: Wings of Blazing Heat! Roy VS Friede – A Fiery Clash with Cosmic Stakes

Let’s cut to the chase: Episode 122 of Pokémon Horizons is a rollercoaster of fan service, character growth, and that classic Pokémon charm—even if it leaves some fans scratching their heads. Titled “Wings of Blazing Heat! Roy VS Friede,” this installment centers on Roy’s showdown with Friede, the charismatic leader of the Rising Volt Tacklers, fresh off his space mission. And yes, the internet is buzzing about it.

First off, let’s recap the basics. Friede returns from his cosmic adventure with juicy intel on Laquium (the ancient Pokémon everyone’s chasing) and a snazzy new trick: Mega Charizard Y. That’s right—his Charizard finally mega-evolves, and fans are split on the choice. One MyAnimeList user rants, “Thank god he had a Mega Charizard Y and not X that mf is so overhyped,” while another jokes, “They didn’t make Charizard Z for the game, huh?” Fair point—Game Freak might be saving that for a future title.

The episode kicks off with Friede explaining his space trip (turns out, he was hunting for meteorites—shocker) and then dives into the main event: Roy vs. Friede. Roy, who’s been training nonstop since Friede left, steps up with his trusty partner, Fuecoco, and… wait for it… wins. Fans on MyAnimeList are losing it: “Roy surprisingly won, he sure became much stronger since Friede left!” one exclaims. Another adds, “He’s come a long way from the kid who couldn’t catch a Pokémon without tripping over his own feet.”

But let’s talk about the elephant in the room: Liko. For weeks, fans have begged for her to take the spotlight, but this episode? Roy’s the star again. “I really want they make Liko as centered, this episode Roy got centered again by battle Friede after previously battle and won against 2 Champion,” a frustrated viewer writes. Ouch. Liko’s reduced to a side character here—mostly just reacting to the action instead of driving it. Even Friede’s awkward “I love you both equally… but Roy by a lot” line (yes, that’s a real quote) rubs salt in the wound.

Now, the fan service. Oh, the fan service. Steven Stone—yes, the Steven Stone, Hoenn’s Champion—makes a random cameo, and fans are losing their minds. “OH OK JUST RANDOM STEVEN STONE CAMEO WTF????” one user screams. It’s a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moment, but it’s pure nostalgia. Then there’s the Ultraman reference at the end—eagle-eyed fans spotted it immediately, with one gushing, “Loved that segment at the end Ultraman references!”

But the real bombshell? Friede’s briefcase. He hands Roy a mysterious case before jetting off again (classic Friede—impulsive, much?), and everyone’s convinced it’s a meteorite for Mega Rayquaza. “Friede’s suitcase for Rayquaza is Meteorite for Mega Ray,” a user speculates. If that’s true, Roy’s about to become a force to be reckoned with. And let’s not forget the Mega Charizard Y reveal—Friede’s Charizard finally evolves, and the animation is chef’s kiss.

Critics, though, have their gripes. Some call the episode “just explain something not useful” and argue the plot twists were predictable. Others lament Liko’s lack of screen time: “They turned Liko into a flower plant which just does nothing now,” a fan complains. Valid points—Horizons has a habit of sidelining its female lead, and it’s high time they fix that.

But let’s focus on the positives. The fight scenes are dynamic, Roy’s growth is satisfying, and the space-themed humor (Friede’s line about “sparking die from a malfunction and become a ball of fire” had me cackling) keeps things light. Plus, Friede’s return adds much-needed energy to the crew—even if he bails again by the end.

In short, Episode 122 is a solid entry that balances fan expectations with new developments. It’s not perfect, but it’s fun, and isn’t that what Pokémon’s all about? Whether you’re here for the battles, the cameos, or the cosmic mystery, this episode delivers. Now, if only Liko could get her moment to shine…

Final Verdict: 7/10 – A fiery clash with cosmic stakes, but Liko deserves better.

P.S. If Roy doesn’t get Mega Lucario Z soon, I’m rioting.