So two days ago I went to a Japanese event called Japanese World for the purpose of cosplay. As you might be able to tell, this is an annual event, which I'm told got its start in the late 2000s or early 2010s. I've been here properly only once, two years ago; four years ago I came, but something happened which only allowed me to experience the event for a mere five minutes, so I don't even count that. Between all those years there were a myriad of excuses for why I didn't go, not the least of which was last year, which as I mentioned for this year's Pokémon Day post, was to go elsewhere to be with other Pokémon fans.
Attendance aside, this is one of a handful of events where I've only cosplayed Pokémon characters; two years ago it was Ash in his XY/Kalos outfit, and this year I went slightly retro with Ash's BW/Unova outfit. Also, if you've been reading my blog, then you'll know that my cosplay anniversary was also two days ago. That's right - I cosplayed on my cosplay anniversary, which was special indeed. And to do it while I'm in my element - Pokémon cosplay - it's just spectacular.
As for the event itself, not much is different from when I was here two years ago. All the merchandise stands were along a narrow alley and the food stands were in a parking lot, sharing a space next to the stage, which made for a crowded event. There were only a couple of indoor attractions, so the best things happened outside. But I was OK with that; I was here for cosplay and I sealed the deal. There were also quite a few people that recognized who I cosplayed and more photo requests than usual. Above all, I also got to accompany a friend, also cosplaying, all throughout the day; although he came a little later than me, we effectively wandered together for most of the day, up until the point we had to part to go back to our separate homes. It was just such a great day.
This event takes place somewhat far from home, which explains why I came back home tired two days ago. Also, given my attendance pattern, there might be something that keeps me from this event next year, unless I anticipate it as early as possible. It has been my wish that I make this an annual event ever since that proper attendance two years ago as this event can be exciting, and that was true this year. Time will tell next year if I can come again.
Tuesday, February 28, 2017
Monday, February 27, 2017
Pokémon Day 2017 - 21st Anniversary
February 27 is another special day, not just for myself, but for all Pokémon fans. It is because 21 years ago to this exact date, the original Pokémon games, Red and Green, were released in Japan. As such, this day is also considered the inception date for Pokémon - the epoch, if you will. Celebration is in effect also welcome on this day. Playing the games is appropriate, as is watching the anime or collecting merchandise. If it's related to Pokémon, whatever done today is worthy to be called a celebration for this day.
Unfortunately today I couldn't do much as I was catching up on some important tasks at home. I did, however, get a few rounds of Pokémon Shuffle in on my 3DS; it seems that this has been true for some time, that the only Pokémon game I've consistently played in recent times is Pokémon Shuffle. Due to certain circumstances, I've been allowed to have the Wii for a little longer, but like all other games besides Shuffle, I've been unable to get some recent play time on it. And then there's the fact that I came back home yesterday tired after an event - more details soon.
Still, it's impressive for Pokémon to be around for this long, though admittedly it was last year's anniversary - the 20th - that was more special. So special was it last year that I did something out of the ordinary to be with other people who like Pokémon, and that effort was worthwhile; I got to meet, play, and spend quite a bit of time with them. In my heart I believe we've all waited for this anniversary eagerly, and it's nice that this happened at the right time. Now that Pokémon is (over) two decades old, we're hoping for even bigger and greater things to keep the momentum going. We're seeing some semblances of this in newly released games such as Sun and Moon; if they're as good as the experience playing Sun and Moon, we're in for exciting times ahead.
Happy 21st anniversary, Pokémon. It's such a pleasure to have you for all those years, and here is to many more to come.
Unfortunately today I couldn't do much as I was catching up on some important tasks at home. I did, however, get a few rounds of Pokémon Shuffle in on my 3DS; it seems that this has been true for some time, that the only Pokémon game I've consistently played in recent times is Pokémon Shuffle. Due to certain circumstances, I've been allowed to have the Wii for a little longer, but like all other games besides Shuffle, I've been unable to get some recent play time on it. And then there's the fact that I came back home yesterday tired after an event - more details soon.
Still, it's impressive for Pokémon to be around for this long, though admittedly it was last year's anniversary - the 20th - that was more special. So special was it last year that I did something out of the ordinary to be with other people who like Pokémon, and that effort was worthwhile; I got to meet, play, and spend quite a bit of time with them. In my heart I believe we've all waited for this anniversary eagerly, and it's nice that this happened at the right time. Now that Pokémon is (over) two decades old, we're hoping for even bigger and greater things to keep the momentum going. We're seeing some semblances of this in newly released games such as Sun and Moon; if they're as good as the experience playing Sun and Moon, we're in for exciting times ahead.
Happy 21st anniversary, Pokémon. It's such a pleasure to have you for all those years, and here is to many more to come.
Sunday, February 26, 2017
Fifth Cosplay Anniversary
February 26 is a treasured date for me. It was on this date five years ago that I started my adventures in cosplay. With the Ash costume that I had as pictured here, I attended my first Japanese event, prepared for cosplay. That day was such a wonderful day; for the first time, I got to become a character I very much admire and to show it off in front of others. Also, it seemed that on that day I was destined to cosplay Pokémon, as one of my friends also dressed up and became a human version of Pikachu, and effectively filled in the role of my character's companion. The memories of that day still remain in my mind and the pictures taken throughout the whole day.
That first costume didn't just appear out of nowhere. I had to consult a couple of times with the tailor who would assist in making the clothing items for the costume, and the during the time these items were made, it was quite a wait. Fortunately, when they were finished, they looked awesome. I also remember how it was with the assistance of a few friends that we got together and figured out how to make the gloves, which came in the nick of time - the night before the event. So I have many to thank for their assistance with the costume. I would use the experience I gained during the process for my later Ash costumes, and reciprocally, I would use my later experience to improve the appearance of this particular costume.
Time goes by so fast. After a half-decade of cosplay, I can say that it all has been worthwhile. With all the costumes I have worn, I've made a lot of new friends, been to different places, and had many, many wonderful times. And many of those times have been with a Pokémon cosplay. Thus I too have to thank Pokémon for providing the inspiration to get into this creative activity. It has been such a pleasure-filled five years, and I look forward to more pleasure-filled times ahead with cosplay, especially Pokémon cosplay.
That first costume didn't just appear out of nowhere. I had to consult a couple of times with the tailor who would assist in making the clothing items for the costume, and the during the time these items were made, it was quite a wait. Fortunately, when they were finished, they looked awesome. I also remember how it was with the assistance of a few friends that we got together and figured out how to make the gloves, which came in the nick of time - the night before the event. So I have many to thank for their assistance with the costume. I would use the experience I gained during the process for my later Ash costumes, and reciprocally, I would use my later experience to improve the appearance of this particular costume.
Time goes by so fast. After a half-decade of cosplay, I can say that it all has been worthwhile. With all the costumes I have worn, I've made a lot of new friends, been to different places, and had many, many wonderful times. And many of those times have been with a Pokémon cosplay. Thus I too have to thank Pokémon for providing the inspiration to get into this creative activity. It has been such a pleasure-filled five years, and I look forward to more pleasure-filled times ahead with cosplay, especially Pokémon cosplay.
Saturday, February 25, 2017
Dealing with Cosplay Offerings
In all my times of cosplaying Pokémon (in particular Ash and Red), I've been to many different cosplay or Japanese events. And all those events have equally different offerings for cosplay competitions, which may number from none to a few. I don't blame the organizers; hosting cosplay competitions is a tough job, with all its elements, from start to finish, which is why there is often only one rather than a few, or none at all sometimes. Regardless, I've come up with ways to handle the cosplay offerings of certain events, if they do offer any at all, with my Pokémon cosplay.
Street Cosplay. This is the easiest offering to deal with, as basically I only have to mingle with other event visitors and only act occasionally and briefly for them, perhaps directly in front of a camera. It is always available regardless of whether or not it is designated as a competition. It works for my Pokémon cosplay because my characters could be considered simple in nature. Still, competitive-wise, this can be hard to judge, as it is obvious that I'm not the only one cosplaying; questions arise on observation and evaluation, if they're not done by visitors themselves.
Cosplay Parade/Walk. This is the second easiest offering to deal with. Cosplay parade or cosplay walk involves one-person stage performances on the order of less than a minute and quick changes from one participant to another. Any competition that satisfies these conditions is what I would call a cosplay parade or walk. I like this because my characters don't have many special actions and I can do all the things they do within that short time span, and it would still please the audience. The only requirement for myself is that I have to make my actions as spectacular as possible within the short time span for the judges to see.
Single Cosplay Performance. If the one-person stage performances are demanded to be longer than a minute, then it's a single cosplay performance. This kind of competition also frequently requires performance audio/backgrounds to be submitted prior to the competition. As such I'm also required to choreograph my performances to suit those additional items, which can sometimes be difficult for my characters. I've generally been able to use game or anime music to suit my characters, but on the whole this is a kind of competition with a performance that requires preparation time and commitment, which is why I often skip it given the characters I cosplay.
Team Cosplay Performance. It is clear that this kind of competition is for multiple cosplayers and is not a solo effort. I have been in a couple of team performances, but non-competitive ones, and they're both mashups with other cosplays. I am interested in a Pokémon team cosplay performance, but this takes even more preparation and commitment, most of which is shared. Unless I can get a team going and ready for this kind of competition, I am likely to skip this type of competition as well.
These are the four cosplay offerings that I often see at local Japanese events with cosplay or cosplay events. All of them work to various degrees with my Pokémon cosplay, but I'm happy to oblige to partake in them if they're worth it. It just helps to fulfill the essential premise of cosplay, which is to dress and act as particular characters. I don't see why I can't do this too with Pokémon, one thing that I very much like.
Street Cosplay. This is the easiest offering to deal with, as basically I only have to mingle with other event visitors and only act occasionally and briefly for them, perhaps directly in front of a camera. It is always available regardless of whether or not it is designated as a competition. It works for my Pokémon cosplay because my characters could be considered simple in nature. Still, competitive-wise, this can be hard to judge, as it is obvious that I'm not the only one cosplaying; questions arise on observation and evaluation, if they're not done by visitors themselves.
