The Long and Short of Titles, Again

Around two years ago, I had wrote a post about the titles of posts on this blog, which for that month tended to be long, being at least two lines as seen on the desktop site. This time, the same thing has happened, but now it applies for all posts this month, including this one. Some might regard it as being on purpose, and that's true to some extent. But most of that can be said to have happened naturally as a consequence of the Pokémon things I'm involved in, and that's still as fitting then as it is fitting now.

For example, it is almost certain that anything related to Community Day for Pokémon Go will have a title of at least two lines, especially if I have to mention the full formal name of the event, which at that point the situation becomes guaranteed; that has happened three days in a row this month, each with different aspects. I consider to have invested (and divested) myself in Community Day, and it will certainly be a part of my regular posts now and in the future, as a series of posts.

Speaking of post series, I now have more of them than I did two years ago, and in general in the early days when I started this blog. Any post series will conceivably have the title (format) of that post series in the post title, and that means they will certainly take up (at least a part of) one line, with the possibility of two lines being rather likely. Even something like the "Quickies" series will have a longish title due to what it might entail about real life and Pokémon life, as that is the very intent of the post series.

Looking at the posts I've made in previous years, the same correspondence of post content becoming longer due to "finding my voice" may be made for post titles as well. I've found my voice to write longer posts than what I started out with since then and all the way up to now, and shorter titles may not capture all the essences of those longer posts. So, it therefore would make sense that the titles have to be longer as well in order to do just that and complement my posts.

In short (ahem), long post titles on this blog (and this month in particular) arise naturally and necessarily just as much as intentionally. I have covered so much of Pokémon - and so much more I've yet to cover - over the years, and as I do, I can stand to cover even more and in longer stretches of text, and that seems to apply equally well for the content that lies within the posts as well as the titles that describe them. This month's long(er) post titles may just be the current proof of that happening.

One year ago: The State of Nominations, Part 11

Two years ago: YouTube Pokémon Highlights - Virtual Team Lounge

Three years ago: Mythical Numbers?

Four years ago: To Watch a Movie

Five years ago: Like a Fierce Double Battle

The State of Nominations, Part 17

I consider every change that takes place in my efforts of nominating PokéStops in Pokémon Go to be significant, even if they don't appear to be so. And in fact, my personal efforts haven't been too significant in the past two months in a way. However, there are still some changes to my nominations in different ways, both on and off the Wayfarer platform as the supporting platform for the nomination process. That is as good as anything to update on, and it's time to do that now.

On Wayfarer, the changes have been mostly incremental but meaningful. One nomination left the In Queue status and two left the In Voting status, becoming decided in the process. Of these, one became accepted and two were not. However, I also decided to appeal one of the nominations that was not accepted, becoming the first one for which I've taken up the option. Overall, this means 17 nominations In Queue, 15 nominations In Voting, 67 nominations Accepted, 61 nominations Not Accepted, and 1 nomination Appealed. Duplicate nominations are still the same as last time.

Making an appeal for a nomination that was not accepted becomes an interesting choice to make. If one feels that the results of the community voting were made in error and the nomination conforms to the guidelines, the nomination can be appealed once to have Niantic have its say on it. Viewing the nomination in the Contributions page, choosing "Appeal", and entering a reason as descriptively as possible is all it takes; the nomination also has to be recently rejected, else it has to be renominated. Some of my fellow raid group members have used the feature successfully and overturned a rejection, so it's worth a try as long as it's valid.

As for the nominations by my numbers and notes, I have 31 nominations with 2 renominations (each down by 1), 67 approved nominations (still in line with the above), 30 rejected nominations (the same as last time), and 16 superseded nominations (up by 2). The last one is of interest, as two nominations I've made in the past for the same place have been rejected, but at least someone figured out how to get their nomination for the same place accepted. As such, I do not consider the nominations rejected, but superseded. This also becomes a finer point of how my numbers and notes are different from what is tracked by Wayfarer.

Speaking of tracking, there are only a few places that I've noted as having potential for new PokéStops that haven't been fulfilled, and I still desire to get to them when I'm able to get to them. What makes things hard is that some places are becoming saturated with PokéStops and objects, and I may have to wiggle my way in to make nominations. I'm also not able to explore as freely as before due to various reasons, and that becomes a further hindrance to the scouting process for nominations. Yet I'm still assured that I can get in some efforts in this in due time, whenever that may be.

The way that Wayfarer presents nominations for me has been a significant change, as some details that hadn't been evident before now are, and I can utilize the rest of its toolkit to help with my nomination process. Even so, I still maintain my own notes to keep track of things my way, and of course to present everything in these rollups, presently being bimonthly. All of these need to continue to monitor for any significant change that might take place and help keep my nominations in line.

One year ago: Pokémon Go Event Rollup, 7/30/2021

Two years ago: Go Fest 2020 Crafts: Gift and Pikachu Visor

Three years ago: Pokémon Go Event Rollup, 7/30/2019

Four years ago: Leaving a Lasting Legacy

Five years ago: Cosplay: ACOLYTES 2017

Pokémon Go Event Rollup, 7/29/2022

This month, the structure of events in Pokémon Go is a bit different than in most months, but the events still deserve to be rolled up and described within a post. It is also admittedly sparse for an eventful month, as only two of the events are full-fledged ones with typical durations, and the other two events have different relevance depending on where one may be. That may sound curious, so it's best to just get on with the rollup and explanations for the events.

In the first weekend of the month, Pokémon Go Fest took place in Berlin, and thus the focus was on this in-person event in Europe. While those participating there did their thing, the rest of the world took on a Global Challenge involving defeating Team Go Rocket members, which was completed and rewarded double Stardust for that purpose from then on to the end. It also yielded the Ultra Unlocks for the next event to come, which is to be explained shortly. A Collection Challenge was also the order of the weekend, featuring a number of Pokémon that are related to the event, with it also rewarding a Pansear as the member of the "monkey trio" representing this region. Even with the focus on Europe, the rest of the world still got its windfall, especially for a special time.

The special time would be, certainly, for the anniversary of Pokémon Go itself. Because it's the sixth anniversary, and #006 in the Pokédex is Charizard, Trainers got a special treat with this species family now able to have the party hat, something that Charmander already had previously. Other notable features of the event are a new costumed Pikachu, select Pokémon in the wild and in raids, all the starters as Field Research task rewards, and new clothing items and stickers. The Ultra Unlocks complementing this are Pansear in the wild, Unown E in raids, and a special six-on-six Timed Research with Rotom Wash as the ultimate reward. All told, Trainers got their hands full sixfold with this anniversary event.

Meanwhile, those who like battles got their hands full during the Go Battle Weekend that happened on the weekend of the anniversary event. Its main highlights are an expansion of Go Battle Day over Saturday and Sunday - which I've hinted in a post - and saving Shadow Latios from Team Go Rocket. Everything was more, more, more with more chances to battle and more bonuses from those battles, and an expanded roster of Shadow Pokémon plus a Special Research set for the Team Go Rocket purpose above. This sub-event also had an Ultra Unlock associated with it, as the ability to gain the Community Day moves for all starter Pokémon evolutions (their "super moves" plus Dragon Breath for Charizard) up to the present day. This weekend made things even fuller.

