The Peak of Legends

Today marks the end of the Season of Legends in Pokémon Go. I've looked at my previous end-of-season post, and I've noticed that not only is it not tagged for Pokémon Go, it also doesn't pertain to it much, except for a bit of one of the events there. I've decided that the method of coverage may be good enough - to approach it without specifically in entirety tying it to Pokémon Go - and now is that time, with today being the end of the season.

"Legendary" is a common concept in Pokémon, as it describes a class of very special Pokémon, often with supreme stats. It is also closely associated with the similar concept of "Mythical" for yet another class of Pokémon. It could be that even with these descriptors, it may be hard for some people to realize the relevance of the concepts to the Pokémon of concern (in a way, being that the "legend" is a "myth"). But given the right circumstances, they will realize that relevance and make certain Pokémon of these descriptors a priority (in a way, being "legendary again").

That seems to be the way that things have gone in much of my Pokémon affairs during the season as it pertains to Pokémon Go and the Pokémon that are manifested there, especially with the debut of a number of Legendary Pokémon or at least their forms. After much of the raid efforts, some Pokémon were definitely realized as such. In other Pokémon areas, I've seen first-hand of certain relevance that were realized, for both Legendary/Mythical Pokémon or otherwise, which became quite stunning. At the beginning of the season, I noted that certain musicians can be "legendary" as well, and Katy Perry's contribution to the P25 Music project definitely manifested as such for those who realize its message deep down inside. 

As with the previous end-of-season post, I'm loath to call it "the end" because of the possibility of more things down the road, and that has been proven true for the "celebrations" of last season. Ultimately, though, the closure of this season is still a peak for what has been afforded all throughout the season. Even without the moniker of "legend", things may still very well be "legendary", and it may not take very much to realize that with all things Pokémon.

One year ago: Tournament: Raid Group Forest Cup

Two years ago: A New Pokémon "Wave"

Three years ago: Off We Go... to Alola!

Four years ago: I Need More Rumble World Players

Quickies: Ice, Pokémon, and Chilling Out

In the first year I started this blog, I happened on something related to ice and Pokémon, and subsequently discussed it along with the links between the two. Recently, I've been in a quandary involving ice of sorts, and it does (or did) slightly impact my Pokémon experiences, especially at the time when the quandary occurred. It more or less sent me into a panic, leaving me unable to focus my thoughts on anything else, including for Pokémon things, though along the way I did get in some time for the daily essentials of Pokémon Go on the way to make the effort to partially resolve the quandary, but that was about it. The experience of the quandary (now resolved) is still rather pertinent, so I feel that I need to discuss it.

Perhaps the most applicable Pokémon for the quandary is one for whom its manifestation is appropriate. That would happen to be Rotom, and specifically its Frost form, which is the one that includes the type of Ice. I've already discussed Rotom in blurbs in a post in the previous month, and much of the sensibilities from then still apply to the quandary and this post. It may be that Frost Rotom might have been very helpful during that quandary, or it might have not, depending on its behaviors. Other Ice types might also have been helpful in the same way that Alolan Vulpix was helpful in one of the episodes of the anime, though it may also have proven to be a bit too much due to the severity.

Of course, discussing about ice and Pokémon evokes the all-important expression of "chilling out", which may be the thing that has been missing in recent times and including during that quandary. With the quandary slightly behind but still remaining pertinent, and the possibility of some freer days ahead as I've suggested in my previous post, it may be that now is the time to "chill out", in both the literal and figurative sense. The former would be with what I've gained from the resolved quandary, while the latter would be with whatever I do with Pokémon. Who knows - certain Ice types may still be in the mix and remain just as important as ever, with or without that quandary, and always with Pokémon. 

One year ago: Team Rocket, Minus Motto

Two years ago: Woodblock Art with a Pokémon Twist

Three years ago: Old Adventure, New Sensibilities

Four years ago: Ad Astra per Aspera... and the Third Games

The State of Nominations, Part 10

I must admit, recent businesses - Pokémon or otherwise - have kept me from making too many nominations for PokéStops in Pokémon Go. However, it remains an important process nonetheless to expand the Pokémon Go and maintain an abundance of PokéStops, so it must be done if at all possible. Within my reduced capacity, I've still managed to partake in the process to some extent, and that deserves a progress update in the form of this post after the previous one a couple of months ago.

And of course, there are the numbers to deal with. To date, 57 of my nominations in total have been approved, a good increase from 53 of the last time. Currently progressing nominations number to 9 distinct ones and 2 re-nominations from previously rejected ones. Superseded (11) and rejected (26) nominations are the same as they were last time, though I can't do much about the former, while I may be able to do something else for the latter. Therefore, some good progress is still warranted.

While I haven't been too active in nominating new PokéStops, I've been active in editing their information. Most of the edits have been to the names of PokéStops to add specificity or correct certain mistakes, while there are a few edits to descriptions to add ones for those that don't have them, and one is for a slight location shift. Two such edits from earlier this year were in fact approved, making the PokéStop more accurate in representing the location. These edits have some importance too.

I may be about to be more free in the upcoming days, including for other businesses that are also as desperately urgent as some of the recent businesses. To make up for the lack of recent nominations, I may want to set aside a day for "mass nominations" that I've planned even as early as the beginning of this year. Even if I'm not, then I may just be able to scout closer nominations and take care of them instead while I plan out when I can exactly make that happen, as it should happen.

I'm always enthused at the prospect of nominating landmarks and important places in the real world for Pokémon Go, including what it means for myself and other people: possible new PokéStops and an expansion that makes in-game happenings more bearable in specific areas. And so, the process is expected to continue, even in my current state of being tasked with a lot of other things. The hope is for a lot more good things in further updates as well as in game events down the line.

One year ago: Pokémon Go Event Rollup, 5/29/2020

Two years ago: Lure Modules Evolve

Three years ago: The "Attractors"

Four years ago: A Hero Looks to the Sky

Pokémon Go Event Rollup, 5/28/2021

OK, the rollup of events for this month in Pokémon Go will be quite different. The reason for this - and I'm being up front about this - is that there are really only two major events this month. At the same time, both of those events practically span two weeks, as one half of one month, give or take. Furthermore, both events can be subdivided into two parts, each with their own special characteristics. The rollup this time thus focuses on the two events, each of their two parts, and what they bring to the table.

The first event started on May 4, close to the beginning of the first full week of the month, was titled Luminous Legends X. Major fans of Pokémon should be able to quickly tell that the event involves Xerneas, one of the Legendary Pokémon from the luminous region of Kalos, and this event in fact marks its debut in raids. Along with this debut comes the debuts of Swirlix, Spritzee, and Goomy to liven things up; the debut of Goomy also introduced a new item, the Rainy Lure Module, to provide an alternative way of evolving its next stage of Sliggoo to Goodra aside from a Rainy weather requirement. Pokémon of the Dragon and Fairy types predominantly took the stage in all possible means (wild, Research, raid, and Eggs). Other special particulars include a Timed Research set and the ability to obtain Community Day special moves for Dragonite and Salamence.

At the beginning of the month, a kind of "global challenge" involving Trainers catching Fairy-type Pokémon was initiated and then completed in a few days. This sets the stage for Part 2 (informally, as it could be referred as such even non-officially) of the event that started a week after Part 1, which is Part 1 with a few extra bonuses achieved by completion of the challenge: a triple XP bonus for captures, debut of Pancham in raids, and availability of Shiny Galarian Ponyta. The XP bonus is always attractive, particularly for those still seeking to go up levels, but the Shiny Galarian Ponyta is something dazzling all its own, especially since Galarian Ponyta is the Field Research Breakthrough for the month. As for Pancham, that would be a sneak peek for the next event to come, during which it is then begotten from 12 km (Strange) Eggs.

