In Pokémon Journeys (Episode 16, “A Chilling Curse!”), Gengar has a tragic backstory where it was abandoned by its original trainer in the Vermilion City Gym. The trainer, losing battles and blaming Gengar for a “curse,” told it to wait, but never returned. Gengar waited for three years, turning from loyal to bitter.
- Original Trainer’s Cruelty: The trainer considered Gengar weak and a burden, abandoning it at a mansion with the false promise of returning.
- Three Years of Waiting: Gengar stayed in the same spot, becoming increasingly lonely and filled with despair as time passed.
- Heartbreak to Bitterness: The long wait caused Gengar to lose trust in humans, leading it to become a mischievous ghost, haunted by its past.
- Reunion and Conflict: Gengar later found its original trainer, who showed no remorse and continued to badmouth it, prompting Gengar to attack with Shadow Ball, which Pikachu blocked.
- New Beginning: After this, Gengar was eventually caught by Ash Ketchum, finding a new, loving home and becoming a powerhouse in the Masters 8 tournament.
This storyline highlights a rare, darker side of Pokémon ownership in the series, showcasing the emotional depth of abandonment.
