As of this episode, all forms of the Johto starter Pokémon have made their appearance in the anime.
Ash and his friends arrive in Rustboro City and meet Roxanne, the Rustboro Gym Leader.
Ash's souvenirs slightly resemble what one might find in a Seattle airport shop, particularly the shirt with an image similar to the Space Needle.
This is the first episode in the main series in which the move Protect is used.