As a Pokémon fan, I'm interested in many, if not all aspects of Pokémon. One of those is that of the stories behind things in the Pokémon world, what I liken as the "lore" behind them. I like to find out about them through everything that I do with Pokémon, but I also like to read about them, perhaps much like what the professors in this world might do. What I like is that this is achievable through different ways and different types of content, all of which are provided for my reading pleasure, and of course others.
The most obvious content type would be the descriptions and texts in the Pokédex entries of various Pokémon. Much of the lore about Pokémon can be said to lie within them, making them quite important in this regard. They're a definite source of information on what Pokémon are, how they behave, and in many cases their interrelationships as well. I find them invaluable to my understanding as well as to make others understand about Pokémon because of their explanatory quality, which makes me like reading them.
Descriptions that relate to Pokémon are not only found in the Pokédex. Most usable items on Pokémon often have descriptions related to what they are usable for, and with luck, they might possibly be related to one or a few Pokémon. In that way, they also constitute the lore behind Pokémon, and more likely expand it as well. They too are insightful in that regard and helps me to make more sense of their lore, not to mention to enjoy them for my understanding and others' as well.
While descriptions are certainly great, what would be greater is to be able to have them at hand in a workable and more easily readable form. That would necessitate them as books, which Pokémon has its share of. I've detailed my efforts to search for them as well as a couple of the ones I've found, and this is still an ongoing process. Having them all at once can result in possessing a "collective" lore about Pokémon and all things related, which only means further understanding and pleasant reading.
I'm a great Pokémon fan, so I have to make sure that I'm knowledgeable in them as well. The great thing is that Pokémon has its body of "lore" about them, and they can be elucidated in various ways, especially ones in text form. For those, I only have to read them to have the knowledge about them, all the while enjoying myself and my rational mind. I'm not exactly suited to be a professor, let alone a Pokémon one - I have a long ways to go before I personally become one - but perhaps we may indeed read the same lore about Pokémon.
One year ago: The Magic of 25
Two years ago: Et Tu, Shuffle? (Thy Hath Bugs)
Three years ago: It's Been a Month...
Friday, January 31, 2020
Thursday, January 30, 2020
Bringing It Home
Those who recall a certain Pokémon Direct from eight months ago will note that back then, there was an announcement for a service called Pokémon Home, billed as the next-generation Pokémon storage service, but nothing came out of it for a while. The other day, however, more details were announced regarding it as well as its availability, which is the long-awaited information. On the eaves of its availability, it's worth it to discuss those newly announced details to a good extent.
This service will be available starting next month for both the Nintendo Switch and mobile platforms. The main thing that this service allows to do is to move Pokémon around: to import Pokémon from the 3DS Bank, store and shift Pokémon from the Let's Go games, and transfer Pokémon to and fro the Sword and Shield games. Import from Pokémon Go is also slated for inclusion at a later time. As the next-generation service, its import features are understandable, but the storage service should be lucrative for players of the games on the Switch.
Storing Pokémon is good, but trading Pokémon is also just as good, and the service allows for this to occur in four ways. One way is through a Wonder Box as a delayed version of Wonder Trade, while another is through a facilitated GTS with the usual perks. A new way of trading is called Room Trade, where multiple users enter a room, offer a Pokémon to trade, and the Pokémon will be distributed among all users in the room, fulfilling a scenario that I once conceived for Go. Users who are friends with each other can also link up directly for a Friend Trade. Traditions and innovations in trading come together with this service.
The service can also act as an "information center" of sorts, with its own National Pokédex and info for all extant Pokémon; individual Pokémon can also be judged according to its stats. Information will also be available on battle Pokémon rankings and competitions, as well as gifts on mobile. Speaking of gifts, on mobile, the service will be able to receive Mystery Gifts tailored specifically for it or as a proxy for those in Sword and Shield. Task-based challenges for personalization and exchange of service points for Battle Points in the Sword and Shield games on the Switch will also be included. They are all nifty extras for usage of the service.
All of these do not come for free, or at least not necessarily. The free Basic option allows storage of a very limited number (30) of Pokémon with 3 Wonder Box and 1 GTS slots, while the paid Premium option expands these to 6000, 10, and 3 respectively. The latter option, paid with Nintendo eShop credits, also allows for hosting Room Trades, importing from Pokémon Bank, and the judge feature. This is in addition to the extant costs for Pokémon Bank, Poké Transporter, and Nintendo Switch online services. However, to ease transition, during the first month of Pokémon Home availability, the former two will be freely available. Whatever happens, all roads lead to the paid option for best experience.
At this point, it's only a short time before the advent of Pokémon Home. It promises Pokémon storage and yet so much more than that. While its full-fledged features are only available through payment, at least there's still leeway for some free usage of the facilities, perhaps enough that one may in the end expend money for the whole nine yards. One cannot simply ask for much more for a next-generation storage service... but at the least, one can still get storage for their beloved Pokémon for this day and age with it.
One year ago: Three TCG Booster Packs
Two years ago: Pokémon Diamond and Pearl Series 2 Figures
Three years ago: Always 21 - Memories of 21
This service will be available starting next month for both the Nintendo Switch and mobile platforms. The main thing that this service allows to do is to move Pokémon around: to import Pokémon from the 3DS Bank, store and shift Pokémon from the Let's Go games, and transfer Pokémon to and fro the Sword and Shield games. Import from Pokémon Go is also slated for inclusion at a later time. As the next-generation service, its import features are understandable, but the storage service should be lucrative for players of the games on the Switch.
Storing Pokémon is good, but trading Pokémon is also just as good, and the service allows for this to occur in four ways. One way is through a Wonder Box as a delayed version of Wonder Trade, while another is through a facilitated GTS with the usual perks. A new way of trading is called Room Trade, where multiple users enter a room, offer a Pokémon to trade, and the Pokémon will be distributed among all users in the room, fulfilling a scenario that I once conceived for Go. Users who are friends with each other can also link up directly for a Friend Trade. Traditions and innovations in trading come together with this service.
The service can also act as an "information center" of sorts, with its own National Pokédex and info for all extant Pokémon; individual Pokémon can also be judged according to its stats. Information will also be available on battle Pokémon rankings and competitions, as well as gifts on mobile. Speaking of gifts, on mobile, the service will be able to receive Mystery Gifts tailored specifically for it or as a proxy for those in Sword and Shield. Task-based challenges for personalization and exchange of service points for Battle Points in the Sword and Shield games on the Switch will also be included. They are all nifty extras for usage of the service.
All of these do not come for free, or at least not necessarily. The free Basic option allows storage of a very limited number (30) of Pokémon with 3 Wonder Box and 1 GTS slots, while the paid Premium option expands these to 6000, 10, and 3 respectively. The latter option, paid with Nintendo eShop credits, also allows for hosting Room Trades, importing from Pokémon Bank, and the judge feature. This is in addition to the extant costs for Pokémon Bank, Poké Transporter, and Nintendo Switch online services. However, to ease transition, during the first month of Pokémon Home availability, the former two will be freely available. Whatever happens, all roads lead to the paid option for best experience.
At this point, it's only a short time before the advent of Pokémon Home. It promises Pokémon storage and yet so much more than that. While its full-fledged features are only available through payment, at least there's still leeway for some free usage of the facilities, perhaps enough that one may in the end expend money for the whole nine yards. One cannot simply ask for much more for a next-generation storage service... but at the least, one can still get storage for their beloved Pokémon for this day and age with it.
One year ago: Three TCG Booster Packs
Two years ago: Pokémon Diamond and Pearl Series 2 Figures
Three years ago: Always 21 - Memories of 21
Wednesday, January 29, 2020
Expecting the Contrary
I've just returned from an outing today that partially involved Pokémon. While the outing itself can generally be considered successful, it can also be said that some of the things were a bit contrary to what was expected. Based on this, it seems that "expecting the contrary" seems to be a thing for this Pokémon thing in particular, especially given my overall experiences with it.
Specifically, one of the things "in contrary" is the rewards I receive for accomplishing a certain success. The rewards seem to be always that which I don't really need at the certain moment. Though the rewards remain useful, they just aren't the case at the pertinent moment, being preferred over a certain set of things that could be more useful.
The way I went out earlier for my Pokémon thing was also somewhat different than what would usually happen. In fact, I had thought to myself that this may not work out as intended. Therefore, it becomes a surprise even for myself to find out that this worked well somehow. It was a hard thing that I had expected to be happening.
And yet, things did happen the way they did, contrary to my expectations. I had thought they would at least occur in some of the ways that I expected, but they instead became the unexpected. Regardless, even when things were at their contrary, they remained successful, and that's what seems to matter the most at this point.
After the outing that occurred today, I'm inspired to see if I can expect contrary things the next time I'm involved in the Pokémon outing that I was involved in today. The way this outing often goes, it seems to leave a lot of room for things on the contrary to occur. Whatever notions I might have next time, I may also have to expect things that would be their opposite.
One year ago: Color Me (Shiny) Groudon
Two years ago: More Pokémon Hanging Things
Three years ago: Fire Power!
Specifically, one of the things "in contrary" is the rewards I receive for accomplishing a certain success. The rewards seem to be always that which I don't really need at the certain moment. Though the rewards remain useful, they just aren't the case at the pertinent moment, being preferred over a certain set of things that could be more useful.
The way I went out earlier for my Pokémon thing was also somewhat different than what would usually happen. In fact, I had thought to myself that this may not work out as intended. Therefore, it becomes a surprise even for myself to find out that this worked well somehow. It was a hard thing that I had expected to be happening.
And yet, things did happen the way they did, contrary to my expectations. I had thought they would at least occur in some of the ways that I expected, but they instead became the unexpected. Regardless, even when things were at their contrary, they remained successful, and that's what seems to matter the most at this point.
After the outing that occurred today, I'm inspired to see if I can expect contrary things the next time I'm involved in the Pokémon outing that I was involved in today. The way this outing often goes, it seems to leave a lot of room for things on the contrary to occur. Whatever notions I might have next time, I may also have to expect things that would be their opposite.
One year ago: Color Me (Shiny) Groudon
Two years ago: More Pokémon Hanging Things
Three years ago: Fire Power!
Tuesday, January 28, 2020
Bear Walker Pokémon Skateboards
Over two and a half years ago, I wrote a post about the loose connection of Pokémon and skateboards. It's a fantasy that is not only logical but also enthralling. And it seems that the fantasy is about to be realized in an actual, tangible form through a newly divulged line of Pokémon merchandise. In cooperation with Bear Walker Premium Boards, a line of Pokémon skateboards has been launched. This therefore fulfills the plausibility of skateboards with Pokémon on them, which I've also discussed in that previous post.
As hinted by the tag, these skateboards are no ordinary boards. These are 29-inch skateboards made out of carved wood. They already look a little different from what most people would consider the archetypal shape of skateboards, and with Pokémon, these boards will look very different indeed. Also, these have the Pokémon images on the "foot side" of the boards, rather than on the "wheel side" as I initially imagined that they would be, but that doesn't seem to be a bad thing. In fact, I can argue that the expectations have been upgraded as a result.
And the first few Pokémon that will be featured on these skateboards are Pikachu, Mewtwo, Gengar, Gyarados, and Charizard. Pikachu is obvious, as the de facto series mascot. The other four Pokémon are really strong Pokémon that are admittedly a perfect fit for the extremeness of skateboards, far from the ones I detailed in my other post, which could be considered "cutesy" and less fitting; of course, Pikachu is also strong in its own way, so it fits in that way also. The type representation is also pretty good, with five plus two types represented. It's a good assortment.
This concept and cooperation can serve to be expanded, and it seems that's the way it might be. By way of the Pokémon Center newsletter I receive in my e-mail, these are grouped as Series 1, which means that more series might just be possible. That would mean more possibility for Pokémon representation and thereby to please a greater number of fans. Of course, with the "premium" tag on these skateboards, they automatically will command as such in all their aspects, especially for myself, as I'm not likely to be able to get any of these boards in a reasonable manner given current circumstances.
Nevertheless, the prospect of having Pokémon on skateboards is now very much real, thanks to the inception of these skateboards. They should please Pokémon fans, skateboarders, or Pokémon fans who are skateboarders - even me, who finds skateboards to be somewhat a fascination, though not as great as that of Pokémon. At least, I find it enthralling that I can have Pikachu or another Pokémon on a skateboard, and to possess even one would let me realize that "Pokéskateboard" fantasy and ride in style.
One year ago: (Scripted and Connected) Local EX Raid, 1/28/2019
Two years ago: Cosplay: Japanese World 2018
Three years ago: The First-Generation Bicycle Theme
As hinted by the tag, these skateboards are no ordinary boards. These are 29-inch skateboards made out of carved wood. They already look a little different from what most people would consider the archetypal shape of skateboards, and with Pokémon, these boards will look very different indeed. Also, these have the Pokémon images on the "foot side" of the boards, rather than on the "wheel side" as I initially imagined that they would be, but that doesn't seem to be a bad thing. In fact, I can argue that the expectations have been upgraded as a result.
And the first few Pokémon that will be featured on these skateboards are Pikachu, Mewtwo, Gengar, Gyarados, and Charizard. Pikachu is obvious, as the de facto series mascot. The other four Pokémon are really strong Pokémon that are admittedly a perfect fit for the extremeness of skateboards, far from the ones I detailed in my other post, which could be considered "cutesy" and less fitting; of course, Pikachu is also strong in its own way, so it fits in that way also. The type representation is also pretty good, with five plus two types represented. It's a good assortment.
This concept and cooperation can serve to be expanded, and it seems that's the way it might be. By way of the Pokémon Center newsletter I receive in my e-mail, these are grouped as Series 1, which means that more series might just be possible. That would mean more possibility for Pokémon representation and thereby to please a greater number of fans. Of course, with the "premium" tag on these skateboards, they automatically will command as such in all their aspects, especially for myself, as I'm not likely to be able to get any of these boards in a reasonable manner given current circumstances.
Nevertheless, the prospect of having Pokémon on skateboards is now very much real, thanks to the inception of these skateboards. They should please Pokémon fans, skateboarders, or Pokémon fans who are skateboarders - even me, who finds skateboards to be somewhat a fascination, though not as great as that of Pokémon. At least, I find it enthralling that I can have Pikachu or another Pokémon on a skateboard, and to possess even one would let me realize that "Pokéskateboard" fantasy and ride in style.
One year ago: (Scripted and Connected) Local EX Raid, 1/28/2019
Two years ago: Cosplay: Japanese World 2018
Three years ago: The First-Generation Bicycle Theme
Monday, January 27, 2020
Spinning Like a Spinda
Today, I've been experiencing a situation that while isn't exactly dry, is in a way also unwanted. For much of the day, I've been feeling rather "spinny", most likely as a result of everything I have to do. It left me feeling as if I was a Spinda, the (in)famous Pokémon with a tottering disposition. Now, it seems that in this state, there are better things to do rather than to keep up with my daily affairs. However, even with this state, I'm still inclined to think it in a Pokémon manner, and therefore entails the creation of this post.
