Consume and Create

In the field of media, two forces are always in play: consumption and creation. The latter allows for media to be realized in all its forms and the former allows those forms to be enjoyed. Naturally, Pokémon is a major player in media today, and it is affected by both forces all the same. How those two forces are manifested in things that are related to it becomes a fascinating matter to discuss, and that is exactly what I'd like to do in this post.

Specifically, I'd like to frame the discussion by the observation that both forces are important and balance each other out, according to someone I know. It is great to be able to consume things (including content) related to Pokémon, but it would also be great to create things related to Pokémon. In this way, one can "consume to create" and "create to consume", fulfilling their qualities and relationships to each other.

The matter of "consuming to create" is one that is pertinent to many fans, particularly the most creative of them. They can take in incredible amounts of content, after which they can synthesize what they have taken in into various forms, for example posts on a blog, a podcast, or even a YouTube channel, all of which I have some experience with at this point. Even then, any fan should be able to do what I've done with a certain amount of initiative.

Going the other way, in "creating to consume", those who are able to create content ought to be able to do so in a manner that attracts others to be able to consume not just the created content but also the original content as it's meant to be consumed. This may present the greatest challenge for fans, especially in dealing with something as big and important like Pokémon, but it's something that is completely doable.

Pokémon has a great deal going for it, including many, many things (content) in various forms of media. They can stand to be consumed, yet they can stand to be the precursor for creation that leads to more consumption, creation, and so on and so forth. Neither process can or should stand alone, and both in tandem can lead to even greater things. Given that Pokémon is fundamentally important in media today, both forces are also as such for it.

One year ago: "New Daybreaks" for Pokémon

Two years ago: The Long-Winded Side of Things

Three years ago: Cosplay: ONEGAI Bunkasai 2019 - Eiyuu no Uprising

Four years ago: Mauville's Progress

Five years ago: Nostalgia: Episode 672 - "Here Comes the Trubbish Squad!"

More on Wayfarer (and Links to Pokémon Go)

As noted yesterday, PokéStop nominations in Pokémon Go are now integrated (and inextricably linked) with Niantic Wayfarer, the system for collecting and reviewing the nominations, not just from Pokémon Go but also from other games, such as Ingress Prime - in that sense, they are known as nominations for a "Waypoint", the generic term for them. Usage of Wayfarer is obviously now required, but there are also finer points to that usage that also should be explained, especially in further relations to Pokémon Go.

First off, Wayfarer is only accessible by way of Google or Facebook login, so a Trainer needs to have linked (that is, bound) either one to their Trainer account. In my case, I finally had to link or bind the former to my account, which started with only a PTC login. Of course, one also has to meet the level requirement to access Wayfarer, and that has to be met regardless of the login account requirement. Once both are met, Wayfarer is then open for access.

To make further nominations, one also has to take and pass the test that also allows the review of others' nominations. The test serves as a check of understanding of nomination criteria, which are numerous but somewhat obvious, though the test may incorporate them in subtle ways; if one is not observant, one may not be able to pass. That happened to me, as I had to take the test three times before I passed and could make nominations again. It should be noted that if one reviews nominations poorly, one will need to take the test again, but that shouldn't happen with objective intent.

By accessing Wayfarer, one can also see the list of made nominations and their states; these are actually somewhat descriptive, and I may utilize them when I update my progression next time. The textual particulars of a nomination in the state of "In Queue" can also be edited if the need arises. Further, a nomination can be "upgraded" or at the least marked for such, which will promote the nomination further in reviews and help to accelerate the process, though the "upgrade" has to be earned through the review of other nominations, as the main objective for participating in the system.

Reviewing is not a total must, but in light of the above, it may be necessary (and must necessarily be conducted properly regardless). It maintains one's Wayfarer rating, which is important for posterity in the system. Most significantly, review "agreements" also count towards an achievement medal in Pokémon Go, and this may be the best incentive for participating in the Wayfarer system, aside from making more nominations.

With Niantic Wayfarer, it might seem that the nomination process for Pokémon Go (and other Niantic games) has gotten somewhat more complicated, and in some ways, it might be. Yet in effect, the process is also centralized, streamlined, and even beneficial for those still devoted to Pokémon Go. In that sense, the integration may be quite justified, further with its primary intent and the links and nifty things that are brought to Pokémon Go. That further justifies the process of nominating places itself and expanding the overworlds.

One year ago: Road of 25th Anniversary: Beckoning Specials

Two years ago: The State of Nominations, Part 3

Three years ago: Tournament: Raid Group Cup

Four years ago: Lugia Raid Burnout

Five years ago: Ice Is Nice with Pokémon

The State of Nominations, Part 15

With two months having gone by, it becomes time to update on my PokéStop nomination progress in Pokémon Go. For this progression, change is always a thing - the world changes, the environment changes, and nominations may change as well due to my and others' effects. But this time around, the changes seem to be more pronounced than ever, as they deal with the methodology of doing things themselves for this progression and beyond. That and more have to be covered in this update.

As always, it's helpful to cite the hard numbers to add perspective. Currently, I have 29 active nominations (up by 5 from last time) plus 3 renominations. The number of accepted nominations went up by 1 to 66 (from 65 last time), while rejected nominations stayed at 30, though this is because I took the effort to make a renomination while something else got rejected. I also gained a superseded nomination (to 14 from 13) by way of finding out that a very old nomination seemed to have already existed.

The reason for the last one is the most major change to nominations: now the process is fully integrated with Niantic Wayfarer, and a nominator - here, a Trainer - must be able to access and participate in the system to continue to make nominations or even changes to existing PokéStops. In my case, I've done exactly that and in the process found out the state of the nomination above through Wayfarer. Wayfarer itself has many facets and aspects, which I'll have to cover separately as they all are important.

In transitioning to Niantic Wayfarer, nominations now also have to be classified through its category system, which contains many descriptive labels for specific objects. Up to three may be applied to a nomination, and the choice has to be made carefully, as improper labeling may cause the review process to take longer or result in a flat-out rejection. The classification adds time to make a nomination, but at least through the freedom to nominate anywhere and anytime, it's just something else to heed in the process.

Nominating PokéStops isn't always an easy or straightforward matter, but it's one that is always fraught with changes, whether significant or not. The full Wayfarer integration as above is a major and significant change for anyone who nominates or want to keep on nominating, like me. Yet in turn, such a major and significant change will certainly effect other changes, especially in the realm of Pokéstops in Pokémon Go, and that may be the incentive to keep nominating and allowing change to occur.

One year ago: Pokémon Go Regional Event Rollup

Two years ago: Pokémon Go: A Drive to Investigate

Three years ago: Pokémon Go Event Rollup, 3/29/2019

Four years ago: Takara Tomy Pokémon MonCollé Friends: Pikachu

Five years ago: Pokémon Mechanical Fan

Pokémon Go Event Rollup, 3/28/2022

Now, it's fairly close to the end of the month, so it's time once again to make the rollup of events that have occurred or even are occurring in Pokémon Go. It is known for a fact that the beginning of this month marks the start of a Pokémon Go season that highlights a region known for its tropical characteristics. Accordingly, the events of the first month of the season should ideally herald or welcome the new season, and they do. It becomes a festive start to the season in that way.

As with last month, there is a bit of an addendum. On Pokémon Day, during the Pokémon Presents announcement, the "prequel" to the new season and the events of this month took place with "breakout" appearances of Alolan Exeggutor throughout the overworld, then tapering off until the season started. Since the form isn't new to Pokémon Go, there wasn't anything else for those appearances, unlike for Hisuian Voltorb, though it did give the opportunity for some to obtain its Shiny form. The "prequel" made for a nice and festive early start to the season.

Then came the first event of the month and season on March 1 to 9, titled "Welcome to Alola". This marked the "first wave" of Pokémon species that are native to Alola, in the form of the three starters (Rowlet, Litten, and Popplio) plus a handful of other Pokémon, including the "undocumented" Jangmo-o in the wild. The other complementary Pokémon were Pikipek and Yungoos (in the wild and Field Research) and Rockruff and Tapu Koko (in raids). The non-raid Pokémon were also featured in a Collection Challenge, while a Special Research set for Melemele Island - the locale of these Pokémon - became available. It's mostly a standard beginning as far as Pokémon Go is concerned, but it's also a nicely welcoming one.