That next event is, predictably, called Luminous Legends Y, starting after the two weeks for its X counterpart. This would also be the debut of Yveltal in the same manner as Xerneas in raids. In lieu of Team Flare, Team Go Rocket changes up its rosters for this event, with some appearing radically different, including with the addition of Pancham to the possibilities from the Eggs obtained from Team Go Rocket leaders as above. In line with the Dark type of Yveltal, Pokémon of the Dark type became the predominant ones in all means as above. Likewise, there is also a Timed Research set for this event, and instead of Community Day moves, there is a window for Shadow Pokémon to forget the Charged Move of Frustration, which is especially nice for fans of Shadow Pokémon.

Along with the start of Part 1, there was another "global challenge" of defeating Team Go Rocket Grunts, which was also completed, allowing for triple XP once again and this time along with Galarian Zigzagoon in raids, which could now be possibly Shiny, in Part 2. That Part 2 is quite significant, as it also marks the debut of Sylveon, something that many have waited for, obtained by evolving Eevee after earning a certain amount of Buddy hearts. To commemorate, Eevee and some Fairy-type Pokémon return to the wild and Eggs, while Eevee and its evolutions also make their mark in raids as well as Field Research. This is likewise in addition to the things that were featured in Part 1 and are still featured as of Part 2. Part 2 will also carry through until the end of the month as well as the end of the Season of Legends, which will come in a few days.

The fact that there are only two events does not seem to indicate that this event is a busy month. But considering the above, it was truly a busy month in many ways, as the parts of the events were extensive and filled with things to do for all Trainers. They also really spanned the month and made them perfect for ending the Season of Legends on a high note... and perhaps a shining one due to the luminosity of the Legendary Pokémon and the region from which they originate.

One year ago: Pro Job, Fun Job

Two years ago: Memories of Sinnoh

Three years ago: Helix Fossil Understands

Four years ago: Takara Tomy Pokémon XY Pikachu Plush Doll

Electrify Your Power

I know you feel it, feel it

If you believe it then you can

There's no reason that this life can't be electric

Oh I can see it, see it

If you believe it then you can

There's no reason that this life can't be electric

-- "Electric", Katy Perry

As promised, this is the full post for the song. Katy Perry had been the first artist that was revealed for the P25 music program for the big Pokémon anniversary, but there had been no sign that she would furnish her contribution to the program. That finally changed about two weeks ago, when the song and its accompanying music video was finally released to faithful fans around the world, for which the chorus is as quoted above in the excerpt.

The empowering quality of the song is due to its lyrics, which are motivational. They instill the courage to move beyond the current situation in the first verse (even including the "be the best" reference that is commonly characteristically related to Pokémon) and the confidence to make it out of tough situations in the second verse. Whatever the situation, the mission statement is as succinctly described in the chorus: one who believes will make things happen, most likely giving life a boost of "electric" power.

Meanwhile, the music video is lively, as if current conditions never happened. Pikachu (and a female one at that) is present in the video along with Katy herself, and together they lend their morale boost to a young artist who has a Pichu, which can be taken to be a "younger version" of Katy, especially given that Pichu evolves to Pikachu. The beacon of a lighthouse is a powerful symbol in this music video as well for the overall message of "electrification" of one's life to be something even greater.

When all is said and done, only positive things can be said about this musical contribution. If, as it has been said, electricity is the energy that makes future motion possible, then it becomes something significant for life, which the song can only affirm. It's very much appropriate for the big Pokémon anniversary set during current conditions, as well as anyone looking for a little extra "zap" to power through (Pokémon) life today.

One year ago: Coffee in My Coffers?

Two years ago: Pokémon Go Event Rollup, 5/27/2019

Three years ago: Long Raid's Journey Into Night

Four years ago: A Test of My Resolve: I Still...

Road of 25th Anniversary: On with the Show

The 25th anniversary of Pokémon may be regarded as something phenomenal. In fact, it may be considered a "show" of sorts that fortunately is not just restricted on its specific day, in particular thanks to the coverage on the special web site that I mentioned a month just before the big day. And that show has indeed continued to this day, which makes this "road-of" post still pertinent and deserving of a spot, to update on the happenings of the anniversary.

Of those happenings, there's one on the site that I've neglected to mention. Gradually, the special site is unveiling "regional exhibits", which consist of a showcase of particular features from each region, as they appear in both the games and the anime and, for the latter, useful information on how to watch the relevant episodes. The first exhibit was for Galar, which started off on the big day to also serve for March, and the second was for Alola, which was last month's. They effectively set a theme for their respective months. This month, the featured region is Kalos, which means all the things that are so characteristic of that region.

Along with the exhibited regions, there are special featured merchandise featuring things from the regions. Pikachu dresses up as the player characters from the respective regions in plush form, which makes for something cutesy as well as emblematic for the regions. For something a bit more fancy, fans can elect to obtain "charms" of the starter Pokémon made out of silver, which should be indeed quite attractive, especially as jewelry that they're meant to be. Either or both of these should carry the spirits of the respective region.

Speaking of shows, the P25 "music show" also continued this month with the very first artist that was revealed for the program, Katy Perry, also as above. Her musical contribution to the program is something that might be considered empowering, both literally and figuratively, in part thanks to the role of the de facto mascot (Pikachu) of the franchise. It's neat in many ways, but I'd like to take a full post to present its finer details.

With the musical contribution also comes neat merchandise in the form of clothing and tote bag with a promotional illustration of Pikachu, not to mention the single release of the song itself. For the music-minded or Pokémon-minded, the merchandise items should be appealing, although apparently Asian fans won't be able to get them directly as the items can't ship there. Overlooking this particular detail, the merchandise remain as some of the most unique things one can possibly obtain with Pokémon in mind.

In any case, Pokémon itself is phenomenal even after a quarter century, even beyond all the big anniversary tie-ins. Those tie-ins, especially as above, only serve to affirm its status as a phenomenon. String everything together, and one has a "show" of sorts, complete with musical accompaniment that truly makes a "show" what it is. And so the show goes on to deliver more of the phenomenon that it has promised.

One year ago: Friendship and Community

Two years ago: Gatherings for Blessings and Success

Three years ago: Reconsidering Trade Evolutions

Four years ago: What's Appenin' (Mobile Games)

Pokémon SM KFC Toys: The Rest, Part 2

After Part 1, there has to be a Part 2, and these are the remaining toys from the same series that I obtained on Saturday. With the more common kinds of Poké Balls covered, now it's time for the less common kinds of balls. What seems to be also less common is that in this batch, there are a couple of repeats; yesterday there was one repeat, but now there are more. Still, I have to cover them for the sake of completion, so here I go.

The first repeat comes in the form of Rowlet & Nest Ball. Apart from the different kind of ball, the ball toy looks a lot like the Pikachu & Poké Ball toy... and it does, in fact, function the same way: roll up the white part of the ball, drop something on the trigger, and the ball closes up. Only this time, it would be expected that the "something" is Rowlet. Besides the caveats as with the other toy, the ball and Pokémon are appropriate for each other, as they are both green.

Also appropriate is Litten & Repeat Ball, with both being red and black. This one is a repeat in two senses: the name of the ball, obviously, and the concept, as it is equivalent to the Rockruff & Premier Ball toy. The Pokémon likewise can be launched sitting on its coaster with the push of the plunger. In a further repeat, the results of my attempts at launching the Pokémon have been inconsistent, though the Pokémon and the ball still look quite neat overall for the essence of the toy.

In this batch, the only one that isn't a repeat is Popplio & Timer Ball. It's a roller and spinning toy, as one places the Pokémon on a rotating platform that moves by turning a knob on the side. The toy (specifically, the platform) is supposed to be magnetic - even the Pokémon has a metal spot where it's supposed to stand on the platform - but it seems my platform isn't magnetic, as the Pokémon won't stand still. That may seem to be a problem for the concept of the toy.

