Pokémon Feature-Length Special #2

This second Pokémon feature-length special was aired on Japanese TV on December 30th, 2001, under the title Pocket Monsters Crystal: Raikou--Legend of Lightning. At this stage, a US release has not been announced.

This special is unique in that it is the first Pokémon animation to follow new trainers, new Pokémon, and new villains. The new trainers--Kenta and Marina (Japanese names)--are based on the male and female protagonists in Pokémon Crystal. Kenta's primary Pokémon is Typhlosion, and Marina's primary Pokémon is Misdreavus.

Of course, there's also new villains. In this special, Bashou and Buson (Japanese names)--two elite members of Team Rocket--are the ones to try and capture Raikou, the legendary thunder Pokémon.

While nothing has been announced, I'm willing to bet that this special will have a sequel, and maybe even a spin-off series.

So, what's this special about? Well, it goes something like this:

Kenta of New Bark Town raises Pokémon, uses them in battle, and grows strong along with them - a perfectly normal boy in this world. He is travelling with his partners, including his Typhlosion, when, at a Pokémon Center he is visiting, he encounters a childhood friend, Marina.

Marina is on a journey with her Pokémon, Misdreavus. The two agree to a battle, to test each others' strength. Just as they are starting the battle, the ground suddenly shakes, and there is a tremendous crash of thunder, as storm clouds fill the sky.

At the same time, Team Rocket special agents Bashou and Buson are constructing a secret facility in the woods near the Pokémon Center, which is called a "Crystal System" and neutralizes electric attacks. The "Crystal System" emits large bolts of lightning which attracts electric-type Pokémon. The pair set off to use their mecha "Chicken Walker" to capture the Pokémon.

Kenta and Marina have taken shelter in the Pokémon Center, but Misdreavus suddenly leaves, and the others follow. They see the mecha trying to capture the Pokémon. Kenta tries to jump out to help the Pokémon, but is sent flying backwards by a powerful bolt of lightning. Nearby trees burst into flame, as a low roar is heard. Then, in the flames, a silhouette appears. "Finally, it comes..." Bashou says.

The legendary "Thunder Pokémon", Raikou, is finally making its appearance! Is Raikou an enemy, or an ally? What on earth is Team Rocket planning? And what about Kenta...!?

- Blue Hiker