India also celebrates the Festival of Colors (also known as Holi) this month, and unlike last year, this time the whole world got in on the action, from March 15 to 20. Part of the reason is the debut of Oricorio and its four multicolored forms in different parts of the world. Along with the new Pokémon, a dazzling array of Pokémon with many colors and multiple forms appeared in the wild, raids, and Field Research task rewards. A Collection Challenge also helped to highlight a number of these Pokémon, and the reward itself is another Oricorio based on the form for the location. Things were helped along by three-hour Lure Modules and five photobombs a day that may reward a Shiny Smeargle, as well as a new fashion item. All told, it was colorful and rewarding the world over.

One last event to close off this month is the Lush Jungle event, from March 22 to 29 (tomorrow). The Lush Jungle is located on Akala Island, and the characteristic Pokémon are the Fomantis family for the former and Tapu Lele for the latter, and they both debut in this event. While the latter joins raids, naturally, the former joins a host of Grass-type and related Pokémon in the wild, raids, and Field Research task rewards. Instead of a Collection Challenge, the event features a regular Timed Research set instead, with highly specific tasks; meanwhile, a Special Research set for Akala Island also became available. The weekend of the event also featured a "park spotlight" with Cottonee, in which it appeared more often in parks and could also be Shiny for the first time, also aided by certain Field Research tasks. Quite a bit goes on in this event, all for some very natural Pokémon.

Lots of things took place in this month, the month that kicks off the Season of Alola. Two out of the region's four main islands became highlights, along with the customary "first wave" to celebrate the formal debut of the Pokémon of this region. That should be able to be considered rather festive for the start of this season, enough to put any Trainer into the bliss and state of mind that is this tropical region.

One year ago: Pokémon Go Event Rollup, 3/28/2021

Two years ago: Pokémon Go Event Rollup, 3/28/2020

Three years ago: Local EX Raid (and Priorities), 3/28/2019

Four years ago: More on Ali (and the Early Manga)

Five years ago: A Pikachu Wall Hanging

The Irreplaceable Difference

At one point in time, I've noted that Pokémon represents something that is "irreplaceable" for me personally. For some other fans, that yet may be the case in much the same ways as well as different ones. The matter of the "irreplaceable" quality, meanwhile, has been stated by a certain famous person to be linked to the quality of "difference". Considering the statement, it seems that the "irreplaceable" quality of Pokémon may be linked to its "difference" as well and how that is manifested in various forms.

The realism that it offers may be considered one of the points of difference. It may be considered to be quite a stark one in comparison to other similar universes. Though a part of Pokémon is "monster" - taken of course from "pocket monsters" - many of the "monsters" are in fact realistic and can be considered to be full-fledged animals rather than monsters per se. There are still the "monsters" that have a hard time fitting into a realist framework, but by and large the realist quality prevails as a difference.

Pokémon also offers a great deal of enormity and expansiveness, as yet another point of difference. It's big not only in game and entertainment, but also in different forms of media. Its communities are then reflective of that enormity and expansiveness, possessing different scopes while still remaining somehow connected to each other. They also might consider themselves as irreplaceable as they are different to one another, and that reflects the statement at an even more granular level.

What the famous person said about "irreplaceable" being connected to "different" may just be true. Pokémon presents such a different picture of realism that it can be considered unlike any other and thus irreplaceable. Pokémon today is also enormous and expansive with different focuses for different people - though they may remain connected regardless - and that is something that cannot be replaced (easily, even). Whether it's for me or any other fan of Pokémon, things may just be different but arguably unable to be substituted.

One year ago: Quickies: Finding Pokémon in Trees

Two years ago: Countermeasures for Pokémon Go

Three years ago: Ingress and Out

Four years ago: Pokémon in Common Terms

Five years ago: Cosplay: CLAS:H/ICGP 2017, Regional Edition

Ready System for Pokémon Go Raids?

One issue that Trainers in Pokémon Go face - and likely have faced since inception - is waiting out the raid lobby timer when participating Trainers are ready for battle. While the period of two minutes (120 seconds) may be deemed necessary for raids with larger groups and/or remote participants for them to enter the lobby and prepare, it might be a bit too much for raids with smaller groups and fewer participants, such as a Level 1 raid that should be doable by even just one person. The solution for the latter case might be a "ready system" for raids to accelerate the lobby timer and get them started right away.

Such a system could (be considered to) be inspired by a similar "system" in Pokémon Unite. In that game, after participants have selected Pokémon for battle, they then tap the "Confirm" button and they will be marked as "ready" with a check mark; when everyone including those on the opposing team are as such, the selection timer is cut to 10 seconds - but still allowing for last-minute changes - to start the battle quicker. Its selection timer is not as long as the raid lobby timer, obviously because the selection scope is not as great, but the system still manages to be implemented, and that may be an incentive for how it would or could be implemented in Pokémon Go.

As for that implementation, a similar time cut could be implemented, but it may be better that participants would have to give consent to the time cut by confirming that they are ready, by way of a button. The reason is that in Pokémon Go, when the lobby timer reaches 10 seconds, no new non-remote participants may enter the lobby, and new ones are considered to start a new lobby. In that respect, a time cut to 20 seconds may be preferred in order to give a slight leeway to any new entering participants who just make it in during that time, who are regarded as "ready" regardless as they join.

To make sure that the time cut only occurs as intended, a participant could be named as the "host", who will make the final confirmation to initiate the time cut after everyone else confirms. In the case of a single-participant (solo) raid, the participant would obviously make the call to confirm by oneself. The confirmation should also come with a message to prevent accidental confirmations by any participant, including hosts themselves. It is clear that even the control process itself has to be controlled as well.

It has been a long time since the raid feature has been introduced, which itself has gone through a lot of changes over time. Yet one of the things that hasn't changed is the waiting time in the lobby for a raid, which may be both sufficient and excessive. A "ready system" similar to that of Pokémon Unite, though with the necessary caveats and considerations, may help to balance the needs of Trainers participating in raids to make sure that everyone is all set to battle, or at the least get things going to reduce the downtime during raids and make use of the uptime to battle in them.

One year ago: Be the Winning Team

Two years ago: Looking for Good News

Three years ago: Nominating PokéStops

Four years ago: Envisioning More Local VGC Tournaments

Five years ago: Slowpoke Moments

Weathering with Politoed

In finding out about the current weather in different places, including where I am, I'm often greeted on a certain screen by a unique character. That character may be described as a creature with a round body and head, with a few distinctive limbs; most importantly, the character is colored green. With all those characteristics, the character has all the makings of what in the real world is called a frog, and indeed as such. However, being oriented to Pokémon as I am, I'm inclined to think of the character as a proxy for the Pokémon species of Politoed, and that becomes a fascinating prospect.

The actual character in question is also anthropomorphic, being able to do the things that humans can do. If the character were actually Politoed instead, some things would surely be different, but perhaps not by much. Politoed would still be able to frolic in the fields, swim in the rivers, and do things to support itself and its kind (that is, its species family) in all the different kinds of weather that it may encounter; it could, for example, find a King's Rock in the stream on a cloudy day, or take shade during a brighter day. Those activities would still be representative of the weather as it applies to people.

Politoed could further represent the weather by touring different locales of the Pokémon world that are known for their specific weather, in the process also showing its adaptation to those different places in addition to showcasing the places themselves. Meanwhile, the actual character sometimes connects with fellow friends, and in the same way, Politoed could also connect with other Pokémon friends at times during certain whether conditions. The way that it deals with the weather would certainly become unique representations.

Admittedly, the only link between the actual representative character and Politoed is that they share a distinctive form. Yet it seems that they can represent the weather in some very similar ways, though with Politoed also having the unique Pokémon background and influence. I personally consider myself justified in considering that the character itself may be a Politoed in another life that is more closely associated with Pokémon, and that the "weathering" experience itself is and could be a delightful one were it to involve Pokémon.

One year ago: The State of Nominations, Part 9

Two years ago: The Difficulty of Sickness

Three years ago: All I Learned with Pokémon

Four years ago: Pokémon Go Community Day, 3/25/2018

Five years ago: "Grow Old Along with Me..."

More Berries for Pokémon Go?