For me personally, I've been continuously doing a certain activity for at least the past two months or so, and it hasn't let up since then. While it is necessary for me to do it so that I have something to fall back on, at the same time I also feel that I need to give myself a pause every so often, which means doing things like posting on this blog and attending yesterday's one heck of a theme event. Still, at the same time, everything seems to still have resulted in things becoming somewhat "spinny", perhaps somewhat more than usual and therefore amounting to the ways of a Spinda.
For a Spinda, though, this may be considered evidently normal. It walks around and about, consistently in its "spinny" state, but it seems otherwise unaffected. In fact, if it is actually "spinny" in its perceptions, it doesn't seem to show it due to its blank look even as it continues to proceed in its own "spinny" ways. It continues to appear as "spinny" as it is normally. In a way, this could be considered rather impressive; it proceeds living in a "spinny" state, whether or not it is actually "spinny" within. Granted, it doesn't do the things I do, but it may do its things almost to the same level as I do.
My life, and particularly today, continues to go on in a "spinny" state, just like the state that Spinda seems to be in. But for all its "spinny" demeanor, it seems to be fine through and through no matter what it does. I may not be able to say that that is completely the way I feel right now, but at least I become inclined to continue with what I do, even with my "spinny" state. It's still as "spinny" as ever, but after considering Spinda and its appearance, it seems to become less so.
As of yet, I and Spinda might be due for a few more "spinny" things ahead.
One year ago: The Cards, Revisited
Two years ago: Changes
Three years ago: A Loss Is... A Loss?
For me personally, I've been continuously doing a certain activity for at least the past two months or so, and it hasn't let up since then. While it is necessary for me to do it so that I have something to fall back on, at the same time I also feel that I need to give myself a pause every so often, which means doing things like posting on this blog and attending yesterday's one heck of a theme event. Still, at the same time, everything seems to still have resulted in things becoming somewhat "spinny", perhaps somewhat more than usual and therefore amounting to the ways of a Spinda.
For a Spinda, though, this may be considered evidently normal. It walks around and about, consistently in its "spinny" state, but it seems otherwise unaffected. In fact, if it is actually "spinny" in its perceptions, it doesn't seem to show it due to its blank look even as it continues to proceed in its own "spinny" ways. It continues to appear as "spinny" as it is normally. In a way, this could be considered rather impressive; it proceeds living in a "spinny" state, whether or not it is actually "spinny" within. Granted, it doesn't do the things I do, but it may do its things almost to the same level as I do.
My life, and particularly today, continues to go on in a "spinny" state, just like the state that Spinda seems to be in. But for all its "spinny" demeanor, it seems to be fine through and through no matter what it does. I may not be able to say that that is completely the way I feel right now, but at least I become inclined to continue with what I do, even with my "spinny" state. It's still as "spinny" as ever, but after considering Spinda and its appearance, it seems to become less so.
As of yet, I and Spinda might be due for a few more "spinny" things ahead.
One year ago: The Cards, Revisited
Two years ago: Changes
Three years ago: A Loss Is... A Loss?
Sunday, January 26, 2020
Cosplay: Aishiteru Minna
Me: I have to be honest. I wasn't actually thinking about sending you here since I actually have quite a few things that I need to do.
Ash: So how did I end up here?
Me: Well, I had a bit of opportunity, many of my friends said they're sending their characters in, and the competitions seem OK. I hope it's OK with you.
Ash: I'm OK if you're OK.
Pikachu: Pikachu! ["OK, sure!"]
Me: All right. So, this theme event is a bit - or actually, a lot - different. The title means "I love you, everyone", because the theme is about love. Although, I can't help but think that it's a bit early for that.
Ash: Um, yeah, I guess.
Me: The main thing about this one involves a game in my world that involves men or boys looking at different women or girls to see if they can get along. Apparently it's fun for some people, so that's why they've got it going. They call it "Take Character Out" because it's like going out dating. And the participants of course involve the characters people send in.
Ash: I can tell you about it!
Me: Please do.
Ash: OK, so a girl comes up and introduces herself, then the boys say they like her by keeping a light that they have on. Then the girl tells more about her in a video and the boys keep their light on or not. Then the girl performs something, and the boys keep their light on or not. The boys then tell a little bit about them, and then the girl turns out the lights of the boys until two are left. The ones that are left tell more about them, then the girl picks one she likes. It looks like fun, even though it's all about matchmaking.
Me: How did the people respond?
Ash: It was really popular! Most people came to watch by around the middle of the day and wanted to see who got together with whom.
Me: Well, given that the TV version of this is popular, it's no surprise that this one would be. I'm told that there are four sessions with four girls. Were there anyone special that hooked up with the girls?
Ash: One of your friends sent in a wizard, and he hooked up! Another one of yours also hooked up, and he's a human warrior. There was a phantom thief and a soldier too.
Me: You know, I guess this was fun after all. Maybe if there's an "inverse" variant, where boys choose girls, I might let you in.
Ash: Yeah! I don't know if things will work out after that, but maybe it'll be fun enough.
Pikachu: Pi pika chu! ["Seems like it!"]
Me: OK. That's fun, but the real reason I sent you here was to do something in the singing and character parade competitions held alongside. How'd that work out?
Ash: OK, so I was with my Sinnoh outfit, and you sent me to sing "Together" again. It was OK, but I flubbed part of the second chorus. It made me a bit upset. But the character parade seemed fine.
Me: So you say. I do apologize for the short notice on this as well, which led to this. I guess I should ask you about the results.
Ash: I didn't win the singing competition, even with two prizes out of four. The character parade had 33 in it, but there were five winners, two by judging and three by random draw - really a random draw. And I didn't win either.
Pikachu: Pika pika! ["So rough!"]
Me: Ouch, that's rough. Anything else that should be known about this theme event? The location, perhaps?
Ash: Yeah! It's the same as the anniversary event from a while back. That was fun, even with its problems. And you know what? This one still had some problems. I was a little concerned that the music for my singing didn't play right. The sound for the girl videos also didn't play right. And the stage background also fell off.
Me: Oh my! I suppose this has been a problematic day in part. And I suspect partially that the organizers of this event and that anniversary one are the same, from what I've been told.
Ash: That could explain some things.
Me: Regardless, this is a unique concept for a theme event. Some of my friends think that this can stand to be repeated, even in a local event rather than a faraway one like this.
Ash: Maybe it is fun, in a way. I may or may not be in it if it happens, but at least there's still some fun if I can be there!
Pikachu: Pi pika pika! ["I'm with you!]
Me: That's a great spirit.
One year ago: SwitchCon
Two years ago: Private vs. Public Raids?
Three years ago: The Times They Are a-Switchin'
Ash: So how did I end up here?
Me: Well, I had a bit of opportunity, many of my friends said they're sending their characters in, and the competitions seem OK. I hope it's OK with you.
Ash: I'm OK if you're OK.
Pikachu: Pikachu! ["OK, sure!"]
Me: All right. So, this theme event is a bit - or actually, a lot - different. The title means "I love you, everyone", because the theme is about love. Although, I can't help but think that it's a bit early for that.
Ash: Um, yeah, I guess.
Me: The main thing about this one involves a game in my world that involves men or boys looking at different women or girls to see if they can get along. Apparently it's fun for some people, so that's why they've got it going. They call it "Take Character Out" because it's like going out dating. And the participants of course involve the characters people send in.
Ash: I can tell you about it!
Me: Please do.
Ash: OK, so a girl comes up and introduces herself, then the boys say they like her by keeping a light that they have on. Then the girl tells more about her in a video and the boys keep their light on or not. Then the girl performs something, and the boys keep their light on or not. The boys then tell a little bit about them, and then the girl turns out the lights of the boys until two are left. The ones that are left tell more about them, then the girl picks one she likes. It looks like fun, even though it's all about matchmaking.
Me: How did the people respond?
Ash: It was really popular! Most people came to watch by around the middle of the day and wanted to see who got together with whom.
Me: Well, given that the TV version of this is popular, it's no surprise that this one would be. I'm told that there are four sessions with four girls. Were there anyone special that hooked up with the girls?
Ash: One of your friends sent in a wizard, and he hooked up! Another one of yours also hooked up, and he's a human warrior. There was a phantom thief and a soldier too.
Me: You know, I guess this was fun after all. Maybe if there's an "inverse" variant, where boys choose girls, I might let you in.
Ash: Yeah! I don't know if things will work out after that, but maybe it'll be fun enough.
Pikachu: Pi pika chu! ["Seems like it!"]
Me: OK. That's fun, but the real reason I sent you here was to do something in the singing and character parade competitions held alongside. How'd that work out?
Ash: OK, so I was with my Sinnoh outfit, and you sent me to sing "Together" again. It was OK, but I flubbed part of the second chorus. It made me a bit upset. But the character parade seemed fine.
Me: So you say. I do apologize for the short notice on this as well, which led to this. I guess I should ask you about the results.
Ash: I didn't win the singing competition, even with two prizes out of four. The character parade had 33 in it, but there were five winners, two by judging and three by random draw - really a random draw. And I didn't win either.
Pikachu: Pika pika! ["So rough!"]
Me: Ouch, that's rough. Anything else that should be known about this theme event? The location, perhaps?
Ash: Yeah! It's the same as the anniversary event from a while back. That was fun, even with its problems. And you know what? This one still had some problems. I was a little concerned that the music for my singing didn't play right. The sound for the girl videos also didn't play right. And the stage background also fell off.
Me: Oh my! I suppose this has been a problematic day in part. And I suspect partially that the organizers of this event and that anniversary one are the same, from what I've been told.
Ash: That could explain some things.
Me: Regardless, this is a unique concept for a theme event. Some of my friends think that this can stand to be repeated, even in a local event rather than a faraway one like this.
Ash: Maybe it is fun, in a way. I may or may not be in it if it happens, but at least there's still some fun if I can be there!
Pikachu: Pi pika pika! ["I'm with you!]
Me: That's a great spirit.
One year ago: SwitchCon
Two years ago: Private vs. Public Raids?
Three years ago: The Times They Are a-Switchin'
Saturday, January 25, 2020
Pokémon Go Event Rollup, 1/25/2020
Sometimes, it's worth it to make my Pokémon Go event rollup at an appropriate time, and that time happens to be now. As to why it is an appropriate time, I will explain that over the course of this rollup. However, I can also say that right now this rollup is also appropriate since most of the content of the events can be described as of today, which carries through to the end of the month. Therefore, there is really no need to delay writing up the rollup until a later time; it can be done right now, and what better time than this appropriate time.
In the first half of the month, there was the Hatchathon, which is a repeat of last year's event with a few twists. This year, Pokémon with party hats joined the fun, including costume newcomers Wurmple, Raticate, and Wobbuffet, all with the possibility of being Shiny like their other party hat kin of Pichu and Pikachu, though not with the possibility of evolution for the first one. The double Candy and Stardust for hatches were retained, along with a few other bonuses. This event is billed as a way to get some resolutions going, and I have to say I agree to some extent. Of course, with the party hat Pokémon in the fray, I can't help but think that it keeps the party going as well.
On the last weekend of the month - which happens to be right now - there is a Special Raid Weekend featuring the Eon duo of Latias and Latios. By now, their appearance in raids is sporadic and their Shiny forms have been released, which seemingly doesn't warrant them further mentions. But for the purpose of this rollup on this blog, they do deserve a mention as a potentially fleeting event, with only three days of appearance. At least I would still personally join in if I'm capable, which I'm not at the moment. For those who can and need to deal with them, as well as anyone who has even the slightest bit of interest, it's still worth it.
As for the thing that makes this time an appropriate time, that would concern the last significant event of the month. Today is indeed the Lunar New Year, and like previous occasions, it has its own event to celebrate things. Unlike last year, the theme this year is Pokémon that are colored red, certainly an important color for the celebrations. This makes it a perfect segue for Darumaka to enter the fray as its first introduction, as well as the red Gyarados as the Shiny form of the regular kind. This celebration will carry on through until the end of the month and a little of the beginning of the next one, but that should be fine for covering the celebrations that occur in this month in this post.
Today is indeed special due to the festive celebration of the Lunar New Year, but then so are the things that happened in Pokémon Go over the course of this month. All of them seem perfectly suited to start off this year with a bang, which is most likely the intent. With that, it does seem like this is the perfect time to make this rollup and not at any other time in the remaining time of this month. I can't ask that the events happen more appropriately in this month than in this manner, and perhaps so do others.
One year ago: Keep Calm and Carry On Researching
Two years ago: Performance Critique: ACC 2018 Single Performance
Three years ago: Keychains!
In the first half of the month, there was the Hatchathon, which is a repeat of last year's event with a few twists. This year, Pokémon with party hats joined the fun, including costume newcomers Wurmple, Raticate, and Wobbuffet, all with the possibility of being Shiny like their other party hat kin of Pichu and Pikachu, though not with the possibility of evolution for the first one. The double Candy and Stardust for hatches were retained, along with a few other bonuses. This event is billed as a way to get some resolutions going, and I have to say I agree to some extent. Of course, with the party hat Pokémon in the fray, I can't help but think that it keeps the party going as well.
On the last weekend of the month - which happens to be right now - there is a Special Raid Weekend featuring the Eon duo of Latias and Latios. By now, their appearance in raids is sporadic and their Shiny forms have been released, which seemingly doesn't warrant them further mentions. But for the purpose of this rollup on this blog, they do deserve a mention as a potentially fleeting event, with only three days of appearance. At least I would still personally join in if I'm capable, which I'm not at the moment. For those who can and need to deal with them, as well as anyone who has even the slightest bit of interest, it's still worth it.
As for the thing that makes this time an appropriate time, that would concern the last significant event of the month. Today is indeed the Lunar New Year, and like previous occasions, it has its own event to celebrate things. Unlike last year, the theme this year is Pokémon that are colored red, certainly an important color for the celebrations. This makes it a perfect segue for Darumaka to enter the fray as its first introduction, as well as the red Gyarados as the Shiny form of the regular kind. This celebration will carry on through until the end of the month and a little of the beginning of the next one, but that should be fine for covering the celebrations that occur in this month in this post.
Today is indeed special due to the festive celebration of the Lunar New Year, but then so are the things that happened in Pokémon Go over the course of this month. All of them seem perfectly suited to start off this year with a bang, which is most likely the intent. With that, it does seem like this is the perfect time to make this rollup and not at any other time in the remaining time of this month. I can't ask that the events happen more appropriately in this month than in this manner, and perhaps so do others.
One year ago: Keep Calm and Carry On Researching
Two years ago: Performance Critique: ACC 2018 Single Performance
Three years ago: Keychains!