As with the first weekend of the month, the fourth weekend of the month had another edition of Pokémon Go Fest, this time in Seattle in the United States, thereby representing the region of the Americas as well. For those elsewhere in the world, there was still a Global Challenge, which this time involved raids; with it completed, raids rewarded double XP to the end. Likewise, it also led to the Ultra Unlocks for the following event. Then, there was also the Collection Challenge that featured a selection of watery Pokémon, which is appropriate considering that the region is represented by Panpour, the Water-type representative of the trio and this region. This time, the windfall is especially important for the present and the past.

That's because the following event is called Hisuian Discoveries for that region of the past in vogue with the present. New debuts this time around are the Hisuian forms of Growlithe, Qwilfish, Sneasel, and Braviary, the last of these in a Raid Day slated for Sunday (an Ultra Unlock) and the rest in 7 km Eggs along with the preceding Hisuian Voltorb, and their evolved forms as applicable. Select Pokémon in the wild, raids, and Field Research tasks, plus a Collection Challenge, a special GBL format, and new stickers complete the event's main perks. The rest of the Ultra Unlocks aside from the Raid Day as above involve increased friendship and Gift bonuses, Unown S in raids, and Panpour in the wild. It is an extreme blast from the past, now as the present in Pokémon Go.

For the events this month, it may be admitted that "sparse" is only on the outside, as the events themselves are jam-packed with features. It is true that select regions still enjoyed Pokémon Go Fest as their special event, but it can also be said that they and the rest of the world got to celebrate them twice over with the added Ultra Unlocks, plus this month being the anniversary month. It's already very different in that regard.

One year ago: P25 Music for Life?

Two years ago: The Values of Posts

Three years ago: By Words, By Sound, By Video

Four years ago: First Anniversary of My Raid Group

Five years ago: Under 100 Hours?

Energy Exchange in Pokémon Unite

I was planning on discussing something else related to Pokémon Unite, but I'm not ready to do just that. However, digging into my Unite history, there is one unique facet that I have mentioned at times but haven't discussed in depth. That would be energy exchange, which is a process of obtaining rewards from energy that is gained after a battle. It's a thinly veiled gacha system, but it does have its own benefits, and it has recently been expanded with the "anniversary update" as well. So, it is still fair to be discussed even now, even though it's personally somewhat late.

After each battle, a Trainer earns a certain amount of energy, which when accumulated to 100 allows for one exchange. Certain periods, as well as two specific items (Extra Energy Tank and Energy Boost Tank, both of which may be earned from missions or else purchased in Aeos Emporium), will increase the amount of earned energy, which means faster collection of another chance at an exchange. Once a Trainer is ready to exchange, "Energy Rewards" is chosen from the main menu and the Trainer proceeds accordingly.

By selecting "Exchange", the energy is then exchanged for the rewards. Prior to the current "anniversary update", the selection of rewards only covered fashion items, certain Holowear, and essential currencies (or items of that sort). If a fashion item or Holowear turns out to be a duplicate, they're exchanged into their respective tickets, which may then be exchanged at the shops for other items of the same kind. It is also possible to exchange more energy after one exchange (to a limit), though this may be undesirable for reasons to be explained shortly.

Trainers may choose to stockpile exchange opportunities, especially if they feel they've gained all the rewards that can be gained. There is some truth to this: in the one year of the game, the reward selection as above has not changed (much), and by now, most of the items may have been gained, aside from the essential currencies. Therefore, instead of making the exchange right away, the opportunities are saved for something better, and with the "anniversary update", that "something better" seems to have come and they may feel justified to have saved the opportunities.

With the "anniversary update", Trainers can now exchange for the "common rewards" as above, or they can exchange for Pokémon emblems, which is an enhancement system of sorts and needs to be explained separately from this post. Five exchange opportunities can now also be made right away before committing to further exchanges (or not, as it's still possible to stockpile and wait for the right time to exchange). It is apparent that Trainers may have to come back to this facet for more exchanges today.

Energy exchange remains a gacha system that provides a bevy of rewards for those interested, whether they're the common ones or now the new Pokémon emblems. The method of earning the opportunities for exchange is also as simple as can be, by just participating in battles; after that, Trainers can be as conservative or radical as they wish for exchanging to the items that they desire. At least, it may provide the "energy" for the drive to go into even more battles with the furnished rewards, and then to gain more of them.

One year ago: Road of 25th Anniversary: Creative Excitement

Two years ago: On Live Blogging (and Pokémon)

Three years ago: Team GO Rocket Blasting Off

Four years ago: Figure Photography

Five years ago: Modern Games, Retro Flavor

New Strides with the Daily Adventure Incense

Pokémon Go has always been a game that demands taking some strides for a real Pokémon adventure, even in current times when that becomes not so hot. Thanks to a new feature introduced just yesterday, that has become hotter, even if just a little bit. That new feature (and associated item) is called the Daily Adventure Incense, and by its name, it really does carry a certain sense of adventure, one that certain Trainers can take advantage of, particularly with good use of it. I've used it for two days now, and it's good to elucidate on that.

The item is given for the first time by way of a Special Research featuring Rhi (since Professor Willow is still absent for now). Afterwards, the item will return each day after use. As expected, this is an attracting item - as is the regular Incense and the specialized Mystery Box - so it precludes the use of those other items and vice versa. It is also different in other ways: its length is 15 minutes compared to the current one and a half hours for Incense and one hour for the Mystery Box, and it demands a Trainer to move for it to attract Pokémon. It is expected that Trainers will get moving for themselves and for the Pokémon during those 15 minutes.

In that time, the Pokémon that are attracted will have a blue fog, as will the Trainer. The individual Pokémon will also have the mark of the item when capturing, making it identifiable. After the 15 minutes are up and a Trainer has caught the attracted Pokémon, a "summary screen" will be presented with all those Pokémon that were caught. The neat part about this screen is that it is also shareable (saved as an image to the photos folder, and then shared from there), allowing Trainers to compare what and how many Pokémon they caught. As such, this has a social purpose as well, hopefully to get other Trainers moving.

A few other things need to be noted about this item. For Trainers who are consistently low on Poké Balls and other capture balls (like me), activating the item also rewards 30 Poké Balls instantly if the number of all capture balls is less than that, ensuring that Trainers will always have enough balls to capture all the attracted Pokémon. It also seems that a Trainer will have to move quickly - but not too quickly, of course - to get the most out of this Incense. Finally, the Pokémon that are attracted to this Incense may be common, rare, or even extraordinarily rare, though certain ones are still likely to appear. How rare?

Since the item has been rolled out, quite a few Trainers have been able to encounter the Galarian forms of the three Kanto Legendary birds, and fewer still have been able to catch them due to their incredible rarity and very low catch rate; this item also makes it the debut of those forms in Pokémon Go. This is what has made the item rather "hot" even as of today, in regard to those very fortunate Trainers. Whatever the case, Trainers will certainly be "attracted" to try to use the Incense each day to see what Pokémon can be captured and hopefully to run into those exceptionally rare Legendary birds and then capture them.