In fact, when all is said and done, one thing can be said about the toys: they seem to be rather cheap. Yet they do have to be that way for their distribution mechanism, which is with a fast food meal, so that may be understandable. At the same time, there is also a fair bit of imperfections (the non-magnetism from above, as well as spots of paint on the Rowlet mini figure and the Timer Ball), suggesting that I may have obtained "reject" versions of the toys.

The complete set, for posterity.

Whether or not the "reject" theory is true, I'm still not one to reject these Pokémon toys, regardless of their condition, including whatever "repeats" they may have. The toy series is still a great sampler of Poké Balls as tools by way Pokémon are caught and of Pokémon in the early part of the Alola saga. With a little effort and a lot of filling in, everything in this set just seems to be absolutely rewarding and fortuitous.

One year ago: Safe, Pleasant, and Beneficial for All

Two years ago: Best of the Rest: T-Shirt Contest

Three years ago: Read, Play, and Enjoy

Four years ago: A Camera and a Pikachu Doll

Pokémon SM KFC Toys: The Rest, Part 1

When I talked with Ash and Pikachu about things to "fill in" on Saturday, I noted that I received something to that effect on that very day. I also noted (hinted) their relationships to Poké Balls, Alola, and things that Pokémon can do. Those three hints make sense, because they neatly describe the Pokémon fast food toys that I obtained earlier this year on a couple of occasions, though I only obtained one each time. On that day, however, I managed to obtain the rest of them through a friend and a good stroke of luck. Since there are eight toys, that means I obtained the other six toys. Discussing them will take a bit of time and space, so I've decided to do that in two parts, and today is Part 1.

For this part, I want to discuss the toys representing some of the more common kinds of Poké Balls. Pikachu & Poké Ball represents the de facto mascot and the most common ball for this series. The toy is a trap-style toy: one rolls back the lower white portion of the ball and clicks it in place against a trigger to set the trap. Something - most likely the mini figure of Pikachu that comes with it - is then dropped on the trigger, unseating the lower portion and closing up the ball, as the axle is spring-loaded. The execution is neat, but one may have to be careful with it, and I'm certainly loath to drop the mini figure even with that being the intent; by experience, the extraction could be difficult as well since whatever is captured might get wedged between the trigger and the ball. The concept is nice but seems problematic as well.

Next on the list is Eevee & Great Ball, the complement of Pikachu with the second most common ball. The design of this toy is actually pretty much equivalent to Mimikyu & Ultra Ball that I first obtained, and thus it is a "spinning toy" as well. The way it's supposed to work is that the bottom of the ball is attached to the ball, then the figure on the ball is spun to build up momentum before ejecting the bottom by pressing, spinning it. As noted previously, even though I've followed the instructions, I can't seem to get the bottom to spin - what more likely seems to happen is that the bottom falls out before it can even spin. But with the figure being able to sit nicely in the middle of the ball, that's pretty much the only concern I have. Eventually, I might figure out how the toy is supposed to spin (or not), but for now things are fine with this and Mimikyu from earlier.

The last one for this post is Togedemaru & Quick Ball, which not only rounds out the common ball selections that I haven't gotten, but also the list of ones that I desired way back when I covered Mimikyu. This one is a "rolling toy": when attached and the ball is rolled forward (there are coasters on the bottom), the Pokémon is supposed to move back and forth. Yet, I've found that it only moves to one side, and then the back wheels - the ones that also drives the Pokémon - lock up and I can only move it backwards to reset. At the least, the function is partially fulfilled as it is intended, and the entire thing looks cute and appropriate enough.

Evidently, even some of the other toys in the series have their own functional issues, but appearance-wise, they seem to be fine enough. The issues could perhaps be construed as yet something else to "fill in" - as in, whether I can eventually get them to work as intended, or that they remain a pretty face, which they already are without major complaints. With the above, it's also clear that I still need to cover the remaining three toys, which means that Part 2 will be coming soon enough, just as soon as I've been able to complete the series.

One year ago: Pokémon Go Community Day, 5/24/2020

Two years ago: T-Shirts in Distress

Three years ago: Trading Items?

Four years ago: Retro Rendezvous

The Laissez-Faire Approach to Pokémon

Those who are used (accustomed) to putting Pokémon into battle and little else - as they are wont to do since the very first games - might not care too deeply about the finer aspects of their lives. But those who watch the anime or play the other games where battling is not quite or as prominent and there is an emphasis on their lives will likely become appreciative of those finer aspects, specifically their sentience, and take them into consideration. As part of that consideration, they may allow Pokémon to lead their own lives in a "laissez-faire" manner or approach. That seems to be something that needs to be explored.

Before going any further, it would help to explain about the term. This term, which in French literally means "let do", most often applies to economics, where it describes a system in which there is little to no involvement, influence, or intervention, usually by the government. In such a system, the workings of the market are quite free. Beyond economics, the term can also apply as a political ideology, leadership style, and yes, as a philosophy, for which the last can apply to Pokémon. For that, it has the implication that beyond what is necessary (such as capturing and befriending them, and putting them into battle), there ought to be as little involvement, influence, or intervention as possible in the lives of Pokémon.

I actually got the inspiration for this post after a comic someone created about Shadow Pokémon in Pokémon Go. In it, Professor Willow scolds a Trainer for not purifying Shadow Pokémon and instead using them in battle, with the basis of the claim that they should be purified being that they are in pain. It may be that the Trainer regards the Pokémon as not actually resenting (in other words, as "consenting") their Shadow state, and therefore the Trainer is being "laissez-faire" about them. Some of my raid fellows seem to echo the same statement about their Shadow Pokémon, one even going so far to say that they are happy being Shadow Pokémon. Things may very well check out for them.

Harking back to the Pokémon anime, there is already a character for which the philosophy is quite evident, and that would be Ash. Many of the developmental paths that he took were based on the will of his Pokémon. The case of Pikachu rejecting and Bulbasaur resisting evolution is their will, and Ash did nothing more to influence their development otherwise. The same was true for some of the times he released their Pokémon, for which the most notable occasion was for Butterfree in order for it to be together with the mate that it had just met, and is clearly a case of non-intervention. The philosophy still seems to work and be quite noble despite the mixed bag of results over the progression of the anime.

Once people get past the notion that Pokémon are creatures of battles and for battling, it becomes easy to see that they have lives, just like the real-world creatures that many of them in fact do resemble. With the realization that they likewise possess lives, one may be willing to respect those lives without meddling in them too much - thus, a "laissez-faire" approach for them. For Trainers who deal with Shadow Pokémon and Ash of anime fame, the approach seems to apply and fit well to certain extents. For everyone else, the approach may be one of veritable consideration.

One year ago: The State of Nominations, Part 4

Two years ago: A Friend and Fellow Pokétaku

Three years ago: Favorite LINE Pokémon Stickers, Again

Four years ago: Becoming a Connoisseur

Let's Talk About Filling in Things

Me: All right, it seems that now is a good opportunity for a "Let's Talk".

Ash: OK, so we usually talk about things when you send me to events or conventions. This time... is it what I think it is?

Me: In a way, yes. Things don't seem to look too good for them right now, so you're not likely to see one any time soon.

Ash: I'm not sure you even want me to travel far for them even if there is one somewhere far away.

Pikachu: Pika chu! ["Same here!"]

Ash: Isn't that right?

Me: Yes, you're right. Some things I can't stress enough. So for now, just be patient until a local one can get up and running.

Ash: Sure!

Me: In the meantime, we can still talk about different things to fill the time. That's one way of "filling in things".

Ash: I see what you mean. What other Pokémon things can you fill in, besides talking with me?

Me: You'd be surprised. For one, there's a T-shirt that I had made with your likeness on it.

Ash: Oh hey! That's really awesome!

Pikachu: Pi pika pika! ["So awesome!"]

Ash: But you'll still send me to places, right?

