One plot idea could be Ash getting the ability to shapeshift accidentally. For example, he touches a strange Pokemon or an ancient artifact. Then he has to figure out how to control this new power while on his journey to become a Pokemon master. Another idea is that an evil organization wants to use Ash's shapeshifting ability for their own nefarious purposes, so he has to avoid them and protect his friends.
Obviously, Ash's main friends like Misty and Brock would be involved. Misty could be the one who first notices Ash's strange new ability and helps him keep it a secret at first. Brock, with his knowledge of Pokemon, could try to figure out how to reverse the shapeshifting if it becomes a problem. Also, Team Rocket would be great characters in this. They could constantly be trying to capture Ash in his different shapes, thinking they've discovered a new and valuable Pokemon.
Charizard is another one. A Charizard shapeshifter can bring in a lot of cool elements. It can be a powerful and intimidating presence, and when it shapeshifts, it might gain new abilities or appearances that are both fascinating and fearsome.
Pikachu is a very likely candidate. It's Ash's most iconic Pokemon and has a deep bond with him. Whenever Ash is in trouble, Pikachu often steps up to protect him.
One idea could be a pokemon shapeshifter that is trying to hide its true form in a human - dominated city. It has to constantly adapt and learn human behaviors to avoid detection.
Ash could be a Pokémon trainer with a different starting point in this fanfiction. Born in 1987, by 1997 he might have already made a name for himself in local Pokémon battles. He could have a team of Pokémon that he rescued from difficult situations, like a Charmander that was abandoned by its trainer. His story could revolve around giving these Pokémon a second chance and proving that Pokémon don't need to be 'perfect' to be strong.
The impact of Ash's loss in the fanfiction could extend beyond just himself. His Pokémon might also feel demoralized. However, this could also be an opportunity for them to grow stronger together. Ash could start training more intensively, seek new training methods, or even try to catch new Pokémon to strengthen his team.
One popular type of Pokemon Ash and Pikachu fanfiction might be adventure - based. For example, Ash and Pikachu could embark on a journey to a new and mysterious region filled with undiscovered Pokemon species. They might face challenges like difficult terrains and powerful, previously - unseen Pokemon. In this fanfiction, Pikachu's electric powers could be enhanced in some unique way, and Ash would have to strategize differently to overcome the obstacles.
Well, in certain fanfictions, Ash's inexperience in handling different Pokémon species can make him seem like a bad trainer. He may not be aware of the specific training methods required for some Pokémon. For instance, he might treat a very delicate and rare Pokémon the same way he treats his more common ones, which could lead to the Pokémon not reaching its full potential.
One popular aspect of Alola fanfiction with Ash could be his growth as a trainer. In the Alola region, Ash had unique experiences. Fanfiction might explore how he further developed his skills, formed new bonds with Pokemon, and interacted with the local culture. For example, his relationship with Pikachu might be delved into deeper, showing how they overcame new challenges together in the Alola setting.