Every day in Pokémon Go is an adventure, and that is true with or without this new Daily Adventure Incense. Regardless, this new item is an affirmation of that very fact, and if that holds a blessing, that will present itself in the form of a very rare Pokémon that might just be the talk of the day in social circles for the game. Taken all together, it may be considered to present a "new stride" for adventures that hopefully will continue to occur daily, in whatever conditions that allow them to occur in the best of ways.

One year ago: Further Remixes of GBL Leagues?

Two years ago: Pokémon Go Event Rollup, 7/27/2020

Three years ago: A Time for Everything

Four years ago: Online Pokémon Newsletters

Five years ago: Sprites, Models, and Evolutions

Performance Critique: SUCOFEST 2022 J-Song

The last "performance critique" that I made was close to three years ago, and that's for a good reason: events and conventions have been largely absent (if not infeasible) since then, owing to the state that the world is in. Though that still hasn't improved by a lot, there may still be some room for events and conventions to be held in more recent times, like the one that just happened yesterday. I chose to take the opportunity and participate in the competitions... and get a recording of the most important one - the J-Song competition - so I can make this critique today.

And like the last critique I made for a competitive performance, what I performed didn't change: I performed "Chiisaki Mono" in the same way as I did last time, only of course the venue, audience, and even judges are different. If last time I mentioned the time limit restriction that hinders the performance of this song in most cases, in the case of this one, it was unstated, which in a way means that participants ought to have used their best judgment for what they want to sing and how long. For me, I chose this one, and happily, no objections were raised, and the plan to sing this proceeded.

All seems to be well... (Ignore the swordsman in the back.)

Unlike last time, this time I have a recording of the full performance, which means I'm free to make the critique any time, even now. It is also facilitated thanks to a really good friend. In general, I find recording performances to be an iffy matter, especially if I don't have someone I can trust to make the recording; fortunately, the other day worked out. Obviously, I can also upload this recording on YouTube later on since I now have a channel for that purpose, but that'll have to wait, as other video concerns take priority.

...until they are not.

"Concern", however, still seems to be the operative word that describes this performance, and it all starts with... not checking that the microphone is turned on, though this was very quickly rectified by the sleight of hand of a staff member, albeit three lines into the first verse. It's such an amateur mistake to make, and one that comes after a long time of not doing so. Apart from that, there are the certain usual problems, some voice strains remaining, and not having much "stage presence", as a colleague of my friend observed. I was actually in part aiming for a no-frills performance, but it seems that I got more than I bargained for.

Just before the bridge.

Yet there was one "frill" I did keep, apart from the switch to English lyrics for the last chorus: I added an ending vocalization to fill out that part and showcase a little more of what I can do with my singing. It is present in neither version of the song, but I think it adds a nice harmonic touch. The audience also clapped in both of the expected places, being after the very first chorus and that ending part. It may very well be expected if I perform this song again at another opportunity, which for now is uncertain, unlike how my performance is now and how it will be then, with this addition.

While vocalizing at the end.

With nearly three years having passed, it seems that the same performance is still not as good as it could be, though some of the reasons are different as they are the same. The question of how much I can stand to improve on this next time - whenever "next time" may be - remains to be answered. One question that does not need to be answered is how much I still enjoy the song - then, now, and evermore. That enjoyment has to be reflected in whenever, wherever, and however I perform this song as well.

One year ago: Basic Buddy Photo Tricks in Pokémon Go

Two years ago: Pokémon Go Fest 2020, Day 2

Three years ago: Mobile "Invasion"?

Four years ago: Two New Pokémon Center Merchandise Lines

Five years ago: Supporting Doujin and Indie Stuff

NADWPKMN - The Video Series: Episode #4 - In Character Spirit

Me: While still on the topic of sending Ash, let's talk about this little thing.

Ash: Hey, you finally got that video finished up! Awesome!

Goh: Oh, now this is a sight. You two made a video together.

Me: Well, it's not actually "together" as in "we're in the same frame", but yeah, it's "together" as in "we're in the same video".

Goh: I get the point.

Me: So, this video (which as usual can be seen above) shows off something I'm involved with Pokémon when I'm not catching or battling with them by the various ways that they are made possible. And it truly has a "character spirit", because to do it, I really do need your help - at least mostly Ash's for the time being.

Goh: A lot really goes into this, huh.

Me: That's true. There's the ability to furnish what to wear, which is absolutely necessary, but then there's the necessity of being able to show your character power like for shooting a movie. Ash knows something - he's had experience with one such project.

Ash: Yeah! It was back in Unova. I had a great time, but it wasn't easy either. I can tell most of my friend's character friends have gone through the same thing. Performing's not easy either, and- aw, you showed that performance.

Me: You get the point really fast. And whether it's just walking or on stage, there's always something that can be shown off. Of course, there's that intense performance.

Goh: That's one rough start to a journey. I can't imagine what I would have done without a Pokémon. But that's how you and Pikachu became so close, right?

Ash: Right!

Pikachu: Pika! ["Right!"]

Me: And for that reason among other reasons, I'm close to you both, and Pokémon in general.

Goh: What's not to like? You clearly enjoy everything. If not, I wouldn't be here even if I'm not in the video.

Me: That's pretty much the gist. I'm friends with other characters and have sent them in the past, but I always feel distant from them even if I know them well. But I know that by sending Ash - maybe even other characters in the future - I know I feel right at home.

Goh: And this is your home. It's unlike my family home in a high-rise apartment.

Me: I've lived in apartments before, so I know how you feel - but I digress. The important thing is that as you say, Goh, I enjoy everything, and this is one of the ways I express that, with a character spirit.

Ash: I'm with you! You get to enjoy Pokémon, and I get to see your world. It's a real win-win!

Goh: I'll say!

Pikachu: Pi pika chu! ["Exactly!"]

Me: And I'd say Pokémon has a real character spirit with you all and more, just waiting for its biggest fans to express.

One year ago: Other Uses of the Pokémon TCG

Two years ago: Pokémon Go Fest 2020, Day 1

Three years ago: Pokémon for Print Projects

Four years ago: World of Pokémon... Media

Five years ago: Videophones and Pokémon, Then and Now

Cosplay: SUCOFEST 2022 - Multiverse

Goh: Like you said, huh? Every chance you get to send Ash.

Me: Yes, and this is an exceptional one. I thought about not sending Ash for this one, especially since it's far away, but since the competitions are open, we have to get right on it.

Ash: Hey, I know this one! You sent me to this one years ago before things got worse.

Me: Indeed I did. But now it's the main thing I send you for instead of just being an extra agenda. And this time we're in for the full-fledged event.

Ash: That's nice.

Pikachu: Pi pika. ["Should be."]

Me: OK, so it's the same event in the same place, though this time I've added the theme of the event. "Community Fest" is also actually the proper name of the event, representing the "CO" and "FES" part. The "SU" part...

Goh: Do we really need to tell everyone about that?

Me: No, not really, but they can figure out that part on their own if they choose to do so.

Goh: Yeah, I see what you're saying.

Ash: So what am I in for today?

Me: You're in for the character parade and the singing competition. For the latter, I'm having you sing... "Chiisaki Mono".

Ash: Oh! You haven't had me sing that in years!

Me: Exactly. There's an opportunity for us to put that in, so we've got to put that in.

Ash: I guess you want my Hoenn outfit then, just like for the last one you sent me to.

Me: You're on the money. And we'll let the character parade allow what it allows for you.