Me: Of course. This is not a replacement for that. This is more of a spiritual thing for me, just to show people what I like and to get in a Pokémon mood when it seems out of place to send you.

Ash: And we can still talk about them too.

Me: Certainly. As for other things to fill out, today I happened to receive something that neatly did that for something related to Pokémon that I've already previously detailed.

Ash: Oh, what could that be?

Pikachu: Pika? ["Hmm?"]

Me: Well, you'll have to see. It might have something to do with Poké Balls, Alola, and something neat that certain Pokémon can do. I'd like to cover them all, but I'll do that personally soon enough.

Ash: You're keeping it as a surprise for everyone.

Me: It's not a surprise for those in the know regarding what I'm talking about, but yes, for others, it would be. I say, keep a watch on this.

Ash: That should be neat.

Me: Oh, I'd say so, very much. One more thing to fill in (and close out) this conversation: it's been exactly one year since I formally started the initiative of us talking together when there are no events and conventions, and I think that's a great thing.

Ash: I do too. We can make do with this for as long as you wish.

Me: You bet. It's also the day of your supposed "special day", at least two years since I've recognized it. It may be debatable, but it's a happy conjecture as far as I'm concerned.

Ash: Thanks! I also spoke my mind two years ago, and I think it's also a great day no matter what.

Pikachu: Pika pika, pika chu! ["Yes, that's nice!"]

Me: It's only right on your special day that we fill in a few things - perhaps, so that you and I can fill in more things in the future.

Ash: That's a nice way of looking at it.

Me: So, may our Pokémon lives be filled in to the fullest, just like a Pokédex.

Ash: I can't wait for us to do just that!

One year ago: Let's Talk About Some Moments

Two years ago: After All These Years

Three years ago: GiRL (Gyms in Real Life)

Four years ago: To Japan and Beyond

Anime with Mixed Language Content?

The Pokémon anime is today known all over the world, including beyond its original Japanese rendition. All or part of the anime can and have been adapted in various languages, including English. Even so, some fans may prefer ones in certain languages for various reasons, whether understanding or enjoyment or even others. That leads to the consideration of mixing and matching the content of the Pokémon anime as they are rendered in different languages for the purpose of satisfying particular fans.

For other anime, this has been known to happen. Some people like the English dub content of a particular anime yet also still like the songs (openings and endings) that are in the original Japanese, so the anime is presented with the songs still in Japanese; of course, it may also be that the dub production didn't cover adapting the songs, and the manner of presentation may only be purely a matter of necessity in case of this situation. Still, even in this state, that may already be pleasing enough for some people.

For the Pokémon anime, the situation has in fact happened. The production of the local dub where I am doesn't cover adapting the songs, likely not because they can't but the people don't want to deal with it, as other anime has had a few of their songs adapted. Thus, the anime is often presented with the openings and endings in Japanese, while the episodic content is in the local language. Recently, though, the anime has had the interesting case of having song content in English and episodic content in the local language due to production being based on the English dub instead. Personally, I prefer a full English presentation, but since I connect with some of the Japanese songs, some of the latter can be kept - but good Pokémon content is good anyhow.

Evidently, I have my preferences as do other fans. But it's also hard to deny that besides the original Japanese production, lots of work has been put in to make the Pokémon anime more digestible or palatable to certain segments of people, whether local or global. To that end, there may still be yet some mixing and matching of the language content of the anime - whether necessitated by production or desired by the fans - to make viewing and enjoying the anime more pleasant no matter where fans might be.

One year ago: More Virulent Impacts

Two years ago: Respect for Rica Matsumoto

Three years ago: Throwing Poké Balls

Four years ago: Cosplay: East and West

Reminiscing Pokémon Karaokemon... and More

Today, I went out and did something I haven't done in ages: I went for karaoke with others. (Don't worry, we kept things as safe as could be on both sides.) While no Pokémon songs were involved, I kind of wished they were, just like for contests I used to participate in when they were active. Pokémon and karaoke also happens to go together in another way, as the "Pokémon Karaokemon" segment that used to be present on the English dub of the Pokémon anime, during the "Johto Journeys" season. It becomes something I currently reminisce.

Actually, this segment has also gone by a different name: Pikachu's Jukebox, for the earlier season in Kanto. The premise of the segment, no matter what name it goes by, is still the same; it is a showcase of Pokémon music. It is placed at the conclusion of the episode and is not very long, as whatever songs or music are featured, they are not very long, and they become a sampler to pique interest in the English Pokémon music albums, which were still going strong at that time. Eventually, the segment disappeared along with the music downturn.

The segments essentially also featured a partial music video for the songs that were featured, as all the songs were cut to fit short lengths. For a short follow-up to the airing of an episode, this seems fine, but devoted fans like me would have preferred actual full-length music videos, which would deserve (and have) to be aired outside of the episodes themselves. With the music being unique, the segment can be considered unique as well. It does seem like a shame that both the segment and English Pokémon music eventually fell by the wayside.

Admittedly, there was a bit of excitement that the musical segment (Karaokemon, Jukebox) provided, whether complimenting or in contrast to whatever episodic content was being aired at that moment. Excitement also describes in part my karaoke experience today despite not being specifically related to Pokémon, though it was the "karaoke" thing itself that spurred my reminiscence. It was a neat intertwining of Pokémon and music, just like how today I became intertwined with music for a couple of hours on a mic.

One year ago: More "Countermeasures" for Pokémon Go

Two years ago: Performance Critique: Bunkasai 2019 J-Song

Three years ago: Shiny Obsessions... Again?

Four years ago: Oddest Things with Pokémon

The Hum of (Pokémon) Life

And all the light, will be, will be

And all the future prophecy

And all the waves, the sea, the sea

And on the road, are you and me

...

And all the stars, without a name

And all the skies, that look the same

And all the clouds, that fade, and then

Then all of this, begins again...

-- "The Humming...", Enya

Lately, it seems that life for me has been repeating itself in different ways. This includes affairs of Pokémon or otherwise. The ways that life progresses and then repeats is evocative of a "buzzing cadence", so to speak - a hum, in a way. That is then evocative of this song by Enya, which also becomes even more pertinent to the way that (things in) my life are currently going even with Pokémon, and makes for a thoughtful discussion as well.

If this song can be summed up in a few words, it is that life goes on. The lights on the horizon, the waves on the sea, the clouds in the sky - they all have their ways of going on. Time and moments within it are fleeting, only obeying to the one constant that is change. And everyone, even Pokémon Trainers like me, continue down the road that is set and more likely to change, but also possibly to repeat, like for me recently.

Specifically for Pokémon Trainers, life is a hum. They scout for Pokémon to battle with and the new challenges ahead, prepare for them, battle, and then things begin again. For them, this is a normal way of life, while other things in life progress as evoked in the song. At least a few Trainers would be observant of these progressions and they could naturally adjust their training progressions by what they observe.

In doing so, life really has to go on somehow, even with the involvement of Pokémon in different ways and no matter how that is. With luck, that "buzzing cadence" or hum may just be felt as life goes on, even in a repeating fashion. Personally, as a Pokémon fan, I'm happy for the repeating progress when Pokémon also becomes involved, and it may be the hum that I ought to be feeling as one.

One year ago: Better for the World

Two years ago: Pokémon Go Community Day, 5/19/2019

Three years ago: Pokémon Go Community Day, 5/19/2018

Four years ago: On the Mystery of Dungeons

One-Day Pokémon Adventure

Yesterday, I had discussed about certain groups of two-wheelers and how Pokémon could play into my (evoked) fascination with them. Another thing that plays into either or both of them is a sense of adventure involving them. In this day and age, though, there may not be enough time for anyone to commit to a lengthy adventure. Given the case, some may then opt to have an adventure with them that spans only one day. That seems to be a neat take that is worth discussing as well.