Trainers in Pokémon Go recognize three basic Berries (Razz, Pinap, and Nanab) plus two "precious" variants (Golden Razz and Silver Pinap). These Berries may be considered sufficient for current needs. But what if, suppose, more Berries were to be added, with slightly different functions? The results could be entertaining and somehow useful to Trainers in their efforts of capturing Pokémon.

In the main series games, the three basic Berries above actually form a quintet with two other Berries: Bluk and Wepear. All five of these Berries are designed primarily and initially as "enhancers" for PokéBlocks, making them tend to certain flavors and therefore certain Pokémon Contest aspects, which are discernibly important for them. More importantly, these Berries don't have much to do with regular Trainer activities, which can be said to have changed with inclusion in Pokémon Go. Therefore, it stands to reason that if other Berries were to be added, it would be those from the rest of the group.

With that, it becomes slightly obvious how these Berries could be implemented. Despite their messy disposition, Bluk Berries are bluish purple, which almost correlates to the color of the Stardust sparkle. Therefore, they could be implemented to increase Stardust after capture when given to Pokémon. Meanwhile, Wepear Berries can then fit into the latest aspect of captures that is also controversial, which would be Candy XL. It could be implemented for the purpose of increasing or even guaranteeing Candy XL after capture; in this way, the controversy could also be lessened. Given the importance of the above situations, the implementations may just be necessary.

Rounding out the "precious" variants, another one could be implemented, which I would call the Bronze Nanab Berry. Like the other "precious" variants, it would help to catch Pokémon more easily, and like its regular variant, it would "stun" them and keep them in place for easier ball throwing. This might be more feasible to be implemented sooner as the Nanab Berry is already established, but the other two Berries above might still stand a chance should they be considered somehow.

Berries in Pokémon Go remain items that Trainers can use to make the most of their Pokémon capture, especially with the selection that is available. And yet, it's also a selection that may just be expansible, as with the above variations for Berries old and new. If that happens, their usefulness and entertainment may stand to increase as well.

One year ago: The Future of WhatsApp Pokémon Stickers

Two years ago: Virulent Impacts

Three years ago: From One Path to Another

Four years ago: (Again a) Local Ex-Raid, 3/24/2018

Five years ago: The Many Forms of Pikachu in Shuffle

Crazy for Pinap Berries

One of my favorite fruits, if not my favorite fruit, is the pineapple. It has a very characteristic sweet and sour taste as well as a distinct appearance with its crown of leaves and textured skin. It's also the namesake for the Pinap Berry in the Pokémon world, which also has a similar appearance - green crown and yellow fruit - and characteristics. It is likewise an attractive "fruit" or Berry for me personally as with the real namesake fruit, even to the point that I'm fascinated or "crazy" for it.

In Pokémon Go, the Berry has the function of doubling the Candy earned by catching Pokémon successfully. It's somewhat an important item, which makes it hardly a wonder that it's included as an item that can be obtained by opening Gifts from friends, sometimes in good amounts. It can, of course, be fed to Pokémon (as Buddies or in Gyms), though that may be a bit too precious. I personally do that sparingly and keep a good stock, along with its Silver version that now begets more Candy than normal. At least, it's a healthy obsession in this way.

The classical main series games first put the Pinap Berry in the role of one of the Berries that can enhance a PokéBlock toward the Contest aspect of Toughness for use in Pokémon Contests, certainly. The sour aspect of the Berry is telling in this regard; even some real pineapples are noticeably sour no matter how one goes about them, and they'll certainly make one pucker when one eats them. It's a unique way to augment one's resilience, and what works for people may work for Pokémon as well and vice versa - maybe, crazily.

As with its namesake, it is copiously featured in the Alola region, the analogue of Hawaii in the real world, a place that is also particularly known for its pineapples. Mallow has been attested to be able to refine a particularly refreshing juice from the Pinap Berries that grow there for the enjoyment of everyone. From what Mallow can do with it, it is apparent that anything real pineapples can be, Pinap Berries can be as well, though with an ethereally Pokémon quality to whatever can be realized, even if it would be rather kooky.

Some people might regard the pineapple (and by extension the Pinap Berry) as a "crazy" fruit with a "crazy" taste that seemingly has no place in certain things. Yet by looking a little deeper, it's easy to see that there's nothing too crazy about it - in fact, it may be more useful than it is "crazy". Personally, if there's something to be crazy about the fruit and the Berry, it would be its useful qualities as detailed above. And seeing as it is a favorite fruit of mine, I'm fine with being crazy for all things about it and the Berry.

One year ago: My Favorite WhatsApp Pokémon Stickers

Two years ago: Continue Our Videogame Innate Desires

Three years ago: Pokémon Go Community Day, 3/23/2019

Four years ago: The "Generals"

Five years ago: Pokémon Food... For Us

Respect for Sarah Natochenny

I've made a post on the one and only Japanese voice actor for Ash (and the companion) as well as the former English voice actor, but I haven't made one for the current and longest-serving English voice actor yet - and the post is long overdue in some ways. That voice actor would be none other than Sarah Natochenny, who has now filled the role for five generations and more, since 2006. That fact alone deserves much respect, but the respect is also deserved in other ways.

Thanks to different means, I've had the chance to listen to her voice characterization for Ash, particularly the more recent ones. From that, what I would say is that the voice work can be described as a "happy medium" between that of Rica and Veronica. She is, of course, neither of the two, but her (relatively more) recent work makes it seem like Veronica never left, while at the same time being (at least a little) closer to the Japanese work of Rica. I'd say that is quite impressive even after many years of service.

Like her predecessor, she also fills in the role of Delia Ketchum and even a couple (among a number) of Pokémon, being Staraptor and Misdreavus. In fact, she mentions this and goes into the dubbing process - as it happened for the very first Sun & Moon episode - in a special feature by Vanity Fair, which is available for viewing on YouTube. It's an insightful look into the process for anyone who is interested in voice acting and dubbing, but more than that, it's also personal in different ways - just watch to the end.

She's also active on social media, specifically Instagram; through her Instagram handle (@sarah_natochenny), it becomes possible to glimpse into the other goings-on of her life. Quite a bit of it is directed to interaction with fans, certainly at conventions and beyond, as well as other happenings, both in and out of her connections to Pokémon. Through it, it's possible to see where she is and has been, as well as where one could catch her next. It's an absolute dream, even for me.

Much has gone on since Sarah stepped into the role of Ash and other characters on the English dub of the Pokémon anime, and after over one and a half decades of maintaining that, immense respect is commanded. Evidently, she is true to her craft and even truer as a real person, and that has to be a dream for any fan of what she does. Indeed, for Pokémon fans, what she does best is to bring to life its primary protagonist, a true position of respect as with anyone else in the same position.

One year ago: Pokémon SM KFC CKM Toy: Rockruff & Premier Ball

Two years ago: Celebi @ Everywhere

Three years ago: At the Same Time

Four years ago: Shiny Lugia Obsessions

Five years ago: A Passion for Red

The Route Themes of Journey Beginnings

As is true time and time again, the main series of Pokémon games have many unique and memorable themes or music pieces from different situations. One of those situations is the "beginning of the journey", when a Trainer starts to venture out of the hometown - wherever that may be - and takes the initial steps of the journey into the first routes of the region, sometimes designated as "Route 1" or a variation thereof. The themes are therefore second in line after the "hometown themes" that many will also recognize.

Considering most of the pieces, they're at times bright and at times bouncy, while also being optimistic or at the least hopeful. And they have to be, for after all, they mark the initial steps of a Trainer into what may be the "great big unknown", even for Trainers who know what to expect after playing past games or by a preview of what's to come. They have to be able to draw in Trainers to initiate what ought to be a great journey.

In recent memory, three of these themes have become or remained popular. Those themes are of the first generation (Kanto), fourth generation (Sinnoh), and the eighth generation (Galar). The first two of these are particularly bouncy and bright, while the last one is simply bright and hopeful. The first of these is ever-popular, while the others are popular because of recent releases featuring the regions.

The journey of a Pokémon Trainer is potentially a long one from from wherever it is they might begin, and it would be helpful to pep up Trainers as early as possible on that journey. And that happens rightfully on the very first leg of their journey, as accompanied by musical themes that are as memorable as they are indicative of great futures.