Goh: So, how far is the place actually?

Me: Oh, right. This is the first time you're hearing from Ash about a faraway event. It's actually quite far. The simplest way to get there still takes four hours, and then it's also that much time to get back.

Goh: Wow, that's pretty far. With the way things are, do you think it's OK?

Me: I'm sure it is. If it's not, I won't have this lined up for today.

Ash: It's not going to turn out like that one last year?

Pikachu: Pi? ["Hmm?"]

Me: There's the concern with things worsening, but hopefully not. Anyway, enough of that. How'd things go?

Ash: It was really like old times! The competitions were there, the people were there, and the entertainment was there. I even got you hooked up with your friends, even characters.

Me: That's the point of an event: it's supposed to bring people together. 

Goh: I'd love to have seen the entertainment. What was it like?

Ash: There was a band that played popular songs.

Goh: Well, I suppose I can enjoy good music every now and then.

Me: We all could use some of that. Now what about the competitions?

Ash: The singing one was great! There was just one... small... thing...

Me: Oh dear.

Ash: I have a recording thanks to your girl fan friend.

Me: Thanks. I'll take a look at it later. How was the character parade?

Ash: That one was great too! I was the first one up and led for everyone. Actually, I was also the first one up in the singing competition.

Me: OK, so anything that might happen, we can partly blame on this. OK, it's time for the results.

Ash: I didn't win for both.

Pikachu: Pi... pika. ["Well, rats."]

Goh: How many prizes were there?

Ash: Three for each.

Goh: The chance to win could have been decent, but...

Me: Maybe we'll never really know the reason. Overall, though, what did you think?

Ash: I'm happy to be back. I loved seeing the communities and people in them loved seeing me! I hope everything settles down so we can have this again next time.

Me: And hopefully closer to us as well. But we do have to keep track of recent happenings.

Goh: Maybe by then we can figure out how to win something.

Me: That too. But the most important thing for us is to enjoy whatever we do.

Ash, Goh: Yeah!

Pikachu: Pi! ["Yeah!"]

Me: At least before the enjoyment gets restrained.

One year ago: More Pokémon Fun with Soccer Players

Two years ago: Preparing for (Everyone's) Go Fest

Three years ago: Making Things Simple

Four years ago: The Greatest, Everyday

Five years ago: Pokémon School

Respect for Zeno Robinson

So far, the voice actors for the Pokémon anime that I've featured in my "Respect for..." series of posts have been very significant ones related to it. The one I'd like to feature now may not sound quite significant, but the voice actor is just that, at least for the more recent iteration of the anime. He's also the first voice actor I'm featuring who is male, unlike the others who are female, and he's Zeno Robinson, the English voice of Goh in the Pokémon anime.

Among others, one of his distinguishing features is that he's a person of color, and even with that, he's been able to achieve success in voice acting, albeit mostly fairly recently (post-2017, he notes). Those who watch certain other popular anime series in their English dub (or other animated features) will also recognize his voice, not to mention the characters. Yet, it is certain that for Pokémon anime fans, the success lies in lending Goh a distinct voice.

On the personal side, he describes himself as a "new age nerd", and it's easy to see why. He has locks on his hair, perhaps not at all what one would expect from a voice actor, let alone one with multiple well-known characters... but then again, quite a few of the characters he has voiced in addition to Goh have their own "unique" hairstyle that stands up to that. He also has a "hipster" appearance, which works out well for him in addition to voice acting.

Like fellow voice actor Sarah Natochenny, he has an Instagram handle (@childish_gamzeno), and it is where he promotes and celebrates his work. That, of course, includes conventions where he has been and will be, for interaction with his fans. He's also rather outgoing and stylish, having gone to different places and having been asked to promote a few anime-inspired products, which can be seen there too. It might just be an inspiration for some.

I've only gotten to admire Goh recently, so it would make sense if I admire his English voice actor as well, and based on the above, there's quite a bit to be admired. Stylishness combined with a real voice talent makes him who he is, and that's saying something with regard to his voicing of Goh in the Pokémon anime. For that, he deserves some serious respect, as is true for any of the voice actors I feature in my post series then, now, and later on.

One year ago: More on Ideal Raid Lengths

Two years ago: The State of Nominations, Part 5

Three years ago: Movie Manga, Part 2 (Really 2)

Four years ago: Pokémon Style Figure Sun & Moon 2 - Mimikyu

Five years ago: Cosplay in a Bag

Pokémon Unite One-Year Anniversary

This post covers a topic that should have been covered yesterday, but no matter. It can be covered just as well today. July 21 (that is, yesterday) marks the start of an epoch - that is, the Pokémon Unite epoch, as it was released yesterday on the Nintendo Switch (while its mobile version was released two months later). Accordingly, yesterday was its first anniversary, which applies well for both versions regardless of time difference. At this point, it's even more of a fledgling game than other Pokémon games. But for a fledgling game, it has made significant inroads for the franchise.

For starters, its concept is old but its execution is new. It's a MOBA (multiplayer online battle arena), and there have been many games of this genre before Unite came along. Unite is truly a breakthrough in that sense, as it finally marries the concept with the amazing world of Pokémon, allowing the franchise to have a game it can call its own in this genre. Those who have played other games of the genre might be quick to dismiss it as not having features that the others have, but it doesn't have to; Pokémon is unique, and so Unite can remain as such even with further developments. And after a year, there's been quite a bit of that.

Among the most important of those developments is that it has its own world championship series in just its first year, a feat that other (Pokémon) games have a hard time matching. A good and portable MOBA is one that is ripe for its own kind of competition, and Unite has demonstrated that it can have just that. And since the competitions for other MOBA are within the realm of eSports, it lends credence that Pokémon can fit into this framework, as if it hasn't already had. At the least, it might bring exposure to the rest of the franchise.

Like other Pokémon games, in particular mobile ones, an anniversary like this is best celebrated with an event, and it has one for that very purpose. Its specifics are far too many to fit into this post (and I've barely scratched the surface of it at present), so it will have to wait for its own dedicated post. What is certain is that involves new features, a new battle arena, and certainly lots of rewards from past and present to go around. It's time for old and new players to jump in and reap the rewards.

Pokémon Unite is now one year old, and while that may hardly be considered "mature", the way that it exposes the already-mature Pokémon franchise to novelties is something significant. A new-but-old genre and a brand-new world of competitions are only at the heart of these developments, and Trainers will be able to reap the rewards from these and more as the game continues its progression toward true maturity.

It's a great game for one year and beyond. Happy first anniversary to Pokémon Unite.

One year ago: Go Fest 2021 Epilogue: Nighttime Music, Vocal Version

Two years ago: Getting Crafty for Go Fest

Three years ago: Pokémon Go Community Day, 7/21/2019

Four years ago: Pokémon Style Figure Sun & Moon 2 - Mimikyu

Five years ago: Cosplay in a Bag

The Wonder and Intrigue of "Oh?"

Of the many verbalisms that Pokémon have, most are composed of several words and they stand out as such, requiring the links among those words. One Pokémon verbalism, though, stands out among them in that it is composed of one word yet is quite evocative of Pokémon in many ways and aspects. The utterance of "Oh?" by any Pokémon fan will likely be recognizable among other fans in that regard for its many interpretations in many situations, and that's the verbalism I'd like to discuss.