Cosplay Parade/Walk. This is the second easiest offering to deal with. Cosplay parade or cosplay walk involves one-person stage performances on the order of less than a minute and quick changes from one participant to another. Any competition that satisfies these conditions is what I would call a cosplay parade or walk. I like this because my characters don't have many special actions and I can do all the things they do within that short time span, and it would still please the audience. The only requirement for myself is that I have to make my actions as spectacular as possible within the short time span for the judges to see.
Single Cosplay Performance. If the one-person stage performances are demanded to be longer than a minute, then it's a single cosplay performance. This kind of competition also frequently requires performance audio/backgrounds to be submitted prior to the competition. As such I'm also required to choreograph my performances to suit those additional items, which can sometimes be difficult for my characters. I've generally been able to use game or anime music to suit my characters, but on the whole this is a kind of competition with a performance that requires preparation time and commitment, which is why I often skip it given the characters I cosplay.
Team Cosplay Performance. It is clear that this kind of competition is for multiple cosplayers and is not a solo effort. I have been in a couple of team performances, but non-competitive ones, and they're both mashups with other cosplays. I am interested in a Pokémon team cosplay performance, but this takes even more preparation and commitment, most of which is shared. Unless I can get a team going and ready for this kind of competition, I am likely to skip this type of competition as well.
These are the four cosplay offerings that I often see at local Japanese events with cosplay or cosplay events. All of them work to various degrees with my Pokémon cosplay, but I'm happy to oblige to partake in them if they're worth it. It just helps to fulfill the essential premise of cosplay, which is to dress and act as particular characters. I don't see why I can't do this too with Pokémon, one thing that I very much like.
Friday, February 24, 2017
Memories of Johto
Recently, Pokémon Go just updated in what I would term as the "Johto Update", bringing the members of the second-generation Pokémon into the game. It's a long-awaited update ever since its boom in the middle of last year. At the moment, it might be hard for me to start playing Go again, but it is something that I desire very much. Moreover, this "Johto Update" brings back memories of games and the anime as they concerned the region.
I remember how excited I was in awaiting to play Gold and Silver, the initial games featuring the Johto region, and how that excitement became mixed with depression over other things that were going on as I played. It's always been something I regret, not to have enjoyed the game (I selected Gold) with more upbeat feelings. The experience was better with Crystal as I had resolved some of the issues that plagued my time with Gold, and I found its slightly altered storyline more enjoyable. Years later, when the second-generation remakes came on the scene and I selected SoulSilver to play, I found the further alterations to the storyline a big improvement, but they didn't detract from the nostalgia to the older games. Regardless of the games, I found Johto to be an enigmatic eastern-influenced region, which was such a change compared to the Kanto region.
It was also when the anime showed the Johto region that I started somewhat actively following it, all the way to its climax. There were a lot of joys as I saw Ash undertake the challenges of the region and succeeding - many of the gym battles come to mind - and sorrows when he was less successful, including that climax. The Lugia and Lake of Rage story arcs were also quite thrilling and excellent additions. Plus, the feature films of the Johto saga era (Spell of the Unown, 4Ever, Heroes) were profound pieces and great complements to the main anime storyline.
For me, there were a lot of ups and downs when recalling moments pertaining to the Johto region, by way of its associated Pokémon. Whether they were as I played the games or watched the anime, there were things that were saddening, but then there were also pleasantries that made things great. These are the memories I'll always remember for this region.
I remember how excited I was in awaiting to play Gold and Silver, the initial games featuring the Johto region, and how that excitement became mixed with depression over other things that were going on as I played. It's always been something I regret, not to have enjoyed the game (I selected Gold) with more upbeat feelings. The experience was better with Crystal as I had resolved some of the issues that plagued my time with Gold, and I found its slightly altered storyline more enjoyable. Years later, when the second-generation remakes came on the scene and I selected SoulSilver to play, I found the further alterations to the storyline a big improvement, but they didn't detract from the nostalgia to the older games. Regardless of the games, I found Johto to be an enigmatic eastern-influenced region, which was such a change compared to the Kanto region.
It was also when the anime showed the Johto region that I started somewhat actively following it, all the way to its climax. There were a lot of joys as I saw Ash undertake the challenges of the region and succeeding - many of the gym battles come to mind - and sorrows when he was less successful, including that climax. The Lugia and Lake of Rage story arcs were also quite thrilling and excellent additions. Plus, the feature films of the Johto saga era (Spell of the Unown, 4Ever, Heroes) were profound pieces and great complements to the main anime storyline.
For me, there were a lot of ups and downs when recalling moments pertaining to the Johto region, by way of its associated Pokémon. Whether they were as I played the games or watched the anime, there were things that were saddening, but then there were also pleasantries that made things great. These are the memories I'll always remember for this region.
Thursday, February 23, 2017
Competitive or Non-Competitive?
With VGC-style competitive play, Pokémon has an established standard for players to test their skills against one another. However, although unstated, this mode of play requires preparation that is not very little in terms of both time and effort. Breeding is involved, as are selection of moves and hold items, and stat development. For some people, especially when combined with other things they have to do, this can be a bit much. Fortunately, Pokémon is not just VGC, and there are many things to enjoy besides VGC-style battling.
This does lead to a point of consideration: how much of what we enjoy is competitive and how much of it is not? For players that really delve into VGC and its preparatory "rituals", if you will, they are definitely more into the competitive side. For those who are less versed in the whys and hows of VGC, they might be more non-competitive than competitive. What is clear is that the question I pose as the title of this post is not an all-or-nothing. There are VGC players that are interested in many non-competitive aspects, and there are non-competitive players that may have tried out VGC battling.
At this point, I consider myself mostly non-competitive, as I got into VGC a little late. If I were to quantify it, my competitive/non-competitive ratio is 30:70. As a fan of all things Pokémon, I feel that I should also delve into VGC even if it is only to understand its ways. It might be hard and take more time for me to become a VGC master, but the least I can do is to take in as much as possible and compete based on what I've been able to do. The rest is reserved for all my other ventures in the Pokémon universe.
In the end, evaluating this characteristic is a matter of personal tastes. If you like VGC and are willing to put up with all its "rituals" and its associated time and effort, go for it. If not, you don't have to, but if you like Pokémon as much as I do, you will want to at least try it. Pokémon is no longer just games, though games are still the primary focus, and VGC is a highly standardized way of playing - everyone is welcome for everything.
This does lead to a point of consideration: how much of what we enjoy is competitive and how much of it is not? For players that really delve into VGC and its preparatory "rituals", if you will, they are definitely more into the competitive side. For those who are less versed in the whys and hows of VGC, they might be more non-competitive than competitive. What is clear is that the question I pose as the title of this post is not an all-or-nothing. There are VGC players that are interested in many non-competitive aspects, and there are non-competitive players that may have tried out VGC battling.
At this point, I consider myself mostly non-competitive, as I got into VGC a little late. If I were to quantify it, my competitive/non-competitive ratio is 30:70. As a fan of all things Pokémon, I feel that I should also delve into VGC even if it is only to understand its ways. It might be hard and take more time for me to become a VGC master, but the least I can do is to take in as much as possible and compete based on what I've been able to do. The rest is reserved for all my other ventures in the Pokémon universe.
In the end, evaluating this characteristic is a matter of personal tastes. If you like VGC and are willing to put up with all its "rituals" and its associated time and effort, go for it. If not, you don't have to, but if you like Pokémon as much as I do, you will want to at least try it. Pokémon is no longer just games, though games are still the primary focus, and VGC is a highly standardized way of playing - everyone is welcome for everything.
Wednesday, February 22, 2017
Back in the Park
I've just finished the original iteration of PokéPark... or at least received indication that I've completed the main storyline. Uniquely, the game does this by not immediately presenting you the credits sequence; instead, the game tells you that something new has appeared, and you check that out in order to view the credits sequence. I take this as a sign that I've completed my primary objective, which means I can relax and play other games. Oh, don't worry - I've been cleared for an extension of the Wii loan.
And now that I've seen the credits sequence, I've cleared myself to give overall impressions of the game. I found the attractions (the mini-games) fairly amusing; although they are mostly of the running and shooting type games, and they are simple in nature, you do have to understand what you can do and maximize that to obtain the best scores or times possible. The good thing is that there is an arcade mode for mini-game play without storyline play, so at least once you've played through the story you can access the mini-games directly; this will be great for playing with others. As for the action-adventure part, there were some hiccups, but making progress was generally smooth, especially in interacting with other Pokémon to make them friends - again, you have to understand what you can do (and what other Pokémon do) to make this happen. Near the end, there were a few parts where "platforming" skills come in quite handily; I'm not so good at this and it inevitably took me a long time (30 minutes to an hour) to constantly retry until I succeeded. You might do much better than me with these parts. In any case, the entire game constitutes an exciting adventure for one with bonus enjoyment for many.
Also, the game comes with one important message: friendship and camaraderie is important. It is better to stay together and be understanding of each other rather than to be split apart for petty reasons. This is something that applies very much in real life and is worthwhile to remember.
Since I'm going to have the Wii a bit longer, I'm going to take on PokéPark 2 for as long as I possibly can. I've already ventured slightly into the game and things already look promising. Like the first PokéPark, I'm already intrigued to see through its completion.
And now that I've seen the credits sequence, I've cleared myself to give overall impressions of the game. I found the attractions (the mini-games) fairly amusing; although they are mostly of the running and shooting type games, and they are simple in nature, you do have to understand what you can do and maximize that to obtain the best scores or times possible. The good thing is that there is an arcade mode for mini-game play without storyline play, so at least once you've played through the story you can access the mini-games directly; this will be great for playing with others. As for the action-adventure part, there were some hiccups, but making progress was generally smooth, especially in interacting with other Pokémon to make them friends - again, you have to understand what you can do (and what other Pokémon do) to make this happen. Near the end, there were a few parts where "platforming" skills come in quite handily; I'm not so good at this and it inevitably took me a long time (30 minutes to an hour) to constantly retry until I succeeded. You might do much better than me with these parts. In any case, the entire game constitutes an exciting adventure for one with bonus enjoyment for many.
