Pokémon Horizons Season1 Episode120: A Secret Mission That’s Shaking Up the Pokémon Universe

If you’ve been anywhere near Pokémon fan circles lately—MAL forums, Twitter, or even your local anime club—you know Episode120 of Pokémon Horizons: The Series has everyone buzzing. Titled “Dot and Botan! Secret Mission,” this episode isn’t just another stop on Liko and Roy’s journey; it’s a game-changer that’s got long-time fans and newbies alike hyped for what’s next. Let’s dive in.

First, let’s set the scene. Pokémon Horizons is the post-Ash era we never knew we needed. No more 10-year-old Ash chasing badges—instead, we’ve got Liko, Roy, and Dot, three fresh faces with a linear plot tied to the Gen IX games (Scarlet & Violet). Episode120 throws us into a top-secret mission: Dot and Botan (aka Penny, the shy tech whiz from the games) go undercover to the Galar Mine to track down a missing Gimmighoul. For those who don’t know, Gimmighoul are those tiny, coin-shaped Pokémon that love hiding in mines—so the Galar Mine is the perfect setting for a mystery.

The mission itself is a blast. The Galar Mine is dark, echoey, and littered with glowing Gimmighoul coins, creating an atmosphere that’s equal parts spooky and exciting. Dot, who’s usually behind the camera as her streamer alter ego Nidothing, steps into the spotlight here. Her tech skills shine—she uses her Rotom Phone to hack into mine security systems, and her quick thinking helps her and Botan avoid detection. Penny, on the other hand, is out of her comfort zone but holds her own, proving that even the quietest characters can be heroes. Their dynamic is playful yet professional, and it’s great to see two supporting characters get the focus they deserve.

But what’s really got fans talking is the timeskip. Yes, you heard that right—Pokémon finally did a timeskip! For 25 years, Ash Ketchum stayed 10 years old, no matter how many regions he traveled or Pokémon he caught. But Horizons is breaking that mold. As one MAL commenter put it, “This is the first time in a Pokemon animated series that a timeskip occurs. The only doubt is that after the timeskip some pokemon have not evolved yet.” The timeskip means our characters are growing up—Liko’s hair is a bit longer, Roy’s a little taller, and their bond with their Pokémon is deeper. Even if some Pokémon haven’t evolved (like Roy’s Fuecoco?), it’s a small detail that adds realism—evolution isn’t mandatory, after all.

Then there’s Roy’s Lucario. Oh, Roy’s Lucario. This has been a hot topic among fans. On one side, you’ve got the hype train: “Okay immediately I’m extremely hyped—this is giving me the same hype as when the series first came out. I’m glad it’s not stopping.” On the other side, there’s the eye-rolling: “Disappointed that Roy has a Lucario specifically though.. as if it doesn’t already have enough attention with Ash having one in the Masters 8.” Let’s be real—Lucario is a fan favorite, but it’s also overused. Ash’s Lucario was a key player in his Masters 8 victory, so Roy’s feels like a repeat. But here’s the thing: Roy’s Lucario has a different vibe. Ash’s was stoic and battle-hardened, while Roy’s is more playful and curious. It’s a small difference, but it’s enough to make it feel fresh—even if some fans are still skeptical.

Another big win in Episode120 is the focus on secondary characters and their Pokémon. For years, fans have begged for more screentime for the “side” Pokémon—you know, the ones that aren’t the starters or the main legendaries. Episode120 delivers on that. Dot’s Rotom Phone isn’t just a tool; it’s a key part of the mission, helping her hack into systems and find clues. Penny’s Pokémon (like her Eevee?) might not be front and center, but they’re there, supporting the mission in small ways. As one fan put it, “My main wish for this next series is more of an emphasis on the secondary pokemon in the teams—they all got shafted severely in favour of the starters and I was begging for crumbs of screentime as the series went on.” Episode120 is a step in the right direction, and fans are here for it.

The episode also leaves us with plenty of questions to keep us hooked. What’s the real reason the Gimmighoul went missing? Will the timeskip lead to more character growth? And will we see more game characters (like Nemona or Arven) join the cast? Fans are already speculating, and it’s clear that Horizons is keeping the mystery alive.

Overall, Episode120 is a standout in the Horizons series. It’s got everything a Pokémon fan could want: a thrilling secret mission, a groundbreaking timeskip, and the promise of more character and Pokémon development. Whether you’re a long-time fan who’s been with Pokémon since the Ash days or a newbie who’s just discovered Horizons, this episode will leave you wanting more. As one fan excitedly said, “I am so hype for it!!!!” And honestly? Same here. Horizons is taking Pokémon to new heights, and Episode120 is proof that the future of the franchise is bright.

This episode isn’t just a fun watch—it’s a sign that Pokémon is finally willing to take risks. The timeskip alone is a huge deal, and it’s refreshing to see characters grow and change in ways Ash never did. If you haven’t checked out Horizons yet, Episode120 is the perfect reason to start. Trust me—you won’t regret it.

So grab your Poké Ball, settle in, and get ready for a mission that’s sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. Pokémon Horizons is here, and it’s not messing around. Let’s see where this secret mission takes us next!