Those who play the main series games will recognize the verbalism when dealing with Eggs, as it appears just before one or more of them hatch while one is walking. This then carries over to Pokémon Go, where the same verbalism appears just as Eggs are about to hatch. Trainers there then have an additional context, which would be when a Ditto doppelganger is caught and Ditto is exposed. Either way, there's a "transformative" element that is involved, and the verbalism captures the prelude and bewilderment to that.

And bewilderment is definitely involved. Before the hatching of Eggs or the reveal of Ditto, there is a curious feeling with the presentation of Eggs or the possible difficulty of catching the doppelganger. Then the "Oh?" comes and surprise starts to set in. After the hatching or the reveal, the feeling may be of pleasure if good results are achieved (a desired hatch or Shiny Ditto) or being dumbfounded otherwise (undesired hatches or unwanted Ditto in general). In both circumstances, there is a certain sense of wonder.

Experiencing such wonder on a regular basis then leads to the intrigue part. When Eggs are involved for the main series games or Pokémon Go, expectations may arise, especially when the kind(s) and source(s) of the Eggs are known. When Ditto is involved for Pokémon Go, a species that is known as a Ditto doppelganger may become a source of wariness, especially once it turns out to be difficult to catch. After all that, the bewilderment returns, and the feelings continue in a cycle with each Egg or possible doppelganger, 

Whatever the case, "Oh?" has its own very recognizable character for those who are well-versed in Pokémon. The simple instance of it being displayed on screen or uttered by people speaks volumes about what is happening or about to happen. In that sense, it is a true verbalism despite its simplistic structure, being uniquely composed of one word with a punctuation mark, and no less than that. It's amazing how even the simplest Pokémon thing may just represent something very deep.

One year ago: Kicking Up the Cards

Two years ago: In and Out of Patterns

Three years ago: Cosplay: Japanese World 2019

Four years ago: Pokémon Go Event Rollup, 7/21/2018

Five years ago: My Favorite LINE Pokémon Stickers So Far

Possible New Research Tasks?

Research has come a long way in Pokémon Go since its debut over four years ago, and there has always been something new with each development, including in the kinds of tasks that it demands Trainers to complete. Even with all the tasks that have been realized, it seems that there might still be room for a few more task possibilities, of which some are plainly interesting and others are dictated by necessity. I've decided to flesh out my ideas and offer them as possibilities for that purpose.

Many Trainers might have certain items loitering in their item bag that they rarely use, and some Field Research tasks may help to goad them to use the items. For example, "Use a Great Ball/Ultra Ball to catch a Pokémon" ought to prompt them to use those balls (while the variant "Catch a Pokémon with a Great Ball/Ultra Ball" demands the successful capture). The same goes for what could be considered the Potions that are not used much (the basic purple one and the Super Potion), which could also demand a certain number of items for usage purposes. These new tasks might inspire ways of using the items and prompt Trainers to keep a stock in their item bags.

It has come to attention that the task of "Make a new friend" is having completion issues, which might prompt an investigation and a change in tasks. If the latter, I propose the task of "Become a Good/Great Friend with another Trainer", which should obviate the new friend problem. Else, the problem with the task might have to be resolved for the time being by a "Send a friend request" task, which would imply new friends after and not before. The completion issues really shouldn't happen, but with the issues, it might prompt these new task possibilities to be added.

An interesting idea would be additions of further "localized tasks" along the lines of "Catch 10 Pokémon in one day/two days" or "Earn 10000 Stardust from Go Battle League". This would compel Trainers to take action whenever and wherever they are required, which would mean further play should that occur. Granted, this might be somewhat demanding, but then many Trainers are enterprising and should be able to find the ways and time for the completion of these tasks.

What has been evident since the addition of the Research feature is that the tasks are infinitely adaptable and present satisfying ways to attain rewards. With further unique additions like the above - and necessarily, unique rewards to go with them - the two qualities above would be affirmed, and Research itself has a chance to make further progressions, perhaps befitting the ones that Trainers are currently making.

One year ago: Bridging Myst and Pokémon Fans

Two years ago: YouTube Pokémon Highlights - Animated Special

Three years ago: Seeing the World with Go

Four years ago: (Routine or Special) Local Ex-Raid, 7/20/2018

Five years ago: On Pokémon Promotional Toys

Pokémon Go Community Day Goodies, Round 3

Thanks to Ash being sent to this month's edition of Community Day, I received more of the goodies for the officialized local gathering, as with the previous two editions. By now, it can be expected that the gathering, when made as such, will have its share of goodies to be distributed among those who are present (early). Further parallels can also be made across the goodies that have been received, but at the same time, there may still be some differences, and that remains something to be highlighted even now.

Some of the stuff is still the same this time around. The poster, Community Day postcard, and Niantic sticker are the same, though there are important differences for the very first one. The poster is of course appropriate for the current edition, which has the featured Pokémon of Starly. However, it does have one exceptional missing detail: the Pokémon Go logo is absent, whereas in previous editions it has always appeared on the top of the "phone silhouette". It seems whoever made the image for this month's edition considered it an afterthought, unlike previous months. Still, a poster is better than nothing, and this time, this is the only poster I received; the others, which I already have, remain the overstock now and later on for those who may not have gotten them.

New from and for this month's edition are a few of the items in front. I received the generic Community Day sticker for not just Pokémon Go but other Niantic games, which is still neat despite its "vibe" just like the plain Niantic sticker above. Beside it are the two pins for the local national Pokémon Go association and Niantic itself, of which the former can be said to have an important consulting role in making things happen for the official gathering. Then there's the Niantic postcard, which is an actual postcard with the back mostly empty and only containing the slogan of "Go Outside and Play"; this one seems to be very much useful for that very purpose without worrying about the code on the back. Overall, they're neat additions and ones I'm glad to have.

Meanwhile, there are other items offered in this edition that I (still) didn't get. One of those is the cloth banners - or rather, flags or pennants - which this time were offered as a low IV Shiny contest prize, though these went to great Trainers who deserved them, perhaps more than I do at present time. On the other end, the high IV Shiny contest featured prizes of water bottles, but in my case... understandably so. In either case, one prize for each had to be decided by random draw since two Trainers each had two of the same IV. Then, Trainers who hadn't been gifted or bought the paid Special Research could stand to earn a postcard with a code for that Special Research, or just the code itself for later attendees. All these are remarkable and may be in my cards at some point.

All the merchandise above for this month's edition are still great, even if a few of them are still the same or have the same spirit. But then that's the way Community Day goes in Pokémon Go, as with the spirit of mostly the same framework, one can still obtain great results in the form of Pokémon species with great or interesting moves. In that sense, it's still worthwhile to participate in future officialized local gatherings to gather with people, gather Pokémon, and gather up the goodies that result from that.

One year ago: What It Takes To Jump-Start Pokémon Go Trainers

Two years ago: Pokémon Go Community Day, 7/19/2020

Three years ago: The First Johto Saga English Opening Theme

Four years ago: Fast Moves and Charged Moves

Five years ago: Movie Times

Pokémon Go Community Day Repeat, 7/16/2022

Me: Ash, you mentioned yesterday that before I sent you to the theme event on Saturday, you did something else, and that would be this, something else I had you do.