One year ago: Let's Talk About Waiting Games

Two years ago: Tournament: Raid Group Toxic Cup

Three years ago: Gender Appeal

Four years ago: At a Loss... in Lavender Tower

Five years ago: GSC Nendoroid Series #425: Red

ASMR with Pokémon

The hottest thing today in human perception is the tingly feeling one may get from listening, watching, and even feeling certain things, even common ones. That sensation is popularly known today as ASMR, and in line with the above, it can be triggered by different things. Pokémon too can conceivably have a hand in doing this with anything that may be enjoyed in the above manner, though of course they would have to be just the right things that can stimulate the sensation. And it may be that Pokémon has no shortage of such things.

A few weeks ago, the official Pokémon YouTube channel uploaded a video called "Bidoofwave" to take advantage of the Bidoof phenomenon. The video consists of footage of the titular Pokémon, but more importantly, the audio is billed as fitting for relaxation or studying. The kinds of music that are usually utilized for this purpose are essentially the kinds of music that can trigger an ASMR sensation, and the video may be regarded as an ASMR video in some respects; the sensation should occur over its duration of close to 10 hours.

Over the course of the buildup to the release of the Sword and Shield games, there was of course the infamous "livestream" and all that was associated with it. Beyond the associated things, the "livestream" may still be regarded as a peaceful video of the forest - Glimwood Tangle - of sorts, and thus may also be regarded as an ASMR video. Given similar videos that can provoke similar reactions, it is not much of a stretch.

Not all of the music pieces in the Pokémon games can be described as action-packed; some are downright calming and relaxing. A collection or compilation of them can trigger the ASMR sensation just as much as any kind of similar music, even ones that are not related to Pokémon. The music pieces may be collected and curated by oneself or other people, and the sensation might vary just as much as the collected pieces might vary.

Personally, I find that a selection of clips from the anime can and does deliver an ASMR reaction, especially if set to the right music - not necessarily that of Pokémon. I've recently been able to compile one of my own and find it able to trigger the sensation; a well-crafted AMV ought to be able to do the same for others.

If anything, ASMR is a unique sensation. To feel the "tingles" from something that could be regarded as common is not only invigorating but also lively. And if Pokémon could be involved in the mix, that would make any fan happy, including me. Whatever the form might take, the sensation that is triggered may just be well-deserved.

One year ago: All I Can Do, with You

Two years ago: Sad Music from Kanto

Three years ago: A Girl and a Fan

Four years ago: The Place to Be

Five years ago: Cosplay: Daisuki Japan 7 - Wanderlust!

Pokémon of Overlapping Roles?

For anyone who plays Pokémon Unite, it is a fact that each playable Pokémon is assigned one of five roles (Attacker, All-Rounder, Supporter, Speedster, and Defender). These roles are, for all intents and purposes, essentially unchanging. However, for some, a handful of these Pokémon could be conceivably considered to (be able to) transgress their given roles, whether in jest or actual practice. The new roles then "overlap" their given roles, and that becomes a fascinating point of discussion.

One of the contenders of overlapping roles is the "pink blob" known as Wigglytuff. Its assigned role is as a Supporter, but some have described its attacking prowess as being similar to an Attacker or even an All-Rounder. This was at least the case prior to updates that adjusted its attack capabilities to the point that it is closer to neutral now. True to its role, it still is best applied for its enemy-stopping capabilities rather than on the offensive, though it remains OK in this regard in some cases.

Recently, I've been going back to Pikachu as my choice Pokémon for the Attacker role, as it has a good attacking power and range... perhaps too good according to some players, who have called for it to be adjusted down or "buffed". Combined with the X Speed item, it also has good movement that almost rivals Zeraora - my persistent choice for Speedster - and by virtue of that and my setup above, I deem it a "pseudo-Speedster" that can make some "drive-by" attacks and score fairly quickly.

The second of the situations above highlight the fact that setup or preparation of Pokémon is still quite important and may influence how the Pokémon behave, in ways that are both dictated and not dictated by their roles. Discussion of this topic goes beyond the scope of this post, certainly, but it is more or less inescapable as it pertains to the current topic and therefore also needs to be mentioned. 

Selecting Pokémon of certain roles remains an important matter for battles in Pokémon Unite, as specific roles are still necessary in battle, further as the Pokémon are designed accordingly. Yet it remains that players and/or even the game itself can bend that design to try to serve other roles with a bit of know-how and circumstantial knowledge. That bit of "overlap" may just provide players and teams with the (slight) advantage for winning.

One year ago: The Post Malone P25 Virtual Concert

Two years ago: No Sight, No Mind

Three years ago: Fashion Statements by Pokémon

Four years ago: PokéTerminology

Five years ago: Cosplay Hair

Countermeasures for Pokémon Go: "Over" Time?

Even though there may be signs that things are letting up, the current conditions may (and ought to) be considered to be far from over. Meanwhile, I haven't discussed about the "countermeasures" that are to alleviate those conditions for Pokémon Go since two seasons ago, and that may be because I consider that not much had changed. With the start of this new season (the Season of Alola), there are a couple of important changes. These changes on their own may not fully comprise a set of "countermeasures", but they complement them all the same and should be covered.

One of those changes concerns free raid passes. Now up to two of them may be collected over a day, which may be helpful for those who can go out and raid. It may also be considered that the state of affairs is helpful for those who have spent for remote passes since the start of when they were introduced, allowing a certain amount of freedom from payment for raid passes. At the same time, it may not exactly be a "countermeasure" for those who cannot take full advantage of the change. Therefore, this change seems one that can go both ways, whether slightly positive or tending towards neutral.

Two changes concern Incense: while it is extended to 90 minutes (triple its standard length), it also doesn't attract as many Pokémon as it is while walking. This is another one that goes both ways, but more on the negative side; it's neutral for those who can go out to take advantage of it, but slightly negative for those who can't or don't want to go out. Some Trainers have voiced their complaints about this change, and it is not exactly positive. What remains is to see how Trainers develop to this and how the "countermeasure" itself develops.

As a throwback, last season did feature a neat "countermeasure" that wasn't retained for this season: all trades regardless of Pokémon distance guaranteed a Candy XL. With the countermeasure not retained, Trainers have been going back to "distance trading" - trading Pokémon from faraway places - in order to obtain Candy XL. At the least, it might have been nice to have the "countermeasure" retained, but even during its one season, it had a fine presence. The return to "normal" in this case might be fine as well.

In the time that current conditions have persisted, Pokémon Go has demonstrated to a certain extent that it can adapt, though at times this left more to be desired. It will certainly have to adapt more in the case that the world is adapting, even as it seems that things are heading into an "over" state. But as it has been said, things are never really "over" until they really are, and that may perhaps demand more changes and "countermeasures" "over" time.

One year ago: New Pokémon Go Bonus Hour Experiments

Two years ago: On Blogging and Microblogging

Three years ago: Character Songs

Four years ago: "You Shall Not Pass" - Hard-to-Access Gyms and PokéStops

Five years ago: Alton : Food :: I : Pokémon

Quickies: Trees, the Symbol of Life

In the second edition of a series of posts that are meant to be relatively brief (and quick), I discussed about water as the substance that begets life. One of the forms of life that arises with the help of the substance is trees of various kinds, big and small, all with a variety of unique elements. The situation is almost similar to Pokémon species, all of them having unique characteristics even though they are all called Pokémon. It is then fitting to call trees a symbol of life, at least one of many. They're also vital for people and Pokémon alike, with some of the latter having relationships to trees, whether as places of shelter or a source of helpful items. Some Pokémon even look like trees themselves and can serve similar functions, showing how the relations can go even deeper.

Where I am, I can spot quite a few trees. They might help to provide food to Aipom or Pancham, or to harbor Heracross, which I've witnessed a few times in the past. There are a few other trees in my area, and I would think the likes of Dustox and Beautifly would be attracted to them as they pass by. Yet other trees might play host to Pidgey and assist Yanma in reproduction to beget more Yanma. Most importantly, every morning, the loud noises of what seems to be Nincada and Ninjask can be heard distinctly, which a friend says that they give a summer ambiance - and I tend to agree. They're evidently about life, and the Pokémon that I've mentioned - in real-life guises - become an affirmation of the symbolic nature of the trees.

