A New(?) Pikachu Doll

Besides the execution of the Pokémon cosplay team project from last Sunday's theme event, there was also something different, which frequent readers of this blog or those who know me for my cosplay might recognize. That would be the Pikachu doll I used, which is not the one I use as I detailed in my cosplay equipment post ages ago. It is instead a new Pikachu doll that is to be used as part of this project. Or perhaps it might not be so new, considering several aspects of it.

But first is the history of how I obtained this doll. This doll came as one package with the Vulpix doll that is also seen in the group picture from the other day, as well as the forgotten Togepi doll not seen in the picture. In other words, I and my fellow project members ordered the three dolls for the purpose of the project. It was to fulfill the availability of a primary Pokémon partner for the primary characters involved. For me, there was a secondary intent, and that was to make the doll as part of my collection. In the end, I used the doll to conform with the others, but more on this in a little bit.

This doll is official merchandise. There is a tag on its bottom-right side that identifies it as such: using the bar code on it, I've identified it as the Pokémon XY Character Plush that is made for the Korean market. The only thing about it is that when I got this doll (and the others got theirs), there was no further packaging of any kind. With the way that it's designed, it does seem like it resembles the TT Pikachu plush I detailed some time ago; its proportions are remarkably similar, including its tail, which appears to be detached. And yet, looking at it, some of the proportions appear to be slightly off, which leads me to think that it might be a "reject" or used merchandise. When I got it, it was also slightly dirty, which seems to support this theory. Its price (as it was offered to me) is also one-seventh of the supposed retail price, which lends further support.

The one I have has a size of 30 cm, but it seems to be available in 40 cm, 20 cm, and 12 cm sizes as well. I would have liked it if it was 40 cm, but alas, I can't exactly be too choosy. It does bring up the point that it's smaller than my own doll, yet at the same time it's worlds away from that. I've consulted with some of my friends, and they like its appearance, however. I'm slightly not fully convinced, but I'm willing to take it to another event or convention to see how other people respond.

Regardless of its quirks, I like this particular Pikachu doll. It doesn't seem too new, but it fulfills my attraction to Pokémon as well as the needs of the cosplay project. For as long as the cosplay project remains alive, it's likely that I'll still be using this particular doll, without forgetting that I have my other doll, which I can still use as backup if need be. They all have their places in my Pokémon cosplay and my liking of Pokémon in general.

One year ago: A Sun & Moon Doujin Manga
Two years ago: Cosplay: ComiCamp 2, Day 2

Cosplay Team Projects, Revisited

The theme event from yesterday was a neat one to go to year after year. It was also significant in another way: it was the first time that I was able to execute a Pokémon cosplay team project with several friends. As I've noted in my earlier post about this kind of project, a team project would make things more interesting and spectacular, rather than just incidentally meeting others that cosplay from the same thing. This is also in consideration that Pokémon (and therefore Pokémon cosplay) is my primary attraction.

This one had actually been planned for quite some time. When I met the one who cosplayed Misty at my "home turf" event last year - which was incidentally one year ago (see below) - and another cosplayer friend of mine, we did talk about the possibilities of a Pokémon team project; the suggestion for my friend to do May actually partly came about from me. Since the project was heading in the direction of Hoenn and the third generation, I drafted two of my other cosplayer friends who I thought would be fitting to cosplay Brock and Max... and they happened to be part of the team who won second place last year with another friend of mine who had once desired to cosplay Iris. My friend then drafted another one of his friends so that he could cosplay as Norman. After much discussion, a few meetups to decide some hanging things, and even a trial run for May at a major convention nearly three months ago, we decided that this event would be the one where we would all cosplay.

Of course, there were a few hitches. As indicated above and suggested in the "review" the other day, Max was supposed to appear, but a few things got in his way, and he couldn't make it. Part of the not-so-delicious story about that is detailed courtesy of Brock (actually the one who cosplayed Brock) in the comment section for the post, and for a good reason: the one who was to cosplay Max is his younger brother. Yes, that means this team project has slightly gone in the direction of a "family affair" as well. Then there was the slight issue of Misty forgetting Togepi (that is, her Togepi doll), but then this was rectified slightly by the surprise appearance of Psyduck; for the record, none of us knew about this - this was a separate project by yet another one of my cosplay friends that just happened to complement ours. Despite these, the project turned out to be rather successful, which should make all of us somewhat glad.

As for the continuance of this project, I'd like to see the project with the current composition be realized again, this time with a possible team performance to go along with it. Brock has expressed the same ideals, and I agree. This is also primarily to accommodate Max, who missed us this time. The only thing to be considered is the availability of the people concerned; my friends have suggested that they may or may not be available in two months, two months being the time before the next possible local convention or theme event - more on this soon enough. Then there's the possibility of drafting new people to cosplay other Pokémon characters, which may be useful for the performance or in general. Everything is up for consideration.

For now, this initial Pokémon cosplay team project has shown that things can actually work out, even if my friends are mostly into other things and not so much Pokémon. It's a possibility that has been realized, even if things were slightly restrained. What would be next is to improve the rough edges, see if anyone else can or want to join in, and get a performance going, which would take much effort from all of us. It has been quite wondrous... and next time, it has to be even more so.

One year ago: Cosplay: Isshoni Tanoshimimashou 13
Two years ago: Cosplay: ComiCamp 2, Day 1

Cosplay: J-COSHOKAI 4 - Hibana no Utopia

Me: Hmm, this one should be neat. This is, of course, the repeat of the theme event from last year and two years ago. The theme this year is "the sparkle utopia", from what I gather.

Ash: Hey, I like it! I've seen lots of sparkling things before, so I kind of really want to get in. Right, Pikachu?

Pikachu: Pika pika pi! [concurring]

Me: That said, I've sent you with your Hoenn outfit. I think it really suits the theme.

Ash: Yeah! I'd say. If you think it's great, I think it's great too. Hoenn's a great place to be.

Me: Now, you might notice something different about the place this year. It might be... more grand?

Ash: Oh yeah! It's back to the grand hall that it was in three years ago! And the floor looks different from back then. I really, really like it!

Me: Yup. So I guess the reason why this theme event was held in the other hall was because it was waiting for this hall to be renovated. And from what you tell me, I'd say it's worth the wait.

Ash: The food, goodies, and community stands are great too. I mean, they're not too different from other events, but I like them.

Me: Well, that's something that doesn't change very often, but it's always fine. As for competitions, this one doesn't have many: just a character parade and team performance. So you can guess which one I set you up for.

Ash: The parade! Well, sure. Pikachu and I don't mind.

Pikachu: Pika pika!

Me: Actually, there's one more reason why I sent you with your Hoenn outfit.

Brock: Hi!

Norman: Hello.

Misty: Hey!

May: Hi!

Ash: All right! We have everyone here! Or almost everyone. Where's Max?

Brock: I was supposed to take care of him, but he really couldn't join at the last minute. Sorry about that.

May: Aw, how disappointing!

Misty: Oh no! I forgot Togepi!

Ash: Uh-oh. Well, you know what? At least most of us are here. Maybe next time.

Norman: Wait! You know what? There's a Psyduck in the crowd!

Psyduck: Psyduck! [greeting]

Ash: Well, there you go, Misty. There's your Pokémon.

Me: What?! My friends actually agreed with me to send in Brock, Misty, May, and Norman - sorry to find that Max couldn't make it - but this Psyduck is a total surprise!

Ash: But this is great! I rarely see them when you send me.

Brock: Yeah! And next time, maybe we can perform something for everyone?

Ash: That would be exciting! I guess my friend will have to talk to everyone else?

Me: I suppose. This would be a massive undertaking.

Misty: I and May have to leave early.

May: Yeah, our friends have called us back.

Ash: That's kind of soon. I hope to see you later.

Me: That's why I need to coordinate with them, then.

Brock: Well, it's been fun, but Norman and I have to go too.

Norman: A Gym Leader has a lot of things to do - including for May!