Goh: What's the deal with this one?

Me: Sometimes, there are problems with an edition of the event from yesterday. Trainers can't  be present to catch the Pokémon that show up, or the Pokémon themselves don't show up, which can happen when there are technical issues. If that happens, then the event can be repeated as one was four years ago, which was the case for the last month.

Ash: But didn't last month go well?

Pikachu: Pika? ["Did it not?"]

Me: Actually, no, at least in part. A good number of people in certain places couldn't get to catch the Pokémon early on, and it took quite a bit of time before they could. Even I had some problems when I wanted to trade with someone before the event, so I was affected too. Some days later, the problem was confirmed, so we had a repeat of that edition last Saturday for the problem places.

Ash: I understand. I'm always happy to be doing it.

Me: That's great. OK, so I don't have to tell you that most of the perks were the same when you did things then.

Ash: I didn't do things with Rhi, though.

Me: That's because I already did them last time. Also, I'm told that the stickers were of yesterday's edition because it was coming up, the Zweilous raids weren't present, and the move window was just until 4 PM. Otherwise, it should still have been all about the Deino, with all the other perks.

Goh: Deino, the Irate Pokémon. Its two evolved forms also have their quirks.

Me: Indeed, this is one odd and angry species family. OK, Ash, so what happened on Saturday?

Ash: I went to the other place you used to have the event often, and I met a few of your friends. We walked together and caught a whole bunch of Deino. I saw that you already evolved what you needed last time, so I evolved just one more for you and kept all the Candy. You might be interested in a few more Shiny Deino.

Me: That works out, and I didn't need much more. In fact, that one you evolved made up for the one from the Special Research with Rhi; that one wasn't too good.

Ash: Glad I could help! At the end I just went to the other event like you asked.

Me: Very good. You should have had enough time to get ready for the other event.

Ash: Yeah! That worked out. Everything else happened just like we talked.

Goh: I suppose you could think about the event being similar to a sudden species breakout somewhere in the Pokémon world.

Me: You have a point, Goh. Between the deliberateness and suddenness of it all, it's hard not to think of it that way.

Ash: Maybe the next time there's a breakout like this, we can catch a few of the Pokémon.

Goh: Why not? The future is always in the palm of my hand!

Pikachu: Pi, pika chu! ["Excellent!"]

Me: Very great idea. Also, I want to say that we've had three days of discussions, which is the longest that we've done - now with the four of us - at any point in time. I hope you don't mind if we need to do this again.

Ash, Goh: Anytime!

Me: I like the sound of that. Until the next time things happen.

One year ago: Pokémon Go Fest 2021, Day 2

Two years ago: Team GO Rocket's Aerial Attacks

Three years ago: The State of Nominations

Four years ago: The Eevee Identity

Five years ago: Only One Save File

Pokémon Go Community Day, 7/17/2022

Me: And the occasion would be this, which I want you, Ash, to be a part of.

Ash: Whoa, it's back!

Me: It's been back for a good long time now. Years ago, when I often sent you to places for usual events and conventions, sometimes you'd deal with this occasion at the same time, like the last time you did so. But this time, I'm sending you fully just for this occasion.

Ash: All right!

Pikachu: Pi pika! ["Nice one!"]

Goh: This is an interesting one. I'd like to know more about it.

Me: So, Community Day is an event where Trainers catch a lot of a certain species of Pokémon with certain bonuses, and the Pokémon can evolve to get certain moves too. Catching's the thing, but so is the get-together part of it, as I hinted yesterday.

Goh: I get it. So it's like preparing just one Pokémon species to make it great.

Me: Essentially, but there's a lot more than just that. OK, Ash, so you're in for a real treat, because this time the Pokémon is Starly - hence, "spreading wings".

Ash: Nice! I had a Starly that evolved all the way to a Staraptor when I was in Sinnoh.

Me: And that's exactly why I've sent you with your Sinnoh outfit.

Ash: I wouldn't have it any other way.

Me: If you evolve it to a Staravia and then to a Staraptor, the latter will learn the move of Gust. It may or may not be useful, but I say evolve it anyway.

Goh: Well, at least that fits its Flying type.

Me: It sure does, for that exact reason. A few things to note: aside from the Shiny form, which you should already know you can get, the main bonus this time is tripled XP, but you also get doubled Candy and Candy XL. You might not have to worry much about using Pinap Berries, but you should use a Lucky Egg whenever you can, from 11 to 2 as the event period.

Ash: I've been out of this for a long time. The Candy XL is new - it must be for powering up Pokémon even more.

Me: You're on the money. Also new since then is that both Lure Modules and Incense are both three hours, so one or both can be used. You'll want to take pictures, because you'll be seeing Starly pop out then; you'll need to open up Gifts for items and to get stickers. And... you'll also be dealing with Rhi from the Ultra Beast Recon Squad for some tasks to do, since I paid for the set of tasks.

Ash: That's a lot of things to take in, but I'll do my best.

Me: I know, it's been such a change. Also note that if you and others catch enough Starly from a Lure Module, you can earn quadruple XP instead. If possible, you can trade with someone for half the Stardust and make another Special Trade for a few hours. And after the three hours of Starly appearing, you might see Level 4 Staravia raids that if defeated will make Starly appear again for 30 minutes around the area... but that's if you can get people to do it; don't worry if you can't.

Goh: Has Community Day ever been this complicated?

Me: It used to be simpler but also a lot less beneficial. Now there's lots of ways of doing things, and the benefits are somewhat multiplied.

Ash: We know how that feels.

Me: OK, so I sent you to a park that is not too far from my house and has hosted a couple of past editions. How was that?

Ash: There were lots of people, who I know many are your friends. You told me to come early so I can get my hands on some neat goodies, and I got them!

Me: Excellent. There's actually plenty of them to go around, but some are only available if you come early. I'll take those and discuss them later on by myself.

Ash: I caught lots of Starly for you too! They kept on coming from the Lure Modules, Incense, photos, and the tasks with Rhi - they were called "Field Notes: Starly". I got enough Candy to evolve your best Starly all the way to Staraptor, even your Shadow and Purified ones. You should be able to battle with some of them too.

Me: Incredible, isn't it? They all should have their uses.

Ash: The people who got things going held contests too with the Shiny Starly we all caught. But I didn't win any of them. The eight Shiny Starly I caught for you were all just in the middle. They wanted the biggest and smallest in all different ways.

Me: It's hard to expect anything when the Shiny ones are based on luck, so no worries. Something's got to give at some point.

Goh: But I'm sure everyone had a great time.

Ash: We did! I have a picture to show for that.

Ash: I'm holding the Community Day banner.

Pikachu: Pi pika chu! ["Nicely done!"]

Me: I'm told some people couldn't be there because they had things to do, but this looks as lively as ever.

Ash: I don't even notice anything different.

Me: In that sense, it's still a success.

Goh: I couldn't agree more. Lots of people, lots of Pokémon, and lots of great times all around.

Ash: By the way, there was something I did before the event yesterday - isn't it just this but different?

Goh: Oh, what could this be?

Me: Good question. That needs to be answered while we talk again, tomorrow.

