Roy (Pokémon horizons)

Roy (Japanese: ロイ, Roi) is a fictional character in the Pokémon franchise. He appears as one of the main protagonists in the anime television series Pokémon Horizons: The Series, which premiered in 2023. Roy was introduced alongside Liko, marking the first time the anime series transitioned away from Ash Ketchum as its central protagonist. Within the series, Roy is depicted as a Pokémon Trainer who travels with the Rising Volt Tacklers while developing his skills through battles, exploration, and interactions with Pokémon.

Roy is depicted with spiky dark hair featuring red highlights and large, expressive eyes. His typical outfit consists of a short-sleeved jacket or vest layered over a T-shirt, paired with shorts and travel-ready footwear. His clothing remains largely consistent throughout the series, with minimal variation across story arcs.

Roy is portrayed as energetic, outspoken, and emotionally expressive. He frequently acts on instinct and demonstrates a strong emotional connection with Pokémon. While his impulsiveness occasionally leads to mistakes, the series presents these moments as part of his learning process. Throughout the series, Roy is shown to develop greater discipline and awareness while retaining his enthusiasm and emotional openness.

Fuecoco, Crocalor, and Skeledirge Roy's first partner Pokémon is Fuecoco, a Fire-type Pokémon originating from the Paldea region. Fuecoco is characterized by a carefree and playful demeanor. Over the course of the series, Fuecoco evolves into Crocalor and later Skeledirge, reflecting Roy's progression as a Trainer. The bond between Roy and Fuecoco is emphasized as developing through shared experiences rather than immediate battle success. Other Pokémon Roy acquires additional Pokémon during his journey, each contributing to his development as a Trainer. These Pokémon are introduced gradually as the narrative progresses.

Roy was created for Pokémon Horizons: The Series as part of a broader initiative to introduce new protagonists and narrative structures to the anime. According to the series' production concept, Roy was designed to contrast with Liko in both personality and approach to Pokémon training. While Liko is portrayed as cautious and reserved, Roy is depicted as expressive and impulsive. The character was developed to emphasize gradual growth through experience rather than immediate competence, reflecting a focus on learning, exploration, and emotional development.