Ash: You know, this has been a lot of fun, even if their friends called them back early, and Max wasn't around. We have to do something great next time!

Me: I agree. I will really need to butt heads with them and agree on something. Now back to the event: how was everything?

Ash: The entertainment was nice, and the stands were nice too. Everything's as you think it would be, but in a good way!

Psyduck: Psy-duck! [remarking, parting]

Ash: Oh yeah, there's that too. That was a neat surprise. Lots of things were like that today.

Me: And the competition?

Ash: You know, it would have been more unbelievable if I won, but I didn't. 3 out of 33 is kind of small, and I wasn't one of the 3.

Me: I tend to agree. But you know, from what went on, the event itself was great, but what went on today was incredible! I finally got to send you with a few of your friends, thanks to me and my friends. If you ask me, that's an achievement in itself.

Ash: You're so right. This has got to happen again - better and bigger next time!

Pikachu: Pi pika chuu! [with strong agreement]

Me: Sure thing. I'll see to it that it happens just as big and good as this theme event.

One year ago: Other Pokémon Competitions
Two years ago: Pokémon Floor Mat

Pokémon Go Event Rollup, 4/27/2019

Since I've started doing these event rollups for Pokémon Go, one question has always come to mind: is it safe to do this month's rollup? What I mean is that, will there be any more events in the month after I write up the current rollup? For the February rollup, the answer was "no", as it turns out, because the rollup was too early. For last month's rollup, I had no choice; I wanted to save the rollup for as late in the month as possible, and that day was it, because of what clearly happened the next day and the day after. This month, the answer is more or less "yes", since there are no announcements of any other event that ends as the month ends. I therefore consider it safe to write the rollup, and that's good, because this is going to be a long one.

Dipping into last month, there was a Limited Research that featured Lotad and its Shiny form. Compared to previous Limited Research events, this was not only expanded, but also extended, lasting for nine hours - not because things went wrong, but because it was meant to be that way. The research tasks and Pokémon were heavily weather-based, which provided an entry point for another Pokémon and its Shiny form: Castform, but only for the Normal form. Part of the reason why I didn't cover this one last month was because this coincided on the exact day that the raid group tournament (see above) was held. I and the others had a good turnout, though, even though the tournament took away time from the event, and the Shiny forms from this event were the ones that helped me win the mini-contest during the tournament. It also helped that there were no major issues. Now I may have to write my thoughts on this soon.

Moving into this month, there were two events that were a lot alike as they were different: Bug Out in the first week and Eggstravaganza in the third week. The former was an event with greater focus on Bug-type Pokémon, while the latter was focused on Pokémon that hatched from Eggs. Accordingly, the former had more Bug Pokémon in the wild, while the latter changed up Egg compositions, particularly regarding 2 km Eggs, making them somewhat more lucrative. The commonalities of both events involved doubling or increasing things (doubled Incense length and more appearing Pokémon for Bug Out, and doubled hatch candy, incubator effectiveness, and Lucky Eggs for Eggstravaganza) and new Shiny forms (Scyther for the former, and Buneary for the latter). The resemblance of the two seems uncanny yet are also expected of typical events. I myself enjoyed all the other perks of the events, save for the Shiny forms, which I did not get.

Coinciding with the Eggstravaganza event, there was another one that had been somewhat expected: the Latios Raid Week, as the counterpart to Latias from February. Needless to say, this one likewise featured its Shiny form. This one was simple, being that one only had to raid and go. Whether or not one received a Shiny Latios was up to chance, and my chance came just a few days after it started, in contrast to Latias, where I received its Shiny form rather late, just a few hours before it ended. Still, one is enough for both events, and if anyone was as lucky as I was, then it's a good thing.

Also coinciding with both events over its weekend was a really big one: Pokémon Go Safari Zone Singapore. This was big because it happened within my region, but in the end it turned out that I couldn't go for one reason or another. A few of my raid fellows who were more well-funded was able to go, though, and that at least allowed some to experience it indirectly. As well, the fallout from the event - Shiny Shuckle and Lapras for everyone - seems pretty nice, though I'm rather unlucky for the former and there has been no report of the former, even well after the event ended. Should there be one that is even nearer, which may be rather possible, it may be in my interest to go.

The problem of deciding when to write an event rollup may not be such a problem. The problem of enjoying the events as they are intended to be enjoyed in the game is another thing indeed. At least with event rollups such as these, I can detail the important points of the events and see whether I have fulfilled them or not. Whatever happens, I can really write up the rollup when the situation presents itself to be satisfactory. That seems to be the case for a good bit of the events above from this month and a little of the previous one, as well as for their results.

One year ago: Groups and Sub-Groups
Two years ago: Out of This World: Episode 690 - "A UFO for Elgyem!"

Raising the Pokémon Go Level Cap

In Pokémon Go, the Trainer levels exist in order to rank them based on their capabilities and overall achievements. These levels are not without limit, however; at present, that limit is Level 40. It has been speculated that this limit or cap can and may be raised any time soon, but nothing has come to fruition. This remains an idea that would be neat if it were to be realized. Yet like every great idea, this one has many considerations of its own.

First is the actual feasibility of the idea itself. Since levels are purely based on experience points (XP), it is simple to define additional level tiers above Level 40 based on them and then to apply them to all current players, particularly since players continue to accrue (accumulate) XP even after having achieved Level 40; this had been postulated in prior speculation. However, it may also be desirable to redefine lower XP level tiers for the purpose of level expansion, especially as the accrual of XP continues. The former seems easily implementable; the latter might involve lots of recalculation.

The next issue is how many levels to expand. Popular speculation has suggested upper-tier expansions to 45 or 50; I'd like to think that the latter is preferable. The reason is that later on, it would be a trivial (maybe, not so trivial) matter of simply dividing each tier by half and achieving a level expansion to 100 so that Trainer level could be on par with the main series. This is supported by the fact that when Pokémon in the game are powered up, they actually go up by half a level - which may need to be discussed further some other time - and the expansion to 100 would simply turn these "half-levels" into full levels.

Because Trainer levels have a relationship to Pokémon, a level expansion plan would have to involve adjustments of the latter's CPs to accommodate them into the new system. CPs have been adjusted before for specific Pokémon, even without level changes, so this process would assuredly come into play with level changes. Whether or not they are comparable as they are before is another matter entirely, one that the level changes would very much determine. There may be some hope in seeing some Pokémon grow a bit stronger with the changes.

Beyond sweeping in-game changes, though, any changes/expansions to the level system would result in implications outside of the game. Many groups of Trainers have been formed that are significantly tied to the Level 40 limit; an expansion beyond 40 will surely necessitate some changes, as the "40" would become less meaningful to whatever the limit may become. In general, any views that have been established with the Level 40 limit will have to change along with whatever level changes that may occur.

It is scintillating to think about what level changes might be brought about with an expansion of the Trainer level in Pokémon Go, particularly by raising the level limit or cap. Yet at the same time, all the changes that may occur may be more significant than they seem, both inside and outside the game. They would be significant regardless for the level system, which would allow more fine-grained ranking of capabilities and achievements with further refinements to it.

One year ago: Working with Shuffle's Item Limits
Two years ago: In Pursuit of Collections

The World Is All Here

It's time to wake up
The moon is high above you
We're all here 'cause we love you
And when you finally open your eyes and ears
You'll see and you'll hear us sing
La, la, la, la, la, la
It's a beautiful world and we're all here...
-- "Beautiful World", Jim Brickman

There's a certain song that comes to mind whenever I meet a really large group of people and do things together, and especially when I can bring my attraction to Pokémon into that. It feels like the world has converged at that point and made itself present all around. A few days ago, such a meeting happened, and I was able to bring in my attraction to Pokémon into that meeting. Predictably, the song that I think of comes to mind... and that song is the one that is quoted above.

