What was the first episode of the Pokémon anime called?

The first episode of the Pokémon anime was called “Pokémon, I Choose You!”

The episode introduces Ash Ketchum as he begins his journey and receives Pikachu from Professor Oak. Because Ash arrives late, the available starter Pokémon have already been chosen, leaving him with the unusually uncooperative Pikachu.

The story establishes their relationship when Pikachu eventually protects Ash from a flock of Spearow. It also introduces the series’ recurring themes of friendship, travel and determination rather than simply copying the game’s plot.

The Japanese television broadcast took place on April 1, 1997. The episode’s title later inspired Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You!, released in 2017, although that film presents an alternate retelling of Ash’s beginning.