Friday, January 24, 2020
Little Bits of the Pokémon Anime
As a major Pokémon fan, I'm also a great fan of its anime adaptation. However, lately, I find myself being unable to watch full episodes that aren't regularly scheduled, let alone extended features such as the movies. The good thing is that over time, short versions of the Pokémon anime have been created, which allow one to view even just a glimpse of the things that happen in this world. All of these happen to be neat in their own ways as well.
Though not exactly short, even by modern standards, the Pokémon shorts that became lead-ins to the early movies can indeed appropriately bear this description. At least the description is appropriate, considering what is intended to follow them. I've watched quite a few of these, and while the entire short is not really "short", the individual moments with all the Pokémon minus most of the human companions are short and sweet, adding up to the whole. And before one knows it, the entire short whizzes by as if it was really a short time. The "short" thing may be illusory in some ways, but it is true to some extent.
More recently, there are the Pokémon Generations shorts, and these are truly shorts by their length. I was going to save mentioning of these for a full post (and I will make one for it at some point), but a little blurb about this suffices for now. These shorts deal with some of the side stories of Pokémon adventures across different generations, and ones that fans might recognize after having played the games and even if the anime is not a primary consideration. I've also watched a few of these, though not all of them, and I'd like to watch pretty much all of them before I discuss them further. I can stand to do so.
The most recent short bit of the anime is something called Pokémon Twilight Wings, which are shorts that deal with different stories from the Galar region. As such, it is also relatively new. Given that the primary anime has had a bit of a rework to involve not only Galar but also other regions from the past, to see the present region featured more is admittedly nice, even if it's as shorts, which means not much to see. And in fact, that is the way it is now. Like with Pokémon Generations, I'll also deal with this more at a later time, when there is actually more as well.
My current affairs don't leave me with long amounts of time to watch anything that doesn't have a regular schedule. This unfortunately seems to be true for the main Pokémon anime episodes that I want and need to watch. Yet, at least I can take solace that some Pokémon anime features are short enough that I can at least squeeze a few of them into my current affairs. As short as they may be, they keep my attraction to Pokémon going long.
One year ago: Pokémon Go Event Rollup, 1/24/2019
Two years ago: Local Ex-Raid (and More), 1/24/2018
Three years ago: Electricity: Harness, Don't Exploit
Though not exactly short, even by modern standards, the Pokémon shorts that became lead-ins to the early movies can indeed appropriately bear this description. At least the description is appropriate, considering what is intended to follow them. I've watched quite a few of these, and while the entire short is not really "short", the individual moments with all the Pokémon minus most of the human companions are short and sweet, adding up to the whole. And before one knows it, the entire short whizzes by as if it was really a short time. The "short" thing may be illusory in some ways, but it is true to some extent.
More recently, there are the Pokémon Generations shorts, and these are truly shorts by their length. I was going to save mentioning of these for a full post (and I will make one for it at some point), but a little blurb about this suffices for now. These shorts deal with some of the side stories of Pokémon adventures across different generations, and ones that fans might recognize after having played the games and even if the anime is not a primary consideration. I've also watched a few of these, though not all of them, and I'd like to watch pretty much all of them before I discuss them further. I can stand to do so.
The most recent short bit of the anime is something called Pokémon Twilight Wings, which are shorts that deal with different stories from the Galar region. As such, it is also relatively new. Given that the primary anime has had a bit of a rework to involve not only Galar but also other regions from the past, to see the present region featured more is admittedly nice, even if it's as shorts, which means not much to see. And in fact, that is the way it is now. Like with Pokémon Generations, I'll also deal with this more at a later time, when there is actually more as well.
My current affairs don't leave me with long amounts of time to watch anything that doesn't have a regular schedule. This unfortunately seems to be true for the main Pokémon anime episodes that I want and need to watch. Yet, at least I can take solace that some Pokémon anime features are short enough that I can at least squeeze a few of them into my current affairs. As short as they may be, they keep my attraction to Pokémon going long.
One year ago: Pokémon Go Event Rollup, 1/24/2019
Two years ago: Local Ex-Raid (and More), 1/24/2018
Three years ago: Electricity: Harness, Don't Exploit
Thursday, January 23, 2020
New Pokémon Asia McDonald's Happy Meal Toys - Selections
It's always neat when new Pokémon fast food toys appear for chains such as the one indicated, and it's also always neat if they have interesting mechanisms. What is not so neat is if I as a Pokémon fan have problems in obtaining said toys, resulting in not at all at the very worst or just a few at the very best. All of these are certainly true for a new series of Pokémon toys that recently appeared and which I will discuss in this post.
This new series of Pokémon toys was introduced nearly a month ago, right before the year turned over. Like the series of toys that came before it, the series has eight distinct toys, and the toys are released in waves. The difference is that there were only two waves of toys (four toys each), and the waves in entirety lasted only two short weeks, which does not mean much time to get everything. I was surprised myself to find the toys being offered the very next day on one day I went into one of the chains, and then just as surprised when I found them all gone. With all my current affairs and needs, there wasn't much opportunity for me to obtain all the toys, and I ended up with only two of them.
As for the toys themselves, the current series of toys can be said to be action-oriented, in comparison to the previous series, which is more figure-like. The toys that I got are the "Pikachu Double Spinner" and "Attack! Eevee Swift" toys. Incidentally, they are both "spinning top" toys, and for fans of Japanese things like me, these could be construed as a "kind of lead-in" to a different series where such toys are dominant and are the fighting force themselves. The toys that I have are composed of two parts: the spinning tool, which contains the featured Pokémon, and the tops themselves. One attaches the tops to the spinning tool, spins the top to charge, then lets them go. The Pikachu toy is unique because there are two tops that can be stacked as they're spun, and the Eevee toy has the top released by a "key". The "Rotate Rowlet! Razor Leaf" toy seems to be a top toy as well, though I wasn't able to obtain it.
Others from this series that I am curious about and would like to have gotten are the "Pikachu Poké Ball Catch" and "Pikachu Attack Roller" toys. The former seems unique because of its trigger mechanism which I would like to try out for myself, and the latter is unique because it includes a paper target for use with the toy - something that does not seem to be common. The "Jump Out Popplio! Water Jet" toy looks to be interesting as well, even if it seems to be a simple ejector-type toy. Overall, the action orientation of this series of toys seems rather evident even if only visualizations suffice.
It still remains a neat thing when different series of Pokémon fast food toys appear such as this one. While the obtaining of the toys might be a problem, even given my current situation, to obtain even some of them is still a fun thing to do, especially for a Pokémon fan like me. And if the concept doesn't seem to be half bad, as with this current series, then they are definitely a keeper as much as anything else Pokémon.
One year ago: Islands and Continents
Two years ago: Passing the Guard
Three years ago: Two Pokémon Pillows
This new series of Pokémon toys was introduced nearly a month ago, right before the year turned over. Like the series of toys that came before it, the series has eight distinct toys, and the toys are released in waves. The difference is that there were only two waves of toys (four toys each), and the waves in entirety lasted only two short weeks, which does not mean much time to get everything. I was surprised myself to find the toys being offered the very next day on one day I went into one of the chains, and then just as surprised when I found them all gone. With all my current affairs and needs, there wasn't much opportunity for me to obtain all the toys, and I ended up with only two of them.
As for the toys themselves, the current series of toys can be said to be action-oriented, in comparison to the previous series, which is more figure-like. The toys that I got are the "Pikachu Double Spinner" and "Attack! Eevee Swift" toys. Incidentally, they are both "spinning top" toys, and for fans of Japanese things like me, these could be construed as a "kind of lead-in" to a different series where such toys are dominant and are the fighting force themselves. The toys that I have are composed of two parts: the spinning tool, which contains the featured Pokémon, and the tops themselves. One attaches the tops to the spinning tool, spins the top to charge, then lets them go. The Pikachu toy is unique because there are two tops that can be stacked as they're spun, and the Eevee toy has the top released by a "key". The "Rotate Rowlet! Razor Leaf" toy seems to be a top toy as well, though I wasn't able to obtain it.
Others from this series that I am curious about and would like to have gotten are the "Pikachu Poké Ball Catch" and "Pikachu Attack Roller" toys. The former seems unique because of its trigger mechanism which I would like to try out for myself, and the latter is unique because it includes a paper target for use with the toy - something that does not seem to be common. The "Jump Out Popplio! Water Jet" toy looks to be interesting as well, even if it seems to be a simple ejector-type toy. Overall, the action orientation of this series of toys seems rather evident even if only visualizations suffice.
It still remains a neat thing when different series of Pokémon fast food toys appear such as this one. While the obtaining of the toys might be a problem, even given my current situation, to obtain even some of them is still a fun thing to do, especially for a Pokémon fan like me. And if the concept doesn't seem to be half bad, as with this current series, then they are definitely a keeper as much as anything else Pokémon.
One year ago: Islands and Continents
Two years ago: Passing the Guard
Three years ago: Two Pokémon Pillows
Wednesday, January 22, 2020
On the "Invisible Forces"
I wanted to discuss about something else today, but I'm not ready yet for that, and there's a pressing issue that I have to address. And since two famous figures related to the workings of the issue have addressed it, I can address it too. Lately in Pokémon Go, there has been an uproar among players about something that is, in a way, an "old new thing". It concerns what I've on this blog addressed as "invisible forces" or what is better known as "spoofers" or by my raid group and others as "fliers". It's an issue that has persisted since pretty much the early days of the game and occasionally comes to a head, especially right now.
No matter by what name it is called, this issue involves the use of tools that trick the game to use different locations other than the one the GPS provides, a practice called "location spoofing", which is then simply shortened to "spoofer". As for the origins of the other term, this practice is likened to one playing the game while somehow floating high in the air, or perhaps riding on giant birds or flying creatures (as certain kinds of Pokémon are) - therefore, "flying" as "fliers". My term for it obviously comes from the fact that this leads to "Trainer forces" that are nowhere to be seen. And lately, this has been stirred up by a case of "pointing fingers" regarding its identification.
The figures who addressed this issue, of course, are not any ordinary figures. One of them is Brandon Tan, a superstar I and many other people are acquainted with. In his view, those who decide to pursue this path should ideally "play with their own kind" and not "mix things up", so to speak, because of the different capabilities afforded by playing this way. Meanwhile, a different kind of superstar, one who goes by the name of Kieng and who I've also mentioned in a different post on this blog, mentioned the issue, though not directly; the mention is in a Twitter tweet about "taking a leave" from matters related to the game, and it is heavily implied that this was due to the latest controversy involving the issue. It does seem controversial regardless.
For me personally, I do not condone this path. I consider Pokémon Go to be a social game, and this aspect would be very different in this path. In actuality, Niantic does not condone this path due to its meddlesome nature. Most importantly, SLA does not condone the path either, as it is considered unfair to say the least, nor does it condone "witch-hunting" of those who choose to take this path, especially with what may be an unreliable method of identification as has been recently discovered. With that, I can only say "proceed at your own risk" for those who are active in the path, to prepare for possible repercussions from inside and outside the game.
As I've noted, this issue is a longstanding one, which makes it a wonder that I've discussed this only now. But as with certain things, it seems to be better late than never for its discussion, especially with the recent controversy that flared up about it. I'm not one for dealing with this issue much, but for as long as Pokémon Go remains popular, it's an issue that will continue to pervade its gameplay. That seems to be quite apparent with the latest controversy that has arisen regarding it, as if it isn't already so from the beginning.
One year ago: Fan Art... for Me!
Two years ago: Costume and Cosplay Checklists
Three years ago: Pokémon World + Hero's Come Back = ...
No matter by what name it is called, this issue involves the use of tools that trick the game to use different locations other than the one the GPS provides, a practice called "location spoofing", which is then simply shortened to "spoofer". As for the origins of the other term, this practice is likened to one playing the game while somehow floating high in the air, or perhaps riding on giant birds or flying creatures (as certain kinds of Pokémon are) - therefore, "flying" as "fliers". My term for it obviously comes from the fact that this leads to "Trainer forces" that are nowhere to be seen. And lately, this has been stirred up by a case of "pointing fingers" regarding its identification.
The figures who addressed this issue, of course, are not any ordinary figures. One of them is Brandon Tan, a superstar I and many other people are acquainted with. In his view, those who decide to pursue this path should ideally "play with their own kind" and not "mix things up", so to speak, because of the different capabilities afforded by playing this way. Meanwhile, a different kind of superstar, one who goes by the name of Kieng and who I've also mentioned in a different post on this blog, mentioned the issue, though not directly; the mention is in a Twitter tweet about "taking a leave" from matters related to the game, and it is heavily implied that this was due to the latest controversy involving the issue. It does seem controversial regardless.
For me personally, I do not condone this path. I consider Pokémon Go to be a social game, and this aspect would be very different in this path. In actuality, Niantic does not condone this path due to its meddlesome nature. Most importantly, SLA does not condone the path either, as it is considered unfair to say the least, nor does it condone "witch-hunting" of those who choose to take this path, especially with what may be an unreliable method of identification as has been recently discovered. With that, I can only say "proceed at your own risk" for those who are active in the path, to prepare for possible repercussions from inside and outside the game.
As I've noted, this issue is a longstanding one, which makes it a wonder that I've discussed this only now. But as with certain things, it seems to be better late than never for its discussion, especially with the recent controversy that flared up about it. I'm not one for dealing with this issue much, but for as long as Pokémon Go remains popular, it's an issue that will continue to pervade its gameplay. That seems to be quite apparent with the latest controversy that has arisen regarding it, as if it isn't already so from the beginning.
One year ago: Fan Art... for Me!
Two years ago: Costume and Cosplay Checklists
Three years ago: Pokémon World + Hero's Come Back = ...
Tuesday, January 21, 2020
Getting Too Technical
Games are fun - and in particular, Pokémon games are fun. However, sometimes it may be possible to go too far with that fun and do something for accomplishing certain objectives that, while to some extent appears acceptably legit, would also be burdensome and not necessarily lead to those objectives being accomplished. This is what I call "getting too technical", and it might end up not being very fun at all.
I've observed first-hand what might seem to be one of these cases. In a Pokémon Go group that I observe, I noticed that some of the members were obsessed in attempting to make a new EX Raid Gym appear in their local area. However, this would be a very difficult task, as the desired spot for a new EX Raid Gym is in the vicinity of a few other Gyms, and the area is already teeming with other PokéStops. It was suggested that an existing Gym could be reported, allowing for a new Gym to be present. This seems like it could work, but then it might not, and the consequences could be far-reaching beyond changing the Gyms; one person in particular voiced opposition to this, and I agree.
The situation above could be considered much like, for example, claiming that in Pokémon Shuffle, great amounts of coins spent on a stage should have resulted in good results, when there is not really a guarantee that this would be so. It seems to be better to just "take them in stride" and move on. In the case of Pokémon Go, it would be better to try to improve areas with other nominations rather than to deal with the state of current places. Likewise in Shuffle, it may be better to just cut losses and deal with something else. This would be in line with the spirit voiced by the person.