Also, the game comes with one important message: friendship and camaraderie is important. It is better to stay together and be understanding of each other rather than to be split apart for petty reasons. This is something that applies very much in real life and is worthwhile to remember.
Since I'm going to have the Wii a bit longer, I'm going to take on PokéPark 2 for as long as I possibly can. I've already ventured slightly into the game and things already look promising. Like the first PokéPark, I'm already intrigued to see through its completion.
Tuesday, February 21, 2017
Secret Garden
We can fly away
And we can talk heart to heart
Let's get to paradise with invisible wings
Someday our dreams will come true
So we can find the way
Yes, we can stay together now
Because there is hope for everyone
The secret garden's waiting for you
-- "Secret Garden", Madoka
While still on the subject of Pokémon Heroes, there is actually something else from the film that I like. As the title of this post suggests, that would be the insert song "Secret Garden" by Madoka. This tune is played on the approach to the reveal of the key plot device of the film, which is actually contained in a secret garden of sorts. What is unique is that the song is in English, something rare for films that originate from Japan. The lyrics and composition convey a dreamlike, mystical feeling at the point where it is played. Because of these features, I personally consider the song a brilliant work, especially in relation to the film.
This song is also apropos to the place where I currently reside. Many people consider Indonesia to be a paradise on Earth, and its people are no exception. It's an archipelago with natural beauty in many of its parts. Like the plot device in the film, this is a treasure and something to be preserved. In that respect, Indonesia really could be considered a "secret garden" as well. And the analogy goes even deeper; if Indonesia is a "secret garden" for the world, then the area where I reside is a "secret garden" for Indonesia. From where I live, I can access forests and mountains for natural getaways. It's like having a paradise within a paradise.
One message that can be gleaned from the song is that there is a "secret garden" for each of us - a place where we feel most welcome to be in. And it doesn't have to be a natural paradise; the "secret garden" is simply the place that lets us relate to one another and maintain hope and optimism for the times ahead. Our only task is to have the "wings" to be able to get there, but once we do get there, we can take solace that things will be all right.
I hope that we all can find and get to our own "secret gardens". Maybe, just maybe, we're already there without realizing it.
And we can talk heart to heart
Let's get to paradise with invisible wings
Someday our dreams will come true
So we can find the way
Yes, we can stay together now
Because there is hope for everyone
The secret garden's waiting for you
-- "Secret Garden", Madoka
While still on the subject of Pokémon Heroes, there is actually something else from the film that I like. As the title of this post suggests, that would be the insert song "Secret Garden" by Madoka. This tune is played on the approach to the reveal of the key plot device of the film, which is actually contained in a secret garden of sorts. What is unique is that the song is in English, something rare for films that originate from Japan. The lyrics and composition convey a dreamlike, mystical feeling at the point where it is played. Because of these features, I personally consider the song a brilliant work, especially in relation to the film.
This song is also apropos to the place where I currently reside. Many people consider Indonesia to be a paradise on Earth, and its people are no exception. It's an archipelago with natural beauty in many of its parts. Like the plot device in the film, this is a treasure and something to be preserved. In that respect, Indonesia really could be considered a "secret garden" as well. And the analogy goes even deeper; if Indonesia is a "secret garden" for the world, then the area where I reside is a "secret garden" for Indonesia. From where I live, I can access forests and mountains for natural getaways. It's like having a paradise within a paradise.
One message that can be gleaned from the song is that there is a "secret garden" for each of us - a place where we feel most welcome to be in. And it doesn't have to be a natural paradise; the "secret garden" is simply the place that lets us relate to one another and maintain hope and optimism for the times ahead. Our only task is to have the "wings" to be able to get there, but once we do get there, we can take solace that things will be all right.
I hope that we all can find and get to our own "secret gardens". Maybe, just maybe, we're already there without realizing it.
Monday, February 20, 2017
Venice and Alto Mare
Avid fans of the Pokémon anime feature films know that the fifth feature film, titled Pokémon Heroes in English, is set in the city of Alto Mare (aka the Water City), a floating city with buildings on small islands and lots of twisty waterways. If all this sounds familiar and bears resemblance to a similar city just off the north-east portion of Italy that goes by the name of Venice, you're not too far off. Alto Mare was actually inspired by Venice.
I've watched Pokémon Heroes a few times, and while I'm not too enthralled about its storyline, I find Alto Mare to be an attractively romantic setting. When the feature film was announced for the first time more than a decade ago, I became captivated with the setting more than I did with everything else about the feature film, and I confirmed myself when I saw the feature film for the first time.
As much as I became captivated with Alto Mare as the setting of the movie, I also became fascinated with its real-life inspiration, Venice. For the record, I've never been to Europe; I've been to a few parts of the world, but not Europe. Regardless, what I've seen of Venice from photographs and what I've read about Venice is enough to make me interested to go there. If there is ever a time in the future I can set aside to go to Venice, as well as enough resources to get there, then I will definitely go to Venice and see it for myself. I'm told and I've read that it's one of the places anyone must see in the world, and I couldn't agree more after its feature as inspiration in the feature film.
I have to thank Pokémon Heroes for instilling in me an attraction for something that already exists wonderfully in the real world. To visit Venice as the real-world analogue of Alto Mare would be so impressive, as if I were to set foot into one amazing subset of the world of Pokémon.
I've watched Pokémon Heroes a few times, and while I'm not too enthralled about its storyline, I find Alto Mare to be an attractively romantic setting. When the feature film was announced for the first time more than a decade ago, I became captivated with the setting more than I did with everything else about the feature film, and I confirmed myself when I saw the feature film for the first time.
As much as I became captivated with Alto Mare as the setting of the movie, I also became fascinated with its real-life inspiration, Venice. For the record, I've never been to Europe; I've been to a few parts of the world, but not Europe. Regardless, what I've seen of Venice from photographs and what I've read about Venice is enough to make me interested to go there. If there is ever a time in the future I can set aside to go to Venice, as well as enough resources to get there, then I will definitely go to Venice and see it for myself. I'm told and I've read that it's one of the places anyone must see in the world, and I couldn't agree more after its feature as inspiration in the feature film.
I have to thank Pokémon Heroes for instilling in me an attraction for something that already exists wonderfully in the real world. To visit Venice as the real-world analogue of Alto Mare would be so impressive, as if I were to set foot into one amazing subset of the world of Pokémon.
Sunday, February 19, 2017
Let's Get Ready to Rumble
Another series of Pokémon games that I like is the Pokémon Rumble series. Once again my friend-and-fellow-Pokémon-fan has a role in this; it was him who introduced me to its first installment on the 3DS, and I've been hooked ever since. It was a good thing that Rumble made its way to the 3DS, since the game is definitely better as a portable title rather than staying on the Wii as its original iteration.
The game features Pokémon battling, but in a much different way; instead of one-on-one or few-on-few as in the main series, the battles are one-on-many, or what some gamers call smash-and-dash. Moves are simplified to just two per Pokémon, and the major indicator of the strength of a Pokémon is a single number, akin to the CP in Pokémon Go. The venues of play are areas with lots of enemy Pokémon, plus a boss battle at the end.
I'm not quite adept at games in this genre, but I've been able to play through the main storyline in Rumble Blast, the first installment on the 3DS, and getting somewhat far in Rumble World, the second installment. I seem to be hitting the walls of my limits and having a hard time advancing further. Should I have a significant chunk of time, I'll devote some of it to playing Rumble again.
If you are interested in playing Rumble, I recommend playing Rumble World rather than Rumble Blast as the former is updated with the sixth generation, including Mega Evolutions. You may also need to (and I recommend that you) spend eShop balance for Poké Diamonds, something that I can't do at the moment; I'm sure your experience will be different as having more Poké Diamonds allows you to get better enhancements and features. On the other hand, only Rumble Blast has true multiplayer play, so only get Rumble Blast if you are interested in that. I have Rumble Blast as a physical cartridge and Rumble World as a digital download.
Pokémon Rumble is great for those who want to play Pokémon with an experience that is not too distant from the main series, or as a refresher from that. Either way, it's a unique and worthwhile game series for any Pokémon fan.
The game features Pokémon battling, but in a much different way; instead of one-on-one or few-on-few as in the main series, the battles are one-on-many, or what some gamers call smash-and-dash. Moves are simplified to just two per Pokémon, and the major indicator of the strength of a Pokémon is a single number, akin to the CP in Pokémon Go. The venues of play are areas with lots of enemy Pokémon, plus a boss battle at the end.
I'm not quite adept at games in this genre, but I've been able to play through the main storyline in Rumble Blast, the first installment on the 3DS, and getting somewhat far in Rumble World, the second installment. I seem to be hitting the walls of my limits and having a hard time advancing further. Should I have a significant chunk of time, I'll devote some of it to playing Rumble again.
If you are interested in playing Rumble, I recommend playing Rumble World rather than Rumble Blast as the former is updated with the sixth generation, including Mega Evolutions. You may also need to (and I recommend that you) spend eShop balance for Poké Diamonds, something that I can't do at the moment; I'm sure your experience will be different as having more Poké Diamonds allows you to get better enhancements and features. On the other hand, only Rumble Blast has true multiplayer play, so only get Rumble Blast if you are interested in that. I have Rumble Blast as a physical cartridge and Rumble World as a digital download.
Pokémon Rumble is great for those who want to play Pokémon with an experience that is not too distant from the main series, or as a refresher from that. Either way, it's a unique and worthwhile game series for any Pokémon fan.
Saturday, February 18, 2017
Pokémon Art on Walls
Some people are very creative with Pokémon. So creative, in fact, that they put Pokémon on the walls of buildings. Last year, I saw two pieces of Pokémon art on walls of buildings around town. The first is graffiti on a park building:
It appears that whoever sprayed on this graffiti is a fan of Japanese culture, as on the left (partly visible here) is graffiti related to something else Japanese. Whoever did it was also clever enough to dub it as "art", and I agree - which was why when I caught my eye on this graffiti, I just had to come back to the location to photograph it and preserve it. It was a good thing that I did so, because a week later the graffiti was painted over and lost for almost all time.