Pokémon may not be something that exists in my world, but in its world of existence, they are among others a veritable form of life, especially if they are helped along by trees that exist in that world. In the same way, trees in my world are a real symbol of life and help (or are helped along by) other organisms. Then there's the water in both places that helps string everything along. It ought to be clear that wherever one goes in either world, one should find some form of life that is truly emblematic of that world, and I'm sure by what I've observed in mine, trees are very important in that regard.

One year ago: The Sentience of Pokémon

Two years ago: There Are Monsters Outside

Three years ago: "Monkey Trio" Keychain Figures

Four years ago: What's Played, What's Not, and What's Next

Five years ago: Pokémon X Food Network ...?

On the Intricacies of the Battle Pass

I've already outlined my thoughts on the Battle Pass feature of Pokémon Unite, specifically regarding whether it's worth it to spend money for its full utilization. Yet, I haven't explained the feature in detail, and that's also the key for its full utilization. In brief, it's a feature that gives out rewards (its "perks"), including Holowear as mentioned previously, for completing missions or tasks. As with similar features in other (Pokémon) games, the intricacies go beyond that.

By accomplishing certain things during battle, certain missions or tasks are progressed or completed. There are three kinds of missions - daily, weekly, and season - and they must be completed and claimed before any of those periods turn over. The mission tasks are numerous (and take the form of "win 1 battle", "play as a Supporter", and "score 100 points", as examples) but after a few battles, it becomes evident which ones are left to complete and they can be done so accordingly. Completing and then claiming them rewards Battle Pass points, which are primarily used to level up.

And there are 60 of these levels, each of them needing certain point amounts to progress. Each level also has a certain kind of reward attached to it, which are then claimed to be obtained. Half of these rewards are free and can be directly obtained in any case, while the other half requires the purchase for the Battle Pass. As noted, the latter does involve the Holowear and Trainer outfits; one Holowear is obtained early and the other is obtained later on, while Trainer outfits are obtained throughout. The rest of the rewards comprise helpful items such as Item Enhancers.

The journey doesn't stop at level 60, for beyond that, an item called the Battle Pass Prize Box is earned from the points that are collected onwards in multiples. The box(es), if opened, will reward consumable items, including Fashion and Holowear Tickets, the last of which is quite coveted. This is obviously neat, but so is the rest of the Battle Pass with all its regular and exclusive rewards. The frequency of missions, the abundance of points, and the appeal of rewards drive players to keep on battling, and yes, even to pay for all the rewards.

One final note is payment. I stated that 490 Gems is a minimum, and that's because one can opt to pay more for the Battle Pass and start at a higher level, but this takes even more Gems and understandably even more money. The tradeoff is convenience, particularly for those who play very irregularly; if one can stand to play more regularly, then the extra payment may not be worth it. Regardless, the minimum of 490 Gems stands for all the rewards and perks that one can stand to get and should be prepared accordingly if so desired.

Perhaps the feature itself isn't as intricate regarding its mechanisms - one can just play, complete, and claim points and free rewards, and if necessary, spend for all the paid rewards. The real intricacy may be in actually deciding to do the latter when it is worth it and becomes possible for whatever reason. Compared to the real intricacy that is the battles in Pokémon Unite, this one might be more of a no-brainer, unless there are considerations like the ones I have. 

One year ago: Localized Legendary Pokémon

Two years ago: Brushing Up on Pokémon Mythology

Three years ago: Cosplay: Neko-Neko

Four years ago: Our Glory of Love

Five years ago: Multilingual Pokémon

Investing in a Battle Pass?

An interesting thing is happening today in Pokémon Unite. What is called the "Battle Pass" for the game has transitioned into a new "season", which will last for the next 45 days including today. This feature is something neat and may have to be discussed on its own terms. But what is important now is that to get the most out of it, one may have to spend Aeos Gems for its additional perks, which entails spending real money for the Gems and therefore "investing" for those perks. And that may be the difficult thing to consider.

The absolute minimum that one may have to spend for the additional perks is 490 Gems, but it may not be a "minimum" by any stretch of the word, since where I am, that amount is equivalent to about 9 USD, which I feel could be spent on better things at the moment - more on this later. And once that is spent, one has to play in order to level up the Battle Pass and obtain all its perks, which depending on how regular one plays may or may not be possible. For at least one Battle Pass season in the past, I've been unable to do so because of one or two tasks that I skipped out on, even with regular play; the story might be even more dire for those who irregularly play.

The primary perk of any Battle Pass season is the exclusive Holowear (that is, "skin", certainly) for two featured Pokémon, which can only be obtained with payment - understandably so. I like Holowear as much as the next player, but at this point, I don't feel compelled to spend for them; I'm happy with either none or what can be obtained for free, as in through Holowear Tickets, an event, or energy exchange. Likewise, its secondary perks are Trainer outfits, for which I have the same reservations, only on the background side of things.

A bigger part to this is that I don't feel that I can valuate my Pokémon Unite gameplay where I presently am with it. Unlike Pokémon Go, which at this point has valuation to a moderately minor amount, I can't say that for Pokémon Unite, I'm on par or beyond that. I would suppose that I'm still at an experimentation or adaptation stage, even after five months of gameplay and the outcomes of all of that, and even my friends who back then were of roughly the same level have outpaced me. While this is natural for any game - even Pokémon Go when it introduced PvP - it seems more pronounced for Pokémon Unite in my personal case.

It may seem that the matter of "investing" for a Battle Pass is dependent on personal choice as well as the constraints of time, money, and skill. If all is fine and well for any of those constraints and the personal choice has been made, then a Battle Pass may become a differentiator that deserves the "investment". One would still have to do the work within the 45 days of the Battle Pass season to make sure all the perks are obtained, but the support by "investment" ought to be there just as much as it supports the game itself.

One year ago: A Year of Living Dangerously

Two years ago: Cosplay: IAM COSPLAYCON

Three years ago: The Pokémon Search Bar in Pokémon Go

Four years ago: Ash and Pikachu, DJF 2018 Style

Five years ago: A Psyduck Headache

To Share and To Care

There's an expression out there that essentially states that things that are worth to be shared are worth to be cared as well. I've thought about it, and that seems to be perfectly applicable to how the Pokémon games are played over these years. This includes the games that started the phenomenon and the franchise, to the more modern games that maintain its popularity and even redefine it. It's somewhat of a fascinating thing to discuss.

During the early years of Pokémon, the experience of playing the games - mostly the main series games, if anything - could be considered to be individualistic. One would have to find the right people to play with, and even then one would still be relatively isolated. Today, with the rise of VGC and tournament play, one can stand to be more connected with others - as in, to share gameplay and care about that of others. Certain team competitions can also practically necessitate "sharing and caring" with others in the same team and beyond. This transformation is rather remarkable.

Nowadays, there are the likes of Pokémon Go and Unite, which can be or is necessarily multiplayer. Higher-level raids in the former demand the participation of others in most cases, and the latter is a fixed-team gameplay that demands intense cooperation among team members to accomplish much of anything. In other words, everyone involved ought to share and care for mutual success. These are rather unprecedented for a franchise whose origins are simple one-on-one combat.

As part of what I consider the "four pillars" of Pokémon, I include trading and friendship; naturally, these would be fodder for sharing and caring. One would have to be open to others  - to demonstrate care - in order to link with them as friends and/or to make trades with them. The result would be an outlet of sharing that leads to further impressions of care. These pillars, of course, would naturally occur for those who are seeking to be able to give their surpluses to those with deficits.

With over a quarter-century having passed, Pokémon is surely to expand now and later on, which also applies equally well to the way that the games are played. Its players, who are called Trainers in parlance, essentially are becoming or have become receptive to sharing and caring throughout all these years. That makes them and the franchise in general, worthy of enjoyment each time and any time.

(There's something else that can be shared and cared, and that would be food - specifically, pie. So, Happy Pi Day.)

One year ago: Berry Cuisine

Two years ago: Pokémon Anime Song Remixes?

Three years ago: Profits on the Side

Four years ago: It's Pi Day!

Five years ago: Pokémon and Puzzle Games

Pokémon Go Community Day, 3/13/2022

Through yesterday's discussion, Ash, Goh, and I noted that it frequently (recently) took place alongside a Pokémon challenge for communities to connect. That challenge would be none other than the Community Day event of Pokémon Go, which I've always devoted its own special coverage. In having the discussions alongside, I wouldn't call it planned, but I can't call it unplanned either; it just seems so convenient to place them alongside. But enough about the discussions - today's and this month's edition of Community Day is at hand.

