So lets open this up with a topic about which character is your overall fav and why.
I'll start by saying Kasumi (Misty) still is my fav 'cause she didn't take much crap from peoples and was always cool and in charge. + she had a funny Psyduck lol
Heh, well if my avatar is any indication who my favorite character is, I'm sure many will realize Takeshi is the best character out there. I'm glad he returned to the series and has been on since then. Hopefully they don't ever decide to axe him again.
Hmm that's a hard one. Takeshi is probably my favorite human character, mostly since he's so bizarre. We all know who may favorite non-human character is.
I think my favourite recurring character would have to be Barry. He's just so hilarious with his impatience, hyperactivity and absent-mindedness. The DP rival was my favourite rival so I was excited that they finally got around to developing him into an anime character, but the anime version went even beyond my expectations and became such a brilliant character. I always love the episodes he's in. =)
When talking about the main cast, I'd have to mention Ash. When I was first into the series (the anime was what got me into Pokemon in the first place. I was only 4 or 5), Ash was a role model/childhood hero to me. Although that isn't a good thing when you think about it because of how many stupid mistakes he would make. Nevertheless, I still laugh at him and enjoy his naiveté. Also, if his Pikachu counts, he's definitely on my list.
Dawn and Misty are also a part of my favorites. Misty was a tomboy who didn't take anything, and I actually found my personality to be most similar to hers when I look back. The reason Dawn is on there as well is probably because she felt more of a breath of fresh air compared to May. Dawn felt more developed and less stale than May. But that's just my opinion. It could be her Piplup also. Not sure.
As for reoccurring characters/characters of the day, probably Barry. He's awesome. We haven't really seen a rival in the anime (aside from Gary and the cameos of Kamon and Brendan). They brightened up his personality from the games even more in the anime, and I seem to laugh every time he comes on screen.
I'd have to say May, Harley, Ash and Paul are my favorites.
May is easy because Contests, especially back in AG, were very exciting and fun to watch, and May had the best interactions with her rivals of the shows history. May also went through some of the most character development in the series and had some truly epic battles. Also love her Pokemon. Its odd how they were able to give her so much character development in only the short time she was on the show.
Harley, can anyone else not love him? One of the best rivals of the show along with Drew. And yes I am a Contestshipper too. XD Contests were much more fun when May/Drew/Harley were doing them, as much as I like Dawn, her contest arc simply isn't as interesting or memorable.
Ash is the main character, so he's still good.
Paul, best rival for Ash, hands down. I like how they give him so much screentime and he's a great antagonist.
The others are all OK, but they're not my favorites.