This is admittedly a bit of a difficult topic to write about in relation to Pokémon, and the Pokémon Go example above would be pretty much the only realistic one. Even if it were, there is still one takeaway from it: games are still meant to be fun rather than too technical in nature. One should enjoy the fun rather than get too deeply into the (unnecessary) technical aspects. I would think this applies to pretty much any game, especially Pokémon games.
One year ago: Takara Tomy Arts Manmaru Pokémon Netsuke Sun & Moon - Torracat
Two years ago: Cosplay: AsiA Cosplay Competition 2018, Day 2
Three years ago: Dreams of Itasha
I've observed first-hand what might seem to be one of these cases. In a Pokémon Go group that I observe, I noticed that some of the members were obsessed in attempting to make a new EX Raid Gym appear in their local area. However, this would be a very difficult task, as the desired spot for a new EX Raid Gym is in the vicinity of a few other Gyms, and the area is already teeming with other PokéStops. It was suggested that an existing Gym could be reported, allowing for a new Gym to be present. This seems like it could work, but then it might not, and the consequences could be far-reaching beyond changing the Gyms; one person in particular voiced opposition to this, and I agree.
The situation above could be considered much like, for example, claiming that in Pokémon Shuffle, great amounts of coins spent on a stage should have resulted in good results, when there is not really a guarantee that this would be so. It seems to be better to just "take them in stride" and move on. In the case of Pokémon Go, it would be better to try to improve areas with other nominations rather than to deal with the state of current places. Likewise in Shuffle, it may be better to just cut losses and deal with something else. This would be in line with the spirit voiced by the person.
This is admittedly a bit of a difficult topic to write about in relation to Pokémon, and the Pokémon Go example above would be pretty much the only realistic one. Even if it were, there is still one takeaway from it: games are still meant to be fun rather than too technical in nature. One should enjoy the fun rather than get too deeply into the (unnecessary) technical aspects. I would think this applies to pretty much any game, especially Pokémon games.
One year ago: Takara Tomy Arts Manmaru Pokémon Netsuke Sun & Moon - Torracat
Two years ago: Cosplay: AsiA Cosplay Competition 2018, Day 2
Three years ago: Dreams of Itasha
Monday, January 20, 2020
Pokémon Go Community Day, 1/19/2020
Me: So, yes. That secondary Pokémon agenda from yesterday was to catch a lot of Pokémon. It's like that one time from two months ago.
Ash: This seems to happen a lot of times when you send me to events or conventions. Did you plan this?
Me: No, not really. But sometimes when they happen, they just happen at the same time. And when that happens, there's not much that I can do - for that matter, even you.
Ash: All right. I'm still happy to help out. So, yesterday, you asked me to catch a lot of Piplup. I like Piplup - even though it was not one of my Pokémon, Dawn likes it a lot.
Pikachu: Pika pika chu! ["Not just her!"]
Ash: Well, I guess everyone likes Piplup. One of your figure friends really likes it too.
Me: Indeed that person does. Now, this is a Water-type starter Pokémon, so I think you know what move it would have when it becomes an Empoleon.
Ash: Yeah! Hydro Cannon would be the move.
Me: Good stuff. The bonuses for yesterday were also like two months ago with Eggs hatching faster, but the Shiny thing is a given deal. How were things yesterday?
Ash: I did OK. This time the place had a few more PokéStops so I could get a few more items off of them and maybe another Piplup or two, but I didn't catch as many Piplup as I'd hoped and sometimes the item supply was really low. And I only caught two Shiny Piplup.
Me: You know, that's OK. I think part of the problem was dividing time between this and the event. Speaking of time, this happened in the late afternoon, right?
Ash: Yeah, it did! I guess it was neat that it happened then, but I was worried since you told me it could rain. It didn't, though, so it was safe, and the event was safe.
Me: What about Empoleon? How many did you evolve?
Ash: I evolved the Shiny one with the best stats, but the CP was low. I also evolved a couple that I think you need to power up for battle. So, three total.
Me: That's better than nothing. I can make this up over the course of this year... I think. What else did you do?
Ash: I met lots of other Trainers catching Piplup! We all had fun together. I shared with them your tips and tricks, and we even raided a Heatran and a Klink.
Pikachu: Pika chu, pika pika! ["Of course, lots of fun!"]
Me: That is the thing that should happen with this. Everyone should get together and have fun, even if the circumstances are limiting like this one was.
Ash: I did as much as I could. But I had fun doing it too!
Me: Why not. That is the best thing that could possibly happen no matter the results.
One year ago: Cosplay: Toys Week Season 2
Two years ago: Cosplay: AsiA Cosplay Competition 2018, Day 1
Three years ago: All in the Cards
Ash: This seems to happen a lot of times when you send me to events or conventions. Did you plan this?
Me: No, not really. But sometimes when they happen, they just happen at the same time. And when that happens, there's not much that I can do - for that matter, even you.
Ash: All right. I'm still happy to help out. So, yesterday, you asked me to catch a lot of Piplup. I like Piplup - even though it was not one of my Pokémon, Dawn likes it a lot.
Pikachu: Pika pika chu! ["Not just her!"]
Ash: Well, I guess everyone likes Piplup. One of your figure friends really likes it too.
Me: Indeed that person does. Now, this is a Water-type starter Pokémon, so I think you know what move it would have when it becomes an Empoleon.
Ash: Yeah! Hydro Cannon would be the move.
Me: Good stuff. The bonuses for yesterday were also like two months ago with Eggs hatching faster, but the Shiny thing is a given deal. How were things yesterday?
Ash: I did OK. This time the place had a few more PokéStops so I could get a few more items off of them and maybe another Piplup or two, but I didn't catch as many Piplup as I'd hoped and sometimes the item supply was really low. And I only caught two Shiny Piplup.
Me: You know, that's OK. I think part of the problem was dividing time between this and the event. Speaking of time, this happened in the late afternoon, right?
Ash: Yeah, it did! I guess it was neat that it happened then, but I was worried since you told me it could rain. It didn't, though, so it was safe, and the event was safe.
Me: What about Empoleon? How many did you evolve?
Ash: I evolved the Shiny one with the best stats, but the CP was low. I also evolved a couple that I think you need to power up for battle. So, three total.
Me: That's better than nothing. I can make this up over the course of this year... I think. What else did you do?
Ash: I met lots of other Trainers catching Piplup! We all had fun together. I shared with them your tips and tricks, and we even raided a Heatran and a Klink.
Pikachu: Pika chu, pika pika! ["Of course, lots of fun!"]
Me: That is the thing that should happen with this. Everyone should get together and have fun, even if the circumstances are limiting like this one was.
Ash: I did as much as I could. But I had fun doing it too!
Me: Why not. That is the best thing that could possibly happen no matter the results.
One year ago: Cosplay: Toys Week Season 2
Two years ago: Cosplay: AsiA Cosplay Competition 2018, Day 1
Three years ago: All in the Cards
Sunday, January 19, 2020
Cosplay: Cosplay on the Street
Me: This one should be a little different.
Ash: How so?
Me: Typically, when I send you to events or conventions, especially ones around my area there is an expectation of certain competitions. This one has none of that; this one is to just relax and show off. Consider it a break from what I usually want you to do.
Ash: Hey, I like that! I'm up for it.
Pikachu: Pika pika chu. ["I like that too."]
Me: Great, huh? But first, I need to send you to make that hair of yours at least look a little better, for your sake and my own sake. Luckily, the place is right next to the event location. My trusty hairstylist should be able to help you with that.
Ash: OK, sure. I could always use some help with that.
Me: Did you get it done?
Ash: Yeah! I think it looks good now. So... wait, the event is in the park from some weeks ago!
Me: Yes, it is. The intent is for you to gather up there with the others, talk about things, and just have fun a bit. Did you do that?
Ash: Yeah, I told them about who you are and why you keep sending me. There was a ninja teacher character, and he spoke of you and me highly. I think we're really welcomed, so we have to keep it that way.
Pikachu: Pika pika! ["We have to."]
Me: How about the "fun" part? What did you do?
Ash: We played charades with some of the equipment from the others. We took them like we didn't know about what they are and we imagined what they could be. You should have seen it - it was unique and everyone had a hoot!
Me: That should have been lots of fun. And, I confess, you should have had fun with a secondary Pokémon agenda I sent you to do. Did you do it?
Ash: Well, of course. I'd do it for Pokémon and you. The results should be OK for you.
Me: Excellent. We'll discuss the details in tomorrow's post. What else did you do for fun there?
Ash: I met other people who did what you told me to do, and we met up for a bit. Then I spent the rest of the day with the others. I wanted to more, but it was getting late and I wasn't up for more with what happened today, so I went back to you.
Pikachu: Pika. Pika pika chu. ["Yeah. So many things happened."]
Me: That's OK. As for this day, what do you think overall?
Ash: It was fun! But it turned out to be a lot, also with that second thing you wanted me to do. Maybe next time this can happen on its own. It was also a bit later than when it was supposed to start because most everyone was late.
Me: I hope so. This deserves another chance with a better scheduling for different "ends of the bargain", so to speak. If that happens, then we should be in it too.
Ash: I agree! Why not?
Pikachu: Pika! ["Yes!"]
One year ago: Peace
Two years ago: Suspending My Disbelief
Three years ago: Ash, Satoshi, or... Ali?
Ash: How so?
Me: Typically, when I send you to events or conventions, especially ones around my area there is an expectation of certain competitions. This one has none of that; this one is to just relax and show off. Consider it a break from what I usually want you to do.
Ash: Hey, I like that! I'm up for it.
Pikachu: Pika pika chu. ["I like that too."]
Me: Great, huh? But first, I need to send you to make that hair of yours at least look a little better, for your sake and my own sake. Luckily, the place is right next to the event location. My trusty hairstylist should be able to help you with that.
Ash: OK, sure. I could always use some help with that.
Me: Did you get it done?
Ash: Yeah! I think it looks good now. So... wait, the event is in the park from some weeks ago!
Me: Yes, it is. The intent is for you to gather up there with the others, talk about things, and just have fun a bit. Did you do that?
Ash: Yeah, I told them about who you are and why you keep sending me. There was a ninja teacher character, and he spoke of you and me highly. I think we're really welcomed, so we have to keep it that way.
Pikachu: Pika pika! ["We have to."]
Me: How about the "fun" part? What did you do?
Ash: We played charades with some of the equipment from the others. We took them like we didn't know about what they are and we imagined what they could be. You should have seen it - it was unique and everyone had a hoot!
Me: That should have been lots of fun. And, I confess, you should have had fun with a secondary Pokémon agenda I sent you to do. Did you do it?
Ash: Well, of course. I'd do it for Pokémon and you. The results should be OK for you.
Me: Excellent. We'll discuss the details in tomorrow's post. What else did you do for fun there?
Ash: I met other people who did what you told me to do, and we met up for a bit. Then I spent the rest of the day with the others. I wanted to more, but it was getting late and I wasn't up for more with what happened today, so I went back to you.
Pikachu: Pika. Pika pika chu. ["Yeah. So many things happened."]
Me: That's OK. As for this day, what do you think overall?
Ash: It was fun! But it turned out to be a lot, also with that second thing you wanted me to do. Maybe next time this can happen on its own. It was also a bit later than when it was supposed to start because most everyone was late.
Me: I hope so. This deserves another chance with a better scheduling for different "ends of the bargain", so to speak. If that happens, then we should be in it too.
Ash: I agree! Why not?
Pikachu: Pika! ["Yes!"]
One year ago: Peace
Two years ago: Suspending My Disbelief
Three years ago: Ash, Satoshi, or... Ali?
Saturday, January 18, 2020
Tournament: Raid Group Fusion Cup
Well, yes. That first gathering I discussed yesterday is in the form of a Pokémon Go tournament with this month's SLA theme. Aside from being competitions, I consider tournaments as a way to get in touch with others, particularly those who I only see very rarely. That, and for this one in particular, I haven't been able to participate since November, which makes this one somewhat important, especially as I was open to participate in it. Thus, it was time to meet up and battle down.
At first, I thought that this would be a comfy tournament with around 20 or so participants, but it turned out to be closer to 30, as it turned out even Trainers from faraway areas joined the festivities, including a member of my figure group. What this means is that tournaments like these, especially if they're promoted online through the SLA, as all tournaments there should be to all its members. I suppose that I and my raid group should repay the favor by dropping by their locales and participating when a tournament takes place there.
This tournament took place at the same location as November's tournament, but the "vibe" was different. Instead of using the provided tables and chairs, it became mostly a lax affair with participants sitting on the (carpeted) floor or on provided cushions. Regardless, the competition remained fierce. No one ended up winning all matches or even losing all, and the overall winner had to be decided by tiebreaking points, as eight Trainers won the same number of matches. The winners were pretty diverse in terms of regional representation as well.
As for myself, my results weren't good, but weren't too bad as well. I lost all my first match battles, won all my second, lost all my third, won one out of three in the fourth, and received a bye on the fifth. I seem to have problems in prediction and execution, even with a well-formed team based on certain rules of thumb. This seems to be a total challenge regardless of what I do, even for some things on this blog. It does get frustrating at times. I ended up sixth out of the group of two-win Trainers and ninth from the bottom overall.
To enliven the festivities, there were a couple of side challenges that involved guessing the cry sounds of Pokémon, which are also present in Pokémon Go in different circumstances. The first sound was for Pansage, which was guessed by my fellow figure group member. The second sound was for Krabby, which was guessed by... me! It was a characteristic sound, though it took me a bit of time to recall. Both of us received prizes in the form of a Pokémon of our choice, powered up as needed and given a second Charged move. As Krabby was a Pokémon that Ash had used, I chose another Pokémon that Ash had used, though I'm not interested in detailing it now. The results seem to be usable for PvP, though I'm not sure when I will be able to test this. This makes for a good "birthday present" as well.
Even with the competitive quality that Pokémon has, it can make for appreciably social affairs as well. This tournament was just that; it was both incredibly competitive and incredibly social. Many of my raid group members got in touch with each other, and we all got in touch with Trainers from different places as well. That seems to outweigh any results that occur from the execution. I don't know if the others would concur on this, but this is the truism that I see here and with Pokémon in general.
One year ago: Rivalries
Two years ago: (Almost) A Pokémon Party
Three years ago: Pokémon Art Academy - More Than Just Pokémon Art
At first, I thought that this would be a comfy tournament with around 20 or so participants, but it turned out to be closer to 30, as it turned out even Trainers from faraway areas joined the festivities, including a member of my figure group. What this means is that tournaments like these, especially if they're promoted online through the SLA, as all tournaments there should be to all its members. I suppose that I and my raid group should repay the favor by dropping by their locales and participating when a tournament takes place there.