Community adventures may be considered a thing with both of them. Certain circles of two-wheelers may be apt to hold a "Sunday morning ride", which could indeed be regarded as an adventure that takes place on that very day. This fact is rather nicely mirrored in the Community Day of Pokémon Go, even though it doesn't take place in the morning or necessarily on a Sunday. It's still an adventure nonetheless for those who not only seek Pokémon but also togetherness with people who possess similar interests. Both accomplish exactly that.

Competitions may not quite be regarded as adventures, but they certainly could be for those who (should) care more than winning or losing. If two-wheelers have their own various kinds of races, then Pokémon has its various competitions like VGC (main series) and PvP (Pokémon Go) battling. Granted, the bulk of preparing for either takes place well before the respective day, but the competitions can and do take place in a day, maybe more depending on the circumstances. Either way, the adventure can be evident in the path that one takes as one progresses.

On a more individual note, some two-wheelers might ride together in a day as one in order to have a bit of bonding time together and get (re-)acquainted with one another. This would, in a way, be reflected as dealing with Buddy Pokémon in Pokémon Go or even raising Pokémon in other games. Whether or not this is an "adventure" may be up to the individual riders or players, but if the efforts involve some kind of voyage - certainly for the party of two-wheelers - or ordeals of some kind, then it may be considered adventurous for whoever is concerned with them, and that should be just fine.

Evidently, the adventure aspect might explain why I'm fascinated about two-wheelers and especially attracted to Pokémon. So much can be done on or with either of them to have a pleasant time in the form of an adventure. That pleasant time might also be able to occur within the span of a day, which is either more than enough or just right. At the least, the world of today can manage to support such one-day adventures and allow one to discover either their riding or battling spirit.

One year ago: Trivia Questions and Answers

Two years ago: Trainer Image Cards

Three years ago: Marathons...?

Four years ago: Pins and Pins

Quickies: Bike for Pokémon

Faithful readers of this blog might recognize that in addition to being a Pokémon fan, I'm also a fan of bicycles and motorcycles, naturally aided by their manifest presence in my current region of residence. Lately, I've had somewhat of a great fascination for them, in addition to the fascination I've always had. It seems it would be once again pertinent to tie the fascinations together again, and I can think of one way: through their extreme quality.

Some bikers, both of the pedal type and the motored type, have the power to go fast, like the Mach Bike in the third generation games. They could be on par with one of the fastest Pokémon out there, Ninjask, while at the same time having the cruising power just like Lugia, which could definitely be ridden on. In fact, the latter might just be the experiential tale for those with the Pokémon rather than a Mach Bike or a motorcycle with great engine power.

Other bikers prefer to go anywhere, much as the Acro Bike also from those same games can suggest. On hills, it's like they're Ambipom scaling trees. On the plains, they might be like a fast Zigzagoon or Linoone in their zigzagged or straight ways like one cannot believe. And with luck, they might go in blazes of glory like the Legendary Pokémon of Entei - though hopefully not to go out with them and hopefully to cut paths where they may.

As with Pokémon, this is a fascination that has a hard time going away, though first and foremost I am a Pokémon fan no matter what. In my mind, it seems the two can at some points in time collide, but that's not half bad. My inner two-wheeler spirit is satiated and my inner Pokémon spirit is pleased. It may be that with the two together, I can go anywhere I please, and both of them lets my world unfold, perhaps even with racing hearts.

One year ago: Everything Is Electric

Two years ago: A Wonderful PikaWorld

Three years ago: Beyond Gyms and Trials

Four years ago: A Pokémon Pencil Bag

Command and Conquer, PvP Style

After discussing the latest new format implemented by GBL, it is simply not possible to escape discussing about the format (themed cup) of Silph Arena for this month, given that I've not done so - and that becomes an imperative. The venue has recently been aiming for formats that turn standard formats inside out, and this month it seems to be no different. It's as if it's trying to aim for one like a certain real-time strategy game... but I digress. It's still Pokémon Go through and through.

Now, then: the themed cup for this month is titled "Commander", and like the previous Prismatic Cup, there is a certain setup for it, which is crucial and needs to be discussed first. For the standard team of 6 Pokémon fit for the Great League for the Silph Arena, one of these Pokémon is designated as a "Commander" and must be selected from one of 10 species: Shiftry, A-Marowak, Jellicent, Poliwrath, Munchlax, Noctowl, Steelix, Empoleon, Escavalier, and Bronzong, which are exempt from further type restrictions. The rest of the 5 Pokémon are to be made up of species with at least one of the Rock, Electric, Psychic, Poison, and Ice types - a pretty "mechanical" selection, considerably.

For those 5 Pokémon, restrictions are abound. Steel types are restricted, except of course for the "Commanders". Mega-Evolved (a current standard), Legendary, Mythical, and Shadow Pokémon are disallowed. Finally, there are seven species that are banned, which are Abomasnow, Wobbuffet, Pachirisu, Stunfisk, Medicham, Galvantula, and Drapion. Interestingly, four out of these seven species are currently being offered in GBL rewards, which affirms their place in PvP battling. In total, there are around 200 species to choose from and make teams with, which should be great in variety.

As for selecting different species in particular, all of the "Commanders" are viable for usage, though some will take more effort and cost to prepare, and they ought to define the rest of the team. For that, best bets on the cheap end include Venusaur, Raichu (either form), and Beedrill, while the middle of the pack even includes newcomers like Barbaracle and Dragalge, and from the premium end, G-Rapidash, Lapras, and Ampharos are viable choices. More fine-tuning of teams is still quite necessary.

If anything, PvP battling in Pokémon Go is its own real-time strategic implementation compared to other forms of Pokémon battling. But add in a "commander" for an "army" of Pokémon to battle similar others, and that becomes something unto itself compared to the way that things are normally done. That command of specific teams should allow Trainers to conquer others in this real-time fashion, and then become the best possible along with the established battalion of Pokémon.

One year ago: A Multicultural Cast

Two years ago: Carry On Carryin' On

Three years ago: The Living Dex

Four years ago: Pastrana and Pikachu

Pokémon Go Community Day, 5/15/2021

After one month - and a restful one month at that, at least for a certain group of people - Pokémon Go Community Day is back in action. It almost feels like that restful one month has put everyone on the ground, and now everyone is ready to take to the skies, which is more than apropos for this current edition. And those who participate will really need to "take to the skies" for this edition in order to get the most out of it.

This month, the featured Pokémon is Swablu. It might seem like an odd choice, until it is considered that some parallels can be drawn with Magikarp, which has had its Community Day last year. For now, though, there are the standard particulars or "bones". Evolving it to Altaria (or catching Altaria directly) allows it to possess the Charged Move of Moonblast. The bonus is reduced Egg distance, which ought to help with 2 km Eggs that may have Swablu in them. The paid Special Research is titled "Cotton-Winged Bird" owing to the appearance of the species family. And because current conditions have not resolved themselves, those particulars (extended Incense and so on) continue to apply.

Now it's time for those parallels. Swablu, like Magikarp, needs an immense 400 Candies to evolve; the paid Special Research provides 300 of those, not counting ones begotten from the included Swablu encounters. In Pokémon Go, Swablu has also had its Shiny form released previously, but like Magikarp, only certain Trainers - a good number, but still relatively not many - possess the Shiny form. For at least one of my friends, it was therefore an opportunity to obtain this "cotton bird" in golden form, which also becomes a golden Altaria. Lastly, while the Swablu family only has two species, its evolution Altaria does possess a Mega Evolution, and this becomes key now that Mega Evolution is somewhat established in Pokémon Go.

For the matter of Mega Evolution, that becomes something unto itself. If one had the opportunity to go around PokéStops, one may have found ones with "catch-3" Field Research tasks rewarding 20 Altaria Mega Energy. After the period of Swablu appearances end at 5 PM local time, Mega Altaria then appears in Mega Raid boss eggs that appear onwards, making this essentially its debut. Those who have obtained enough Mega Energy for a Mega Evolution from the Field Research tasks may not have to raid, but everyone else will likely have to, in order to gain what's needed. In any case, this is a completely new approach to Community Day that factors in Mega Evolution.

