The turning point of the episode comes when Ash realizes that standard moves will not work. He suggests a coordinated attack using Z-Moves. This leads to a spectacular sequence where every active trainer on the field performs their Z-Move pose simultaneously.
The episode features a "rainbow" of Z-Moves being launched at the Ultra Beasts:
The combined power of the Z-Moves successfully overwhelms the Ultra Beasts, blasting them back into the Ultra Wormhole and saving the region.
1. The Final "Battle" of Alola While the previous episode concluded the tournament arc, Episode 140 is effectively the final battle sequence of the Sun & Moon series. It provides closure to the combat elements of the saga before the final emotional farewell episodes.
2. Utilization of the Entire Cast This episode is often praised for giving the entire supporting cast a "moment to shine." Unlike many previous series where the final battle is handled solely by Ash, this episode emphasizes the theme of the Sun & Moon anime: friendship and community. Every student from the Pokémon School contributes to the victory.
3. Visual Spectacle The animation quality in this episode is notably high. The sequence involving multiple Z-Moves being activated at once is visually stunning, showcasing vibrant colors and dynamic animation that highlights the power of the Alola region's trainers.
The Pokémon Sun & Moon anime series (often referred to as Pokémon the Series: Sun & Moon) represents a bold departure from the traditional formula. With its relaxed art style, focus on school life, and deep emotional resonance, it garnered a dedicated fanbase. For those catching up or looking for a detailed breakdown of the climax, Pokemon Sun Moon Episode 140 stands as a pivotal, heart-wrenching chapter titled “From Z to Z! The Destructive Z-Move!!” (often localized as “Z-Move Showdown! The Decisive Rumble!!”).
This article provides a comprehensive recap, analysis, and the lasting impact of Episode 140 on the Alola saga.
Episode 140 of the Pokémon Sun & Moon anime, titled Z-Move Showdown! (Japanese: Akuziking Invasion! The Great Z-Move Battle!!
), originally aired in Japan on September 22, 2019. It is a pivotal turning point following Ash's victory in the Alola League, featuring a massive crisis that reveals long-held secrets. Key Plot Developments The Guzzlord Invasion: Just as Ash is crowned the first Champion of Alola, three
(including two shiny variants) emerge from Ultra Wormholes to attack the stadium. A Grand Reunion: Ash’s former companion, , returns through a wormhole, having evolved into . It joins the battle to assist Ash and Pikachu. The Big Reveal:
During a high-stakes double Z-Move (Gigavolt Havoc), the force of the blast rips the mask off the Masked Royal , finally revealing his true identity as Professor Kukui to Ash and the entire stadium. Team Efforts:
The Island Kahunas, Ultra Guardians, and even Team Rocket (using a Bewear robot) work together to evacuate the audience and fight off the Ultra Beasts. Significant Battles & Moves Double Z-Move: Ash and Professor Kukui perform a synchronized Gigavolt Havoc
using Pikachu and Naganadel to successfully blast the final Guzzlord back into its wormhole. Kahuna Coordination:
The Kahunas use their own signature Z-Moves to handle the other Guzzlord threats simultaneously. Naganadel's Debut:
Ash's newly evolved Naganadel showcases its strength, specifically using Thunderbolt to stall the Guzzlord. Critical Reception & Significance Narrative Stakes: Pokemon Sun Moon Episode 140
Many fans likened this segment to a "mini-Team Flare arc," praising its high energy and the inclusion of regional legends and multiple major characters in one conflict. Character Milestone: Reviewers from sites like Bulbapedia and community discussions on
noted the humor in Ash’s shock at the Masked Royal’s identity and the emotional impact of Naganadel's return.
While some felt the pacing was slightly off due to the rapid-fire action, it was generally viewed as a perfect setup for the final exhibition match between Ash and Kukui. Are you interested in a detailed breakdown of the final battle between Ash and Professor Kukui that follows this episode?
You're looking for a solid feature for the Pokémon Sun and Moon episode 140 summary!
Here's a concise and engaging feature:
Episode 140: "The Path to the Full-Fledged Master!"
Synopsis: Ash and Pikachu are on a mission to help Lillie and her Pokémon, Snowshoe Sableye and Shiny Cosmog. Team Rocket, however, has other plans and tries to take control of Lillie's Cosmog.
Key Highlights:
This episode focuses on Lillie's character development and her path to becoming a Pokémon Master. The episode provides an engaging storyline with action-packed sequences and heartfelt moments.
Would you like more information on Pokémon Sun and Moon or its episodes?
Title: A Bittersweet Goodbye: Reviewing Pokémon Sun & Moon Episode 140 – “Farewell, Satoshi Gekkouga!”
Introduction
We knew this day was coming. For anyone watching the Pokémon Sun & Moon series, the return of Ash-Greninja (Gekkouga) in the previous episode was a massive nostalgia bomb. But Episode 140, titled “Farewell, Satoshi Gekkouga!” (Japanese: サトシゲッコウガ、さらば！), delivers exactly what the title promises: an emotional, action-packed, and surprisingly mature send-off for one of Ash’s most powerful Pokémon.
Spoiler Warning: This post contains major plot details for Episode 140 of Pokémon Sun & Moon.
The Plot: Why is Greninja Back?
