" The Battle of the Badge " (Season 1, Episode 63) is a major milestone in the Pokémon series, marking the moment Ash Ketchum secures his eighth Kanto gym badge to qualify for the Indigo League. This episode is widely remembered for debuting the mysterious Mewtwo in the anime and featuring a rare battle where Team Rocket takes over as temporary Gym Leaders.

: Gary reveals he already has ten badges, despite only eight being needed for the league, suggesting Kanto has more than eight total gyms.

: The episode title is a play on the real-world "Battle of the Bulge" from World War II.

: The battle is not fair; the gym platforms are rigged to deliver electric shocks to the Trainers whenever their Pokémon take damage. Despite the pain, Ash's determination leads him to victory with the help of Squirtle, Bulbasaur, and Pikachu.

: An emergency forces Giovanni to leave the gym, and he leaves Jessie, James, and Meowth in charge as substitute Gym Leaders. They use Giovanni's Pokémon—including Rhydon, Kingler, and Machamp—to battle Ash.

: This is the first time Giovanni's face is shown fully without being hidden in shadows. Pokemon Episode 63 Analysis: The Battle for the Badge