The song itself is all about wonderment, the things that could make up a "beautiful world", as suggested by the song title. The "togetherness" part, the part that seems to link grand meetings as above, Pokémon, and this song, is the pre-chorus, which I've quoted above along with the first two lines of the chorus, for which the rest are variations of the two lines. It seems plausible that if any person during such meetings could sing this song, it would apply well to anyone and anything they may bring to the table, including Pokémon. And we'd all appreciate each other that way.

In some sense, the song might be evocative of the world of Pokémon itself. The things that are mentioned in the song paint a picture of all the people and Pokémon present in the world, in particular as they can possibly be imagined to exist in exactly those situations. For those who are young or just young at heart, it would be a considerably beautiful thing, especially if the people and Pokémon create a "symphony" of sorts, as the pre-chorus above describes.

Even if only for a moment, being able to gather en masse and for me to bring out Pokémon is a wonderful thing. It's no surprise, then I think about this song, and that a beautiful world existed right then and there. But then again the world of Pokémon is already beautiful enough for some people, including me; if the words of the song could be realized, then it would be more so. Yet whether it's this one or that one, I can take comfort that things are also beautiful because we're all here.

One year ago: I'll Be... The One
Two years ago: Shuffling in Alola

Partners in Crime, Partners in Time

Yesterday was the two-year anniversary of a post about a specific crossover with Pokémon. Today is the two-year anniversary of a post about them in general (see below). I'd like to take this opportunity to write about something that, while isn't so much a crossover, is still something fascinating to think about at the very least. As the title indicates, this discussion involves partners... yet there's quite a bit more to it than that.

Two months ago, and rather coincidentally at that, I wrote a post on not forgetting one's roots, which at that time I wrote in relation to something of my past that I had reexamined and was absorbed in. Now I'm ready to divulge it: that thing is The Adventures of Tintin, the masterpiece of Belgian cartoonist Georges Rémi, better known as Hergé to most. Long before I got into Pokémon, this was something that I got into for adventure and amusement, with some appreciation. Nowadays, even with Pokémon, I find that I still get some adventure and amusement out of it, but with a greater degree of appreciation.

For those who don't know, the two primary characters in the series are Tintin, a young reporter, and Snowy, his faithful dog. Now the "partner" thing is rather evident: the two bear resemblance to Ash and Pikachu of the Pokémon anime in stature and relationship. The creature counterparts of both people are expressive, yet do so differently. They are always there for each other, even if things seem difficult for either or both of them. The only thing is that, of course, they are separated by time; Tintin and Snowy are mid-20^th century characters, while Ash and Pikachu are closer to the 21^st century. And yet it's remarkable how they seem to be a lot alike though they are separated by time. I feel that I've gained a sense of how these kinds of partnerships are supposed to be by reading (and then watching) Tintin, which is then continued by watching (and in some cases, reading) Pokémon.

As for actually crossing things over, it seems rather difficult and close to impossible to do so. This is partly due to their different eras and underpinnings, in particular themes in regarding the latter; Tintin is evidently darker and more mature, while Pokémon is lighter and younger. But as above, the two partnerships share much of the same spirits, and it is much easier to think of one in terms of the other, though this would be nowhere near a crossover. Yet just that much seems to ensure that both have some links.

By now, Hergé is in heaven and Tintin is pretty much a closed adventure. But for at least the foreseeable future, Pokémon will continue. And the thing that at least brings them together is the sense of partnership between the human and creature characters, which I became introduced to in the former and continue to see in the latter. It's a sense that transgresses time as well as adventure and amusement, becoming significant to my appreciation of the two.

One year ago: Pokémon Craft Figures - Mewtwo
Two years ago: Crossovers!

Pokémon for a Puzzle Professor

Two years ago (see below), I had discussed a certain crossover of Pokémon with something else that I happen to like. In commemoration of that post, I'd like to discuss another crossover. I didn't do one last year for obvious reasons (also see below). I suppose it's fine if its regularity is not too evident, but just enough to know that some people have the penchant to cross over Pokémon with other things. And I've already opened the door to it anyway with the earlier post.

This time, I'd like to discuss the crossover of Pokémon with another series that involves a professor, and a "puzzle professor", at that. With that, it should be rather clear: the "puzzle professor" involved is the one whose name is Hershel Layton and who has his own eponymous game series, Professor Layton. Aside from being a Pokémon fan in general, I'm also a fan of puzzle games, and in that regard, it's hard to pass up this series, not the least because it had appeared on the same console that Pokémon appeared on.

If the professor is to be given a Pokémon partner, it would perhaps be one of several Pokémon. Someone has suggested that Furret or Noctowl may be good candidates, the former because of its genteel ways and the latter because of its strong "masculinity". Another has suggested that Probopass is rather befitting because it much resembles the professor's own appearance; by the same token, Beheeyem is an alternate suggestion that also plays off of his intelligence. Personally, I'd collate all these suggestions and somehow think they'd all be part of his team.

When talking about Layton, it's hard to ignore his human partner, Luke Triton. As for his Pokémon partners, the suggestions above seems to practically dictate which ones he might have. The first set suggests that Teddiursa might be somehow involved, while the second might lead to suggestions of Shinx and Marshtomp, and the third might lead to its evolutionary kin Elgyem. Somehow, I can see a team forming out of these as well.

As an aside, there aren't really any Pokémon games that have gameplay like the Professor Layton series... except for one. That would be the Detective Pikachu game, for which its movie adaptation is due out in a couple of weeks or so. It's even harder still to draw parallels of the games, although likewise there is but one: it could be considered that there is a semblance of the puzzle professor to the highly expressive Pikachu. And as for my friend who played the game to completion despite not really playing Pokémon games, that friend in fact spends more time playing the Layton games. Perhaps my friend can vouch for the similarity.

The puzzle professor himself might not care too much about creatures that are beyond his domain, but for some people - including myself - some of those creatures might just fit into his domain. They might become exemplary of appearance, intelligence, or both, which are rather key to the professor's character. I'm sure some Pokémon wouldn't mind lending a hand to the professor as much as he could make them shine and excel just like himself.

One year ago: (A Late) Local Ex-Raid, 4/23/2018
Two years ago: Luffy and Infernape

PokéMania and WhatMania

Some time ago, in my local area, there was a very hot contest involving two teams. Both of these teams have their loyal followers, which to an extent can be said to be their "fanatics". I wouldn't describe myself as being of either camp, essentially being called a "mania" - though I may show partial support for either of the teams - and there was always the concern that I could have been labeled as either, based on how other people see things about me. What I'm not so concerned about is showing my full support for Pokémon, perhaps to be called a "PokéMania". Insights can be drawn from this situation, especially "mania" regarding other things ("WhatMania").

Personally, I'm not too worried about showing myself as a Pokémon fan or a "mania". I have no doubt that I will remain respected for who I am, even by showing that I like Pokémon. It's something that I can use to get people to know me rather than to sharply differentiate me from other fans or "mania" of other things. Depending on those other things, I may show a certain amount of appreciation for them too, so they're things that I do not wish to be used against myself, especially if they're not all bad. Whatever "mania" that others may have, I'd prefer to see them as complementary or supplementary, rather than in opposition.

By the same token, whatever appreciation other people may have for other things and however much appreciation I have for them keeps me in check. I can't be too critical of things that are beyond my full appreciation for Pokémon, particularly if they can somehow work together. And if I develop greater appreciation for them, then I can't exactly be opposed to them; I have to make them work with whatever else I do, including with Pokémon. In any case, I'm a "PokéMania" first and foremost, while I can become "mania" of other things in different contexts and situations.

Looking at the phenomenon of the two teams, it seems it's easy to polarize people as being one or the other, as the "mania" of the respective teams. This is especially so when one may not fully understand someone. But deeper down, there may be the possibility that the "mania" is not fully one-sided. This could be considered true for my "PokéMania" with respect to other things, even though this is the aspect I prefer to show primarily and doesn't preclude my appreciation for other things - that is, being a "WhatMania".

This statement may still apply with a certain amount of discretion: "I'm a PokéMania. You're a 'WhatMania'?"