The second is a wall mural on one of the walls in one of the alleys near where I live:
As the mural has two of the first generation starters and the de facto series mascot Pikachu, it was most likely inspired by the boom of Pokémon Go. It is interesting that they were able to paint such pictures in a small space, as the alley only had room for parking small motorcycles while still letting people walk - this also explains why I took the pictures on an angle, because of the space. Unlike the graffiti, this mural has staying power; it was still in the same place even a few days ago.
In the right inspired hands and minds, Pokémon can result in great artwork, no matter the style. I'd say this very much applies to the two above pieces of art on walls.
It appears that whoever sprayed on this graffiti is a fan of Japanese culture, as on the left (partly visible here) is graffiti related to something else Japanese. Whoever did it was also clever enough to dub it as "art", and I agree - which was why when I caught my eye on this graffiti, I just had to come back to the location to photograph it and preserve it. It was a good thing that I did so, because a week later the graffiti was painted over and lost for almost all time.
The second is a wall mural on one of the walls in one of the alleys near where I live:
As the mural has two of the first generation starters and the de facto series mascot Pikachu, it was most likely inspired by the boom of Pokémon Go. It is interesting that they were able to paint such pictures in a small space, as the alley only had room for parking small motorcycles while still letting people walk - this also explains why I took the pictures on an angle, because of the space. Unlike the graffiti, this mural has staying power; it was still in the same place even a few days ago.
In the right inspired hands and minds, Pokémon can result in great artwork, no matter the style. I'd say this very much applies to the two above pieces of art on walls.
Friday, February 17, 2017
The Park Is Open
I don't play the Pokémon games on the Wii much, as I don't have one, but I do have a workaround. My friend and fellow Pokémon fan (yes, the same one from here and here) has a red-colored Wii - which I'm told is a limited edition - and he occasionally brings it when we get together. And when we get together, one of the games I play is the first iteration of PokéPark (Pikachu's Adventure).
It was him also that introduced me to this game, and I've taken a real liking to it. The game is based off on the first four generations of Pokémon (evidenced by its Japanese title, Pikachu no Daibouken - note the D and P). You play as Pikachu in its efforts to harmonize the denizens of a Pokémon theme park. Along the way, you also interact with other Pokémon in various ways; sometimes you chase, sometimes you fight, and sometimes you play mini-games. The mini-games, by the way, are important, because they represent special challenges that Pikachu's allies can partake in, and some of them are also physical, utilizing the motion sensing capabilities of the Wiimote. All in all, the game is a blend of several genres all tied up with an enthralling story, one that I want to see to completion.
Playing a game on a friend's console is always a risky prospect, as the chance that I get to play the game may be unpredictable. And indeed this is the case; he's often busy with his own thing, and I'm busy with mine. Get-togethers are even more unpredictable since our schedules rarely match up with each other. It has to be an occasion that on the off-chance, he actually does bring it to liven things up.
Hold on a second, he's here... and he's leaving his red Wii here for the weekend with me? I think it's time to get back in the park for a few more adventures. 😀
It was him also that introduced me to this game, and I've taken a real liking to it. The game is based off on the first four generations of Pokémon (evidenced by its Japanese title, Pikachu no Daibouken - note the D and P). You play as Pikachu in its efforts to harmonize the denizens of a Pokémon theme park. Along the way, you also interact with other Pokémon in various ways; sometimes you chase, sometimes you fight, and sometimes you play mini-games. The mini-games, by the way, are important, because they represent special challenges that Pikachu's allies can partake in, and some of them are also physical, utilizing the motion sensing capabilities of the Wiimote. All in all, the game is a blend of several genres all tied up with an enthralling story, one that I want to see to completion.
Playing a game on a friend's console is always a risky prospect, as the chance that I get to play the game may be unpredictable. And indeed this is the case; he's often busy with his own thing, and I'm busy with mine. Get-togethers are even more unpredictable since our schedules rarely match up with each other. It has to be an occasion that on the off-chance, he actually does bring it to liven things up.
Hold on a second, he's here... and he's leaving his red Wii here for the weekend with me? I think it's time to get back in the park for a few more adventures. 😀
Thursday, February 16, 2017
We Three Birds of Kanto Are...
Recently some of the amusement I've noticed has gone to the birds. A particular Facebook sticker (yes, stickers exist on Facebook too) has been the subject of laughter for its odd yet unassuming appearance. In one meme, it has even drawn comparison to the Legendary Birds of the Kanto region. While this gesture was definitely made in jest, in all seriousness, the three Legendary Birds are impressive in their own ways, and it's no surprise that they are the emblems of the factions in Pokémon Go. Here's how I see them:
Articuno - Team Mystic: The word "mystic" is related to spirituality and mystery. Articuno, in addition to being a Flying type, is also an Ice type; the features on its body is elegantly reminiscent of ice crystals. Thus Articuno could be said to bridge the concepts as "the cold, elegant unknown". There is much about life that we don't know, yet so much else about life is revealed in an elegant manner. It is our desire or belief that that which we don't know could also be elegant. In a way, Articuno embodies this spirit.
Zapdos - Team Instinct: "Instinct" is propensity, a natural tendency, and is also not unrelated to impulse or reaction. Zapdos is partly an Electric type and its rough, jagged features evoke that of lightning or visible electric currents. Based on these, Zapdos could be thought of as "the high-energy connection". In some cases in life, we have to make quick and sometimes rough decisions in order to connect with others. Zapdos, then, serves as a perfect reminder of this fact.
Moltres - Team Valor: "Valor" is simply another word for courage. Moltres is one-half a Fire type; its entire body looks like one bright, seemingly eternally burning flame. Therefore it is not hard to see that Moltres could represent "the hot and bright boldness". Many things in life practically demand us to have the drive to achieve them. As such, Moltres represents a quality that we also ought to have when we really needed.
If any of these seem philosophical, it's because it's not hard to think of them that way. Perhaps they might have been your rationale for selecting a faction in Go - or not belonging to one. In any case, these birds are not only impressive on the outside, but also on the inside, when identified with our innermost feelings.
Articuno - Team Mystic: The word "mystic" is related to spirituality and mystery. Articuno, in addition to being a Flying type, is also an Ice type; the features on its body is elegantly reminiscent of ice crystals. Thus Articuno could be said to bridge the concepts as "the cold, elegant unknown". There is much about life that we don't know, yet so much else about life is revealed in an elegant manner. It is our desire or belief that that which we don't know could also be elegant. In a way, Articuno embodies this spirit.
Zapdos - Team Instinct: "Instinct" is propensity, a natural tendency, and is also not unrelated to impulse or reaction. Zapdos is partly an Electric type and its rough, jagged features evoke that of lightning or visible electric currents. Based on these, Zapdos could be thought of as "the high-energy connection". In some cases in life, we have to make quick and sometimes rough decisions in order to connect with others. Zapdos, then, serves as a perfect reminder of this fact.
Moltres - Team Valor: "Valor" is simply another word for courage. Moltres is one-half a Fire type; its entire body looks like one bright, seemingly eternally burning flame. Therefore it is not hard to see that Moltres could represent "the hot and bright boldness". Many things in life practically demand us to have the drive to achieve them. As such, Moltres represents a quality that we also ought to have when we really needed.
If any of these seem philosophical, it's because it's not hard to think of them that way. Perhaps they might have been your rationale for selecting a faction in Go - or not belonging to one. In any case, these birds are not only impressive on the outside, but also on the inside, when identified with our innermost feelings.
Wednesday, February 15, 2017
Pocket Monsters Best Wishes Partners Figure - Satoshi
This figure comes in three pieces: Ash, Pikachu, and the base. To assemble it, you connect Ash to the base, then you put Pikachu on his right shoulder. That part is really cleverly designed; if you look at Ash closely, it doesn't seem that there would be a place to put Pikachu on, but there is actually a small recess in the folds of Ash's hood, and one of Pikachu's limbs, which is slightly elongated, fits into the recess, while Ash's stretched right arm acts as a saddle for Pikachu. The beauty of this is that the figure still looks pretty from all angles even if you decide not to put Pikachu on Ash's shoulder.
The figure I have is not brand-new, and there are tell-tale "stains" on Ash's outerwear, which is not easily seen in the photo above; even so, I don't really care. What matters is that it's still Ash and Pikachu, and it looks so awesome. For the time being, though, I'll leave the figure alone in the box - I don't have a display space for it yet and I'm interested in keeping everything intact, including the box. The box itself already has a window for the figure, so that is another perfect excuse. Once I do have a display space, this figure is definitely going to be put up.
This particular figure is just too cool from its design and looks, which makes it equally too cool to not show it off. If you really, really like Ash as much as I do, you'll enjoy having and displaying this figure too.
Tuesday, February 14, 2017
It's Valentine's Day!
Today is February 14th. That means it's the internationally recognized day known as Valentine's Day, the day where love and affection is celebrated. For those who are celebrating, I wish you a happy Valentine's Day for you and whoever you're celebrating with.
Speaking about love and affection, these are universal values, and even in the world of Pokémon there is love and affection. I do think that it would be even more special in the Pokémon world because of all the creatures that understand human feelings - so people would not only be sharing love and affection with their significant others, but also with Pokémon, the very creatures that understand much of the same feelings. And thus, love and affection is spread among people, Pokémon, and beyond. It's kind of romantic in a way.
If you and your significant other love Pokémon as much as each other, it's not a bad idea to involve Pokémon in today's moment. Playing the games is certainly a good idea, or maybe watching some of the more sentimental anime episodes. Certainly having Pokémon-themed things around while celebrating is a good idea. Perhaps they can inspire you to be more understanding of each other.
In any case, love and affection are certainly not limited to this world. Love and affection have to be present in a world where not only people understand each other, but also creatures understand people. You can imagine that love could be shared among them all. If that sounds romantic enough to inspire, it most likely is. So, again, have a great Valentine's Day.