The episode picks up directly from the cliffhanger. Greninja, now serving as the guardian of the giant Tree of Life in the Kalos region (from the XYZ series), has detected a new threat: a strange, dark energy is affecting the Alola region’s plant life and Pokémon.
Professor Kukui, Burnet, and Ash realize this is connected to the Ultra Beasts’ lingering energy combined with a cellular Zygarde malfunction. Greninja, sensing Ash’s distress from across the ocean, uses its unique bond with Ash to appear in Alola with a specific mission—not to stay, but to protect.
The Battle: Greninja + Lycanroc vs. The Horde
The middle of the episode features a stellar battle. A swarm of corrupted wild Pokémon (a mix of Alolan Exeggutor, Trevenant, and a rampaging Ultra Beast) attack the outskirts of Melemele Island.
They stop the threat, but the energy drain on Greninja is immense.
The Emotional Core: The Goodbye
This isn’t a simple “see you later.” The episode understands that Greninja has a higher calling. Zygarde (Squishy and Z2) appears to explain that the Tree of Life is weakening, and only Greninja’s presence can keep the Kalos ecosystem balanced.
What makes this farewell hit harder than previous releases (like Butterfree or Goodra) is the maturity of the conversation. Ash doesn’t cry or throw a tantrum. Instead, he nods, smiles, and thanks Greninja for “teaching him how to be a real partner.”
Pros & Cons
Pros:
Cons:
Final Verdict
Rating: 9/10
Pokémon Sun & Moon Episode 140 is a love letter to fans who have followed Ash since Kalos. It respects Greninja’s sacrifice without dragging the tone into melodrama. While the Alola cast is sidelined, the focus on Ash’s growth as a trainer—knowing when to let go—is the real victory here.
If you cried during Bye Bye Butterfree, keep tissues handy. This one hits differently because it’s not about failure. It’s about purpose. The turning point of the episode comes when
Watch or Skip? Watch. Even if you skipped Sun & Moon, watch Episode 139 and 140 back-to-back for one of the best “returning Pokémon” arcs in the franchise’s history.
What did you think of Greninja’s final farewell? Did you want it to stay in Alola? Let me know in the comments below!
This guide covers Episode 140 of the Pokémon Sun & Moon series, titled "Z-Move Showdown! Battle of the Behemoths!!" (Japanese title: Akuziking Attacks! The Decisive Z-Move!!). This episode is a major climax in the Alola League arc, following Ash's victory. Episode Overview Original Air Date: September 22, 2019 (Japan). English Title: " Z-Move Showdown!
Key Event: The Alola League award ceremony is interrupted by the arrival of multiple Ultra Beasts. Major Plot Highlights
The Guzzlord Invasion: Just as the Alola League concludes, three Guzzlord (one being a Shiny variant) emerge from Ultra Wormholes and begin attacking the stadium.
The Masked Royal's Identity: During the chaos, Professor Kukui’s secret identity as the Masked Royal is finally revealed to Ash and the public when his mask is damaged/blown off.
Unexpected Return: Ash's Poipole returns from Ultra Space, having evolved into Naganadel. It joins the fight to help protect Alola.
Collaborative Defense: The island’s kahunas, the Guardian Deities, and the Alola League participants (including Gladion, Kiawe, and Lana) coordinate their Z-Moves to repel the threat. Key Battles and Moves
Kukui’s Team: Professor Kukui reveals he owns a Lucario and uses an Electrium Z.
Combined Z-Move Attack: The episode culminates in a massive, coordinated strike involving multiple Z-Moves (including Ash and Kukui's "Gigavolt Havoc") to send the Guzzlord back through the wormholes. Why This Episode Matters
This episode serves as the bridge between the Alola League victory and the highly anticipated 6v6 exhibition match between Ash and Professor Kukui. It also provides closure for Poipole’s character arc and resolves the long-running gag regarding Kukui's secret identity.
The animation direction for this episode is handled with care, particularly during the Z-Move sequences. The art style of Sun & Moon, known for its expressiveness and fluid motion, is utilized perfectly here. The attack animations are not just beams of light; they carry weight and impact, making the viewer feel the intensity of the battle.
To understand the weight of Episode 140, you must remember the previous episode’s shocker: Ash Ketchum won the Alola Pokemon League. For the first time in 22 years of anime history, Ash became a regional Champion. Episode 140 deals directly with the aftermath.
The episode opens not with celebration, but with dread. The artificial Pokemon Magearna—which had been sleeping in the basement of the Masked Royal’s mansion—awakens and transmits a warning. The Ultra Wormhole is opening above the Manalo Stadium. Necrozma, the Prism Pokemon, is stealing the light of Alola.
The core plot of Episode 140 revolves around a race against time: The combined power of the Z-Moves successfully overwhelms
The episode begins moments after Ash Ketchum is crowned the Champion of the Manalo Conference. The celebration is abruptly cut short when a massive, ominous Ultra Wormhole opens in the sky above the stadium. Two powerful Ultra Beasts emerge: the Blacephalon and Xurkitree.
Unlike previous Ultra Beast encounters, these two are not interested in crossing paths—they immediately begin to battle one another, causing destruction to the stadium and endangering the spectators. Lusamine, Gladion, and Lillie attempt to use their Pokémon to stop the beasts, but the Ultra Beasts are too strong and easily repel their attacks.