One year ago: Tournament: PTC18 Online Tournament 7
Two years ago: Costume Issues

Cosplay: Isshoni Tanoshimimashou 14

Pikachu: Pika chu! [with happiness]

Me: Well, this one is big. I don't have to tell you a lot, because it means that much to me. See also last year's, thanks to you. What does mean a lot is that I get to send you when it happens, which for this year is today!

Ash: That's always great! You know what? I'm happy to do it. You can't be disappointed.

Me: OK, so today was the fourteenth time this event was held. But I've also been into it for a long time, some of it by sending you. As always, this event is from the day before, but there isn't really much for you to do yesterday; I've checked for my own personally, so trust me on this.

Ash: Yeah! The second day is always crowded and exciting - I agree. And you got me set up for the character parade, right?

Me: Right. It's the greatest thing that you can do for me today. Someday I want to set you up for a performance here, but this is OK enough for now.

Ash: It's more than OK! The people absolutely like me on stage!

Pikachu: Pika pi! Pika chuu! [impressed]

Me: Absolutely. I think I myself am also part of the reason for that. I sent you with your Alola outfit; you've never been here before with that, except for that time with a different theme event.

Ash: That's a great one, and that means it's the first time I've been in the place since you improved it. The only thing that makes me down is that I didn't win.

Me: Wait, what? How?

Ash: There were only three winners, one for armor, one for clothing, and one for a favorite. Obviously I can't win for the first one, but there might have been a chance for the others. It just didn't work out.

Pikachu: Pi, pika. [saddened]

Me: From the looks of things, it seems the winners were predictable. I was informed by a couple of my friends about this, and we pretty much agreed... that things didn't go our way. And it seems I may not have been the only one with problems. Let's try for next time.

Ash: Yeah! By the way, I know everything's a lot like last year, but I'd say this one was really good, a lot better than the ones you sent me to before!

Me: I was told the schedule of events was good enough, the things up for sale were unique, and the entertainment was exceptional... that is, aside from the other problems. I agree, this one was excellent. I think we make it fun too.

Pikachu: Pi, pika! [glad]

Me: That said, we may have to up the ante on the next one, for this one and others that come!

Ash: How can we do that?

Me: Oh, I've got some ideas. I'll have to see if they will work out.

One year ago: Crazy Decisions
Two years ago: Tropius Fruit and Other Pokémon Edibles

Legends for Lunch and Dinner

In the EX Raid recap in my previous post, I mentioned that the day's raid scene became livelier later in the day. There is certainly a reason for that. That was part of a new experimental event in Pokémon Go that is called the "Legendary Hour" event, and yesterday was the third iteration. The first two events occurred in midday and were thus officially called the "Legendary Lunch Hour", while yesterday's occurred at the start of the evening and was thus dubbed the "Legendary Dinner Hour". That explains the title of this post as well.

The premise of this new event is simple. During the specified hour (12 PM to 1 PM for lunch, 6 PM to 7 PM for dinner), all Gyms that do not already have a raid boss egg or are not already in a raid will beget a Level 5 Legendary raid, which lasts for that hour, true to the event's name. At that point, it becomes the (not-so-)simple matter of gathering the necessary Trainers to raid and then raiding as many Gyms as possible within that time, which totally depends on the Trainers' whims. Many will likely try for quite a few.

The first iteration of this event occurred on March 13, during the time Dialga was the featured Level 5 raid boss in March. The second iteration occurred 10 days ago on April 10 when Giratina returned, having transformed into its Origin Forme. The one that occurred yesterday was for both Latios and Giratina, with greater emphasis on the former because this is actually its Special Raid Week, which I'll discuss in this month's event rollup to come very soon. Palkia, which was the feature boss in February, and Giratina in its Altered Forme, which only reappeared for a week early this month, were too early to receive one.

Now, the reason why I only noted the general time of the event is because this event is an all-region localized event, the times being for whatever time zone local Trainers are in. And because the first iteration preceded the March Community Day by 10 days, it was effectively a warm-up and experiment for such scheduling. Further, because of the way the event is, it bears similarities to the Legendary Bird Days of last year's Summer Tour, only these last for one-third of the time and are excluded from some Gyms. The event is by all means an experiment, especially since the last iteration was unannounced, which is quite unusual.

Yet for an experiment, the fact that it has lasted for three iterations means that it has fared sufficiently well. It's hard to deny that the benefits are many for whoever's concerned, especially if it means an extra heaping helping of Legendary Pokémon. It's a helping that should fare well for anyone stuffing meals into their lunch and dinner, as well as inviting a few extra guests in the form of those Pokémon. They're welcome to the table at any time.

One year ago: Curveball Wisdom
Two years ago: The Music of the Poké Flute

Local EX Raid (and a Whirlwind), 4/19/2019

Today was one of those "whirlwind" days. No, I'm not talking about the Pokémon move, nor am I talking about an actual weather condition. It just seems like a lot of things happened on this day, including in Pokémon Go. And one of those things happened to be an EX Raid that was scheduled for this afternoon. Granted, the EX Raid was scheduled way ahead of time and didn't exactly foreshadow what happened this day, but it did become a neat part of it.

This morning, I hadn't been planning to raid before the EX Raid, especially since my morning started out somewhat abnormally and raids before an EX Raid, based on experience, tend to somewhat detract from the "main event" of the day. However, at the behest and demand of an early group of Trainers, I decided to pitch in and help them. My assistance turned out to be quite warranted and key to their success, as well as that of my own. This effort spanned three Gyms around my extended neighborhood, so that did make for a "whirlwind".

During the EX Raid, I was the first to arrive, while the others turned up gradually. Since there was no coordination beforehand, it was up to those who came to "whirl" into impromptu battle groups. I went into the one that was the most appropriate for me to provide my assistance. The entry, the battle, and the capture all went rather rapid, just like a whirlwind; before long, it was all over. I didn't get one that was too good, but then there may be opportunities very soon.

Deoxys-in-the-lot.

After that, there was an opportunity to get involved in a couple more raids, and I took the opportunity. This too went like a whirlwind with the Trainers involved - even I had to decide what to do and do so quickly. The real whirlwind, however, came later in the day (or rather, the evening), when the raid scene suddenly became lively. That much I can say for now, for this needs to be discussed on its own rather soon. All of these did prove to be a lot to take in, even with only six raids total today for me, including the EX Raid.

On some days, it seems like nothing goes on, at least nothing too fast-paced and out of the ordinary. On other days, everything just seems to happen in a flurry or a whirlwind. The raid scene today happened to be of the latter, with an EX Raid seemingly being its centerpiece. While I never hope that an actual whirlwind may occur, once in a while, increased raid activity like what occurred today may just be welcomed, enough for me to take part in them.

One year ago: Cracking the Case
Two years ago: Oddest Things with Pikachu

Performance Critique: INOCHI 2019 Sing Cover

The last time I did a performance critique was over a year ago for a single cosplay performance that was hit-or-miss in some aspects. The intention was to save these performance critiques for actual cosplay performances, but these have been hard to come by for one reason or another. However, during that time, I've made the leap into singing, sing cover, J-Song, or karaoke competitions (they have many names but are more or less the same), so with Pokémon and my cosplay involved, they can be considered an offshoot of that. That being the case, now I'd like to critique one such recent performance from Sunday's theme event; this is graciously aided by a video recording of it from a really, really good friend.

It should be "ore, Masara Taun no Satoshi da!"...
(I'm Satoshi [Ash] of Masara [Pallet] Town, lit.)

The performance was of the "Best Wishes" opening, which I've already discussed its details previously. Although the performance itself worked out well overall to an extent, I have to say the beginning got off to a slightly shaky start. Since I was singing something in Japanese, I had to introduce myself in Japanese as well. My command of Japanese is not very strong - I've acquired the usage of some common expressions but nothing too cohesive - so the way I introduced myself (as Ash, the character I cosplay and for whom much of the lyrics refer) made it seem like I was introducing the wrong thing. My friend realized this and corrected me when I came back, but by then it was too late. At least I can keep this mind for future performances, and it wasn't something that was highly factored into the performance.