One year ago: Pokémon Go Fest 2021, Day 1

Two years ago: Catch Me If...

Three years ago: The First Johto Saga Japanese Opening Theme

Four years ago: Rearranged Pokémon Music

Five years ago: How Far Do People Know Pokémon?

Cosplay: Community Base Party

Me: OK, so the next few days might get a bit busy for us, and that starts with this event.

Goh: It's a party! It should be fun!

Ash: Yeah! And I'm going!

Pikachu: Pi pika chu! ["With me!"]

Me: And I know last time I said things might be the last, but just like things were when everything began to drop, there might be a couple of extra chances to show off, so we have to take advantage of them.

Ash: That's fine! Anything for you and Pokémon.

Goh: So, you've got to tell me what the deal is with this party.

Me: OK, so this party is pretty much a community gathering. Several communities are (or were) invited over three days, and today's the last day. And today, of course, lots of characters were invited.

Goh: What are the other communities like?

Me: There are a couple of biking communities - which I like - but I think one that might interest you, Goh, is photography.

Goh: Well, I need to take a lot of pictures for research, but I guess they can have some artistic value.

Me: Sure enough, I would agree. But the photography community was on the other two days, so we missed it. One of the biking communities is supposed to be today.

Ash: When I was there, I saw them. They did things that I'm sure you'd like to do.

Me: That's beyond the scope of our discussion, but sure, why not.

Goh: Maybe next time we'll see the photographers.

Me: I hope so. Anyway, today we have the characters, which is where Ash comes in.

Ash: Yeah! So we're in this thing, and you sent me with my Hoenn outfit, which is different from the "our journey" outfit from last time.

Pikachu: Pika chu! ["Me too!"]

Me: Yes, you too, Pikachu. So how was it like?

Ash: It was totally like last time! It had a parade and a little performance, but everything happened later. I liked the parade, but...

Me: There must have been an issue.

Ash: I wish the people were clearer about what they wanted us to do and helped keep us in line. Even I felt a little confused with all the people and the loud noises.

Me: I sympathize. If they went through all the trouble of rounding everyone up, they should keep them in line as best as possible.

Goh: It seems there's always something that goes on when you send Ash.

Me: It's always like that. But we deal with it. OK, how was the little performance?

Ash: I think I did great! Pikachu and I really showed things off. But...

Me: Let me guess, the same clarity issues.

Pikachu: Pi pika, pika chu? ["What's with them today?"]

Ash: They seemed like they couldn't make up their mind about being on stage and off stage for photos.

Me: That's vital to know and not to be confused about.

Goh: Forget Ash, I would be confused myself.

Me: Quite the case. After all that, how were the results?

Ash: They had parade winners chosen this time! I wasn't one of them. One of the five performance winners weren't me either.

Goh: That's a bit of a disappointment.

Me: True, but we'll just have to not think about it too much.

Ash: I had lots of fun, and I even connected with your character friends and other friends, but the event wasn't too special.

Goh: I think it's still special in a lot of ways. Getting together is special, and so is performing.

Me: I would agree with Goh. It's the little things like this that still make it special.

Ash: I guess you're completely right.

Pikachu: Pi pika. ["Totally."]

Me: Oh yeah, speaking of get-togethers, I'm planning something radical, and that would be for tomorrow.

Goh: Oh, this should be fun!

Ash: What could it be?

Me: Find out as tomorrow unfolds and spreads its wings.

One year ago: Go Fest in the Time of...

Two years ago: Starting from Somewhere

Three years ago: Pokémon Go Version 1?

Four years ago: Daily Tasks

Five years ago: Flying Quirks of Charizard

My Nintendo Rewards - Pokémon Wallpapers

In order to prepare for a Pokémon future that involves the present efforts of Nintendo, I have a Nintendo Account for that, moreover for the purpose of coordinating linkages between Pokémon Go and Pokémon Home, and then the Pokémon games to come on the Nintendo Switch. One of the perks that arise from that is that I also earn points on My Nintendo, which can be (and should be, whenever possible) exchanged for rewards. Some of those rewards happen to be for nifty Pokémon items, some of which are in the form of wallpapers for PC and phone alike. I've exchanged my points for three of them, and they're all nifty in many ways.

The wallpapers come in a variety of aspect ratios and sizes, in both portrait (vertical) and landscape (horizontal) orientations. While one would be tempted to download ones that are just right for one's devices, I also recommend picking the largest ones for that particular purpose, as it would only be a matter of rescaling them afterwards; needless to say, that would mean getting both the PC and phone versions. A few of these have limited exchange periods even as of now, so I suggest exchanging for them this moment for peace of mind later on. Even with those details, it's still important to appreciate them any which way.

For that, I picked two wallpapers related to Pokémon Legends: Arceus. One of them, which is titled plainly, is essentially the art of its box cover, only extended for wallpaper purposes and scaled accordingly; it's still very nice to look at and preserve in a high resolution, which is why I chose to exchange for it. The other, "Map and Partner", is actually composed of two separate wallpapers, a woodcut-style illustration of the Hisui region for PC and illustrations of the starter partners for phones. The concept is still one of "unity" even though the image concepts are disparate, and this applies equally well to the other.

Beyond the new game for an "old" region, there are the old games that are renewed, and that would be the fourth-generation remakes. Three wallpapers feature this game, and I chose the "Amity Square" wallpaper. It's the one I consider the most aesthetically pleasing of the three, as it is just plainly bright and not too busy, with the main characters present in said location in the game in a somewhat relaxed setting; it's essentially the one I would get if I were limited to pick just one. Still, I'd get the other two if I could, but that would have to wait for a follow-up to this post with more My Nintendo rewards.

At My Nintendo, the selection of rewards is bewildering for their general fans specifically, but at the least Pokémon gets some love in the form of specific reward exchanges, which in the above case would be for wallpapers that are visual treats for its most dedicated fans. Based on the content of the wallpapers above, My Nintendo definitely shouldn't be counted out in regard to its usefulness for Pokémon. I thoroughly enjoy the selections of what's available and what I've been able obtain now, and that's as I continue to utilize my Nintendo Account for its real purpose of tying up Pokémon things together.

One year ago: Professor Willow Goes to the TCG

Two years ago: More on Remote Raids

Three years ago: The Switch Lite

Four years ago: Mew @ Everywhere

Five years ago: What Kind of Pokémon Are You?

Forest Bathing with Pokémon

Healing methods are just as varied as people are, even their Pokémon (if they could have one) and all their preferences. I've discussed one particular one over a year ago, and it seems that it's ripe for another one. That method, as can be predicted by the title of this post, is called "forest bathing". By its name, it sounds like an inherently natural healing method, and it is. Furthermore, I have become interested in discussing it with addition of the Pokémon element.

As explained to me, the method is not literally taking a bath in the forest, but taking in all the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest. In effect, it's as if one's senses are being "bathed" with the sensory experience of the forest. There are other considerations of particular interest for this method, such as areas of decreased pollution, a relatively flat landscape, and lots of stimulating plants, but by and large, it's quite clear that the method is all about natural immersion.

Uniquely enough, this method started out in, and is in the interest of, Japan and neighboring countries; the former is of course where Pokémon hails from, so with that, the Pokémon context seems to be appropriate to be applied next in line. Beyond all its associations with battles and competitions, Pokémon - in particular the species that bear the name - still represents something natural in their world, and they would totally be appropriate for the method.