Speaking about love and affection, these are universal values, and even in the world of Pokémon there is love and affection. I do think that it would be even more special in the Pokémon world because of all the creatures that understand human feelings - so people would not only be sharing love and affection with their significant others, but also with Pokémon, the very creatures that understand much of the same feelings. And thus, love and affection is spread among people, Pokémon, and beyond. It's kind of romantic in a way.
If you and your significant other love Pokémon as much as each other, it's not a bad idea to involve Pokémon in today's moment. Playing the games is certainly a good idea, or maybe watching some of the more sentimental anime episodes. Certainly having Pokémon-themed things around while celebrating is a good idea. Perhaps they can inspire you to be more understanding of each other.
In any case, love and affection are certainly not limited to this world. Love and affection have to be present in a world where not only people understand each other, but also creatures understand people. You can imagine that love could be shared among them all. If that sounds romantic enough to inspire, it most likely is. So, again, have a great Valentine's Day.
Monday, February 13, 2017
Cosplay: Japan LovEvolution Vol. 2 - Kaizen
Let me just say firsthand that in some cases I might discuss cosplay events a day after they have taken place, because some of these events may be all-day affairs that don't leave me much time or energy at the end of the day to write. I like experiencing events for as long as possible so I can enjoy them to the maximum, especially with cosplay, and in particular Pokémon cosplay. Now that we're clear, let's discuss the event.
So, yesterday I went to a Japanese event entitled Japan LovEvolution. As with many local Japanese events, they're either school or college events; this one is a college event. The "Vol. 2" tag indicates that this is the second year they held the event; the event itself is actually part of the festivities for the college's association of Management Department students. And like most Japanese events, cosplay is certainly involved. Last year I went as Pokémon Trainer Red and nabbed the Best Street Cosplayer award, and last year the event showed promise of being a great annual event, which I'm sure the college thinks so too, so that's likely why they fulfilled the promise by having it again this year.
To vary things up, this time I decided to go as Ash from the XY/Kalos saga. However, they seem to have varied the cosplay competition as well - or rather limited it, as now the only cosplay competition was a cosplay walk/parade. And as I remember it, the entry fee for the competition last year was significantly less than this year's only competition; coupled with the fact that I wanted to go with a simpler costume, I knew that my chances of getting a prize was small - therefore I decided to forego the competition and just do non-competitive street cosplay.
As for the event itself, the event went smoothly for the most part; the only part that didn't was a spot of rain in the afternoon that lasted at least an hour. Since the event was almost fully outdoors, the visitors had to pack into the shady areas of the event when the rain occurred, and that included me. As a result, the event was delayed by that much time as well; I am certain had the rain not occurred, we would have had an on-time finish. Even after the spot of rain, there was still intermittent rain throughout the event, but that did not cause further delays. I'm also glad I didn't enter the competition for the reason that the winners' announcement was done later in the night, which by then is an unbearable wait, though I did wait that long solely to just enjoy the event.
This event is a relative newcomer among local Japanese events, but it seems to get more and more festive. I look forward to next year's iteration should they hold it again, which I'm sure they will, notwithstanding how the event went this year.
So, yesterday I went to a Japanese event entitled Japan LovEvolution. As with many local Japanese events, they're either school or college events; this one is a college event. The "Vol. 2" tag indicates that this is the second year they held the event; the event itself is actually part of the festivities for the college's association of Management Department students. And like most Japanese events, cosplay is certainly involved. Last year I went as Pokémon Trainer Red and nabbed the Best Street Cosplayer award, and last year the event showed promise of being a great annual event, which I'm sure the college thinks so too, so that's likely why they fulfilled the promise by having it again this year.
To vary things up, this time I decided to go as Ash from the XY/Kalos saga. However, they seem to have varied the cosplay competition as well - or rather limited it, as now the only cosplay competition was a cosplay walk/parade. And as I remember it, the entry fee for the competition last year was significantly less than this year's only competition; coupled with the fact that I wanted to go with a simpler costume, I knew that my chances of getting a prize was small - therefore I decided to forego the competition and just do non-competitive street cosplay.
As for the event itself, the event went smoothly for the most part; the only part that didn't was a spot of rain in the afternoon that lasted at least an hour. Since the event was almost fully outdoors, the visitors had to pack into the shady areas of the event when the rain occurred, and that included me. As a result, the event was delayed by that much time as well; I am certain had the rain not occurred, we would have had an on-time finish. Even after the spot of rain, there was still intermittent rain throughout the event, but that did not cause further delays. I'm also glad I didn't enter the competition for the reason that the winners' announcement was done later in the night, which by then is an unbearable wait, though I did wait that long solely to just enjoy the event.
This event is a relative newcomer among local Japanese events, but it seems to get more and more festive. I look forward to next year's iteration should they hold it again, which I'm sure they will, notwithstanding how the event went this year.
Sunday, February 12, 2017
My Essential Pokémon Cosplay Equipment
Aside from the costume of the Pokémon character that I cosplay, there are two other items that I need when I cosplay a Pokémon character, which most of the time in my case means Ash or occasionally Red. Those two items are the signature Pokémon of the character - which most of the time in my case is Pikachu, used by both Red and Ash - and a Poké Ball. In my early days of cosplaying Ash, I had neither, and although others had no problem recognizing what character I cosplayed and where it originated, I was always queried for both. This became my incentive to have both items.
The current ones I use are shown below:
The Pikachu I use is a doll that I meticulously created based on a papercraft pattern. At the time I created the doll, Pikachu dolls weren't as readily available as they are now, and this was the solution I devised based on my hand-sewing knowledge. It took a lot of time to create, yet I'm still proud to use it, though I need to mend it every so often. On the left side of the photo is the Poké Ball that I use, adapted from a hanging ornament which was nearly perfectly the size of a Poké Ball. The two on the right are the ones that I formerly used, which I had created in the same manner as my Pikachu, but not directly from a papercraft pattern; as much as I liked to use them, somehow they were always off in size - the second to the right was a little big and the rightmost one was a little small. Their only purpose now are for backup.
There are even older forms of these that I formerly used:
Back before I used fabric equipment, I used papercraft equipment. The Pikachu and Poké Ball here are the realized forms from the papercraft patterns, adjusted in size. While they looked accurate and worked well, they were somewhat fragile, so I had to be careful when bringing them to events and using them. It was for this reason that I moved to fabric equipment; another is that since I sometimes perform on stage, with a paper ball (even a plastic one) I wouldn't even consider throwing them the way Poké Balls are meant to be thrown, but with a fabric ball, I can be a little more "reckless".
In the future, I may want to have different Pokémon dolls to suit other characters and especially Red, but at the moment just Pikachu suits me just fine for Ash and Red. I'm also open to other concepts on how to present Pokémon when I cosplay, though I tend to gravitate to dolls because they are easy to make and portable.
I love it when I cosplay Pokémon characters, but I also like that I'm identified for doing so. Thus it is these two items - a Poké Ball and a signature Pokémon - that I find necessary for my Pokémon cosplay. No matter the material, these two items affirm my cosplay identity as a Pokémon character.
The current ones I use are shown below:
The Pikachu I use is a doll that I meticulously created based on a papercraft pattern. At the time I created the doll, Pikachu dolls weren't as readily available as they are now, and this was the solution I devised based on my hand-sewing knowledge. It took a lot of time to create, yet I'm still proud to use it, though I need to mend it every so often. On the left side of the photo is the Poké Ball that I use, adapted from a hanging ornament which was nearly perfectly the size of a Poké Ball. The two on the right are the ones that I formerly used, which I had created in the same manner as my Pikachu, but not directly from a papercraft pattern; as much as I liked to use them, somehow they were always off in size - the second to the right was a little big and the rightmost one was a little small. Their only purpose now are for backup.
There are even older forms of these that I formerly used:
Back before I used fabric equipment, I used papercraft equipment. The Pikachu and Poké Ball here are the realized forms from the papercraft patterns, adjusted in size. While they looked accurate and worked well, they were somewhat fragile, so I had to be careful when bringing them to events and using them. It was for this reason that I moved to fabric equipment; another is that since I sometimes perform on stage, with a paper ball (even a plastic one) I wouldn't even consider throwing them the way Poké Balls are meant to be thrown, but with a fabric ball, I can be a little more "reckless".
In the future, I may want to have different Pokémon dolls to suit other characters and especially Red, but at the moment just Pikachu suits me just fine for Ash and Red. I'm also open to other concepts on how to present Pokémon when I cosplay, though I tend to gravitate to dolls because they are easy to make and portable.
I love it when I cosplay Pokémon characters, but I also like that I'm identified for doing so. Thus it is these two items - a Poké Ball and a signature Pokémon - that I find necessary for my Pokémon cosplay. No matter the material, these two items affirm my cosplay identity as a Pokémon character.
Saturday, February 11, 2017
LINE Pokémon Stickers
Ever since a friend introduced me to the instant messaging/social media app LINE, I've found it a helpful and interesting way to communicate with friends. Many of my friends are also on LINE and I even belong to several group chats on LINE. A central feature of LINE is the ability to add stickers to chats and posts to enliven them; there are many indie stickers as well as official stickers, including Pokémon in the case of the latter. I've posted here and there regarding LINE Pokémon stickers but I haven't discussed about them in further detail, so I want to do that now.
Currently, there are five stickers available, but I only have three of them. Here are the three that I have:
Pokémon - This was the first pack of stickers released. 16 of the stickers feature Pikachu with different expressions while the rest are composed of a variety of other Pokémon, also with different expressions. I like how cartoony the stickers in this pack look and there are plenty of expressions for any fan of Pokémon in general. I would recommend this sticker if you can get only one.
Pokémon Part 2 - This was the second pack of stickers released. Compared to the first one, this has 24 Pikachu stickers, with an additional 8 featuring Piplup and 8 others with other Pokémon. This one is also cartoony but more subtle than the first pack. If you're a big fan of Pikachu, get this one. I really do like it just for that reason - and it supplements the first pack well if you already have it, effectively creating a 40-sticker set for Pikachu and another for other Pokémon.