I've listened to my own performance over and over, and I find myself somewhat surprised at hearing my voice over the recording. It sounds more raspy than I thought it would be. In the practice sessions I've conducted prior to the performance, I've listened to my own voice, and it seemed to be just fine. The problem with this, of course, is that what I hear is effectively what others hear. Vocal training could help with this, but this might be something hard to fit in with all the other things I currently do, including Pokémon and cosplay.

"nee, dokomade susunderu kana?"

A plus point of last Sunday's performance is that I sung more or less on key, except maybe on a few low sounds. Many, many years ago, I took part in choir, so this musical background assists with this competition - which is one of the reasons why I made the leap to this kind of competition. Overall, I sung within my tenor range, but that's kind of a necessity with this song, being that its original artist (Rica Matsumoto) is female, but the singer is supposed to be voicing a boy... ah, it's complicated. The point is that I did OK. I may have something up my sleeve, though, the next time I get to sing this.

"mimi wo sumaseba, natsukashii koe..."

As mentioned above, my Japanese language skills are somewhat lacking. Thus, whenever competitions like these demand a song that is fully or nearly fully in Japanese, it becomes a bit of a challenge. The greatest challenge personally would be memorizing the lyrics, as with my current Japanese skills, some things sound poetic while others sound esoteric. Fortunately, this particular performance was nearly perfect, after having listened to it again and again. One of my peers who spent time in Japan even complimented on the pronunciation of the lyrics and said that it was more or less authentic Japanese. That seems to be a big plus for someone whose Japanese is scant.

There is still one difficult portion of the song, though this part is a bit controversial as well. The final "... daijoubu!" line in the second chorus is noted in the lyrics as "zettai ni daijobu!", but in the song as I've heard it, it's several words sung together really fast, which comes out to "hitori ja nai kara nakama ga iru kara daijoubu!" Being that for me this is Ash singing, I didn't want to use the wording as noted in the lyrics, but at the same time, this never seemed to come out right for me. I devised an alternate solution, which is to use the initial syllables up to the final word before "daijoubu", leading to the expression below, which is supposed to elide all the prior words, though it does sound a little odd. I may need to try something else.

"hi-ja-na-ka-na-ga-i-kara daijoubu!" ???

As in my previous critique, the images above are the actual frames from the recorded performance, which I also would like to upload on YouTube in a channel for this blog... though I've still not gotten around to this project. As for this particular performance, it was slightly troubled and wasn't prize-worthy, but it's still a great one in many ways. I should know - I keep replaying it to see and hear myself sing. A repeat performance may need to be in order, and hopefully by then it will be leaps and bounds better than this one. Some criticism is always necessary, and I'll of course furnish it when able, just like for this one.

One year ago: Getting Social with Cosplay
Two years ago: Console Renewal?

Choosing Pathways

One of the things that have been involved in my life with Pokémon is making choices. I've determined which games to play, which episodes of the anime to watch, which merchandise to buy... and it even continues today with which costume I will wear in the next event and even what song I will perform if there's a singing competition of some sort. In relation to Pokémon, there is even something in particular that I can enjoy by making choices.

Years ago, I possessed a Pokémon book subtitled Choose Your Own Pathway to Adventure. As the title indicates, this book is a choose-your-own-adventure book. In general, the storyline involves Ash and is loosely based on the anime. The reader starts by reading the prologue, and from there, the reader flips to different pages in order to proceed through the story, which is scrambled among all its pages, the intention being to prevent one from reading through in sequence to see where one might end up. Every choice leads the reader down a path that may be different from before.

No matter where the reader goes in this book, the reader eventually winds up on one of nine endings. Five of them are good, four of them are bad, and one of the good endings is actually a "secret special ending". I've gone through all of these, and the "secret special ending" took me a bit of time to discover; it is especially rewarding, just as the other good endings are joyful and the bad endings are regrettable. These, of course, are for the reader to enjoy, so I don't need to describe them. I cannot anyhow without possessing the book.

Even so, technically, I still possess the book; it's just not with me at the moment, but it is instead with all the other Pokémon things I left behind in the U.S., which to some extent I wish I had with me. A search on the Internet seems to indicate that the book may be hard to get in recent times, let alone to where I am now. And that's a bit of a shame for such a greatly enthralling book.

Making choices will surely remain a part of my life, especially regarding Pokémon. It leads to different things I can enjoy from it, of which some may be good and others may be great. The choose-your-own-adventure book above is just another one of those things, and I can remarkably make further choices within it in order to enjoy it. That's a great thing for something that I have to constantly do within my life.

And today, I have one important choice to make - actually, make that five of them. Blessed be all the things that I choose, including Pokémon.

One year ago: And Again, I Dream
Two years ago: We're All Tied to Pokémon

The First Unova Saga Japanese Opening Theme

Let's walk together.
Could we run?
My goal is
always shining.
-- "Best Wishes", Rica Matsumoto (interpreted)

Last Sunday, I performed - or rather, directed Ash to perform - the first opening theme to the Unova saga of the anime. That song is the one which is quoted above. It's actually quite an appropriate song, since the saga itself is titled "Best Wishes" in Japanese; note the B and W that correspond to the games of Black and White. As well, it's a rather profound song, in consideration of its lyrics and some personal connections.

A month ago, I wrote about the topic of "character songs" and briefly discussed about the song. Evidently, because it is sung by Rica Matsumoto, this song is effectively a character song for Ash (Satoshi). The lyrics themselves do support this; it's all about the feelings of a person across lands, paths, and journeys and the things that may happen within those, such as roadblocks, difficulties, and friends.... all the "best wishes" for them, appropriately. They're all addressed from the point of view of a first person, which has to be implied due to the way that the Japanese language is. It's not hard to connect the dots.

The part that I've quoted above is from the second half of the second chorus. The second half of the chorus is aptly called the "Yeah-he-he-hey" part, since the first few lines are prepended with this vocalizing. Each of the lines above are indeed prepended, but for the sake of clarity and emphasis of the quote, I've removed the "Yeah-he-he-hey". These are the same exact lines that nearly two years ago I forged a personal connection to an Indonesian pop song. And it's still true today. If I had the opportunity in singing this song, I'd have broken into the lines of that pop song before rejoining the rest of this song.

As one who cosplays as Ash, I can sense how meaningful his journey is. Through this song, I can do just that with everything that is mentioned (or, as he mentions them) within the song. The meaning seems to expand further with the personal connection that I have made, no matter how coincidental it is and nonsensical it might seem. And yet it all makes sense, including the exact title of this song. It's something that we all can appreciate.

May there be "best wishes" for here, whoever, wherever, and forevermore.

One year ago: Pokémon Go Community Day, 4/15/2018
Two years ago: Dialectics

The Fullness of the Cup

As I reported, the theme event from the other day is titled "INOCHI", which means "life" in Japanese. Near the end of my time with the event, I received word that my family had experienced a tragedy that concerns this word. It's saddening to be sure, but I also - and perhaps the related person - believe that some of the time was better spent for the event (and by consequence, my attraction to Pokémon) than worrying about the one for whom the tragedy concerns. It's my way of regarding "the cup", which deserves its own explanation.

Popular rhetoric recognizes a specific phrase that asks whether a cup (or typically a glass) filled with some sort of liquid is half empty or half full. Those who say it's the former would be regarded as having pessimism, while those who say it's the latter would be regarded as having optimism. It's a situation that demonstrates how people can have different points of view based on what they comprehend out of the situation.

Some people also recognize an extended - although jocular - rhetoric that states that they will drink what's in the glass regardless of whichever point of view they subscribe... assuming, of course, that the liquid in the cup is perfectly harmless. This is one of several extended jocular rhetoric that considers the cup and the liquid in various guises according to the people in question as well as their points of view.

