The Pokémon anime has had its fair share of weird over the years, including Pokémon who can talk (Meowth, Mewtwo, etc.) -- but how often have we seen people turn into Pokémon? With the notable exception of Bill in the early generations, as well as Baron Alberto in the film, Rise of Darkrai, the phenomenon hasn't really occurred in the series... with the exception of "Ashachu," that is.
Ash and Pikachu ... Combined?
This odd fusion of the two isn't so much a "combined" form as it is Ash Ketchum being turned into a full-fledged Pikachu! The transformation occurred in Episode 241 of the Pokémon anime. Ash, Misty and Brock encounter a witch named Lily (yes, a full-on witch), which Brock, of course, finds "simply bewitching." Lily claims that she knows a spell that can help a person "get inside the mind of a Pokémon." So, Ash and friends decide to help her compile the necessary ingredients for her spell.
Once the potion is complete (after a lot of tedious back-and-forths with Team Rocket) Ash begs to try it out first. After taking the potion, Ash claims to be able to enter Pikachu's mind as promised... but the problem is, he's very literally entered the mind of a Pikachu, as he's been turned into one.
The Birth of Ashachu
And thus, the weird combo that fans have affectionately dubbed "Ashachu" is born! Apparently Lily made a big mistake somewhere in her potion-brewing. Although Ash, Brock and Misty are panicked at first, Lily reassures them that the spell's effect is temporary and that Ash will soon get back to normal all on his own. Ash decides to make the best of the situation he's been given and uses this opportunity to play with Pikachu, Murkrow and Togepi.
Surprisingly, watching Ash-turned-Pikachu play with other Pokémon is incredibly wholesome, and the design behind Ashachu is undeniably adorable. This episode might have slipped under many fan's radars but those who do remember it would love for Ashachu to make a comeback in the anime. Though there's been no success to get this to happen so far.
However, Nintendo did release the next best thing in the form of a special exclusive Pikachu wearing Ash's original hat in the Pokémon games. Until the day of Ashachu's return, fans can at least count on this unique addition as a consolation prize.