This tournament took place at the same location as November's tournament, but the "vibe" was different. Instead of using the provided tables and chairs, it became mostly a lax affair with participants sitting on the (carpeted) floor or on provided cushions. Regardless, the competition remained fierce. No one ended up winning all matches or even losing all, and the overall winner had to be decided by tiebreaking points, as eight Trainers won the same number of matches. The winners were pretty diverse in terms of regional representation as well.
As for myself, my results weren't good, but weren't too bad as well. I lost all my first match battles, won all my second, lost all my third, won one out of three in the fourth, and received a bye on the fifth. I seem to have problems in prediction and execution, even with a well-formed team based on certain rules of thumb. This seems to be a total challenge regardless of what I do, even for some things on this blog. It does get frustrating at times. I ended up sixth out of the group of two-win Trainers and ninth from the bottom overall.
To enliven the festivities, there were a couple of side challenges that involved guessing the cry sounds of Pokémon, which are also present in Pokémon Go in different circumstances. The first sound was for Pansage, which was guessed by my fellow figure group member. The second sound was for Krabby, which was guessed by... me! It was a characteristic sound, though it took me a bit of time to recall. Both of us received prizes in the form of a Pokémon of our choice, powered up as needed and given a second Charged move. As Krabby was a Pokémon that Ash had used, I chose another Pokémon that Ash had used, though I'm not interested in detailing it now. The results seem to be usable for PvP, though I'm not sure when I will be able to test this. This makes for a good "birthday present" as well.
Even with the competitive quality that Pokémon has, it can make for appreciably social affairs as well. This tournament was just that; it was both incredibly competitive and incredibly social. Many of my raid group members got in touch with each other, and we all got in touch with Trainers from different places as well. That seems to outweigh any results that occur from the execution. I don't know if the others would concur on this, but this is the truism that I see here and with Pokémon in general.
One year ago: Rivalries
Two years ago: (Almost) A Pokémon Party
Three years ago: Pokémon Art Academy - More Than Just Pokémon Art
Friday, January 17, 2020
Always Together
It's January 17, and it is obviously my birthday as evident in my posts from previous years below. Now, I had been wondering about what to write for this occasion, which has become "standard" in a way. After wondering for a bit, I've settled on the topic of "togetherness", which has its own intricate links to Pokémon, and it's also a frequently-discussed topic here on this blog when it comes to all things related to this. The topic seems to be even more pertinent at the moment, which makes it worth discussing along with the keyword of "always"; it's a quality that is drifting across fantasy and reality as of yet.
Early this morning, I went on a "gym tour" with one of my Pokémon Go friends. It is by now a frequent occasion due to my partially limited mobility, only today it was a little more special due to the current occasion. It seems like something that will persist for some time, at least for as long as my friend is willing and able. There have been some developments that suggest that things may be going in a new direction for my friend, but that may take some time to happen. Before that happens and we can still be physically together, it's worth it to savor the moments. But even after the moment has passed, at least the mementos remain with me. There is that sense of always-togetherness.
Of togetherness, I'm part of another group of people who used to gather every so often, including one time two years ago with a sort-of-but-not-quite Pokémon party for this occasion, as well as others. It has been a long time since we last gathered, and the reason is simple: we're all over the place now, which no longer permits these gatherings to be held. Even so, every so often some of us continue to show off something Pokémon, which may at least indicate the desire to somehow gather again. I don't know how this might work out, but there could always be that possibility. At least in spirit, we may be "always together".
Speaking of gatherings, I am due for a couple of them this weekend, and they'll likely involve Pokémon to different degrees. One of them is tomorrow, as something that does involve me and others in concerted efforts that have to be performed to test each other. The other is the next day, and it's actually a double gathering that both primarily involves me as a Pokémon representative and me as a simple participant. Because they happen, it's also right for me to be in them, and this therefore invokes always-togetherness.
Each year, the circumstances of my birthday are always different. What never seems to change is that I meet people day in and day out each year, whether or not this is related to Pokémon or otherwise. But when it comes to the former, there seems to be always something that potentially creates an aura for togetherness that can stand to persist beyond a specific moment. We may be separate, but we are also together, always. I close this year's post with a Pokémon song that pertains to this spirit:
Together forever
No matter how long
From now until the end of time
We'll be together and you can be sure
That forever and a day
That's how long we'll stay
Together and forever more
-- "Together Forever", J. P. Hartmann
Yeah, that just about sums it up. Happy birthday to me.
One year ago: Wonderful Opportunities
Two years ago: 30 Going on 10... Or Something Like It
Three years ago: A Pokémon Party?
Early this morning, I went on a "gym tour" with one of my Pokémon Go friends. It is by now a frequent occasion due to my partially limited mobility, only today it was a little more special due to the current occasion. It seems like something that will persist for some time, at least for as long as my friend is willing and able. There have been some developments that suggest that things may be going in a new direction for my friend, but that may take some time to happen. Before that happens and we can still be physically together, it's worth it to savor the moments. But even after the moment has passed, at least the mementos remain with me. There is that sense of always-togetherness.
Of togetherness, I'm part of another group of people who used to gather every so often, including one time two years ago with a sort-of-but-not-quite Pokémon party for this occasion, as well as others. It has been a long time since we last gathered, and the reason is simple: we're all over the place now, which no longer permits these gatherings to be held. Even so, every so often some of us continue to show off something Pokémon, which may at least indicate the desire to somehow gather again. I don't know how this might work out, but there could always be that possibility. At least in spirit, we may be "always together".
Speaking of gatherings, I am due for a couple of them this weekend, and they'll likely involve Pokémon to different degrees. One of them is tomorrow, as something that does involve me and others in concerted efforts that have to be performed to test each other. The other is the next day, and it's actually a double gathering that both primarily involves me as a Pokémon representative and me as a simple participant. Because they happen, it's also right for me to be in them, and this therefore invokes always-togetherness.
Each year, the circumstances of my birthday are always different. What never seems to change is that I meet people day in and day out each year, whether or not this is related to Pokémon or otherwise. But when it comes to the former, there seems to be always something that potentially creates an aura for togetherness that can stand to persist beyond a specific moment. We may be separate, but we are also together, always. I close this year's post with a Pokémon song that pertains to this spirit:
Together forever
No matter how long
From now until the end of time
We'll be together and you can be sure
That forever and a day
That's how long we'll stay
Together and forever more
-- "Together Forever", J. P. Hartmann
Yeah, that just about sums it up. Happy birthday to me.
One year ago: Wonderful Opportunities
Two years ago: 30 Going on 10... Or Something Like It
Three years ago: A Pokémon Party?
Thursday, January 16, 2020
Only Women Like You
Only a woman can love you so much
Give you her life and give you her trust
Not any woman can do what you do
Only a woman like you
-- "Only a Woman Like You", Michael Bolton
Every so often I think about people in the Pokémon world who are of the opposite gender as I am, me being male and them being female. One such time was in October three years ago with a certain song. And right now, it would be with this song. Actually, I've thought about women in Pokémon with this song for quite some time, as this song has been around for quite some time. It's just that this song recently came back to my attention, so it becomes a bit of a "rediscovery", one that I think is worth discussing.
True to most pop songs about women, and especially many songs from this particular singer, this one is about love. Much of the song describes the qualities of a woman (or women) that make them lovable, particularly as regarded by a man. In my mind, I imagine these qualities as being applicable to the women and their Pokémon, while also sometimes still being applicable for men as well. It's romantic for all parties concerned, whether on the axis of people to people or people to Pokémon.
As noted above, I've known this song for quite some time; in fact, I've known this song ever since it was released in 2002, when Pokémon was barely over half a decade old, which also means that by now this song is almost two decades old. Even way back then, this song managed to conjure up associated images with Pokémon as above, though limited. Time has passed, and since then there have been many more female characters in Pokémon, which makes the evoked images even more vivid.
With such vivid evoked images, the natural thing to do (and the step to take) is to make an AMV with the associated images from Pokémon and using this song. The chosen images would represent the qualities as expressed in the song. This would be a great project for me to accomplish, given lots of time, ample amounts of resources, and possibilities of experimentation. But being that I have none of these at the moment, I'm forced to shelve it until such time I can undertake this.
Nevertheless, the image involving women in the world of Pokémon is a strong one, with all of the characters that have been present from the beginning and up to today. The prior song and this song seem to visualize that image somewhat well. It's also an image that keeps "evolving" as more and more women or female characters in Pokémon appear. Given the age of this song (and maybe the prior song as well), I'm sure this visual will remain an often-evoked one, or maybe even timeless.
One year ago: Pokémon Conversations
Two years ago: Be the Best... or Be Different?
Three years ago: My Pokémon Anime Epoch
Give you her life and give you her trust
Not any woman can do what you do
Only a woman like you
-- "Only a Woman Like You", Michael Bolton
Every so often I think about people in the Pokémon world who are of the opposite gender as I am, me being male and them being female. One such time was in October three years ago with a certain song. And right now, it would be with this song. Actually, I've thought about women in Pokémon with this song for quite some time, as this song has been around for quite some time. It's just that this song recently came back to my attention, so it becomes a bit of a "rediscovery", one that I think is worth discussing.
True to most pop songs about women, and especially many songs from this particular singer, this one is about love. Much of the song describes the qualities of a woman (or women) that make them lovable, particularly as regarded by a man. In my mind, I imagine these qualities as being applicable to the women and their Pokémon, while also sometimes still being applicable for men as well. It's romantic for all parties concerned, whether on the axis of people to people or people to Pokémon.
As noted above, I've known this song for quite some time; in fact, I've known this song ever since it was released in 2002, when Pokémon was barely over half a decade old, which also means that by now this song is almost two decades old. Even way back then, this song managed to conjure up associated images with Pokémon as above, though limited. Time has passed, and since then there have been many more female characters in Pokémon, which makes the evoked images even more vivid.
With such vivid evoked images, the natural thing to do (and the step to take) is to make an AMV with the associated images from Pokémon and using this song. The chosen images would represent the qualities as expressed in the song. This would be a great project for me to accomplish, given lots of time, ample amounts of resources, and possibilities of experimentation. But being that I have none of these at the moment, I'm forced to shelve it until such time I can undertake this.
Nevertheless, the image involving women in the world of Pokémon is a strong one, with all of the characters that have been present from the beginning and up to today. The prior song and this song seem to visualize that image somewhat well. It's also an image that keeps "evolving" as more and more women or female characters in Pokémon appear. Given the age of this song (and maybe the prior song as well), I'm sure this visual will remain an often-evoked one, or maybe even timeless.
One year ago: Pokémon Conversations
Two years ago: Be the Best... or Be Different?
Three years ago: My Pokémon Anime Epoch
Wednesday, January 15, 2020
After Tournament, Because of Tournament
Close to three years ago, I covered - actually, followed up - on a VGC tournament that I couldn't go to, but I contributed to in order to help its success. Since that time, the PvP feature of Pokémon Go has taken off and its tournaments are in full swing. In fact, one such tournament had taken place three days ago while there was another thing going on. It was also this tournament that I hinted about in a post about some faulty things. That post was somewhat tending towards a cryptic nature, so now that the tournament is done and gone, it's worth it to explain the things in that post a little less cryptically.
First is about the certain star figure. When Pokémon Go is safely involved, especially in Southeast Asia, only one person can be in the quiver, and that person is Brandon Tan from Singapore, a guy who I've met and others met. The story is that like the previous tournament above, he also wanted in; at one point, his Trainer ID was also seen on the tournament pre-registration list. However, as much as Pokémon Go is intricately linked to him, apparently Niantic as the developer of the game is also likewise, from what I've been told. And while Niantic had given blessings to Sunday's tournament as an official Pokémon one, it seems that his presence might "steal the thunder" from Pokémon itself, and therefore he was dissuaded from participating. It's hard to say what would have happened if he was still allowed to participate, but then that may not be for anyone to know.
Second is about me as a "star" myself. As evident from the happenings of that previous tournament, being the really big thing then, it was complemented by a different kind of happening and marred by yet another kind. It was just as much a fault-and-despair-filled weekend as it was one filled with greatness and joy. For that reason, I chose to restrict myself; as it so happens, I had my own missions to be accomplished around the weekend, so there wasn't much of a loss. Even so, if I could stand to go, then I would indeed go. My choice to restrict myself will last for some time until I've determined that it becomes appropriate for me to be able to take part comfortably again.
Third is the last "star" element, this one being Pokémon Go itself. In another post, I've discussed an example of something greatly new about it followed by a new fault in it. Even with that, though, the game remains popular, and so is its PvP mechanism. This particular tournament, in fact, was to be established as another record-breaking one. While it may not have measured to that, at least interest remained high. What remains to be seen is if this can actually become established later on, but for now, this should indicate the amount of impact that Pokémon Go has, officially even, and lead to something else greater soon.
Thus, as with that VGC tournament from years ago, I have followed up this tournament with a post about it. More specifically, I have clarified the initial post that regards it or at least its elements. The tournament remains a happening that I may have been able to contribute by participating in, which is more or less the same for others, though evidently quite a few things got in the way of the "stars". The hope is that at some point in time, those things will make way for the stars to truly shine on greater Pokémon Go success, as well as that of Pokémon in general.
One year ago: Keeping Up with VGC
Two years ago: Here Comes an Ex-Raid
Three years ago: Cosplay: AsiA Cosplay Competition, Day 2
First is about the certain star figure. When Pokémon Go is safely involved, especially in Southeast Asia, only one person can be in the quiver, and that person is Brandon Tan from Singapore, a guy who I've met and others met. The story is that like the previous tournament above, he also wanted in; at one point, his Trainer ID was also seen on the tournament pre-registration list. However, as much as Pokémon Go is intricately linked to him, apparently Niantic as the developer of the game is also likewise, from what I've been told. And while Niantic had given blessings to Sunday's tournament as an official Pokémon one, it seems that his presence might "steal the thunder" from Pokémon itself, and therefore he was dissuaded from participating. It's hard to say what would have happened if he was still allowed to participate, but then that may not be for anyone to know.
Second is about me as a "star" myself. As evident from the happenings of that previous tournament, being the really big thing then, it was complemented by a different kind of happening and marred by yet another kind. It was just as much a fault-and-despair-filled weekend as it was one filled with greatness and joy. For that reason, I chose to restrict myself; as it so happens, I had my own missions to be accomplished around the weekend, so there wasn't much of a loss. Even so, if I could stand to go, then I would indeed go. My choice to restrict myself will last for some time until I've determined that it becomes appropriate for me to be able to take part comfortably again.