For this edition, the featured Pokémon is Sandshrew. Yes, it's a species family with only two stages of evolution, but it's also one with a regional form (Alola), and this fits a previously proposed Community Day pattern. Therefore, it also becomes the first realization of the pattern. It also ties in with the current Season of Alola and is therefore a natural fodder. Unlike for the proposed pattern, which would have put Kanto Sandshrew in the wild and Alolan Sandshrew in other means, both Pokémon are concurrently available in the wild for the event. Also of note is that the Shiny forms of the families are already available but rare, and they subsequently become more common after today.

As always, there is also the usual slew of bonuses, perks, or "bones". Sandslash, its evolved form, gets two different exclusive moves: the Kanto form gets Night Slash as a Charged Move and the Alolan form gets Shadow Claw as a Fast Move. The regular main bonus for this one is quartered Egg hatch distance, particularly to hatch 7 km Eggs that may contain Alolan Sandshrew. Lure Modules and Incense are extended as currently usual with free choice. Snapshots, stickers, item packs, and the paid Special Research are also still the norm, with the last of these being titled "Gritty and Glacial" as a reflection on the sandy and icy properties of the Sandshrew of two regions.

Now, as it seems that today my fellow Trainers might be venturing out to different places, I decided to venture out myself for Community Day. That didn't stop me from meeting a few of them, including the very first friend who connected me to other friends, plus another who came later but is still somewhat close today. In our ventures, we set up Lure Modules (and activated Incense, if necessary) in different places and caught the featured Pokémon as it appeared, in addition to accomplishing the usual Community Day tasks. I evolved a bevy of Sandshrew for possible battle purposes, as well as the best and Shiny forms of either kind. I also caught 11 Shiny Sandshrew (8 Kanto, 3 Alolan) to round out the day.

By now, Community Day will remain a regular and therefore planned event, but the happenings that surround it can often be unplanned, as with what I did today. With the fragmentation of almost everyone today due to current conditions, the community challenge of connecting is apparent, though based on what happened today, it's not entirely impossible. What it may offer for particular editions like the one for this month will initiate the planned and unplanned happenings that will make it possible for Trainers to connect.

One year ago: More Pokémon Go Quality-of-Life Improvements

Two years ago: The First Hoenn Saga Japanese Opening Theme

Three years ago: The Poké Ball Classics Merchandise Line

Four years ago: Yes, Even More Pokémon Stickers

Five years ago: Every Day We're Shufflin'

Let's Talk About Challenges in Connecting

Me: These "Let's Talk" editions are becoming predictable in a certain way, but that's not quite what I want to talk about.

Goh: What do you want to talk about, then?

Me: I want to talk about some of the challenges we face in connecting with each other, particularly through our devices and the big "network in the air".

Ash: Oh, like with our Rotom Phones!

Pikachu: Pi-kachu! ["Like that!"]

Me: Exactly. Mine doesn't have the advanced capability of a Rotom inside it, but it's still just as advanced.

Goh: But I think you still can have problems, like those times when I can't call Ash, or he doesn't respond.

Ash: Sorry about that - things can get so wild sometimes that I just couldn't respond.

Goh: Hmm...

Ash: But when it's the connection that's the problem, that's the hard thing.

Me: I'd have to agree. That doesn't happen often for me, for which I'm fortunate, but it has to be frustrating when it happens.

Ash: But you don't seem to be outside a lot. You do many things inside, like for what you really need to do.

Me: Correct. I'm more like Crissa and Ren, as the assistants of Professor Cerise. I do most of what I need to do inside on a computer, and I often need a connection that stays put.

Goh: That doesn't look like the case when I see you do things. You seem to use your phone with your computer.

Pikachu: Pi, ka... ["Curious..."]

Me: It's a bit of technological magic. I can connect my phone to my computer and they both can be connected. But because the connection is my phone, well... you know.

Goh: One has problems when the other has problems.

Me: Right. And it's better to let my phone be free rather than have it do a lot more connecting work than it should.

Ash: I thought you had gotten something like where you were before, after you went to a new place.

Me: I thought I could, but it never seemed to be clear. If you look around, where I am is like the "middle of nowhere" even though it's close to some things.

Goh: I can see that. Oh hey, here comes a few people, and it looks like they want to get you connected.

Me: What do you know - they can!

Ash: Awesome - now you're free, and your phone's free too!

Pikachu: Pika! ["Nice!"]

Me: All right, so that's a done deal. Still, there can be other challenges in connecting, and one of them is a little abstract. It's a challenge that I feel I can take on, and it has been so since a few months ago, though there hasn't been progress - "no connection" - since.

Goh: What's it about?

Me: It's about finding my inner voice and making it harmonize; Ash should know.

Ash: Oh, I think I do. It might be about finding reasons to sing...

Me: Patience - hopefully all can be revealed whenever that happens. And the new connection above ought to help with this old "connection". You know what? Going back to the beginning, though, I guess that predictable thing can be tied to a "connection" too.

Ash: Could it be a challenge too?

Me: You bet, in this case being a challenge to connect with communities and a whole lot of Pokémon, and that seems to tie into our talks before or after them.

Goh: Does it involve catching the Pokémon?

Me: What else - if that's not a challenge to connect in itself, then what is.

Ash, Goh: It sounds like fun!

Me: Indeed.

Pikachu: Pi, pika chu! ["That's for sure!"]

One year ago: Making the Case for Open-World

Two years ago: Possibility of a "Basic League"?

Three years ago: Beta Testing

Four years ago: Taking the Go Train

Five years ago: Worldly Inspirations for a Small World

On the "Grass Divas"

A few Grass-type Pokémon have a certain unique form. They are bipedal with an appearance that suggest a feminine quality, even though they may be either male or female. As such, I've taken to call them "Grass divas" because of the characteristics that they have. They're also popular in some ways among the fandom, so I thought I'd take a post to highlight them.

Bellossom happens to be one of them. Some fans may have the privilege of getting to know the species from the short animated film that features it, while others might know it straight from the games themselves. The Pokémon has a unique place as one of the branches of evolution for the first-generation Pokémon of Gloom, and among the first with such an honor. It's miniature, but it's still nonetheless a "diva" of sorts.

Roserade is the next "diva" of sorts. Its flowery appearance is a given for its feminine aura. In recent memory, Trainers in Pokémon Go will recognize it as the evolved form of Roselia for a past Community Day with some phenomenal aspects. Its stature may be considered emblematic among all the Pokémon I'm highlighting in this post. 

Then, there are two from the fifth generation. Leavanny is not purely Grass as it is partially a Bug type, but it fits regardless. Avid watchers of the anime ought and will recognize it as one of Ash's Pokémon, evolved all the way from a humble Sewaddle. According to lore, it's also an avid seamstress of sorts, which makes it even fitting as a "diva" representative in its mannerism and appearance, as I deem fitting to include.

Lilligant is the other one from the fifth generation. I've already noted a friend's penchant for this Pokémon a long time ago, and that still applies. What applies even more and pertinently now is that it looks like a "classy lady" wearing a hat, and that could help to make sense of my friend's penchant according to this post's key idea.

Many Pokémon are unique in their appearance and qualities, and so are the four Pokémon that I've highlighted above. Besides their other claims to fame, they're representative of a more genteel appearance characteristic of the female gender, as well as of a Pokémon type that is evocative of nature. That's unique and attractive enough for me and fans who appreciate "natural beauty", even in this manner.

One year ago: Quickies: Surf's Up, Surf's Down

Two years ago: The Wonders of the PokéRap and Beyond

Three years ago: Quantity and Quality

Four years ago: Cosplay: Daisuki! Japan Fest 2018

Five years ago: Have You Seen My Childhood?

"Plus Moves" in Pokémon Games

There is presently an intriguing trend in the moves that Pokémon can use in certain Pokémon games. The moves, which I term "plus moves", are like the moves that the Pokémon in question normally possess, but they have the addition of plus signs at the end. Obviously, they indicate that they are more powerful than the normal moves that they have, but that's not the point of what I wish to discuss. For that, I'd like to discuss where they are currently present and the prospects of their appearance elsewhere, as a further expansion of the trend.

