1. Characters.
Back when Pokémon started, we grew to love Ash, Misty and Brock, and Gary as well. We adored them, we hated them, we befriended them, but most of all, we knew them. But alas, what should happen when Ash decides to venture out into the Hoenn region? He says goodbye to beloved Misty, Brock, and Gary shattering the hearts of fan girls and fan boys around the globe. Even if you were one of those fans who just despised Misty, even you feel deep down it’s not right without her.
Just when you think this is as bad as it could get, who should come along but some stranger called May and her brother Max. Although Ash is no longer alone, May is no Misty. She lacks the certain charm needed in order for their characters to be full. And just as you’re just beginning to learn about May, who else should appear but another stranger. Wait! That’s no stranger! That’s Brock! But what is he wearing? We couldn’t recognize you in that new outfit. But there’s still another problem. How can Ash become a pokémon master without a rival? That’s where Drew comes in. Only, he doesn’t know professor Oak! Or have fan girls following everywhere! That just means more adjusting.
Now that we’ve just got used to May, Max and Drew, they all have to leave too! The shock horror! What are they thinking? We get bombarded with new characters, and just as we know them, they leave too? That’s when we meet Dawn. Only she’s too nice. There’s no one left to argue with Ash, not even a rival! Wait a minute! Enter Paul. Finally! We can get some arguments. What? Paul is just passive aggressive! They don’t argue at all! Now all we’re left with is a bunch of happy friendship. Hollow casts filled with fake gratitude, not the full hearted love that was the original characters.