Third is the last "star" element, this one being Pokémon Go itself. In another post, I've discussed an example of something greatly new about it followed by a new fault in it. Even with that, though, the game remains popular, and so is its PvP mechanism. This particular tournament, in fact, was to be established as another record-breaking one. While it may not have measured to that, at least interest remained high. What remains to be seen is if this can actually become established later on, but for now, this should indicate the amount of impact that Pokémon Go has, officially even, and lead to something else greater soon.
Thus, as with that VGC tournament from years ago, I have followed up this tournament with a post about it. More specifically, I have clarified the initial post that regards it or at least its elements. The tournament remains a happening that I may have been able to contribute by participating in, which is more or less the same for others, though evidently quite a few things got in the way of the "stars". The hope is that at some point in time, those things will make way for the stars to truly shine on greater Pokémon Go success, as well as that of Pokémon in general.
One year ago: Keeping Up with VGC
Two years ago: Here Comes an Ex-Raid
Three years ago: Cosplay: AsiA Cosplay Competition, Day 2
Tuesday, January 14, 2020
Fusion without Confusion
In culinary arts, the term "fusion" refers to a blending of specific kinds of cuisines, often being from specific regions of the world. Some people approve of these kinds of "fusions" as they create something new, while others are not so fond of them because they might seem uninspired and confusing, giving rise to the term "fusion confusion". Meanwhile, in the realm of Pokémon, "fusion" can popularly refer to dual-type Pokémon with their blend of two types. They too are great, but can also be confounding or confusing at times. And they happen to be the subject of the January theme for the Silph League Arena for Pokémon Go, which is appropriately titled "Fusion".
As expected, the team requirement is obvious: all the Pokémon must have two types, and no single-type Pokémon are allowed. However, as with the most recent Silph League Arena themes, it is not that simple. There are four species that cannot be used or are banned: Dewgong, Azumarill, Medicham, and any form of Wormadam. As well, there is another unique exclusion restriction, which is that no Pokémon with a second Charged Move that costs over 50,000 Stardust may be used, even if its related evolution forms are cheaper; only the forms with 50,000 Stardust or cheaper second Charged Move may be used. This last restriction may make things kind of tricky - even, "confusing" - so the "approval list" is back into play. Like those of the culinary kind, it may be "confusing", but it shouldn't have to be.
The Stardust cost restriction seems to be actually reasonable. This is because in earlier themes, Trainers may have invested more than they shouldn't have or need. The restriction therefore is to assist in that, in order to find cheap alternatives for dual-type battlers for this and future Silph League Arena themes. And, since the GO Battle League is coming very soon, it may assist in the preparatory efforts for that, at least in the Great League portion of the program. Trainers will still need to do more to prepare, but at least it's a start. Likewise, it may help avoid "confusion".
Though the list of approved species isn't very large, it may still seem daunting, especially with inclusion of many Alolan forms and even Galarian Weezing, to date being the only one of its kind. That said, some of the most popular species for battling have been identified, and this can serve as a starting point for teams. As with any team, one will have to consider balances of capabilities and counters, and the identification may be quite helpful. The rest is up to the Trainers to see how they can get over the "confusion" that may occur, and then make successes.
In a way, this theme is a way of going "back to basics" for dealing with a select set of unique Pokémon as well as minimizing spent resources for them. With the preparation results being usable not only now but also later on, it becomes something potentially useful to go through right now. Pokémon has its own fascinating cohort of "fusions", many of which are either remarkable or enigmatic, kind of like similar "fusions" in the realm of food. At the least, by dealing with them as through this theme, there is the potential to sidestep some of that enigma and obtain inspiration, so that there may be "fusion" without the "confusion".
One year ago: Pokémon Theme Park Ideas
Two years ago: Playing the Meta Game
Three years ago: Cosplay: AsiA Cosplay Competition, Day 1
As expected, the team requirement is obvious: all the Pokémon must have two types, and no single-type Pokémon are allowed. However, as with the most recent Silph League Arena themes, it is not that simple. There are four species that cannot be used or are banned: Dewgong, Azumarill, Medicham, and any form of Wormadam. As well, there is another unique exclusion restriction, which is that no Pokémon with a second Charged Move that costs over 50,000 Stardust may be used, even if its related evolution forms are cheaper; only the forms with 50,000 Stardust or cheaper second Charged Move may be used. This last restriction may make things kind of tricky - even, "confusing" - so the "approval list" is back into play. Like those of the culinary kind, it may be "confusing", but it shouldn't have to be.
The Stardust cost restriction seems to be actually reasonable. This is because in earlier themes, Trainers may have invested more than they shouldn't have or need. The restriction therefore is to assist in that, in order to find cheap alternatives for dual-type battlers for this and future Silph League Arena themes. And, since the GO Battle League is coming very soon, it may assist in the preparatory efforts for that, at least in the Great League portion of the program. Trainers will still need to do more to prepare, but at least it's a start. Likewise, it may help avoid "confusion".
Though the list of approved species isn't very large, it may still seem daunting, especially with inclusion of many Alolan forms and even Galarian Weezing, to date being the only one of its kind. That said, some of the most popular species for battling have been identified, and this can serve as a starting point for teams. As with any team, one will have to consider balances of capabilities and counters, and the identification may be quite helpful. The rest is up to the Trainers to see how they can get over the "confusion" that may occur, and then make successes.
In a way, this theme is a way of going "back to basics" for dealing with a select set of unique Pokémon as well as minimizing spent resources for them. With the preparation results being usable not only now but also later on, it becomes something potentially useful to go through right now. Pokémon has its own fascinating cohort of "fusions", many of which are either remarkable or enigmatic, kind of like similar "fusions" in the realm of food. At the least, by dealing with them as through this theme, there is the potential to sidestep some of that enigma and obtain inspiration, so that there may be "fusion" without the "confusion".
One year ago: Pokémon Theme Park Ideas
Two years ago: Playing the Meta Game
Three years ago: Cosplay: AsiA Cosplay Competition, Day 1
Monday, January 13, 2020
Premier Ball Hanging Ornament
Over a year ago, I detailed about some well-known Poké Ball ornaments and a particular one that I had gotten at that time. Those are great ornaments to be sure, and I even used the Poké Ball version in my cosplay. The maker of these ornaments seem to think so as well, which must be why the maker decided to expand the set and include one more: the Premier Ball, as evident from the title of this post. I obtained this one as part of yesterday's theme event festivities, as noted by Ash and with his aid, and I have to say that it is great as well.
The ball is made up of similar materials as the other members of the hanging ornament: felt for the midsection of the ball, fabric for the outside of the ball (and obviously stuffing for the inside of the ball), a little thread for its upper hook, and the chain for it to be able to be hanged. Evidently, a Premier Ball is simple in its appearance - perhaps even simpler than an ordinary Poké Ball - so it would not take a lot more to craft this ball, only two white halves and extra red felt for the midsection. Thus, existing materials can be cleverly used for making this with only a little extra effort.
This Premier Ball is a relatively recent introduction. Those who are not exposed too deeply into Pokémon would probably not quite recognize this particular kind of Poké Ball. However, if they play Pokémon Go, then they would likely recognize it, as this is the kind of Poké Ball that are given in raids to capture the raid boss (and most recently, Team GO Rocket invasions for their Shadow Pokémon) instead of the other kinds of Poké Balls. I would think the maker was informed of this Poké Ball by a player or by playing the game itself, making it possible to craft one.
The maker seems to have gotten fame for this and the other kinds of Poké Balls. They're of exceptional quality and look simply neat, as I can attest with my usage of it in my cosplay. To that end, this kind of Poké Ball has a tag attached to it indicating the maker's name and origin. There wasn't time to check the other displayed types of balls, but I would think that by now this would be true for the rest of the balls, so that the recognition is maintained. It is, in any case, a good move to make, similar in vein to what I do with cosplay cards. The attribution makes perfect sense.
This expansion to the lineup of hanging ball ornaments is indeed rather neat. It shows that the maker has a grasp on the situation and their perceived quality, leading to the creation of this expansion. While it may still be reserved to fans who are more aware of Pokémon things in and out, it's still neat to be able to cater for those fans, especially if it can be accomplished with what is already present and not much more effort, and leads to further recognition. That's win-win for everyone.
One year ago: Pokémon Go Community Day + Local EX Raid, 1/13/2019
Two years ago: My Pokémon Show
Three years ago: Pokémon and Cosplay
The ball is made up of similar materials as the other members of the hanging ornament: felt for the midsection of the ball, fabric for the outside of the ball (and obviously stuffing for the inside of the ball), a little thread for its upper hook, and the chain for it to be able to be hanged. Evidently, a Premier Ball is simple in its appearance - perhaps even simpler than an ordinary Poké Ball - so it would not take a lot more to craft this ball, only two white halves and extra red felt for the midsection. Thus, existing materials can be cleverly used for making this with only a little extra effort.
This Premier Ball is a relatively recent introduction. Those who are not exposed too deeply into Pokémon would probably not quite recognize this particular kind of Poké Ball. However, if they play Pokémon Go, then they would likely recognize it, as this is the kind of Poké Ball that are given in raids to capture the raid boss (and most recently, Team GO Rocket invasions for their Shadow Pokémon) instead of the other kinds of Poké Balls. I would think the maker was informed of this Poké Ball by a player or by playing the game itself, making it possible to craft one.
The maker seems to have gotten fame for this and the other kinds of Poké Balls. They're of exceptional quality and look simply neat, as I can attest with my usage of it in my cosplay. To that end, this kind of Poké Ball has a tag attached to it indicating the maker's name and origin. There wasn't time to check the other displayed types of balls, but I would think that by now this would be true for the rest of the balls, so that the recognition is maintained. It is, in any case, a good move to make, similar in vein to what I do with cosplay cards. The attribution makes perfect sense.
This expansion to the lineup of hanging ball ornaments is indeed rather neat. It shows that the maker has a grasp on the situation and their perceived quality, leading to the creation of this expansion. While it may still be reserved to fans who are more aware of Pokémon things in and out, it's still neat to be able to cater for those fans, especially if it can be accomplished with what is already present and not much more effort, and leads to further recognition. That's win-win for everyone.
One year ago: Pokémon Go Community Day + Local EX Raid, 1/13/2019
Two years ago: My Pokémon Show
Three years ago: Pokémon and Cosplay
Sunday, January 12, 2020
Cosplay: Nihon Matsuri 2020
Me: OK, so I said yesterday there's a big Pokémon thing happening; this theme event obviously isn't it. And I wouldn't say it's a replacement either, but I think it's a good thing to go to.
Ash: And you want me in.
Me: Sure! There has to be something to fill in this weekend in any case. It's an outlet for both of us.
Pikachu: Pika chu! ["Neat idea!"]
Me: Well, there you go. Now, I'm pretty sure this is the first time I sent you here, because aside from having no record of it, I don't have any recall of it.
Ash: I guess it's new for us.
Me: So it seems. Also, I'm told this is a two-day theme event, but I had something to do the other day, and I'm sure it's a challenge to get you a place to stay, therefore I sent you today.
Ash: What would I miss from yesterday?
Me: Not much, from what I was told. Just a guitar group that knows us and the preliminary round of the singing competition.
Pikachu: Pika chu... ["I see..."]
Ash: Singing would have been great, I think.
Me: And that's always the problem. Well, maybe something else will come along. But today there is a character parade, though, so I want you in that.
Ash: OK! That's better than nothing.
Me: What was the rest like over there?
Ash: Hmm, it looks standard if you ask me. There are lots of community and merchandise stands. It's a little like the one where I was with Brock and our girl fan.
Me: They were here yesterday! But my friend came personally instead of sending Brock, though.
Ash: Aw, shoot! But yeah, what can we do?
Pikachu: Pi, pika pika chu. ["Aw, it had to happen."]
Me: All right, how was the character parade?
Ash: It was a tough lottery. 3 out of 30 or so, and I didn't win.
Me: Yeah, that's tough. Was there anything that was even remotely interesting?
Ash: I got you something neat, and I got Brock - I mean, his friend - something neat.
Me: Well, thanks! And I'm sure he'd appreciate it. I think it's time to sum up this one for this day.
Ash: I guess I and Pikachu had some fun with this one, even if it's only for this day. As you say, it's OK to go here instead of that big Pokémon thing - I know you have your reasons, and I understand. Maybe we can go here again if it's not at the same time as that. The people who hold it appreciate me for that.
Pikachu: Pi ka. Pika pika! ["Me too. Agreed!"]
Me: I don't know if this is as much fun as that big Pokémon thing, but at least this is what works for the moment.
One year ago: These Sides of Paradise
Two years ago: Another Big Shuffle Update
Three years ago: In-Game Trainer Name Inspirations
Ash: And you want me in.
Me: Sure! There has to be something to fill in this weekend in any case. It's an outlet for both of us.
Pikachu: Pika chu! ["Neat idea!"]
Me: Well, there you go. Now, I'm pretty sure this is the first time I sent you here, because aside from having no record of it, I don't have any recall of it.
Ash: I guess it's new for us.
Me: So it seems. Also, I'm told this is a two-day theme event, but I had something to do the other day, and I'm sure it's a challenge to get you a place to stay, therefore I sent you today.
Ash: What would I miss from yesterday?
Me: Not much, from what I was told. Just a guitar group that knows us and the preliminary round of the singing competition.
Pikachu: Pika chu... ["I see..."]
Ash: Singing would have been great, I think.
Me: And that's always the problem. Well, maybe something else will come along. But today there is a character parade, though, so I want you in that.
Ash: OK! That's better than nothing.
Me: What was the rest like over there?
Ash: Hmm, it looks standard if you ask me. There are lots of community and merchandise stands. It's a little like the one where I was with Brock and our girl fan.
Me: They were here yesterday! But my friend came personally instead of sending Brock, though.
Ash: Aw, shoot! But yeah, what can we do?
Pikachu: Pi, pika pika chu. ["Aw, it had to happen."]
Me: All right, how was the character parade?
Ash: It was a tough lottery. 3 out of 30 or so, and I didn't win.
Me: Yeah, that's tough. Was there anything that was even remotely interesting?
Ash: I got you something neat, and I got Brock - I mean, his friend - something neat.
Me: Well, thanks! And I'm sure he'd appreciate it. I think it's time to sum up this one for this day.
Ash: I guess I and Pikachu had some fun with this one, even if it's only for this day. As you say, it's OK to go here instead of that big Pokémon thing - I know you have your reasons, and I understand. Maybe we can go here again if it's not at the same time as that. The people who hold it appreciate me for that.
Pikachu: Pi ka. Pika pika! ["Me too. Agreed!"]
Me: I don't know if this is as much fun as that big Pokémon thing, but at least this is what works for the moment.
One year ago: These Sides of Paradise
Two years ago: Another Big Shuffle Update
Three years ago: In-Game Trainer Name Inspirations
Saturday, January 11, 2020
Faults in Some Stars
A week ago, I noted that something big related to Pokémon is going to happen. No, it isn't the Pokémon Direct from two days ago, even though that does qualify as something big. That "something big" is due to happen tomorrow, and I won't be able to take part in it for a few reasons. And the same is apparently true for a certain star that also wanted in but couldn't. It is as if there are some "faults in some stars" that hinder participation.