Pokémon Unite is where this trend is significantly and currently present. At very high Pokémon levels in battle, Pokémon will receive upgrades to their two regular moves as a "plus move" of the previously selected regular move. These moves are clearly desirable for what they can do, but it is certain that the Pokémon will have to build up experience during battle with KOs and points in order to get up to those levels (and evolve for sure, for the Pokémon that do). The "plus moves" are therefore vital parts of later stages.

Recently, Pokémon Go has followed the trend. The Apex Shadow Lugia and Ho-Oh obtained through the Masterwork Research for this year's Pokémon Go Tour possess their "signature moves" of Aeroblast and Sacred Fire respectively as Charged Moves and "plus moves". If they are so purified, those "plus moves" become "double-plus moves" (as an example, Aeroblast+ becomes Aeroblast++). The trend here is meager and limited - to those who paid for a ticket -but distinct and strong for the Pokémon of concern.

What becomes more intriguing is to see whether the trend will make its way further in (other) Pokémon games. Unite as above is a given, as it is an essential part; for Pokémon Go, Kyogre and Groudon - who might be the subjects of a Hoenn edition of Go Tour - might come with their signature moves of Origin Pulse and Precipice Blades and then as "plus moves" in Shadow form. As for other games, they might or might not be receptive to the concept due to its implications, though this might change at any time.

Evidently, "plus moves" are something more than ordinary run-of-the-mill moves and are extra-special or extra-powerful for the Pokémon of concern, even in different games and settings. As a trend, it might seem superfluous for how Pokémon and their moves are, yet they still do make some sense in some ways. If they can become established somehow over more Pokémon games, and further in those where they are already present, they will surely establish themselves not just as a trend but as a lasting part of gameplay.

One year ago: Thundering into the Vortex

Two years ago: A Taste of the Poison Paradise

Three years ago: Everybody, Polkamon

Four years ago: Action or Strategy?

Five years ago: Thank Heaven for Little Boys

The Support of Fans

Fans may be considered the "life blood" of any entertainment franchise, including Pokémon as the subject of this blog. Their support is what allows the franchise to continue to generate content, which in the case of Pokémon would comprise the games, anime and related screen content, and other kinds of merchandise. It's a support that is valuable in many ways, even if it may not be addressed directly. For that reason, I've decided to take a post to address it, albeit in a somewhat loose manner.

I had actually intended to discuss the topic in a different framework, but then I realized that it wouldn't work in the scope of Pokémon. That different framework also deals with the involvement of official authorization, for which the answer appears to be somewhat obvious: being hard to impossible, as with many franchises (of games) with major fanbases and international repute, which Pokémon have. It just doesn't happen in that regard, at least not with the way that Pokémon is.

What fans can do instead to offer support is with participation in as many Pokémon things as possible in the best ways possible to furnish contributions to the originators, and then serve other fans in newly conceived ways. With that, fans can build up their contributions and support to the originators while the service to them is built up as well. Those newly conceived ways may not initially be recognized as a significant contribution, but if they can, they are all the more support for the franchise.

As stated above, what I've suggested is somewhat loose - perhaps in some ways "abstract" - but the gist remains that what is put forward by Pokémon to fans is the best thing that fans can take up to support Pokémon itself, before then making own contributions that hopefully can be recognized. They're still the "life blood" in any case, helping to keep the franchise to tick and beget wonderful things, for as long as they tick and beget things as well - hopefully like me, with influence alongside.

One year ago: Tags and Tagged Search in Pokémon Go

Two years ago: Toxic People and Fans

Three years ago: Interpretative Soundtracks

Four years ago: Father Figure?

Five years ago: Tonight, We Honor the Hero

On the Planning of Posts

For readers, it might not be very evident, but there is something neat about the posts on this blog from approximately the past two weeks, including today's. They were all planned to a certain extent and had to be or could be written on that day, whether by necessity or convenience (or even both). That's something of a personal achievement for me, as I tend to write posts arbitrarily in many cases, unless it is obvious that something needs to be addressed that very day. And that was what happened over the past couple of weeks with the planning of those posts.

The posts can be planned out "vertically" or "horizontally". "Vertical" planning occurs when there's a certain happening that recurs from past years, such as Pokémon Day (that is, the anniversary) or even just certain special days, like April Fool's Day, and a post has to accommodate that. Meanwhile, "horizontal" planning is when several happenings occur at one time and all of them deserve coverage, which would have to be accommodated in several posts instead of just one. 

Both of these processes occurred in the past couple of weeks. My cosplay anniversary and Pokémon Day are vertically planned happenings and needed to be present as such, while the rest of the happenings across the last week of February and the first week of March had to be horizontally planned because they occurred over or around the course of the vertical happenings in February, continuing into March. It's a rare occurrence, but I got a few more posts out of them to fill those days.

It's safe to say that the two planning processes will continue to go on. Over the course of this blog, I've already established (planned) a few vertical happenings, and anything that surrounds those vertical happenings will have to be horizontally planned. And there's always the chance that multiple Pokémon happenings will occur at one time, which means that horizontal planning will be necessitated regardless.

Planned or unplanned, whatever goes on, Pokémon happenings are always something regular for me as I continue to document them on this blog. Even if they might be a bit irregular or arbitrary, they're still regular to some extent and can be necessarily documented. And that process might sometimes need me to forego my unplanned tendencies and go with something more planned to cover them all.

One year ago: At (and Beyond) the Beginning

Two years ago: Pokémon Conferences?

Three years ago: Add Hope and Tears...

Four years ago: Cultivate or Gather Berries?

Five years ago: Pokémon and Music Games

Working for Pokémon?

It's always the case that one needs something to do (work, a job) to support oneself, other people, and the things they do. I have one myself, as explained in a post nearly a couple of years ago regarding what I do for that in both a professional and fun manner. Yet, what if the two could be combined - as in, what if I can work for Pokémon directly or something that is tied to that indirectly? It's an intriguing possibility that deserves to be discussed.

To be honest, I actually haven't given the possibility much consideration. One reason is that being related to games and always will be, such a job is likely related to technology and involves supporting their systems. This is something that I don't have the chops for, even with all that I appreciate about technology, including that which makes the games possible. In any case, their support systems lie closer to where Pokémon games are developed (Japan, or the US in case of Pokémon Go). In that regard, there wouldn't be much "wiggle room" for a Pokémon job in this regard.

Since my "other" passion is languages, a perfect Pokémon job for me would undeniably have to involve them somehow. Not far removed from the topic is the topic of communication - which I'll admit that I'm not exactly the best in this regard, but I've had lots of practice, especially in writing this blog over several years. And it could be a natural step to follow, if the demands of the job are the same case as what I currently do with this blog and even with my "pro" job (translation) as explained. It's somewhat of a pipe dream, but it's not entirely out of the realm of possibilities.

And... I'm writing this post because I recently applied for a local position for Niantic - the developers of Pokémon Go - with some of the same qualifications, but seeing as it had not been responded, the application is likely to have been passed over. In contrast, a friend (make that two) of mine had gotten through to interviews, but it seems they've been passed over as well. Previously, I also had applied for another local position involving the local merchandise arm, but this too seems to have been passed over. It appears that it may not yet be my time to deal with these prospects.

Regardless, I'm still happy to deal with Pokémon, even though it doesn't constitute direct support for either of us. Those who can work in some capacity to support Pokémon and themselves should consider themselves lucky, as it's not an opportunity that often comes. That would seem to apply regardless of one's background and skills, for which someday it might just be possible to integrate Pokémon if all things line up.

One year ago: Outsourcing Pokémon Development

Two years ago: Cosplay: Robotto no Sekai + SUCOFEST 2020

Three years ago: The Marketing of Expectations

Four years ago: How Many to a Raid?

Five years ago: To Be Continued... maimai ORANGE (PLUS)

Need Some Help, Game Freak?

The announcement of the next generation of Pokémon main series games that is due out within this very same year is a big one, as was the reaction that followed from it. It also seems to be big for another reason: Game Freak seems to be bending over backwards to work on games and release them in marathon, from Legends: Arceus in January to the new games coming out later this year. To this apparent situation, I pose the rhetorical question in the title as I discuss what likely contributes to the situation and what is the fallout from it.