Animated Pokémon Stickers - This was the third pack. Some of the animations are a bit cheesy but they get the message across, and it looks somewhat similar to the first pack. When I got this one, the fourth pack had also been released, so I was torn on whether to get this one or the fourth pack. Ultimately I decided on this one since it would be my first animated sticker. There are only 24 stickers in this one - granted, it's animated and therefore larger in size - but it has a few unique ones, like the sixth generation starters and a Poké Ball sticker. Get this one if you fancy those and/or animations.
I'll be sure to get the other ones when I am able, and I'll deliver my verdict then. In the meantime I'm very satisfied with these. They're definitely a must for any Pokémon fan using LINE.
Currently, there are five stickers available, but I only have three of them. Here are the three that I have:
Pokémon - This was the first pack of stickers released. 16 of the stickers feature Pikachu with different expressions while the rest are composed of a variety of other Pokémon, also with different expressions. I like how cartoony the stickers in this pack look and there are plenty of expressions for any fan of Pokémon in general. I would recommend this sticker if you can get only one.
Pokémon Part 2 - This was the second pack of stickers released. Compared to the first one, this has 24 Pikachu stickers, with an additional 8 featuring Piplup and 8 others with other Pokémon. This one is also cartoony but more subtle than the first pack. If you're a big fan of Pikachu, get this one. I really do like it just for that reason - and it supplements the first pack well if you already have it, effectively creating a 40-sticker set for Pikachu and another for other Pokémon.
Animated Pokémon Stickers - This was the third pack. Some of the animations are a bit cheesy but they get the message across, and it looks somewhat similar to the first pack. When I got this one, the fourth pack had also been released, so I was torn on whether to get this one or the fourth pack. Ultimately I decided on this one since it would be my first animated sticker. There are only 24 stickers in this one - granted, it's animated and therefore larger in size - but it has a few unique ones, like the sixth generation starters and a Poké Ball sticker. Get this one if you fancy those and/or animations.
I'll be sure to get the other ones when I am able, and I'll deliver my verdict then. In the meantime I'm very satisfied with these. They're definitely a must for any Pokémon fan using LINE.
Friday, February 10, 2017
Space
Three other fundamental dimensions of our world are conglomerated in an aspect called space. Space is the domain where physical beings and matter exist. Barring physical and other limitations, we move around freely and do our business in it. We are here because this is our space.
It is thus also fitting that in the Pokémon world there is a supreme embodiment of space in the form of the Pokémon Palkia. Palkia is the titan of space and to some extent is also able to control space. Spacial Rend is Palkia's characteristic way of dealing damage, and lots of it, with the increased chance for a critical hit. In some cases Palkia can even use Spacial Rend to warp space itself and change where people end up and what things look like. Palkia too is not to be contested on its authority over space.
Our control of space is unlike that of Palkia; we can't (and perhaps don't want to) put people and things in different spaces, at least not all the time. However, we can make use of space, arranging it to look as neat as possible. In the games, Palkia too is held in reverence as a legendary Pokémon. Respect for Palkia logically translates to respect for space itself; we should put things in their proper spaces and not intrude on improper spaces. By doing so, we also honor space.
Space is where we are; its power is to provide a place for everything we have and do, something that also needs to be respected. Palkia perfectly encapsulates these spirits in relation to space. It is with hope that we continue to have the power to manage our space and respect it in the process.
It is thus also fitting that in the Pokémon world there is a supreme embodiment of space in the form of the Pokémon Palkia. Palkia is the titan of space and to some extent is also able to control space. Spacial Rend is Palkia's characteristic way of dealing damage, and lots of it, with the increased chance for a critical hit. In some cases Palkia can even use Spacial Rend to warp space itself and change where people end up and what things look like. Palkia too is not to be contested on its authority over space.
Our control of space is unlike that of Palkia; we can't (and perhaps don't want to) put people and things in different spaces, at least not all the time. However, we can make use of space, arranging it to look as neat as possible. In the games, Palkia too is held in reverence as a legendary Pokémon. Respect for Palkia logically translates to respect for space itself; we should put things in their proper spaces and not intrude on improper spaces. By doing so, we also honor space.
Space is where we are; its power is to provide a place for everything we have and do, something that also needs to be respected. Palkia perfectly encapsulates these spirits in relation to space. It is with hope that we continue to have the power to manage our space and respect it in the process.
Thursday, February 9, 2017
Time
One of the fundamental dimensions of our world is time. Time keeps the world moving forward and everything abides by it. Whether people or creature, animate or inanimate, or small or large, there is nothing that isn't affected by time. As time progresses, things also change, whether for better or worse.
It is fitting, therefore, that in the Pokémon world, there is a supreme embodiment of time, and that is the Pokémon Dialga. Dialga is the titan of time and even has some control of time. With its Roar of Time, heavy damage is inflicted on surrounding Pokémon. The Roar of Time can even act as a time machine of sorts and rewind people and things to a certain state. Dialga is thus nothing short of powerful, especially in regard to the aspect it symbolizes.
We may not have any superior control over time - Dialga's control is also not wholly superior - but we can make use of the power of time to make things like growing plants and nurturing others happen. It is also no secret in the games that Dialga is held with some reverence, as is any legendary Pokémon. As such we must also have some respect for time, in particular that of others; we ought to honor time we spend for others as well as time that others spend for us.
Time is an aspect that has great power to change things, and this aspect also needs to be respected. If anything, Dialga is an embodiment of those spirits that reflect the character of time. May we be all like Dialga, being equally as respectful of time as we are powerful with it.
It is fitting, therefore, that in the Pokémon world, there is a supreme embodiment of time, and that is the Pokémon Dialga. Dialga is the titan of time and even has some control of time. With its Roar of Time, heavy damage is inflicted on surrounding Pokémon. The Roar of Time can even act as a time machine of sorts and rewind people and things to a certain state. Dialga is thus nothing short of powerful, especially in regard to the aspect it symbolizes.
We may not have any superior control over time - Dialga's control is also not wholly superior - but we can make use of the power of time to make things like growing plants and nurturing others happen. It is also no secret in the games that Dialga is held with some reverence, as is any legendary Pokémon. As such we must also have some respect for time, in particular that of others; we ought to honor time we spend for others as well as time that others spend for us.
Time is an aspect that has great power to change things, and this aspect also needs to be respected. If anything, Dialga is an embodiment of those spirits that reflect the character of time. May we be all like Dialga, being equally as respectful of time as we are powerful with it.
Wednesday, February 8, 2017
Serena-Shipping: "Heaven Help My Heart"
Maybe it's best to love a stranger...
Well, that's what I've done - heaven help my heart.
-- "Heaven Help My Heart", from Chess (originally sung by Elaine Paige)
In many fandoms, there is a tendency for a phenomenon called "relationshipping", or "shipping" for short, to occur for a prominent male character and another prominent female character. The phenomenon occurs when both characters become inextricably linked for fans such that they are, for practical purposes, considered a couple. During the XY series of the Pokémon anime, this phenomenon occurred with Ash and Serena. By all accounts, this is one of, if not the most intense instances of this phenomenon for the Pokémon anime. And even though the XY series has ended, some people still continue to "ship" Ash and Serena as a lovely couple.
While I don't subscribe to "shipping" myself, I find it an interesting phenomenon among fans. If that is what they imagine, then let them imagine as such; I too have some imaginations of my own as a kind of quid pro quo, though they are not necessarily "shipping". So for those who still "ship" Ash and Serena, I've got something for you from the emotional side. A song from the concept album later-turned-musical Chess is something that encapsulates how Serena might feel at this very moment now that Ash has left; the song is titled "Heaven Help My Heart". This song is sung by who would be the love interest of the main male character in the musical, and it describes her captivation for a stranger; in the context of the XY series, Ash would be the stranger from outside of Kalos while Serena would be the native of Kalos.
There you go, Ash-Serena "shippers" - I've given you fodder for your imagination with this song. I think it's quite an appropriate song given the state of their relationship. May the fervor of your "shipping" imagination remain as strong as ever.
Well, that's what I've done - heaven help my heart.
-- "Heaven Help My Heart", from Chess (originally sung by Elaine Paige)
In many fandoms, there is a tendency for a phenomenon called "relationshipping", or "shipping" for short, to occur for a prominent male character and another prominent female character. The phenomenon occurs when both characters become inextricably linked for fans such that they are, for practical purposes, considered a couple. During the XY series of the Pokémon anime, this phenomenon occurred with Ash and Serena. By all accounts, this is one of, if not the most intense instances of this phenomenon for the Pokémon anime. And even though the XY series has ended, some people still continue to "ship" Ash and Serena as a lovely couple.
While I don't subscribe to "shipping" myself, I find it an interesting phenomenon among fans. If that is what they imagine, then let them imagine as such; I too have some imaginations of my own as a kind of quid pro quo, though they are not necessarily "shipping". So for those who still "ship" Ash and Serena, I've got something for you from the emotional side. A song from the concept album later-turned-musical Chess is something that encapsulates how Serena might feel at this very moment now that Ash has left; the song is titled "Heaven Help My Heart". This song is sung by who would be the love interest of the main male character in the musical, and it describes her captivation for a stranger; in the context of the XY series, Ash would be the stranger from outside of Kalos while Serena would be the native of Kalos.
There you go, Ash-Serena "shippers" - I've given you fodder for your imagination with this song. I think it's quite an appropriate song given the state of their relationship. May the fervor of your "shipping" imagination remain as strong as ever.
Tuesday, February 7, 2017
Conserve and Cooperate
If you've played the Pokémon Ranger games on the NDS, you quickly realize that Pokémon are not just for battling. Pokémon are actually helpful creatures that can and will help people, and in return, people can help them by letting them have a place in the environment. Recently I've gotten myself caught in a quandary that involves an issue with my yard and the neighbors, and while this quandary doesn't evoke Pokémon per se, it made me think about the relationships of people and Pokémon.