From what I've been told, although that star is well-known for Pokémon endeavors, the star becomes too famous for it. Instead, the star becomes famous for the "back-end" rather than the "front-end" of those endeavors. Accordingly, the star instead becomes classified as a "third party" in the same vein as the above post and was effectively barred from participation. And though the "back-end" party has indicated a certain "blessing" for it as the "front-end" , the star remains in a difficult place, apparently. It does seem like that presents a kind of "fault".
Meanwhile, I myself seem to have presented my own "faults" around the time something similarly big and related to Pokémon was held. It happened the day prior to it, and then something else happened the following day. As for that day, it was still overall great, but then I did present some other "faults" during the course of that happening. Being that I consider myself in part a "star", I'd rather minimize such happenings, though it may not be all, given that I'm imperfect and always will be. In part due to the "faults", however, I therefore chose to restrict myself this time around.
And as for that something big, it does involve a Pokémon facet that could be considered to be a "star" of its own kind. Yet it too seems to have its own "faults" every so often. Sometimes the "faults" may be insignificant to affect things, but other times they may become too serious. Despite this, many still consider its "star" quality as acceptable; this is evident for tomorrow's big thing, with around 500 people already expressing interest, though it could stand to be more with the right circumstances, especially with me in the picture.
All these are "stars" of their own kind, but they all seem to have their own "faults" as well. That might seemingly pose as a problem for something as big as tomorrow's happening, but then it might not. I suppose it may be sufficient for some people to overlook these "faults" and let the "stars" shine as they are. To that end, what will shine tomorrow remains to be seen, so there is that to watch for.
In the meantime, I need and want to make some things shine right now.
One year ago: Pokédex Texts and Information
Two years ago: A Song for the Lonely, et Cetera
Three years ago: My Path Through the Main Series
From what I've been told, although that star is well-known for Pokémon endeavors, the star becomes too famous for it. Instead, the star becomes famous for the "back-end" rather than the "front-end" of those endeavors. Accordingly, the star instead becomes classified as a "third party" in the same vein as the above post and was effectively barred from participation. And though the "back-end" party has indicated a certain "blessing" for it as the "front-end" , the star remains in a difficult place, apparently. It does seem like that presents a kind of "fault".
Meanwhile, I myself seem to have presented my own "faults" around the time something similarly big and related to Pokémon was held. It happened the day prior to it, and then something else happened the following day. As for that day, it was still overall great, but then I did present some other "faults" during the course of that happening. Being that I consider myself in part a "star", I'd rather minimize such happenings, though it may not be all, given that I'm imperfect and always will be. In part due to the "faults", however, I therefore chose to restrict myself this time around.
And as for that something big, it does involve a Pokémon facet that could be considered to be a "star" of its own kind. Yet it too seems to have its own "faults" every so often. Sometimes the "faults" may be insignificant to affect things, but other times they may become too serious. Despite this, many still consider its "star" quality as acceptable; this is evident for tomorrow's big thing, with around 500 people already expressing interest, though it could stand to be more with the right circumstances, especially with me in the picture.
All these are "stars" of their own kind, but they all seem to have their own "faults" as well. That might seemingly pose as a problem for something as big as tomorrow's happening, but then it might not. I suppose it may be sufficient for some people to overlook these "faults" and let the "stars" shine as they are. To that end, what will shine tomorrow remains to be seen, so there is that to watch for.
In the meantime, I need and want to make some things shine right now.
One year ago: Pokédex Texts and Information
Two years ago: A Song for the Lonely, et Cetera
Three years ago: My Path Through the Main Series
Friday, January 10, 2020
Renewed Oaths: Pokémon Direct, 1/9/2020
A big Pokémon thing that happened yesterday was a local EX Raid, the first in a long time for me. Yet there was also another big Pokémon thing that happened yesterday that I couldn't cover in yesterday's post. That would be a Pokémon Direct that happened that night, after the events of the daytime had occurred; it certainly added a different Pokémon flavor to the entire day. And that flavor would be a "renewal" in a way, specifically a "renewal of oaths" of sorts. This became rather evident in the things involved in the Direct.
The first announcement in the Direct is a new Pokémon game for the Switch... or rather, it's two old games repackaged into one and remastered; it's also in a series of Pokémon games that hadn't been heard from for some time until yesterday. The new game is titled Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX, which makes it clear that this is an updated, reworked amalgam of Red Rescue Team and Blue Rescue Team. Story-wise, it doesn't appear to be very different, but appearance-wise, it appears to be very vivid and renewed. The game can already be played with its demo version, while the full game will be available in two months. With this, Mystery Dungeon has definitely gained a sort of a new life, almost as if it's an oath to stay.
The second announcement is something that is completely new to Pokémon. The two new main series games of Sword and Shield will receive a major new content addition in the form of what is called an Expansion Pass. The pass is available for purchase now, but the first major content update will come in June this year, and the second will come before the end of this year. The content will feature new areas and a few new Pokémon, but it will also bring back a host of older Pokémon not currently available in the games. Even with this Expansion Pass available, the "vanilla" games will still be freely updated to be aware of the new content. However, it becomes obvious that for the best experience possible, one should purchase the Pass.
This Expansion Pass, which is like an expansion pack, is indeed a new thing for the Pokémon main series games. The content that is available in the Pass resembles and would be the content present in a "third game", "remaster", or "sequel" - as indicated in the Direct, even - and the Pass becomes a new method of providing additional content... for the games at least, since this is a common approach for some other games people play. But with the "vanilla" games being "expansion-aware" as they are and the return of more older Pokémon after the National Dex brouhaha, at the least accessibility is assured. It's like there is a commitment for that no matter what happens and how that happens - surely, a "renewed oath".
There were a lot of new things announced in yesterday's Pokémon Direct. But within all those new things, there was a lot of renewal of old things, or at least an indication of such. Some people wouldn't go as far to say that there could be an "oath" behind that, but it remains fantastical to think there might be one. After all the things that happened yesterday, including my other Pokémon adventures, I think I'm ready myself to renew some of my own oaths to Pokémon, just like these new things.
One year ago: Custom Pokémon Merchandise
Two years ago: A Pokémon-Pikachu Balloon
Three years ago: Where It All Started
The first announcement in the Direct is a new Pokémon game for the Switch... or rather, it's two old games repackaged into one and remastered; it's also in a series of Pokémon games that hadn't been heard from for some time until yesterday. The new game is titled Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX, which makes it clear that this is an updated, reworked amalgam of Red Rescue Team and Blue Rescue Team. Story-wise, it doesn't appear to be very different, but appearance-wise, it appears to be very vivid and renewed. The game can already be played with its demo version, while the full game will be available in two months. With this, Mystery Dungeon has definitely gained a sort of a new life, almost as if it's an oath to stay.
The second announcement is something that is completely new to Pokémon. The two new main series games of Sword and Shield will receive a major new content addition in the form of what is called an Expansion Pass. The pass is available for purchase now, but the first major content update will come in June this year, and the second will come before the end of this year. The content will feature new areas and a few new Pokémon, but it will also bring back a host of older Pokémon not currently available in the games. Even with this Expansion Pass available, the "vanilla" games will still be freely updated to be aware of the new content. However, it becomes obvious that for the best experience possible, one should purchase the Pass.
This Expansion Pass, which is like an expansion pack, is indeed a new thing for the Pokémon main series games. The content that is available in the Pass resembles and would be the content present in a "third game", "remaster", or "sequel" - as indicated in the Direct, even - and the Pass becomes a new method of providing additional content... for the games at least, since this is a common approach for some other games people play. But with the "vanilla" games being "expansion-aware" as they are and the return of more older Pokémon after the National Dex brouhaha, at the least accessibility is assured. It's like there is a commitment for that no matter what happens and how that happens - surely, a "renewed oath".
There were a lot of new things announced in yesterday's Pokémon Direct. But within all those new things, there was a lot of renewal of old things, or at least an indication of such. Some people wouldn't go as far to say that there could be an "oath" behind that, but it remains fantastical to think there might be one. After all the things that happened yesterday, including my other Pokémon adventures, I think I'm ready myself to renew some of my own oaths to Pokémon, just like these new things.
One year ago: Custom Pokémon Merchandise
Two years ago: A Pokémon-Pikachu Balloon
Three years ago: Where It All Started
Thursday, January 9, 2020
(Finally, Another) Local EX Raid, 1/9/2020
Early last month, I noted that I haven't really been able to participate in EX Raids ever since lots of things happened last year, not all of them pleasant. However, during the second of the double event that happened nearly a couple of weeks ago, I raided (more precisely, Ash raided) a Virizion at a Gym next to the event location, which also happens to be an EX Raid Gym, as well as the one which makes up much of my initial history with these raids. Needless to say, I not only got a Virizion, but also the EX Raid Pass for one that was scheduled today.
Much has changed since the last time I participated in an EX Raid, as noted in the other post, as well as regarding its boss. The boss is now Regigigas, which for those who paid for the Colossal Discovery event is gotten through said event, making the event a preview before its entry in EX Raids. Alas, that is just one Regigigas, and that doesn't even guarantee the best stats possible. To obtain more, one would still have to participate in EX Raids regardless, which is part of why I was here today.
The other reason was to see who else made it to the EX Raid. It turns out that there weren't much of them. Of my raid fellows, the ones who made it were the person with whom the Virizion raid occurred, one of my Best Friends in the game that I invited to the EX Raid using my invitation privilege, another fellow who lived on the opposite side of town, and yet another who I used to live close to. The rest was made up of "invisible forces" that I wasn't sure of their whereabouts even if they were visible.
The key issues regarding this edition of the EX Raid were rain, as always at this time of year, and the paucity of participants. Just before the EX Raid started, the rain had let up, but then it started to rain again after it had started. Rain seems to be an iffy thing even now with EX Raids. As for the participants, there were 10 in all, among one of the fewest; it used to be that an EX Raid at this place was crowded, and now it seems that the popularity has faded. Then again, it may have been because of the rain wreaking havoc.
A successful battle also led to a successful capture as well, despite all the problems and that the raid resulted in only about 10 Premier Balls for capture. It wasn't the only success this day as well; earlier on, I had gotten Lucky with two of my Best Friends, one of which came to the EX Raid, with which we also performed a Lucky Trade for each other's Riolu. Then there were a few other successes later on after the EX Raid. But what is obviously important for now is the success of this EX Raid after having waited for a long time for one.
Me: Thanks for the Virizion and Regigigas.
Ash: Don't mention it. I'm glad! I'll help out whenever I can.
Me: Sure! I think it might just happen pretty soon.
One year ago: Pokémon Ceramics
Two years ago: Hitching a Raid Ride
Three years ago: A Tale of Two Shirts
Much has changed since the last time I participated in an EX Raid, as noted in the other post, as well as regarding its boss. The boss is now Regigigas, which for those who paid for the Colossal Discovery event is gotten through said event, making the event a preview before its entry in EX Raids. Alas, that is just one Regigigas, and that doesn't even guarantee the best stats possible. To obtain more, one would still have to participate in EX Raids regardless, which is part of why I was here today.
The other reason was to see who else made it to the EX Raid. It turns out that there weren't much of them. Of my raid fellows, the ones who made it were the person with whom the Virizion raid occurred, one of my Best Friends in the game that I invited to the EX Raid using my invitation privilege, another fellow who lived on the opposite side of town, and yet another who I used to live close to. The rest was made up of "invisible forces" that I wasn't sure of their whereabouts even if they were visible.
The key issues regarding this edition of the EX Raid were rain, as always at this time of year, and the paucity of participants. Just before the EX Raid started, the rain had let up, but then it started to rain again after it had started. Rain seems to be an iffy thing even now with EX Raids. As for the participants, there were 10 in all, among one of the fewest; it used to be that an EX Raid at this place was crowded, and now it seems that the popularity has faded. Then again, it may have been because of the rain wreaking havoc.
A successful battle also led to a successful capture as well, despite all the problems and that the raid resulted in only about 10 Premier Balls for capture. It wasn't the only success this day as well; earlier on, I had gotten Lucky with two of my Best Friends, one of which came to the EX Raid, with which we also performed a Lucky Trade for each other's Riolu. Then there were a few other successes later on after the EX Raid. But what is obviously important for now is the success of this EX Raid after having waited for a long time for one.
Me: Thanks for the Virizion and Regigigas.
Ash: Don't mention it. I'm glad! I'll help out whenever I can.
Me: Sure! I think it might just happen pretty soon.
One year ago: Pokémon Ceramics
Two years ago: Hitching a Raid Ride
Three years ago: A Tale of Two Shirts
Wednesday, January 8, 2020
Locks on Shiny Forms
There's a term that goes around in some Pokémon games that concerns the Shiny forms of some Pokémon. All Pokémon have Shiny forms, certainly, as that is the expected way things go since the second generation when they were introduced. However, apart from them being rare in most cases, in more recent times, some of them may (be forced to) not be available at all, even with the given above. The term that describes this condition is "Shiny lock"; it refers to how some of these forms are restricted in availability despite their certain existence.
As demonstrated by certain interactions, particularly ones I've witnessed, Shiny forms are lucrative, even if they are not radically different, appear to be rather strange, or just for a neat species in general. Thus, it may be that some of these Shiny forms are desired to not be gotten so early. Shiny locking would certainly accomplish that, holding back ones of certain species before they should be available. Another reason for doing this may be to keep them from being a burden to players, the game, or both; certainly, if it can't be accommodated by the game at the moment, then players wouldn't think about it, keeping some things from becoming liabilities. The reasons seem to be noble and practical enough.
In the main series games, this has happened with a few of the most recent games. The Shiny forms of certain Pokémon have been restricted in appearance until a certain point or a certain distribution. The main series games certainly have everything available in terms of possibility, but it's only been in the most recent times that some of these possibilities have been restricted. It seems to make sense, since back when Shiny forms really came into being most Pokémon fans weren't too crafty; nowadays, some are, and that could pose different problems. Thus, Shiny locking can serve to differentiate them from others as well, and to see who has the dedication.
Meanwhile, in Pokémon Go, not every Pokémon has their Shiny form available, but many by now already do. The term "Shiny locking" wouldn't really apply here, except in one case: it has been determined that all first-generation Pokémon may become Shiny, but this hasn't been made evident in practice, making it a form of a "Shiny lock" in a way. The rest of the Pokémon seems to be given a selective treatment. In this way, this seems to be accommodating of the second reason above more so than anything else. Those who expect different Shiny forms will just have to be patient for their unlocking (in the case of first-generation Pokémon), provided availability (for all others), and efforts to obtain them (for any and all).