As far as I myself personally and this blog are concerned, my cup is Pokémon, inside and out. I'll take the cup, however much it's filled. I'll drink up whatever is in the cup, though it may require a bit of time for some things. I'll even "keep" the cup because what's on the outside may be as appealing as whatever's inside. The rhetoric is somewhat extended here, but it more or less concerns how Pokémon and my life are connected, including what I did during the event yesterday. In regard to the person, it may be that some of the contents of the cup may be contributed by the person, even if neither of us realize it, which is a good thing.

For now, I have to give my thanks to the person. The relationship might be rather small when including Pokémon, but it is regardless significant in a way. It's just as significant as the "cup" rhetoric that concerns the points of view of different people. And for me, I can always use something in that cup as well as the cup itself. Whether it's half full or empty, it has become my cup that I can then enjoy.

One year ago: Cosplay: GAME - Games Animation Marketplace and Exhibition
Two years ago: True Colors (...of a Logo)

Cosplay: INOCHI 2019 - Sengoku Jidai

Me: OK, so you know what?

Ash: What?

Me: If I send you to one of two simultaneous events today, and they're both something you've been to before, would you choose one that has fewer things to do, or one with more things to do?

Ash: Well, you know, it's kind of like going to Altomare for Latias and Latios, or dealing with Battle Frontier in Kanto. I'd say the second one.

Pikachu: Pi! Pi pika pi! [supporting]

Me: Great! I trust you won't miss the first one anyhow, which is a repeat of a convention I sent you to last year, which was kind of finicky even though it was fun.

Ash: I'll say. Now that I think about it, it was kind of like that there.

Me: Anyhow, this one is this year's edition of the same theme event from last year, only with a different theme. Instead of flowers, we have a struggle this time around. Imagine how things will go.

Pikachu: Pika pika pi! [adding]

Ash: You know what? It did have a struggle, with the weather. The morning was fine, but then it looked windy and was going to rain, and then it never happened. It was clear all afternoon.

Me: Funny how that is. It must have disrupted the schedule of events. Now, I did send you for two competitions: singing and character parade.

Ash: Right! You sent me with the Unova outfit. But that's also because you wanted me to sing the first opening song to my adventures there. That's a great song, if I do say so myself.

Me: Indeed it is. How were they?

Ash: I sang really well. You should have heard it - I think it was almost perfect. The character parade was great too, and I could really show off there. But I couldn't exactly stay to hear about them. There was just no time.

Me: And from the looks of things, we didn't win anything. That's a bit of a shame. What else did you find?

Ash: I found many food stands, community stands, and merchandise stands. They were all a lot like last year. But you know what wasn't like last year? I got you in touch with so many of your friends, a lot like the last time you sent me to another event.

Me: OK, so the event this year didn't seem too different from last year, but it seemed quite festive, especially with you in two competitions. And I'm impressed that so many of my friends came even if there was another that stole the spotlight.

Ash: They said it was their ninth year!

Pikachu: Pi pika pika pi! [cheerful]

Me: Hmm, I only hope they can keep improving for future times this is held. By the way, the word "inochi" means "life" in Japanese.

Ash: That's a nice word.

Pikachu: Pika. [solemn]

Me: It is. And it has become a word that is relevant to me and Pokémon. More to come.

One year ago: Shiny Here, Shiny There
Two years ago: Friendly Plays

Pokémon Go Community Day, 4/13/2019

Every Community Day in Pokémon Go can be said to be in part an enigma, since it is not known how some things will proceed, even given the "bones". Those "bones" are standard from one to another - except for the particulars - and are definitely known. What may not be known to proceed is what happens on the game's end and the player's end. At least, that's the case until the actual Community Day happens, for which this month's is today.

This month, the "bones" are somewhat fascinating. The featured Pokémon is the Dragon-type Bagon, which should be quite attractive for fans and users of this type of Pokémon. For its final evolution of Salamence, its exclusive move is Outrage, which only adds to the novelty and perhaps the necessity. This month's main bonus is tripled XP for captures, which should benefit those looking for a boost in this regard. Other than that, there are the standard Shiny forms and extended Lure Modules. The schedule, like last month, is the uniform time of 3 PM to 6 PM wherever one is located. That much should be known by everyone.

With everything as above, it seemed that things would proceed well, especially given the schedule. What happened was that in the first hour of the event, things proceeded rather sluggishly, sometimes with PokéStops not being able to be spun and Pokémon not being able to be captured. This affected players in four time zones, including mine and the three time zones ahead of me. To rectify the issue, Community Day was extended for one hour in the places concerned. Even so, things were still spotty at times. This might have been known and foreseen, but in the end, it still happened this way. I'm sure that regardless of whatever was done, not everything could be accounted for and known.

As for my end, I didn't know how many Shiny forms I would be able to obtain and did not expect certain numbers of Shiny forms to be obtained. But it seems I had gotten a few more than normal, which is good, though many of their stats are terrible, something I could not foresee. I also knew I had to really manage well the Bagon that I caught, due to limited maneuverability. Luckily, I had a Lucky Bagon that I had obtained some time ago and I could evolve, knowing that it had good stats to boot. After making several considerations, I also evolved the Shiny Bagon that could provide short-term benefits and possibly in the longer term. The rest are open for trade, and after that, plans for them may be known.

This has been one enigma of a Community Day, with all that have been known and other things that were not known. There were the standards and things that could be gained from those standards. There were also the uncertainties and things that just didn't work out as intended. Other Community Days may pose the potential for being an enigma, but until those are known, there are the results from this enigma to be dealt with and ascertained.

One year ago: Go at Home
Two years ago: Paint It, Picross

(Wet and Wild) Local EX Raid, 4/12/2019

Last week, the EX Raid was terribly terrible. Today, the EX Raid was terribly excellent. How can that be? Well, as the tag suggests, this one got drenched, and yet this one went places. The "drenched" part is because of rain, while the "go places" part involves things that went on before, during, and after the EX Raid. These made for one heck of an EX Raid, one of the more unusual ones I've taken part in.

This EX Raid, like last week's, started out rather innocently. I came to the Gym early since there wasn't much of anything else that I could do while I waited for the EX Raid to begin, save for other things within Pokémon Go. And then the rain came. It was light at first, but then it escalated into torrential proportions rather quickly. It cast doubt on whether this EX Raid could continue as planned - that is, have enough participants to succeed. But then other Trainers came one by one, including a friend that I specially invited for this EX Raid, and it appeared that it might turn out successful after all.

Initially it was decided that the initial group of Trainers would go right into battle, but then just after it started, another Trainer - who happened to be the one who missed last week's EX Raid - came with another in tow. To help the ones that just came, I, my friend, and one other Trainer split off mid-battle to start another battle group. However, doing so left the other battling group unable to complete their battle, and my new group proved to be underpowered. After realizing this, everyone present butted heads and decided to start a new group, this time with everyone in. This new group proved to be quite successful and helped accomplish what couldn't be done in two groups. And unlike last week, the capture this time went without a hitch. This was wild, to be sure.

Imagine if this Deoxys was just a wee bit bigger in the picture.

The wet part was when I, my friend, and the associated Trainers of my new group went to tackle another raid, this time in the open air with the rain pouring down and unlike the EX Raid, which was in a covered area, though perhaps still not enough. Compared to the EX Raid, my new group was quite successful on our own; the raid boss gave in just with what we had, and captures were equally successful. Needless to say, I ended up very wet, not just because of the rain (though partly mitigated by an umbrella) but also because of water near the ground that got splashed by various means. The success may not have been worth getting wet, but it was a success nonetheless.

If last week's EX Raid was terrible in the sense that it had purely bad things and was unsuccessful, today's EX Raid was terrible in the sense that it had a lot of detriments, and yet it was still successful. As a result of those detriments, I got wet and taken for a wild ride with regard to how things went. I can't say this was one of my best EX Raids, but it was so bad that it was good - something unusual to say, let alone be realized as with this one.

One year ago: Wallpaper: Pokémon 20th Anniversary
Two years ago: Pokémon Couriers?

