Hi there! I'm a lifelong Pokémon fan and expert on the anime. I've dedicated countless hours to watching and analyzing the adventures of Ash and his friends, and I'm always excited to share my knowledge. I'm particularly passionate about the journeys of Pokémon evolution and the strategies employed in battles.

You're asking about Combusken's evolution, and that's a really interesting one! While Combusken does eventually evolve into the powerful Blaziken, it's not in a single specific episode. The anime stretches Combusken's evolution arc across multiple episodes to emphasize the growth, challenges, and triumphs that lead to this significant transformation.

Here's a breakdown of the key episodes and events that contribute to Combusken's evolution:

* **"Once More with Feeling" (AG084):** This episode marks a turning point for Combusken. After a disheartening loss to a Hariyama, Combusken loses its fighting spirit. It's only through Ash's unwavering faith and encouragement that Combusken rediscovers its strength and determination, reigniting its fiery passion. This episode is crucial because it lays the foundation for Combusken's future growth, highlighting the importance of resilience and the bond between Trainer and Pokémon.

* "Wheel of Frontier" (AG105): In this episode, Ash and Combusken face off against Brandon and his Dusclops in the Battle Frontier challenge. The battle is fierce, pushing both Ash and Combusken to their limits. Though they eventually lose, the experience is invaluable. This battle forces Combusken to strategize and adapt, showcasing its developing battle prowess and tactical awareness. The loss, while disappointing, fuels Combusken's desire to become stronger.

* "May's Choice" (AG139): This episode doesn't feature a direct battle for Combusken but carries significant weight in its overall journey. The episode centers around May and her decision to pursue her Pokémon Contest dreams in Johto. Witnessing the determination and aspirations of his companions, particularly May's unwavering commitment, further motivates Ash and reinforces his own goals. This episode underscores the theme of pursuing dreams and the importance of supporting others' aspirations, values that resonate with Combusken's own journey.

* **"Home is Where the Start Is" (AG140):** This episode marks the end of Ash's journey in Hoenn and his return to Kanto. It's a time of reflection and preparation for new challenges. As Ash prepares for the Sinnoh region, it's implied that all his Pokémon, including Combusken, are undergoing rigorous training off-screen, further developing their skills and preparing for the challenges ahead.

* **"The Needs of the Three!" (DP040):** This is the episode where Combusken finally evolves! However, it happens off-screen. Ash sends Combusken out to battle Paul's Grotle. The moment Combusken is released from its Poké Ball, it's clear that it has evolved into Blaziken. The evolution signifies the culmination of all the training, battles, and experiences Combusken went through during its time with Ash.

The decision to evolve Combusken off-screen might seem anticlimactic, but it speaks volumes about the anime's storytelling. By the time Combusken evolves into Blaziken, it has already proven its strength and determination time and again. The evolution itself is less about a visual spectacle and more about the culmination of a long and arduous journey. It's a testament to the hard work, dedication, and the powerful bond between Ash and his Pokémon.

Remember, Pokémon evolution is more than just a change in appearance; it's a testament to the growth, perseverance, and unwavering bond between a Trainer and their Pokémon.
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In Episode 355, "A Shroomish Skirmish", May's Torchic evolved into a Combusken while defending Ash's Corphish against a mob of wild Breloom.read more >>