The takeaway from the quandary and situation above is that we need to conserve and cooperate. We need to try our best to keep the environment a hospitable one - Pokémon may not live in this world, but we still do, and as a matter of fact, so do all other organisms. And should conservation or anything else causes problems, we also need to work together to resolve them - again, we don't have Pokémon, and we only have ourselves, and as thus we need to make sure that the solutions won't put us into conflict.
The relationship of shaping the environment to our needs and shaping our needs to the environment is a delicate one, so we should make the best decisions possible. And if these decisions result in problems, we need to find solutions that we can agree on and accomplish together. You can imagine that these efforts are multiplied in a world with many biologically different and demanding creatures in addition to people.
Now if you'll excuse me, I think I need to check back with the neighbors.
The takeaway from the quandary and situation above is that we need to conserve and cooperate. We need to try our best to keep the environment a hospitable one - Pokémon may not live in this world, but we still do, and as a matter of fact, so do all other organisms. And should conservation or anything else causes problems, we also need to work together to resolve them - again, we don't have Pokémon, and we only have ourselves, and as thus we need to make sure that the solutions won't put us into conflict.
The relationship of shaping the environment to our needs and shaping our needs to the environment is a delicate one, so we should make the best decisions possible. And if these decisions result in problems, we need to find solutions that we can agree on and accomplish together. You can imagine that these efforts are multiplied in a world with many biologically different and demanding creatures in addition to people.
Now if you'll excuse me, I think I need to check back with the neighbors.
Monday, February 6, 2017
Alola-Exeggutor - From Humanoid to Coconut Tree Dragon
When Pokémon Sun and Moon came, along with the Alola region in tow, old Pokémon from the first generation were "renewed" with the so-called Alola Forms. One of these Alola Forms is for the Pokémon Exeggutor. Outside of Alola, the Pokémon is humanoid in form: it has an overall body shape resembling a human, though its neck is not distinct and it has no arms. In Alola, though, the Pokémon gains a Dragon-type attribute, its neck and body become quite distinct, and it gets a tail; it is in effect a wyvern (bipedal dragon) without wings. Further, the particular form closely resembles the coconut palm tree that is so often found in tropical areas. In either case, the "hair" of green leaves, the multiple faces, and the two legs remain the same.
When Alola-Exeggutor was unveiled, it immediately drew a host of reactions, some of them funny. One particular funny reaction (or rather, a group of funny reactions) was to separate Alola-Exeggutor into its head, neck, and body, and use these as profile pictures. In theory, you could chain many users in a chat with the head profile picture, followed by several necks and a body, and make an "endless" Alola-Exeggutor. Some enterprising users even turned the head upside-down, creating the possibility of a chain with two heads. Regardless of how it was realized, it was amusing for everyone involved, including me. The latest pack of Pokémon stickers for LINE still facilitates this amusement by including three separate stickers for Alola-Exeggutor in the same manner as above - head, neck, and body.
I'm still conceiving other possible VGC teams for Sun and Moon, and I may use Alola-Exeggutor. If I do use the Pokémon, though, I need to find a way to defend the Pokémon from Ice types, as they are the greatest threat to a Grass-Dragon type combination. This is in addition to determining the best build (moves and stats) for the Pokémon and making sure that it works the way I want it to with the team. Alola-Exeggutor may be amusing, but as with any Pokémon, the real test is whether it works with a team and against other Pokémon.
When Alola-Exeggutor was unveiled, it immediately drew a host of reactions, some of them funny. One particular funny reaction (or rather, a group of funny reactions) was to separate Alola-Exeggutor into its head, neck, and body, and use these as profile pictures. In theory, you could chain many users in a chat with the head profile picture, followed by several necks and a body, and make an "endless" Alola-Exeggutor. Some enterprising users even turned the head upside-down, creating the possibility of a chain with two heads. Regardless of how it was realized, it was amusing for everyone involved, including me. The latest pack of Pokémon stickers for LINE still facilitates this amusement by including three separate stickers for Alola-Exeggutor in the same manner as above - head, neck, and body.
I'm still conceiving other possible VGC teams for Sun and Moon, and I may use Alola-Exeggutor. If I do use the Pokémon, though, I need to find a way to defend the Pokémon from Ice types, as they are the greatest threat to a Grass-Dragon type combination. This is in addition to determining the best build (moves and stats) for the Pokémon and making sure that it works the way I want it to with the team. Alola-Exeggutor may be amusing, but as with any Pokémon, the real test is whether it works with a team and against other Pokémon.
Sunday, February 5, 2017
Itasha Revisited
I have explained before my dreams and desires to make a Pokémon itasha, and what it takes to make this happen. While I'm still lacking the resources to make this happen for myself, recently I've discovered some inspiration for the design of the itasha which someday I would like to apply.
In the past few days, I've noticed that a motorcycle with Pikachu and the Pokémon logo has popped up around where I live, yet it's not a full itasha, as the images are only on the gas tank and not applied liberally all over the motorcycle. Regardless, the design is simple, as the images are on a monochrome background of mostly black, and the rest of the motorcycle is also black. Were I to make this a full itasha, I would choose to continue the background all over the rest of the motorcycle and dot it with more small images of Pikachu. This also accomplishes one of my design guidelines I previously outlined for a Pikachu itasha, which is not to use the Pikachu yellow color liberally (except of course for Pikachu itself). Certainly I would have to adapt the design to the vehicle I would eventually have.
While on the subject of motorcycles, there is one way I could further enhance a Pokémon/Pikachu itasha, in particular the implementation above, and that is by installing a decorative seat cover with the image of Pikachu on it. I've seen these decorative seat covers at shops that specialize in putting them, but the only problem is that the ones I've seen also have the Go emblem. Then again this is probably not too much of a problem because I have other Pokémon things with the Go emblem, and it can be overlooked.
Also regarding motorcycles, in Indonesia the roads are full of them. It is no surprise, therefore, that in Japanese events that I've visited where the local itasha community is featured, motorcycles are the most prominent and numerous vehicles on display. If space is available, there might be a car or two, but on the whole the motorcycles take center stage. At some time in the future, I may own a car rather than a motorcycle, however; even so, I'm still interested in applying itasha to whatever vehicle I do get.
Itasha at this point is still up in the air due to the questions of vehicles and design. Yet there is nothing that stops me from getting the inspirations to make this happen, especially in relation to Pokémon. There is still much to see on the road ahead.
In the past few days, I've noticed that a motorcycle with Pikachu and the Pokémon logo has popped up around where I live, yet it's not a full itasha, as the images are only on the gas tank and not applied liberally all over the motorcycle. Regardless, the design is simple, as the images are on a monochrome background of mostly black, and the rest of the motorcycle is also black. Were I to make this a full itasha, I would choose to continue the background all over the rest of the motorcycle and dot it with more small images of Pikachu. This also accomplishes one of my design guidelines I previously outlined for a Pikachu itasha, which is not to use the Pikachu yellow color liberally (except of course for Pikachu itself). Certainly I would have to adapt the design to the vehicle I would eventually have.
While on the subject of motorcycles, there is one way I could further enhance a Pokémon/Pikachu itasha, in particular the implementation above, and that is by installing a decorative seat cover with the image of Pikachu on it. I've seen these decorative seat covers at shops that specialize in putting them, but the only problem is that the ones I've seen also have the Go emblem. Then again this is probably not too much of a problem because I have other Pokémon things with the Go emblem, and it can be overlooked.
Also regarding motorcycles, in Indonesia the roads are full of them. It is no surprise, therefore, that in Japanese events that I've visited where the local itasha community is featured, motorcycles are the most prominent and numerous vehicles on display. If space is available, there might be a car or two, but on the whole the motorcycles take center stage. At some time in the future, I may own a car rather than a motorcycle, however; even so, I'm still interested in applying itasha to whatever vehicle I do get.
Itasha at this point is still up in the air due to the questions of vehicles and design. Yet there is nothing that stops me from getting the inspirations to make this happen, especially in relation to Pokémon. There is still much to see on the road ahead.
Saturday, February 4, 2017
Pokémon and Mahjong Tile Games
Aside from being a fan of Pokémon, I'm also a fan of mahjong tile games and all its related variants. This is an area where the influence of Pokémon is relatively little, but perhaps could be considered.
Let's start off with the tile-matching games, the one that most people think of when thinking of mahjong; it goes by a lot of different names and trademarks, but the point of the game is to match tiles and is not mahjong proper. Pokémon could be easily adapted to this - 36 of the most popular Pokémon, for example, could be placed on four tiles each for a total of 144 tiles, the same number in a full Chinese mahjong set (with seasons and flowers). This works for the regular tile-matching games with different layouts and the open sides matching rule, but there is another tile-matching game where this already has prominence involving Pokémon.
A different rule for the tile-matching games involves tiles spread out in a single layer (sometimes two or more) and demands players to match any two tiles so long as their open sides can be connected by a path that traverses no more than two bends; games utilizing these rules are part of the Four Rivers (Shisen-Sho) family. One particular incarnation of this game does involve tiles with Pokémon on them, and furthermore, as the player matches tiles, the player also reveals a background image of Mewtwo. As you might expect, this game is wholly and completely unofficial, but nonetheless it is amusing for any Pokémon fan.
As for proper mahjong, I do play it and am quite adept with it, in particular for the rule variety that I play most often now, Japanese or Riichi mahjong. While standard, traditional mahjong sets are strictly based on certain patterns, a non-standard and non-traditional set could be conceived with the addition of Pokémon images. I propose that Fire types represent the character (Crak) suit, Water types represent the pin (Dot) suit, and Grass types represent the bamboo (Bam) suit, while three Dragon types represent the dragons of each color (white, green, red), and legendary Pokémon closest to the animals of the cardinal direction animals of the Orient represent the winds (east, south, west, north). And certainly they need numerical and letter markings to make sure what they represent is clear.
Mahjong tile games are on the whole an area that is not normally connected to Pokémon, but with some work, they could both be linked, albeit unofficially. It would at least give a different and non-traditional character to these games, something that some fans, including myself, may enjoy.