The Songs of the Detective Pikachu Trailers

I've written about many songs on this blog that personally evoke Pokémon for me or is somehow related, and I've even written about two of them in the same post, but I've never written about three of them at once. It just so happens that there are three significant songs that have been featured in the released trailers for the Detective Pikachu movie, and I'd like to detail about those three in the same post. They're quite eclectic and don't necessarily bring to mind Pokémon, yet have something special with regard to the trailers.

I can't see me lovin' nobody but you
For all my life
When you're with me, baby the skies'll be blue
For all my life
-- "Happy Together", The Turtles

"Happy Together" was heard in the first released trailer for the movie. I can sense why this song was chosen to be played in the background: it captures the sense of togetherness that would develop as Tim (the human protagonist) and Pikachu team up to solve the grandest mystery ahead of them. As an aside, this song was also used to advertise the initial Super Smash Bros. offering - which does feature Pokémon in part - so this song has an extended history of Pokémon promotions, in a way.

I need a hero
I'm holding out for a hero till the end of the night
He's gotta be strong, and he's gotta be fast
And he's gotta be fresh from the fight...
-- "Holding Out for a Hero", Bonnie Tyler

"Holding Out for a Hero" was heard in a later-released trailer, which I have dubbed the "action" trailer for its display of action-oriented scenes, including what may in fact be the climax of the movie. Judging from the lyrics, these appear to be rather relevant to Pikachu as the Pokémon protagonist, one-half of the duo in the movie and for whom the movie is named. Though the song already has a claim to fame as part of the soundtrack of a movie about dancing, it seems that it is just as apt for previewing this Pokémon movie.

Oh! I want to dance with somebody
I want to feel the heat with somebody
Yeah! I want to dance with somebody
With somebody who loves me
-- "I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)", Whitney Houston

The most recent trailer (which isn't exactly a trailer, so much as it is in part a behind-the-scenes showcase for "auditioning" Pokémon that would be in the movie) features this song, including with an elevator-music version in the middle and a slight remix toward the end. Since many Pokémon in its world become partners of people, and this trailer has an "audition" sense about it, the song makes sense to a certain extent. I suppose that's still a great thing how that can be so.

Around a month ago, I discussed about the concept of "interpretative soundtracks"; all the songs above can conceivably fit into an implementation for that concept for this new kind of Pokémon movie. Even if one doesn't get made, these three songs remain significant for their ability to complement the preview trailers for the movie. On that note, they have shown that they are quite evocative of Pokémon, not just for me personally, but also for its fans as well as movie fans in general. That seems unique enough, as unique as this upcoming movie.

One year ago: O Charizard
Two years ago: Romanticism of Tall Grasses

Expecting the Detective

It's more or less a month before the Detective Pikachu movie comes out, and the mood for Pokémon fans who are eager for the movie is rather expectant. That includes me and a few other Pokémon friends of mine. Along with that, more and more things that are related to the movie have begun to appear, which only increases the eagerness and expectation for it. It's a grand movie after all, so those things can only be grand as well, especially in doing so.

After the first trailer for the movie was released late last year, there have been a few more trailers that show even more of the movie, including the Pokémon featured in it. One of the trailers even received slight coverage on a local news channel where I am, which already means that this is just as significant as any other movie to come. With all that has been revealed, I've also become warmed up to the general look and feel of the movie, and I can say it's going to be as great as anything else Pokémon that I've watched. Also just as significant is the indication for the (local) release of the movie, which may be a little sooner than indicated and may cause plans for watching to be rethought. Things will still need consideration.

Meanwhile, tie-ins for the movie have also appeared. The TCG is featuring booster packs with cards that are based on the Pokémon that appear in the movie. They look neat if nothing else, even if they can't be used to make much headway in the game. I also probably won't be able to get them unless a miracle happens - a wad of cash helps too. And then there are fast food toys also currently existing, which is a given for any movie that could conceivably be watched by younger viewers, for which this one is included. From what I can tell, these look nice, though I'd have to look into them and actually consider the possibility of getting them.

Pokémon Center has also come out with merchandise based on the emblems and logos found within the movie, including that of the Hi-Hat Cafe and the Ryme City Police Department, which feature Noctowl (in a related emblem) and Charizard respectively. The merchandise is fairly standard, consisting of clothing and a few other things and somewhat nudged to black (a dominant color in features related to the movie), but it is decidedly representative of the movie. If it were possible, I'd get them in a heartbeat, but since I can't, I'll settle for just a glimpse of them at the moment.

As a bit of an aside, the only one thing that hasn't appeared - for me personally - is the game for which the movie is based on, which I haven't been able to obtain. It's a serious consideration any which way, and I need to check the means by which I may be able to do so. I know I'm going to have a better time understanding the movie by understanding the game, so this is somewhat of a priority. On the other hand, the reverse might also be true, so I may not need to stress myself out getting the game now, just whenever it is convenient that I can do it and then get right to playing it.

It's rather evident that the movie seems to have more or less been given a blessing, with everything that has been linked to it so far. I can see that in the promotions for the movie and the related collectibles, of which all look really good. I have become more and more impressed, which is likely true for all of my Pokémon friends. The wait for the movie shouldn't be long now; we should be ready to get in and watch as soon as it is released.

One year ago: Bandai Pokémon Sun & Moon Pokémon Lover Mascot 6 - Wobbuffet
Two years ago: Evolution Revolutions?

Benefits

It has been said that regarding the management of a certain thing, one does not count profits or losses as one would for a business. Instead, in its management, benefits are considered. I suppose that it makes sense to some extent in regard to the thing being managed. And I also think that it may also be applicable to Pokémon and my personal experiences with it. It's a little bit odd and requires a bit of a stretch, but it may just make sense as well.

Personally, the benefits for me are quite evident. I can play many great games with interesting mechanisms. I become entertained with the non-game aspects. I can talk to other people who show the same interests as I do. And of course, I have this blog, which I can use to write about thoughts, experiences, and other fascinating things related to Pokémon. The benefits are many, perhaps too many to describe by the constraints of this post. If they are like or contribute to the above, then they are benefits regardless.

As for actual profits, I don't have them, though in some sense I would like to. I'm not yet in the position where that can actually happen. The important thing is that the parties concerned with Pokémon can and do make profits of their own, which should bode well for the continuity of the franchise. That will also automatically mean the continuity of my appreciation as well as that of all my Pokémon friends. Still, it wouldn't hurt if somehow I can "get a piece of the pie", as well as contribute to the making of the "pie" itself, figuratively speaking.

The losses are something that I hope will never occur, financially or otherwise. Though in a way it could be considered that I've lost a chunk of time and money appreciating Pokémon, the appreciation has been quite positive, so I've felt that I've never really lost anything. I would venture to say that the same is practically true for all of my other Pokémon friends. As long as our contributions are positive, any kind of loss shouldn't happen from the overall grand design.

It really comes back to benefits itself. The benefits from something may just outweigh concerns of profits and losses when they are right. That's not to say that profits and losses don't have their place. Business may still need to consider or count profits and losses as part of performance, and that's fine for that. Beyond that, it seems more plausible that benefits are better considered. Whether or not Pokémon is involved, that seems to be a pretty good thing.

One year ago: Ex-Raids and Cancellations
Two years ago: The (Current) Fate of the Megas

You Can, I Can

I admire Ash a lot. It's the prime reason why I cosplay most frequently as him. This admiration has an additional consequence: in whatever I do, I can think about what Ash does or can do, then I can think about what I do or can do. It's a motivational approach that can help to solve some of the problems that I face. I dub it as the "you can, I can" approach.

I have a case in point. The other day, I was tasked to lift a really heavy item as part of some efforts to tidy up. I was on my own then and no one else was available to help. Ash is known for his pretty heavy lifting: on two occasions, he's been depicted to lift a supposedly really heavy Pokémon, being Larvitar in one and Emboar in the other. Knowing this, I decided that if he could lift either of these two Pokémon, then I could lift the heavy item to tidy it up, and I succeeded. This knowledge was just what I needed to accomplish the task.