Today, I had the opportunity to go out and do a couple of errands, which I also did to take advantage to scout out a few PokéStops and go through Community in almost live fashion. I did not meet people I was expecting to meet, however, but that afforded me the opportunity to go home early and take care of the rest of what I needed to or can do at home. After the appearances ended, I evolved the best Swablu I had, the best Shiny I had, and one that could be useful in PvP affairs. Not to forget, I also got involved in a couple of Mega Raids for Mega Altaria and earned just enough Mega Energy for the Mega Evolution, which could be useful at some point and nicely caps off the day.

For a Pokémon like Swablu and Altaria, it's only appropriate that Trainers "take to the skies" with it, especially for the purpose of Mega Altaria. The Community Day for Pokémon Go also has something good going for all three with a novel approach that may stand to be repeated for other species families with Mega Evolution. After that, it may just be possible for one to go wherever they want to go, maybe even on the wings of a cotton bird and beyond.

One year ago: Coming Full Circle

Two years ago: Everything Old Is New Again

Three years ago: 15 Minutes of Fame

Four years ago: Adventuresome Pikachu

The Retro Cup of GBL

Those who have been with Pokémon from the very start will recall its "retro days", when there were only less than one-sixth of the extant species known today, and more specifically when they represented less types. Those types may considered to have pretty good dynamics for their time, and it would be interesting to see those types against one another. This underlying intent may be one of the reasons for the latest new format for the GBL of Pokémon Go, which is called, appropriately, the "Retro Cup".

For this, the restrictions are simple. Pokémon of the Dark, Steel, and Fairy types are disallowed, leaving only those of the first 15 types introduced in the first generation. It is worth noting that only the types of the Pokémon are restricted, not the moves, so Pokémon moves belonging to the other three types may still come into play, provided the opportunity. For the most part, however, the interactions will mostly involve the 15 types from the first generation and in effect the Pokémon that can make use of their full potential.

While the types are restricted, Pokémon of specific generations aren't, so everything other than the restrictions is fair game. This means not just Pokémon of the first generation (also called Kanto), some of which are restricted due to having one of the new types of the second generation onwards as a secondary type. Even with the restrictions, this still leads to a dazzling array of Pokémon to choose from to make a battle party, which may be troublesome for certain Trainers, even myself.

Ultimately, a number of familiar species lend themselves fairly well. Talonflame, one of the banned contenders in Great League Remix, has the potential to become triumphant, as well as Abomasnow. Other contenders remain pesky, like Hypno with its variable moves and Politoed with its strong presence. Overall, that seems to be a defining aspect of this cup: choosing Pokémon that can cause lots of trouble in addition to ones that allow to get out of it, which is certain to occur.

The "retro days" of Pokémon are by and large fully behind, as further developments have changed and refined the world associated with it. Nevertheless, the facets of those "retro days" still deserve some recognition as the foundations that were laid down for what Pokémon is today and now. Now, the Retro Cup allows Trainers of Pokémon Go to honor those days and emulate most of the dynamics of that time, with modern species also included in a "timeless classic" manner.

One year ago: Going Elite with TMs

Two years ago: Detective Pikachu Burger King King Jr. Toys - Arcanine

Three years ago: Round Pikachu Keychain

Four years ago: Cosplay: Isshoni Tanoshimimashou 12

The Road to Victory

Well, since I've covered it in past years albeit indirectly, it seems apt to keep doing so (it shifts; it's always one and a half weeks or so earlier each year, and this is last year's). Today is that special day for a good group of people, and that seems to be a good succinct description. It also goes by another description for yet others: "the day of victory". Being that I'm a Pokémon fan, "victory" is a key word, as that is a desirable result of battles. It's also an important description for another thing, being a place called the Victory Road. This one is perhaps just as significant as victories in battle.

Victory Road refers to stretch of path before the Pokémon League, often including a complex dungeon, that tests the persistence of Trainers before they reach the ultimate pinnacle of that destination. The complexity of the dungeon is veritable, with twisty paths of both ground and water. The road is teeming with wild Pokémon of advanced stages that may be difficult to battle down and just as hard to capture. Moreover, there are many other Trainers along this road, and they too are difficult to be defeated. But it is assured that any Trainer who makes it through all of that would certainly be ready for the Pokémon League waiting at the other end.

For "the day of victory", some comparisons can be made. There is a path to the "victory", but it's one that is (more specifically, was) traversed across the one month before the day. If the Victory Road brings about challenges that result from things being present, the path to "the day of victory" brings about challenges that result from things being absent instead - and that's even with sparing much of details. Also, it is almost certain that Victory Road can be traversed in much less than a month (hopefully not much more than a few days), but the path to "the day" always takes that one month, no more and no less. The two appear to be quite stark.

The takeaway of both, however, is the same: before a victory, there needs to be a challenge, or even a trial. Such would prove that one would be fitting for the victory. In more general terms, it can be described as "one reaps what one sows", in this case of a good result (victory) out of a long and/or arduous process. That's always a good advice to follow, whether one is dealing with getting to the place of an ultimate challenge or just simply completing a one-month trial.

It has obviously been one month of trials to get to this day, so therefore this day is very much special. So too is the Pokémon League, a hallowed place that requires one to take a stride through a challenging road. Either way, at the end, victory awaits those whose struggles are sincere and outstanding.

May we all have the power to drive through the course to our respective victories.

One year ago: Seeing Pokémon in Rice Fields

Two years ago: The Exclusive Detective Pikachu Promotional TCG Card

Three years ago: Cosplay: INOCHI 2018 - Yuki no Hana

Four years ago: Cosplay Photography

Three Bears

There's a certain trio of bears that some people enjoy, though I've seen them and am not quite fond of them. I might have even mentioned them on this blog once, but to dissociate the context from Pokémon. Even so, it seems that there's still some relevance on the Pokémon side of things, at least from a purely apparent and attributive aspect. And with respect to Pokémon, the same trio of bears can be described in terms of three Pokémon species (and incidentally families as well).

The first bear is Beartic and certainly its predecessor Cubchoo. They're the bears of the cold - they live and thrive in areas too cold for most other Pokémon. Incidentally, they're representative of the Ice type, and they are properly as such. They're also known for the clear spot on their faces, which for the base form takes the form of a dripping snot from the nose, while for the evolved form takes the form of an icy beard and mustache. It makes them look a bit odd, but they still hold their own.

Then there are a pair of brown bears of the Normal type, the veritable Ursaring that comes from the base form of Teddiursa. The latter is sweet as sweet can be, obviously being a "teddy bear" and having an affinity for honey; in fact, it is said that it can concoct its own honey, particularly with usage of its own digits, which are as sweet as their concoctions. Meanwhile, the former is an adept hunter and gatherer, particularly for itself as it prepares to hibernate. The skills of these two certainly "run in the family", so to speak.

The third of the bears is the "panda family" of Pangoro and its little kin of Pancham. In real life, pandas are mostly calm animals, but these Pokémon depart a bit from that. They appear more fierce, or at least try to in the case of the little kin, right up until it evolves and is truly fierce-looking; both are of the Fighting type, but Pangoro additionally gains the Dark type, evidently supporting their respective attitudes. It may be that one may have to be wary when dealing with the Pokémon of this family.

Considering the above, they're a complementary trio in more ways than one. Besides being the bears that they are, they're all also species families with two stages, and they're representative of certain specific types. While I'm still not quite fond of the trio of bears I'm referencing with these Pokémon (and are not likely to be any time soon), at least the reference can still be made with Pokémon, which pleases me to end, as well those who enjoy them in addition to Pokémon.

