A Heartfelt Adventure That Introduces One of Ash’s Most Reliable Partners**
Episode 10, “Bulbasaur and the Hidden Village,” takes a softer turn from the gym-driven episodes and delivers a story rooted in compassion, trust, and responsibility — all while introducing one of the most iconic Pokémon in Ash’s team: Bulbasaur.
Instead of simply focusing on catching new Pokémon or battling rivals, this episode gently reminds viewers that the world of Pokémon isn’t just about training and winning — it’s also about protecting and caring for Pokémon who need help.
⭐ A Forest Full of Pokémon… and Secret Protection
The episode begins with Ash, Misty, Brock, and Pikachu navigating a dense forest, only to fall into a series of survival-style traps — holes, nets, and barriers — all designed to stop intruders. At first they assume the traps are the work of wild Pokémon, but eventually discover they lead to a Hidden Village, run by a young woman named Melanie.
Melanie cares for injured and abandoned Pokémon, giving them a safe place to rest and recover before returning to the wild. It’s a premise surprisingly emotional for an early Pokémon episode, highlighting the themes of rescue and rehabilitation rather than ownership.
⭐ Bulbasaur: Fierce Protector, Loyal Heart
In the village, the group encounters Bulbasaur, who immediately stands out — not as a Pokémon needing help, but one protecting the village from outsiders. Bulbasaur is loyal to Melanie and distrustful of anyone who might disrupt the peaceful sanctuary she has built.
This characterization makes Bulbasaur’s debut far more compelling than a typical “Pokémon-of-the-week” appearance:
- He’s strong
- He’s disciplined
- He’s cautious
- And he has a sense of duty
Bulbasaur challenges Ash not to claim him through luck or pity, but by proving himself in battle.
⭐ The Battle for Respect — Not Ownership
Bulbasaur’s battle with Ash is surprisingly intense for an early episode. This isn’t a random encounter — it’s a test of trust.
What makes the moment special is that Ash doesn’t fight out of desire to add a rare Pokémon to his team. He fights because:
- Bulbasaur needs a trainer who will respect him
- Melanie believes Ash has that potential
- Bulbasaur wants to join someone worthy, not someone convenient
When Ash finally earns the victory and Bulbasaur chooses to join him, it isn’t a trophy moment — it’s a bond formed through mutual respect.
This is why Bulbasaur later becomes one of the most dependable and loyal Pokémon in the entire original series.
⭐ Team Rocket, Predictably — but Effectively
Team Rocket does appear in this episode, but for once, their role feels functional rather than repetitive. Their attack forces some of the recovering Pokémon to defend themselves, giving the villagers — and Bulbasaur — a moment to shine.
Rather than derailing the episode, Team Rocket actually helps reinforce Bulbasaur’s protective nature and Ash’s growth as a leader.
⭐ Final Thoughts
“Bulbasaur and the Hidden Village” is more than just a Pokémon introduction episode — it’s an important reminder of what sets Pokémon apart from other battle-focused anime of its time:
- The story values empathy over victory
- Pokémon aren’t tools — they’re partners with emotions and autonomy
- A good trainer earns trust rather than demanding obedience
This episode quietly sets up one of the strongest relationships of the original series and demonstrates just how much character storytelling Pokémon was capable of in its early days.
Episode Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5)
A heartfelt, character-building episode that enriches Ash’s journey and gives Bulbasaur an unforgettable debut.