Granted, this approach may not apply widely. It may be hard to determine what Ash can actually do in some cases, including in the cases above, which are seemingly apparent. But it may still be possible to "take his word" in some cases. Further, there are already many things that I can do that go beyond what Ash can do, and that most likely he can't. In that case, it may be better to compare successes instead and to try to think of things on equal levels, even if they may be far off.

Perhaps it would be important to consider the views from "the other side".

[AshKetchumMode]
You know what? I think it's great that you can do what you do and I can do what I do. I think it's really great that you try to take after what I do, and see if you can do it too. I kind of wish I could do the same, looking at what you do. We should be proud of whatever we can do. And I think if it ties into Pokémon, it's really great for us! Don't you think so too?
[/AshKetchumMode]

I agree. It is thanks to Pokémon that I and Ash connected. It's an unreal thing that I can mold into my reality, and it's a real thing that is very much a part of his reality. On that note, whatever we can do great is still great for us. And if those can somehow be relatable, then that seems to put us at a greater position.

One year ago: (Continuing the) Local Ex-Raid, 4/8/2018
Two years ago: On the Road Again

Scat-Poké-Land

We've got to believe in love
That's all there ever will be
That's all there's ever been
For you and me...
-- "Song of Scatland", Scatman John

I'm feeling a little down about some things, Pokémon or otherwise. The less-than-spectacular results at the raid group tournament last week could be considered to contribute to that. Some of my Pokémon future could also be considered "up in the air", which doesn't help to the current state of affairs. And whenever I get to this point, this song comes to mind. Yet in a way, this song may be considered to be evocative of Pokémon on a certain level.

This song describes an imaginary land, appropriately called "Scatland". As the verses describe it, it's a land of peace and harmony, where people are equal and caring, happy and respected, and near and dear. It sounds like a land that anyone would want to be in, but even if they can't, there's always love to be believed in for everyone, as in the quoted chorus above. The bridge also reaffirms this message, which for the overall song is a great one.

As for this song's relation to Pokémon, it's a bit complex. It is true that some of the unsavory things that happen in the real world also happen in the Pokémon world, but beyond that, the world of Pokémon is a world that more or less is in line with the premises of the song. Personally, I consider the world of Pokémon as my "Scatland", even if it may be somewhat distanced from the actual premises. At the least, people in this world can also believe in love, which seems to be an important message no matter the world in question.

Scatman John (real name: John Paul Larkin) died at the end of 1999, three (nearly four) years after Pokémon came into being. However, during his stint in the world of music, he became somewhat popular, in particular in Japan. As recent as within the last decade or so, one of his more popular songs was included in certain Japanese music games, one of them being a game I mentioned a long time ago for its connections. Perhaps, had he lived longer, he might have been able to collaborate with Pokémon, and perhaps he might have enjoyed it. Maybe in his "Scatland", there is a place for Pokémon as well.

I'm still feeling down about a few things, but as I'm thinking about this song, in particular the quoted part above, I'm reminded that not everything is all bad. In fact, as I believe in love, I'm sure that some things may just turn out for the better. With Pokémon in the mix, I may then be able to find and then discover myself in my "Scatland" along with all that interests me about it, just like this song suggests.

One year ago: Let's Go Research
Two years ago: Caravansary

Friend Cascade

An interesting phenomenon occurs in Pokémon Go regarding the friendship levels of Trainers - at least, among the members of my raid group. When someone is ready to go up in Friendship degree, notably to become Ultra or Best Friends and often through the opening of Gifts, the person often waits for several others so they can go up at the same time. When the person is ready, the others are informed about the process, and then this may lead to those others informing yet others that they are about to go up as well. This phenomenon of Trainers raising the Friendship degrees of one another is what I call the "friend cascade".

There is of course a reason for this. The elevation of Friendship degrees above Good Friends rewards Experience Points (XP) for the Trainers in question, and these are not very little as well. Becoming Great Friends awards 10000 XP, becoming Ultra Friends awards 50000 XP, and becoming Best Friends awards 100000 XP. That alone is not enough to explain this phenomenon, however. The key to this phenomenon is that these XP (like others) can be doubled by way of a Lucky Egg that is active at the moment the Friendship degree is raised, which means 20000, 100000, and 200000 XP respectively for the above. A single Lucky Egg and lots of Friendship degrees being raised at the same time can thus potentially reward hundreds of thousands of XP, something that may be relatively uncommon and yet very important to raise Trainer levels. No wonder why we all choose to wait for several others to be ready to go up in Friendship degree, which often leads to these "cascades".

The latest major "friend cascade" that involved myself also involved 21 Trainers, give or take. One Trainer informed of the readiness to become Ultra Friends with five Trainers, of which one of them was me. One of those Trainers also happened to be ready to become Best Friends with me, which led to that Trainer also informing others in that Trainer's list to also be prepared. I also was ready to become Best Friends with another Trainer and Ultra Friends with yet another one, for which the latter two were also ready to become Ultra Friends with each other. In total, I received 1 million XP from two Best Friends and three Ultra Friends, while one of my Ultra Friends did better and received 1.4 million XP out of three and eight respectively. This was an altogether amazing "friend cascade" with many relationships and just as many rewards.

This phenomenon may not be exclusive to my raid group; any Trainer with close relationships to a group of many Trainers may very well experience this phenomenon with the Trainers in the group. It's a great one nonetheless. The prospect of earning hundreds of thousands of XP in one fell swoop is enthralling, not to mention highly beneficial, especially for those Trainers who haven't maximized their levels yet. There's that, and there's also the amazement seeing a whole group of Trainers elevating their Friendship degrees at nearly the same time, through what may be a "cascade" that starts from just a few.

One year ago: Icons, Images, and Such
Two years ago: These Foolish Things Remind Me of Pokémon

Pokémon Go Fest 2017 T-Shirt Replica

I actually thought about discussing something else today that's not too related to Pokémon Go, but I've decided to discuss this while it's still somewhat relevant. Those who have been reading my blog will surely recognize the raid group tournament I participated in recently. I didn't win the tournament itself - I ended up almost bottoming out - but I did win something off of one of the mini-contests. And the prize for that is this unique T-shirt related to Pokémon Go... or at least, a semblance of it.

The front side.

The first Pokémon Go Fest in Chicago in 2017 featured a T-shirt of this exact design for some of its participants. For the ones who were able to go back then, this would have been a treat. Those who couldn't go could at least change the "shirt" item in the Style Shop of Pokémon Go so that the Trainer could appear wearing this shirt. It is thus unique and may be considered highly coveted (at least, the real-life form) by some Pokémon Go players, including those who are part of my raid group.

The back side.

My raid group, in fact, had arranged for replicas of the T-shirt to be made, way before I started raiding with them. Some of the people who had reserved one (and subsequently gotten theirs) can be seen as far back as in my first raid experience and my first EX Raid that followed later. Back then I was half-interested in this shirt, but when I consulted with the maker, the response was that there would need to be significant interest from some of the others as well for another batch of these T-shirts to be created. So this T-shirt has been something that I've long desired but never actually materialized. And now the desire has been fulfilled by way of me winning the mini-contest.

This T-shirt is monochromatic, but it has a great style. On the front side, the illustration is round, and the land-and-water part below and the city skyline above meet each other in the middle with a circle to resemble a Poké Ball, along with Pokémon that nicely represent each (Ursaring, Lapras, and Charizard). On the back side, the Pokémon Go Fest logo appears understated, but it doesn't need to say more for such a special shirt. The replica that I have seems to be well-created, but I may also have to take care of it well, since I see the ones of those who have it deteriorating.

It's easy to see why some Pokémon Go players may be interested in this very unique shirt. It's commemorative of a very special happening, and yet it is simplistic in the way that it does so. Moreover, it does actually appear as an in-game item, which only increases the interest. It's highly likely that players may highly desire an actual version of it, which my raid group has proven with the creation of this replica. Now that I have one as well, my desire for it has been satisfied.

One year ago: 1000 Pokémon Species?
Two years ago: That Way You've Got