Let's start off with the tile-matching games, the one that most people think of when thinking of mahjong; it goes by a lot of different names and trademarks, but the point of the game is to match tiles and is not mahjong proper. Pokémon could be easily adapted to this - 36 of the most popular Pokémon, for example, could be placed on four tiles each for a total of 144 tiles, the same number in a full Chinese mahjong set (with seasons and flowers). This works for the regular tile-matching games with different layouts and the open sides matching rule, but there is another tile-matching game where this already has prominence involving Pokémon.
A different rule for the tile-matching games involves tiles spread out in a single layer (sometimes two or more) and demands players to match any two tiles so long as their open sides can be connected by a path that traverses no more than two bends; games utilizing these rules are part of the Four Rivers (Shisen-Sho) family. One particular incarnation of this game does involve tiles with Pokémon on them, and furthermore, as the player matches tiles, the player also reveals a background image of Mewtwo. As you might expect, this game is wholly and completely unofficial, but nonetheless it is amusing for any Pokémon fan.
As for proper mahjong, I do play it and am quite adept with it, in particular for the rule variety that I play most often now, Japanese or Riichi mahjong. While standard, traditional mahjong sets are strictly based on certain patterns, a non-standard and non-traditional set could be conceived with the addition of Pokémon images. I propose that Fire types represent the character (Crak) suit, Water types represent the pin (Dot) suit, and Grass types represent the bamboo (Bam) suit, while three Dragon types represent the dragons of each color (white, green, red), and legendary Pokémon closest to the animals of the cardinal direction animals of the Orient represent the winds (east, south, west, north). And certainly they need numerical and letter markings to make sure what they represent is clear.
Mahjong tile games are on the whole an area that is not normally connected to Pokémon, but with some work, they could both be linked, albeit unofficially. It would at least give a different and non-traditional character to these games, something that some fans, including myself, may enjoy.
Friday, February 3, 2017
The Sweetest Days - Ash and Pikachu
I'm sure some readers of this blog will recognize the song "The Sweetest Days" by Vanessa Williams. I've only recently heard the song again and have grown to like it for its touching lyrics and gentle melody. Well, guess what? Those touching lyrics and gentle melody remind me of Pokémon too. I'm specifically reminded of Ash and Pikachu and how they have developed over the course of the anime series. For them, every day is the sweetest day they know, no matter what happens.
Incidentally, the images shown in one particular ending sequence of the anime helps to visualize this perception, at least what is suggested in the first verse, chorus, and coda. That sequence involves the song "Soko ni Sora ga Arukara" by Toshiko Ezaki. In it, Ash and Pikachu are shown sitting under a tree and interacting while nature does its business around them. Granted, some parts push the visualization a bit far ("thunder roars", no thunder) but this can be taken to mean "thunder" elsewhere outside. If the original ending song is moving enough, then "The Sweetest Days" is even more so.
This gives rise to a possible creative project, which is to cut the song to the length of the ending sequence, then replacing the audio of the ending sequence with the song. At present I do not have the necessary resources to undertake this project, but I'm hoping that I can take it up at some point in time. In lieu of this project, I have concocted this image instead that has some of the same effect, using the meager resources that I already do have:
And yes, the image is a frame from the aforementioned ending sequence.
I hope this is moving for you as much as it is moving for me.
Incidentally, the images shown in one particular ending sequence of the anime helps to visualize this perception, at least what is suggested in the first verse, chorus, and coda. That sequence involves the song "Soko ni Sora ga Arukara" by Toshiko Ezaki. In it, Ash and Pikachu are shown sitting under a tree and interacting while nature does its business around them. Granted, some parts push the visualization a bit far ("thunder roars", no thunder) but this can be taken to mean "thunder" elsewhere outside. If the original ending song is moving enough, then "The Sweetest Days" is even more so.
This gives rise to a possible creative project, which is to cut the song to the length of the ending sequence, then replacing the audio of the ending sequence with the song. At present I do not have the necessary resources to undertake this project, but I'm hoping that I can take it up at some point in time. In lieu of this project, I have concocted this image instead that has some of the same effect, using the meager resources that I already do have:
And yes, the image is a frame from the aforementioned ending sequence.
I hope this is moving for you as much as it is moving for me.
Thursday, February 2, 2017
Pokkén Sentiments
Pokémon is originally an RPG with battle elements. Tekken is a full-on fighting game. Combine the two, and you've got Pokkén (Tournament), a fighting game that utilizes Pokémon as the fighters. It is amazing and spectacular that such a crossover could occur, and Bandai Namco plus Nintendo think so too, enough to realize it as both an arcade game and a console installment on the Wii U.
Fighting games rank low on my gaming priorities; no matter what the game is, I can't seem to master it well enough and quick enough as I would like to, so I tend not to play them. But Pokkén is decidedly different, and the virtue of its Pokémon feature alone is enough to make me interested to play this game, even though I know that I may not completely master it. It is in effect the only fighting game I'm interested to play extensively in an attempt to master at least some of its mechanics.
I've never seen the arcade version and I'm likely not able to play it anytime soon, so the arcade version is of least concern to me. But the Wii U version is intriguing, as through the right hands, I can get my hands on it and play; still, it would require extra investment that I'm not yet prepared for (read: I don't have a Wii U). Fortunately, the local gaming community does own a Wii U and does in fact own Pokkén, and as a matter of fact, I had the chance to play a little bit of the game when they showcased it at a Japanese event some time ago. Like any console/game borrowings, though, I don't know how often they'll let me play and go through my own progress, and therein lies the problem.
At least with Pokkén existing as an arcade game, I can take away the fact that Bandai Namco created BanaPassports (their arcade game ID cards) with Pokkén designs. BanaPassports are actually pertinent to some of my current activities. Even so, I'm told that these designs were produced in limited quantities, so to obtain one legitimately now would take lots effort and money, so it's something else I'm not interested to pursue. The designs are pretty to look at, though, and I don't mind that it should remain that way.
Like Pokémon as a whole, Pokkén has aroused my wonder and amazement. Despite limitations of access and skill, it's a game that I would enjoy as much as any other in the Pokémon franchise.
Fighting games rank low on my gaming priorities; no matter what the game is, I can't seem to master it well enough and quick enough as I would like to, so I tend not to play them. But Pokkén is decidedly different, and the virtue of its Pokémon feature alone is enough to make me interested to play this game, even though I know that I may not completely master it. It is in effect the only fighting game I'm interested to play extensively in an attempt to master at least some of its mechanics.
I've never seen the arcade version and I'm likely not able to play it anytime soon, so the arcade version is of least concern to me. But the Wii U version is intriguing, as through the right hands, I can get my hands on it and play; still, it would require extra investment that I'm not yet prepared for (read: I don't have a Wii U). Fortunately, the local gaming community does own a Wii U and does in fact own Pokkén, and as a matter of fact, I had the chance to play a little bit of the game when they showcased it at a Japanese event some time ago. Like any console/game borrowings, though, I don't know how often they'll let me play and go through my own progress, and therein lies the problem.
At least with Pokkén existing as an arcade game, I can take away the fact that Bandai Namco created BanaPassports (their arcade game ID cards) with Pokkén designs. BanaPassports are actually pertinent to some of my current activities. Even so, I'm told that these designs were produced in limited quantities, so to obtain one legitimately now would take lots effort and money, so it's something else I'm not interested to pursue. The designs are pretty to look at, though, and I don't mind that it should remain that way.
Like Pokémon as a whole, Pokkén has aroused my wonder and amazement. Despite limitations of access and skill, it's a game that I would enjoy as much as any other in the Pokémon franchise.
Wednesday, February 1, 2017
Poké Ball Food
One of the most interesting things that I've seen in recent times, especially during the boom of Pokémon Go, is foods that are decorated to look like Poké Balls. I've seen pizza, pancakes, cupcakes, and even doughnuts done in this manner. When my friend and fellow Pokémon fan (the same one from A 3DS Story) had his birthday, I and a few others even celebrated with a Poké Ball birthday cake in tow. It seems many types of food could be made so that they look like Poké Balls. This speaks not only to my Pokémon fan side, but also to my food fan side.
In fact, I can think up of other foods that can get the Poké Ball treatment. How about Poké Ball spaghetti, black and white, with red tomato sauce and white cheese? Or Poké Ball scones, with red jam, white clotted cream, and a little chocolate? I can think of a creative half-red and half-white soup in a bowl with a black crumble and a little cheese on top. Cheesecake can get half a berry topping and half a sour cream topping, with a little chocolate cookie crumble and a button of whipped cream.
It appears that the only things necessary to create a Poké Ball look for any food are a red element, a white element, and a black element, plus something extra for the button. The red and white elements form the upper and lower halves of the ball, and the black element forms the barrier that divide the two, as well as the border for the button. The button itself could be a little more of the white element or something different, but it is important that the button be there, lest the food only looks half-red and half-white. All together, the elements create the Poké Ball look.
Whatever the food, and whatever the occasion, it does not seem too hard to make it look like a Poké Ball. All it takes are three color elements and a little creativity. The final result is one that any fan of Pokémon, culinary arts, or both - as in my case - can appreciate and admire.
In fact, I can think up of other foods that can get the Poké Ball treatment. How about Poké Ball spaghetti, black and white, with red tomato sauce and white cheese? Or Poké Ball scones, with red jam, white clotted cream, and a little chocolate? I can think of a creative half-red and half-white soup in a bowl with a black crumble and a little cheese on top. Cheesecake can get half a berry topping and half a sour cream topping, with a little chocolate cookie crumble and a button of whipped cream.
It appears that the only things necessary to create a Poké Ball look for any food are a red element, a white element, and a black element, plus something extra for the button. The red and white elements form the upper and lower halves of the ball, and the black element forms the barrier that divide the two, as well as the border for the button. The button itself could be a little more of the white element or something different, but it is important that the button be there, lest the food only looks half-red and half-white. All together, the elements create the Poké Ball look.
Whatever the food, and whatever the occasion, it does not seem too hard to make it look like a Poké Ball. All it takes are three color elements and a little creativity. The final result is one that any fan of Pokémon, culinary arts, or both - as in my case - can appreciate and admire.
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