In the eyes of those who like to obtain all kinds of Pokémon, each one is valuable. Compound this with Shiny forms, and this results in a great interest for everything. Shiny locking seems to be the thing that keeps that in check and makes things not too wild. It's still a wild, wild Pokémon world out there with all the species present and especially the possibility of each being Shiny. Each one, including the Shiny forms, is still neat, even if the latter has its restrictions, including locks placed on them for a given time.
One year ago: A Pokémon Case Analytic Scenario
Two years ago: The Three-Count
Three years ago: On the Subject of Go
As demonstrated by certain interactions, particularly ones I've witnessed, Shiny forms are lucrative, even if they are not radically different, appear to be rather strange, or just for a neat species in general. Thus, it may be that some of these Shiny forms are desired to not be gotten so early. Shiny locking would certainly accomplish that, holding back ones of certain species before they should be available. Another reason for doing this may be to keep them from being a burden to players, the game, or both; certainly, if it can't be accommodated by the game at the moment, then players wouldn't think about it, keeping some things from becoming liabilities. The reasons seem to be noble and practical enough.
In the main series games, this has happened with a few of the most recent games. The Shiny forms of certain Pokémon have been restricted in appearance until a certain point or a certain distribution. The main series games certainly have everything available in terms of possibility, but it's only been in the most recent times that some of these possibilities have been restricted. It seems to make sense, since back when Shiny forms really came into being most Pokémon fans weren't too crafty; nowadays, some are, and that could pose different problems. Thus, Shiny locking can serve to differentiate them from others as well, and to see who has the dedication.
Meanwhile, in Pokémon Go, not every Pokémon has their Shiny form available, but many by now already do. The term "Shiny locking" wouldn't really apply here, except in one case: it has been determined that all first-generation Pokémon may become Shiny, but this hasn't been made evident in practice, making it a form of a "Shiny lock" in a way. The rest of the Pokémon seems to be given a selective treatment. In this way, this seems to be accommodating of the second reason above more so than anything else. Those who expect different Shiny forms will just have to be patient for their unlocking (in the case of first-generation Pokémon), provided availability (for all others), and efforts to obtain them (for any and all).
In the eyes of those who like to obtain all kinds of Pokémon, each one is valuable. Compound this with Shiny forms, and this results in a great interest for everything. Shiny locking seems to be the thing that keeps that in check and makes things not too wild. It's still a wild, wild Pokémon world out there with all the species present and especially the possibility of each being Shiny. Each one, including the Shiny forms, is still neat, even if the latter has its restrictions, including locks placed on them for a given time.
One year ago: A Pokémon Case Analytic Scenario
Two years ago: The Three-Count
Three years ago: On the Subject of Go
Tuesday, January 7, 2020
The Substitute Being (or Doll)
The world of Pokémon is full of all sorts of creatures or beings. They may be small or big, and typical or wondrous. But among these creatures, there may be one that every so often escapes the notice of even diehard fans like me, and I'd like to discuss one of them. As indicated by the title, that creature would be what I call the "Substitute being"; of the descriptors above, it's a small being, and a wondrous one at that. For its size and wonder, it does seem to deserve a discussion.
True to its name, this being is related to the move of Substitute, one of the hundreds in the main series games. When this move is invoked by a Pokémon, the Pokémon "creates a decoy" in the form of this being. The Pokémon disappears, though it returns when it's time to make more moves. When the decoy takes enough hits, it disappears, and the Pokémon fully returns. Thus, this being is inextricably linked to this move, and those who mostly play games outside the main series might not recognize this being due to the move and therefore the being not being present.
Its appearance is rather distinct. It is gray-green in color, or even chartreuse if one prefers to describe it as such. Its actual looks almost resemble that of Larvitar, which might suggest that the two might have some kind of linkage. Though it has appendages, it is depicted sitting rather than using some or all of them. Its appearance is unassuming, but there's a sense of pleasantness about it with its closed eyes and the shape of its mouth line. Appearance-wise, it is enough to resemble a creature. For that, I liken it as "the Pokémon that isn't".
Even so, with its unassuming appearance, it does seem more proper to call it a doll because it does appear as such, as a doll-like illusion in battle and actual doll outside of battle in the main series games, and a real doll in real life. The doll also sometimes appears in the anime, at one moment even becoming a "target" for a certain Pokémon. It's not much more than an actual being that lives and breathes, though it does make a little more sense than a log that certain ninjas like to use in much the same manner. "Doll" remains as an apt descriptor by way of its characteristics.
However it's called, it is very much a part of Pokémon. It looks quite like the other beings or creatures of this world and has a relationship with some of them. On the other hand, it does seem like it does not quite measure up as such, and it's often invoked by something that some people are not exposed to often with regard to Pokémon. Therefore, it's easy to forget the existence of this, which is why I chose to discuss it in this post - so that I won't forget and still take notice, and the hope is that other fans do so as well.
One year ago: Family Affairs
Two years ago: Rethinking Salt
Three years ago: Tournament: Local Friendly, 1/7/2017
True to its name, this being is related to the move of Substitute, one of the hundreds in the main series games. When this move is invoked by a Pokémon, the Pokémon "creates a decoy" in the form of this being. The Pokémon disappears, though it returns when it's time to make more moves. When the decoy takes enough hits, it disappears, and the Pokémon fully returns. Thus, this being is inextricably linked to this move, and those who mostly play games outside the main series might not recognize this being due to the move and therefore the being not being present.
Its appearance is rather distinct. It is gray-green in color, or even chartreuse if one prefers to describe it as such. Its actual looks almost resemble that of Larvitar, which might suggest that the two might have some kind of linkage. Though it has appendages, it is depicted sitting rather than using some or all of them. Its appearance is unassuming, but there's a sense of pleasantness about it with its closed eyes and the shape of its mouth line. Appearance-wise, it is enough to resemble a creature. For that, I liken it as "the Pokémon that isn't".
Even so, with its unassuming appearance, it does seem more proper to call it a doll because it does appear as such, as a doll-like illusion in battle and actual doll outside of battle in the main series games, and a real doll in real life. The doll also sometimes appears in the anime, at one moment even becoming a "target" for a certain Pokémon. It's not much more than an actual being that lives and breathes, though it does make a little more sense than a log that certain ninjas like to use in much the same manner. "Doll" remains as an apt descriptor by way of its characteristics.
However it's called, it is very much a part of Pokémon. It looks quite like the other beings or creatures of this world and has a relationship with some of them. On the other hand, it does seem like it does not quite measure up as such, and it's often invoked by something that some people are not exposed to often with regard to Pokémon. Therefore, it's easy to forget the existence of this, which is why I chose to discuss it in this post - so that I won't forget and still take notice, and the hope is that other fans do so as well.
One year ago: Family Affairs
Two years ago: Rethinking Salt
Three years ago: Tournament: Local Friendly, 1/7/2017
Monday, January 6, 2020
Pokémon Statues
Some people I know real well are or were collectors of statues, especially artistic ones. This is evident in the ones they have in their places or even the ones they've left behind where I can see them. Those statues are neat to have and to see, but they're of things that I'm not necessarily partial to. But for those who know me and this blog, they would know that I'm partial (and in fact fully attracted) to Pokémon. What then would be suitable for me is to have Pokémon statues, which would really reflect what I like. It's something that has underpinnings in the various related media, but it could also stand to be actually realized as well.
Some of the games contain depictions of Pokémon in statue form, and that is at least a fine starting point. Notably, by them, it is suggested that the most likely places where Pokémon statues may be prominently present are in the various Gyms that are present in so many places in them. Though sometimes they may not be particularly evident, the statues within the Gyms in those places would surely be tied to the featured Pokémon of those places - perhaps not as dead giveaways, but to be sufficiently as a simple preview. As well, shrines and shrine-like places would conceivably have a statue or two of the most important Pokémon tied to them, like the lake in the first PokéPark game with Dialga and Palkia.
Elsewhere, the boss office scenes in the Detective Pikachu movie features three Pokémon statues behind the desk of the boss, which also happens to be Dialga and Palkia, along with Arceus instead of Giratina as would be expected of the trio. They're large but not overly large, but they appear distinctive. They don't factor into the plot, but they are aesthetically important, as in a way they affirm that the setting is indeed the Pokémon world. This also affirms one other thing: statues are present in the world and have some importance as well in marking characteristic places, if the prior examples don't already do so.
As for me having Pokémon statues of my own, that would be a little difficult. Though Pokémon is very popular nowadays, it might seem like an esoteric subject matter for the creation of statues. I'd have to find someone whom I can commission for the creation of one (or more) and discuss the concepts for its execution. Then, I'd also have to search for the materials for their creation. In the end, I probably might run up a pretty tab for this, and it's not something I'm terribly interested in at the moment, but eventually it might head in this direction.
I'm not a "statue guy", but I have links to others who (used to) possess them, so I have some appreciation for them. The same seems to be true for certain things in the Pokémon world, and as a Pokémon fan, that makes me glad as well. It makes me desire to have one or some of my own, though it would certainly involve quite a bit of effort to have them. For now, I can revel in the fact that Pokémon and statues can go hand in hand, the latter as a neat art form that can depict the former as something popular among many.
One year ago: ...With Gatherings and Safari Zones for All
Two years ago: More Odd Poké-Pika Things
Three years ago: A 3DS Story
Some of the games contain depictions of Pokémon in statue form, and that is at least a fine starting point. Notably, by them, it is suggested that the most likely places where Pokémon statues may be prominently present are in the various Gyms that are present in so many places in them. Though sometimes they may not be particularly evident, the statues within the Gyms in those places would surely be tied to the featured Pokémon of those places - perhaps not as dead giveaways, but to be sufficiently as a simple preview. As well, shrines and shrine-like places would conceivably have a statue or two of the most important Pokémon tied to them, like the lake in the first PokéPark game with Dialga and Palkia.
Elsewhere, the boss office scenes in the Detective Pikachu movie features three Pokémon statues behind the desk of the boss, which also happens to be Dialga and Palkia, along with Arceus instead of Giratina as would be expected of the trio. They're large but not overly large, but they appear distinctive. They don't factor into the plot, but they are aesthetically important, as in a way they affirm that the setting is indeed the Pokémon world. This also affirms one other thing: statues are present in the world and have some importance as well in marking characteristic places, if the prior examples don't already do so.
As for me having Pokémon statues of my own, that would be a little difficult. Though Pokémon is very popular nowadays, it might seem like an esoteric subject matter for the creation of statues. I'd have to find someone whom I can commission for the creation of one (or more) and discuss the concepts for its execution. Then, I'd also have to search for the materials for their creation. In the end, I probably might run up a pretty tab for this, and it's not something I'm terribly interested in at the moment, but eventually it might head in this direction.
I'm not a "statue guy", but I have links to others who (used to) possess them, so I have some appreciation for them. The same seems to be true for certain things in the Pokémon world, and as a Pokémon fan, that makes me glad as well. It makes me desire to have one or some of my own, though it would certainly involve quite a bit of effort to have them. For now, I can revel in the fact that Pokémon and statues can go hand in hand, the latter as a neat art form that can depict the former as something popular among many.
One year ago: ...With Gatherings and Safari Zones for All
Two years ago: More Odd Poké-Pika Things
Three years ago: A 3DS Story
Sunday, January 5, 2020
Jelly-Filled Doughnuts
Pokémon has its share of verbalisms, as I've detailed in two posts on this blog. For this post, I'd like to detail another one. As can be guessed by the title of this post, that verbalism is "jelly-filled doughnuts". At first glance, it might seem like something that is barely even connected to Pokémon, especially considering how it is in modern times. But a deeper look into it shows that the connections are very much evident. It's also related to what I know and what I do, though the link to Pokémon makes it all the more fascinating.
This verbalism concerns something that occurred in the early English dub of the Pokémon anime. In one scene, Brock is shown holding what are clearly onigiri (Japanese rice balls), but they are referred to exactly as:
The workings that govern this issue is "right up my alley", as a linguist in general and translator in particular. The process of dubbing, whether for Pokémon or any other anime, is one that localizes, to make foreign content consumable by local audiences. It's not a bad thing if executed properly, but in this case, it wasn't really so. In terms of translation and specifically the method, this is a full-on adaptation as it's radically different from the original, but it's one that "goes off the deep end", figuratively speaking, and one that borders on or is outright unacceptable.
As an incongruity, it is rather egregious. That quality is what makes it the subject of various humor on the Internet in the form of memes. It also makes the aforementioned food item liable to be referenced continuously as such; I can attest to this first-hand by someone I know who has his own connections to Brock. Whatever happens, these remain a testament that such has occurred, and they could be construed as criticism as well, something that should ideally be avoided in the process of localization by dubbing.
While I would say that the English dub of the Pokémon anime has improved in modern times, this legacy of older times certainly stands out among the lesser qualities of that time. It will surely be remembered forever in jest as much as for its adverse quality, and it is certainly a linguistic phenomenon as well due to the process of how it was created, establishing itself as yet another verbalism for a franchise that is well-known for many other verbalisms.
One year ago: Cosplay: Bunkasai XXI
Two years ago: The Music of Go
Three years ago: Alt+0233 and Its Kin
This verbalism concerns something that occurred in the early English dub of the Pokémon anime. In one scene, Brock is shown holding what are clearly onigiri (Japanese rice balls), but they are referred to exactly as:
"These doughnuts are great! Jelly-filled are my favorite."This, of course, creates an incongruity between the dialogue and what is shown on screen. And as avid viewers can attest, it's not the only one; similar incongruities occur across different episodes, while across other dub productions of the same origin, they're incongruous to different extents.
The workings that govern this issue is "right up my alley", as a linguist in general and translator in particular. The process of dubbing, whether for Pokémon or any other anime, is one that localizes, to make foreign content consumable by local audiences. It's not a bad thing if executed properly, but in this case, it wasn't really so. In terms of translation and specifically the method, this is a full-on adaptation as it's radically different from the original, but it's one that "goes off the deep end", figuratively speaking, and one that borders on or is outright unacceptable.
As an incongruity, it is rather egregious. That quality is what makes it the subject of various humor on the Internet in the form of memes. It also makes the aforementioned food item liable to be referenced continuously as such; I can attest to this first-hand by someone I know who has his own connections to Brock. Whatever happens, these remain a testament that such has occurred, and they could be construed as criticism as well, something that should ideally be avoided in the process of localization by dubbing.
While I would say that the English dub of the Pokémon anime has improved in modern times, this legacy of older times certainly stands out among the lesser qualities of that time. It will surely be remembered forever in jest as much as for its adverse quality, and it is certainly a linguistic phenomenon as well due to the process of how it was created, establishing itself as yet another verbalism for a franchise that is well-known for many other verbalisms.
One year ago: Cosplay: Bunkasai XXI
Two years ago: The Music of Go
Three years ago: Alt+0233 and Its Kin
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