One year ago: Missed Pokémon Merchandise in Snacks

Two years ago: Watching in Style, with Friends

Three years ago: To Know the Unknown

Four years ago: You Are Blessed

Forgotten (Event) Days

Today is a Tuesday, which means that for Pokémon Go there is an expected Spotlight Hour, and there was (in my local area at least, at the time of publication of this post). However, it seems that some people still have managed to forget and thereby miss the event that by now has become regular. It has happened at least a couple of times, and I became a reluctant witness to at least a few of these occurrences, past and present. It could be described as a little concerning, and therefore I have to write about it.

It should be noted that there have been plenty of reminders about the regular event in the form of news bulletins, reminders from friends, and even pop-up notifications, but some still manage to forget even with all of these. But then again, I don't have much say if the people in question are absorbed in whatever activities they have going on up to the point that they completely forget. I'm likely to commit (and have committed) the same thing myself if I'm not fully prepared, though I hope it only rarely happens no matter how much I've prepared.

For intense Pokémon fans, the problem of forgetting events may be compounded further with all the events in all the games that they play. They could be involved in the events of a game to neglect ones in another, with the respective consequences of such a happening for each of the games. At that point, one would either have to schedule everything or focus on something, which duly has its consequences as well.

And of course, when things happen, they just happen. At that point, I'm tempted to listen to "Forgotten Yesterdays", a piece by Yanni, to lament for all the things - Pokémon or otherwise - that have been forgotten in their circumstances of occurrence. The progression of the piece is as fragmented as the memories of past and forgotten (or perhaps close to forgotten) moments and events, which I may or may not stand to remember.

So the events, especially in Pokémon games, continue on their merry way to be experienced by everyone, particularly those who remember to partake in them. It may be hoped that the recall and execution of the events may remain memorable for as long as they can be before they are lost into the realm of the "forgotten yesterday" for one reason or another.

One year ago: (Preparing for) Shuffle's Last Stand

Two years ago: Special Feature Film - "POKÉMON: Detective Pikachu"

Three years ago: Just Like a Rainbow

Four years ago: A Shout-Out to a Fellow Blogger

Transparent Language Presentation?

Another game series that I play has gradually featured the development of a fictional language that is a key part of the historical background of the series. The characters who are involved are understood to possess comprehension of the language, though in the game and related media, they are presented as speaking in English (or whatever language is opted, if localization is available). It is apparent that Pokémon isn't as such, as all the human characters speak plain language... or do they? This possibility might still deserve to be considered.

Likewise as in the other game series, the human characters speak the language of the respective localization, whether the Japanese original or English plus others elsewhere. Yet this may not be able to hide the fact that they may be speaking a different (hitherto unknown) language in the background. This is what I call a "transparent presentation" of language, in that the background language is presented through another language as a proxy, in this case the languages of the localizations. I've also mentioned this in my old post about Pikachu speaking.

One thing that may support this "transparent presentation" is the glyphs that are present in the anime adaptation, which are somehow recognizable for understanding, in contrast to Unown glyphs that look strange. In this case, it may then be regarded that the glyphs constitute the language that is being "transparently presented" by proxy of Japanese, English, or whatever language is the localization of choice. Though the background language would still be unknown unless elucidated, and that may not matter much.

Something that might disprove this "transparent presentation" theory is that the world of Pokémon is likened to an alternative history of the Earth, where the creatures of Pokémon develop instead of the animals of the world as is known today. On the other hand, there is a small part of this conjecture that may also allow for alternative languages to develop instead of modern languages, and therefore it would also partially support the theory as above instead of fully disproving it.

The theory of a background language that is "transparently presented" through various real languages and media forms of Pokémon may be interesting even if there is no conclusive evidence that it does constitute the reality of the world of Pokémon. That reality is more focused on the creatures that the human characters pit against one another. Even so, the human characters still need to comprehend one another to do exactly that, and if not through a real language, the background language may just be the answer.

One year ago: More YouTube Pokémon Highlights

Two years ago: Trading Styles

Three years ago: The No's of Go

Four years ago: Site Design

Glyphs of Pokémon?

Avid watchers of the Pokémon anime might have noticed that in some parts of the scenery, particularly where the written word would be involved, there is instead a series of glyphs that only vaguely resemble those of real written languages. (One such example can be found in one of the episodes I've reviewed.) Glyphs are important to any written language as the symbols by which when they're strung together, they communicate certain meanings. Yet the glyphs in the Pokémon anime are quite different in that they hardly if at all have this function. Examining them may provide insights for Pokémon and beyond.

Many of the glyphs are short in sequence and boxy. A real language that expresses things in often short and boxy glyph sequences is Japanese, the language of the region of the world (Japan) from which Pokémon hails. Therefore, it may be reasoned that the glyphs are in a way "Japanese in proxy" though the glyphs may or may not be intended to communicate any Japanese expression in particular. It also makes sense given that the first four regions were based on Japanese landmasses, and despite this not being the case for later regions (example being Unova, the setting of the episode above, for which the region is based on New York), the consistency is maintained to give the sense of a coherent world.

The concession is that there are certain glyphs utilized in Pokémon that resemble real glyphs, which would be the forms of Unown, which do resemble uppercase  letters of the Roman alphabet and can actually be used as such in some cases to communicate certain messages. At the same time, the glyphs are also regarded as being foreign (Unown = unknown), at least relative to the short and boxy glyphs as above. This would illustrate the concurrence - and yet foreignness - of the Roman alphabet along with Japanese glyphs in real life.

Alternatively, it may not have to be any of the above. It may simply be that the boxy glyphs are simply "artistic license" and they're not there to represent any language in particular. Instead, they would be to represent any language that Pokémon can be communicated in, as Pokémon is now a global phenomenon and unrestricted to Japan. Add back the Roman alphabet as represented by the Unown forms, which are recognizable virtually everywhere around the world, and this seems to be a realistic reason that makes sense for everyone who enjoys Pokémon.

The glyphs in the Pokémon anime are still quite intriguing for their resemblance (or not so much) to actual written language, especially that of the origins of Pokémon. It has to be granted that even in the world of Pokémon, there has to be something representative of written language, so these glyphs become the answer to that quandary. The language that it expresses may be anyone's guess, but it doesn't take a guess that it has to pertain to expressing the goings-on within that world.

One year ago: Playing Pokémon All Day

Two years ago: Getting Lucky with Friends

Three years ago: A Place for VGC

Four years ago: Blue and Yellow Philosophy

The Lengths We Go To... T-Shirt

Some years ago, a certain company created a novel ad campaign. That campaign is titled "The Lengths We Go To", and it is exemplary of what they do. They want to make people feel special, so they make the (extra) effort to make the people - their customers - feel (extra) special. That would mean bringing the things they like, making them feel comfortable, and allowing them to have the best experience possible, as if they were at home or at least the places where they belong. Even if one doesn't deal with them, it has to be admitted that the mission is noble.

In the same way, I'd like to think that Pokémon Trainers share much of the same spirit. If they intend to be the best, they'll likely make much of the (extra) effort to become so. And even if it doesn't beget results instantly, at least it becomes one or more steps to take them to where they want or should be. Personally, I know one Pokémon Trainer for whom this applies rather perfectly and is admirable as such, even to the point of being noble just like the mission of the ad campaign.

In fact, I'm rather inspired. So much so that it has resulted in me wanting to make a printed T-shirt to exemplify that... and I did:

I've actually had the idea for this T-shirt since 8 years ago, which is around the time the ad campaign popped up, and this also explains why it has Unova saga graphics: it was then contemporary, for me at least. The design was quickly conceived in a day or so, with the image of Ash and Pikachu plus the words as the front of the shirt and the Pokémon logo on the back (which can't be seen here). The words set in similar style as the Pokémon logo are directly taken from one of the ads of the campaign, which happens to be the ultimate one and struck a chord for me and in relation to Ash.