Once again, the issue of "industry pressure" comes into play. I've already discussed the issue around a year and a half ago with a song that is tangentially related, and now it becomes relevant again. Given the quality of the preview, I have no doubt that Game Freak is trying to keep things relevant and accessible, and that seems to be the case. The question is, at what cost? It's already clear that the fourth-generation remakes had been outsourced to allow Legends: Arceus to be all that it can be, but it seems to have also been coupled with the development of this game, or at least what is now known. The key issue seems to center on whether this is "work as usual" or still "too much work", even if the results appear to be up to snuff.

As stated above, the reaction to the announcement was a big one by many fans. Yet for others, questions arose regarding whether it is too early and whether it should be delayed to the next year. After a year's worth of work on Legends: Arceus, this seems reasonable, and the time pressure for the next generation can be relieved to make for a better game come next year, even if the announcement that had been announced was delayed to this summer, for example. However, it seems that fans one way or another will receive the new games this year with the cost of Game Freak's work paying off the excitement of the fans.

Even so, it has become evident that Game Freak's side projects have had to bear the costs as well. Little Town Hero, a variant RPG on various platforms, has been left to languish, and the game has not participated in sales events on any platform in recent memory; yet these sales events are crucial for drawing interest in this game, even with a discounted price. It becomes clear that all available resources have been diverted to Pokémon, which might be fine for that, but not for establishing a presence beyond involvement in the franchise.

Supposing that the question in the title is not rhetorical and demands an answer, and that Game Freak does need help, then Game Freak would need to expand somehow. It has to have the capacity to take on important Pokémon projects - even multiple ones at the same time - and maintain the flexibility to expand its "indie" presence as with Little Town Hero above. A little sprinkle of project management would help this along as well.

Now that Pokémon is a major media phenomenon across the world, it makes sense that Game Freak has to devote much effort to keep it that way, including for what fans want and what the industry wants. Yet, that still ought to be balanced with the notion that the efforts should be as efficient and flexible (especially for beyond Pokémon) as possible, without the need to bend over backwards excessively. Some help may remain the most appropriate thing possible to satisfy the cadence and cavalcade of games that are demanded of Game Freak.

One year ago: Pokémon Go Community Day, 3/6/2021

Two years ago: Tell Me Why, My Brother

Three years ago: (Make Way for a) Local EX Raid, 3/6/2019

Four years ago: Bipeds and Quadrupeds

Five years ago: Ride the Pokémon

Made (Deep) in Obsidian

Obsidian is a kind of rock that is deep black in color; looking at it, one could almost be looking into an abyss (ahem). For Pokémon fans around the world, their "abyss" ("rabbit hole") is how the franchise has developed over the course of a quarter century and more, particularly the creatures that bear the name. It's one that any fan would be willing to jump into and explore. In fact, that may be exactly what the Silph Arena wants its competing Trainers to do, as "Obsidian" is the title of the themed cup this month.

In line with the characteristic of the substance that gives the themed cup its title, the restrictions for it consist of "black inkblots on paper"; in other words, they all consist of bans. Any Pokémon with the types of Grass, Flying, Ground, Fighting, and Fairy are not allowed. Shadow Pokémon, with their naturally black characteristic, are also not allowed, as are Mega Evolutions by standard protocol. Finally, the specific species of Lickitung, Vigoroth, Registeel, Pachirisu, and Bastiodon also cannot be used. That's a lot of "inkblots" for a themed cup, which is something that's usually more positive in restrictions.

From those "inkblots", though, a few Pokémon have the chance to stand up to many of the remaining ones. The key four types are Water, Rock, Bug, and Dark, as the types that have the most interactions. Select species for these are Politoed, Regirock, Galvantula, and Umbreon. The third of these has the Electric type and might be useful to counter Water types. An alternative Dark-type Pokémon is Sableye, which has the Ghost type and may be useful against Psychic types, one of which is the perennial favorite of Deoxys Defense Form. A good Steel-type - for example, Escavalier - ought to be useful as a buffer as well.

Thanks to its development notes, the inner perspective regarding the themed cup can be obtained. The intent of the themed cup is to allow Trainers to choose Pokémon that can easily fend off certain others (the "hard counters" to them). Forcing entire types to be removed prevents them from being too advantageous - most likely from a STAB framework - and forcing the five species above to be absent prevents others from gaining dominance in order to counter those very species, while forcing Shadow Pokémon to be absent levels out the battlefield in other ways; this last objective is essentially the overall grand objective.

Pokémon Go PvP hasn't been as long as the overall breadth of Pokémon species, but it presents an "abyss" all the same that Trainers may and should explore. The restrictions that are presented in this themed cup for PvP have to be thought of as encouragement to do just that, free from the problems and barriers that certain species may present. The results should be in the form of battles that not only reflect the characteristics of the dark obsidian-like abyss but also are "made (deep)" in it.

One year ago: Pokémon First-Generation Drink Bottle

Two years ago: Hope For Problematic Pokémon Fans

Three years ago: A Gold and Silver Postcard

Four years ago: Being a Pokétaku

Five years ago: I'm Swept Away

Recent New Unite Facets

Pokémon Unite has been on a roll lately. In addition to new Pokémon being added as Unite Licenses - which mostly constitute their own topic and need to be discussed separately - there have been additions and improvements in other aspects as well. They've made gameplay more varied and/or interesting, and especially so in these recent times, close to the anniversary of Pokémon; in effect, they make that occasion festive. As such, I've opted to discuss those recent new facets in a post all its own.

For the Pokémon anniversary, it's only right that it has its own event, and it does. The key part of this event is the one and only Mischief Pokémon, Hoopa (as noted in a climactic post a few days ago). It becomes a Unite License and can be gotten for free by completing challenges and baking donuts, for which after a certain number, the Unite License for the Pokémon is obtained. Hoopa also offers a Hyperspace Box each day with nifty rewards that are sure to be beneficial. Special for the anniversary, for a few days, a new battle arena was added: Full-Fury Battle, which uses a Mer Stadium Quick Battle as its base, but cooldowns for moves and revivals are drastically reduced, making for action-packed and intense battles. Altogether, the anniversary event became a tricky and mischievous one, recalling a certain period of time that was as such a while back, but this time with a whole different game. 

Speaking of Quick Battles, other improvements were made as well. For Mer Stadium, its elements were changed: instead of Zapdos appearing shortly after the start of the match, it appears later and closer to the end, effectively limiting it to that one and only appearance. To make up for this deficiency, Rotom now appear on the upper and lower sides of the arena, which function as their counterparts in Remoat Stadium; the Quick Battle arena consequently has greater resemblance to the Standard Battle arena. Meanwhile, in other arenas, wild Pokémon reward more energy (points) when defeated, and stats were altered, with the most salient of these being Abra in Auroma Park, which had its teleport period and stats reduced. Defeating Pokémon of the opposing team also can reward more energy, especially for those low in level in battle. These changes really affect the dynamics of this mode and should make it more appealing regardless of arena.

Then, there is a new mode: Custom Battle. This mode was introduced quite some time ago, but it's still relatively recent and can still be discussed. This mode allows matches in any available arena with any mix of Trainers, including CPU (or A.I.) Trainers; one can so desire to create a one-on-one Standard Battle if one wishes, which I've been in at one time. In this mode, up to five "admins" may also be added to oversee matches for any potentially disruptive or unfair behaviors, and they may also become an outlet to spectate matches as is traditionally done for similar games of the same genre, MOBA, particularly for tournaments. This mode also forms the basis of the World Championship Series mode - accessible through the main menu screen - for entry into the tournament, certainly. And that's the essence of this mode, to be able to create matches for tournament settings with flexibility as well as fairness.

All these facets of Pokémon Unite, whether new or changed, are quite telling of the action potential of the game, which is now further proven today and especially with the World Championship Series incoming. What's left now is to continue the momentum while still allowing future changes to be implemented, and to take this one-of-a-kind MOBA into greater heights. That has to be a certain thing just like change is a certain thing, and the game ought to continue to roll with that.

One year ago: Pokémon, Anatomy, and Books

Two years ago: The Ups and Downs of Showdown

Three years ago: A Mew Pouch

Four years ago: How Do I Live, Without You?

Five years ago: Two Pokémon Notebooks