When I went to print it at that time, however, I did find a print shop who took it up... but then they promptly closed forever and I never heard from the print shop again. The design lay dormant all those years, but then an opportunity came up a couple of weeks ago to realize the design with the help of a friend looking to make a printed T-shirt of his own. It was also then that I unearthed the design again, and this time with the aid of the design team for the print shop, the background was added to the shirt front for extra flair. After a long wait, the shirt was completed earlier this week and I received it today. Despite the dated retro design, the message is still felt to be relevant today, which is why I stuck with the design.

It may be that for anyone for whom Pokémon is highly related, they may just "go the extra mile" to pursue Pokémon experiences, including any that might be relevant even if just a little bit. That "go-the-extra-mile" spirit fits right in with the old ad campaign, and it all fits in. I'd say my efforts with the T-shirt above can be succinctly described as such, and it works out to a perfect reminder of what can be done however far one goes, especially with Pokémon.

One year ago: Pokémon Stickers on WhatsApp

Two years ago: Looking from Far Away

Three years ago: (High Noon at the) Local Ex-Raid, 5/8/2018

Four years ago: Ash and Pikachu Keychain

Pokémon Asia McDonald's Happy Meal Toys - "Expedition Series", Selections

It seems it hasn't been too long since the last time I obtained Pokémon fast food toys, and now there's another set of them. Remarkably, the toys this time are from a chain with which I'm acquainted well, especially since covering a full set of toys the first time on this blog. As with the past few times with fast food toys, though, I can only manage a selection of the toys due to various limitations, including that of current conditions. But that's better than nothing, and it also means another post on this blog for those who keep up with me.

Ignore the dates - those are for a different area.

So, this current set of toys is what could be called the "adventure" or "expedition" series. In addition to bearing the label of toys, some of these are useful trinkets for a possible "adventure" or "expedition". The Compass is to find one's way, the Digging Tools are to unearth things, and the Whistle is to call attention to oneself or others, as examples of what these toys can do. This time, the toys also feature only a single Pokémon species - Pikachu - so there's no concern of missing out on other species. In my local area, these toys come in two waves: the top four for one week from April 23, and then the bottom four for one week from April 30. Now with the toys fading into rarity and having been fortunate to obtain two of them, it's a good time to review them.

Of the eight toys, I obtained the Periscope and Camping Lamp Cup. The Periscope is reminiscent of tree trunks, though the green sections do recall an object of tubular nature that isn't related to Pokémon so much as it is related to something else very different. It is nevertheless a working periscope that can also be rearranged, not necessarily in the same arrangement as depicted above. The Camping Lamp Cup is also as expected: it can function as a lamp - more likely, a lantern with a light source carefully positioned under it - or as a cup that one can drink liquids out of. These are still part of my collection, though, so it might be a little too precious for their intended functions, and they'll have to stay as pristine as possible.

The lamp, the cup, and the periscope in an alternative arrangement.

This "adventure" or "expedition" series is extremely neat. A few of these objects live up to their intended functions and are useful in that regard. They are still toys, but they're also more than toys in some sense. I don't foresee going out on an adventure or expedition any time soon, much less with actual usage of what I got, but getting these toys-and-trinkets is already an adventure in itself, and that also continues the adventure of me scouting out Pokémon things for myself and the world.

One year ago: Hanging by a Cliff

Two years ago: Folding Paper for Pokémon

Three years ago: Pokémon in Poké Balls Stickers

Four years ago: Cosplay: J-COSHOKAI 2 - Utsukushii Hana

On "Digital Talents" and Pokémon

Pokémon is and always will be renowned for its games in all their forms. Many of those games are in electronic and thusly digital in some way; therefore, they require people of specific skills - that pertain to this realm, certainly - to be able to develop them. Those skills would have to be coupled with good and developed talents in order to result in good things, as it always has. That would, in effect, demand "digital talents" to be able to join the development effort and make the things that Pokémon are renowned for. "Digital talents" is also a key term around my local area, and a case can be made for linking this term to Pokémon.

The term primarily refers to a government initiative and program to scout people who possess capabilities of digital things, develop them to the best of their abilities, and prepare them to work in industries that demand their capabilities. The creative industry and gaming industry are certainly possible lead-ins, to which Pokémon is  related. While it may not be expected that the participants and graduates of the program will work on a Pokémon project directly, they may still work on projects of the relevant industries, and just perhaps in the future, they might get picked up for something connected to Pokémon, which would be the most wonderful case.

One of my very good friends has actually been a part of this program, and that friend of mine has connections to Pokémon that are just as unbelievable as mine. The output of my friend for the program is quite laudable and my friend is totally deserving to be a participant of this program. Beyond that, my friend is also quite tech-savvy with the possessed understanding of technology; because of that, my friend also understands the ins and outs (mostly, at least) of what's going on with Pokémon games and their related technology. Everything thus works out in the favor of my friend.

As for myself, I'm honestly not sure whether I'm cut out to participate in this program. I do have some understanding of technology that predates what I know now, but overall, my educational and knowledge background isn't of technology or the related sciences, despite possessing good grades and some interest for them. Now I'm fully entrenched in language and linguistics, and that is my "daily bread" when it comes to scrutinizing things like Pokémon, which I'm certainly doing right now with this post. But at least some of what I know then and now helps with my current state of affairs. It has been said that the program is open to all, so I may just be open.

For something that is very much related to technology, at least in the vein of its various electronic games, Pokémon demands the availability of "digital talents" to continue endeavors within it and beyond. Much can be said for the people who possess capabilities as such, whether or not they participate in the related development program and whether or not they go on to participate in the development of something related to Pokémon. At least fans that are less tech-savvy for me can support their efforts, especially if related to Pokémon, and then we can all reap the fruits of their labor.

One year ago: Play Pokémon on a Plane

Two years ago: A Tropius Keychain

Three years ago: Cosplay: J-COSHOKAI 3 - Saikou no Yorokobi

Four years ago: Shuffling Stages

Once Upon a Special

In the main series of Pokémon games, there is a fascinating history about characteristics that in modern Pokémon parlance is pitted in contrast against characteristics that are considered as "physical". That would be the "special" characteristic, specifically regarding Pokémon stats and moves. Both of these have underwent changes since their initial implementation to become more complex, thereby becoming a challenge for Trainers in these games. It also becomes neat to detail how those changes had progressed.

Initially, there was only a single Special stat as introduced in the first-generation games. This stat had particular relationships to moves that are considered "special" - more on these shortly. It was in the second generation games that the stat was split in a more definitive manner as the Special Attack and Special Defense stats. Obviously, with the differentiation of the stat into two new ones, this became another crucial point in selecting and shaping Pokémon to fit the needs of good teams, as the two new stats now determined the strength and resistance of moves of the "special" characteristic.

And for those moves, initially, the moves that are considered "special" were determined by type, one of the 15-17 at that time. This persisted for three generations until the fourth generation, when moves were assigned labels of "physical", "special", and "neutral" according to what they do and what stats factor into what they do. With the distinction being no longer type-based, the moves now allow certain Pokémon to take advantage of their strengths rather than be held back by the limitations of the types, though it goes without saying that the situation results in greater complexity as well.

Today, in the parlance and discourse of the main series games and thereby competitive VGC play, "physical" versus "special" continue to be specific considerations in teambuilding at various levels, especially given the modern dynamics as above. Yet even before then, the initial considerations still had set in motion the dynamics that pertain to the "special" characteristic of different Pokémon. It remains fascinating to look back over those archaic dynamics, perhaps if only to appreciate the modern ones.

One year ago: Introducing Timed Research

Two years ago: Cosplay: Bunkasai 2019 -Tanabata Matsuri-, Day 2

Three years ago: Cosplay Team Projects

Four years ago: The "Me Thing" vs. the "We Thing"