I can already think of some Pokémon that would fit into the healing method. While it has its concerns, Vileplume is one that fits the occasion, especially if it can remain tame. Since the healing method involves being around trees, the method can involve tree-hugging... or maybe even Sudowoodo hugging, though it's not a real tree per se. Depending on the setting for the method, many other Pokémon species can be involved as well.

Personally, I may currently be in a slight need for the method, and it may be doable to some extent where I am. I can reach some environments that are like forests and spend time in them, but the "forest bathing" effect might be minor. I may have to go out of my way and bring myself to somewhere that resembles a real forest for a major "forest bathing" effect. And while Pokémon Go might be less fitting for this method, bringing a Pokémon plush might add the spirit.

"Forest bathing" as a healing method has a certain intrigue about it, despite the fact that it's not a "bath" in the literal sense. It's more like immersing oneself and one's senses in the energy that nature can provide. Since I'm immersed in Pokémon as well, I feel that there's no harm that the two can't immerse themselves in each other, and healing can be achieved in both a realist style and a Pokémon style for those who enjoy.

One year ago: Redeeming Offer Codes in Pokémon Go

Two years ago: Miss You, Brandon

Three years ago: Cosplay: COSTHNIFEST

Four years ago: Spending on Pokémon

Five years ago: A Pokémon Forum Persona

Good Pokémon Cosplay Relationships

It's been a long time since I've discussed something about (Pokémon) cosplay that doesn't involve an event or an occasion for it - or in character terms, send Ash, as the character I cosplay frequently. I have a renown for it myself, but I also have to say that at least some of it is (made through) a concerted effort with other people, and that's just as important as my own efforts. In fact, it becomes important to maintain good relationships with them, especially with all the roles that they play.

Some of them are "suppliers" of the things that I need for my cosplay, which would be the costumes themselves (by a friendly tailor) and any props that I need and have neither the skills nor the space or time to make (by whoever does so, who are often cosplayers themselves). A few Pokémon extras are even obtainable by fellow fans or those with special interests - in particular, for those extras. That's a varied lot for a group of people whose roles are essentially the same, and I need to be on good terms with all of them to assist in "supplying".

Less of a varied lot are the hairstylists, those who deal with the chosen approach for hair with cosplay. This applies even for my choice of using my own hair, for which I have my hairstylist to help with that. Even for the other two approaches, which have their own demands especially when Pokémon cosplay is considered, there are hairstylists who can assist with them. It becomes evident that good relationships are a must for any of these people, or else the matter of hair becomes a tangled one without their support.

Because my particular Pokémon cosplay involves human fashion, to help keep them in line, I utilize laundry services. I have a new one since that post, but recently the relationship has become slightly strained due to performance; that's not good, since that can erode trust in my usage of the services, moreover in keeping the clothing for my costumes safe. What is good is knowing that my costumes are taken care of and ready for whenever I wear them, and a good laundry should do that - not just for costumes but all laundry items in general.

Perhaps the most important good relationships are with cosplay friends. In one sense, that would be fellow cosplayers, ones who I love to be with and love to be with me; they can even become involved in Pokémon cosplay projects like this if we hit it off well enough. In another sense, that would be fans of my cosplay, who expect me to turn up at events or conventions (not too much right now) so we can have a good time together. Good relationships would be a testament to maintaining all of these, for when things get into full swing again.

While Pokémon cosplay is not unique to me, it is a uniquely good thing for me. Many good things, though, are meant to be shared, and that is apparently true for my Pokémon cosplay as well, considering all the people above who are linked to me or I have links with. That would mean maintaining good relationships with them, making sure that it happens continuously. I trust that by doing so, I can still present all the good things about Pokémon through cosplay and connect with many people through it.

One year ago: YouTube Pokémon Highlights - Sheet Music Boss Edition

Two years ago: Giving the Gift of Pokémon GIFs

Three years ago: I'm a... Bounty Hunter?

Four years ago: Losing and Finding Links

Five years ago: Strategy Guides and My Pokémon Experience

Common Event Mechanisms in Pokémon Unite

I've been playing Pokémon Unite for a good while now, and something that has been significant over that time is the multitude of events (which I haven't considered making rollups for, like Pokémon Go). Also significant for those events are the mechanisms for them, which rely on a few common ones to get Trainers to battle and collect the rewards for doing so. I feel that it's worth it to explain those common ones for an understanding of what they entail.

The most common of these by far are events based on "conditionals". The conditions simply need to be met, and the rewards for each condition are then claimed, whether one by one or even all at once if many of them are met. An event based on "conditionals" is likely to have several conditions in a list, so there is some freedom to complete and claim them as needed, especially if they rely on specific battle modes.

One step-up from the above is events based on "accumulators". These demand Trainers to gather up battle victories, scored points, or daily logins, just to name a few. Some events even comprise a single large "accumulator" but has rewards placed at certain thresholds, which likewise can be collected as they are earned or all at once. Continuous battling is demanded to accrue what is needed to earn the desired rewards.

Either of the above may then be combined with "repetitions", which resets a condition or accumulation for a repeat completion on the next day. In such a case, the reward is a highly consumable item, which may be different for a certain repetitive case. In most cases, the item is of a minor amount, because accruing little things naturally leads to the creation of big things later on, especially over the course of many days. 

As a further expansion, the above may also be combined with "exchanges" that demand the turnover of items that effectively act as a "pseudo-currency" in an often ad hoc "shop" for certain rewards. The "exchanges" themselves may last for a couple of days after an event ends to allow Trainers to make exchange decisions then instead of early on. These exchanges will certainly require commitment to collect the items and then the rewards.

From these common mechanisms, the events in Pokémon Unite are realized - in great multitudes - and furnishes rewards for Trainers who send in Pokémon to battle. As with other Pokémon games and just other games in general, some effort is required, but the effort put in does pay off. That has to be a part of what makes the game significant, apart from the involvement of mine and others from then to now.

One year ago: Collaboration for Pokémon

Two years ago: YouTube Pokémon Highlights - GabaLeth Edition

Three years ago: Brandon Tan in My Town!!!

Four years ago: Exploring Dual Types

Five years ago: "Don't Fear Failure!"

All the Silph Arena Themed Cups Prior

Back when Trainer battles (now more commonly known as PvP) in Pokémon Go was realized, the Silph Arena was also realized shortly after. Yet, I do have to say that I did not start right away; I only started a few themed cups in, precisely as I explained about thematic battles beyond its scope. At that time, the Rainbow themed cup was in full swing, and it was the sixth themed cup of its inaugural season. The five others that preceded it - Boulder, Twilight, Tempest, Kingdom, and Nightmare in that order - have (or had) certain nuances as well, and I ought to round them up and discuss them for posterity's sake.

I've already actually explained the themed cup of "Boulder" in a post about looking back and looking forward for them, and "Twilight" as it was reused as a Factions battlefield, so my earlier explanations mostly suffice for those. That leaves the other themed cups, which demand at least some further explanation, starting with the next in line, "Tempest". The featured types for this one are Electric, Flying, Ground, and Ice, and because of the type relations, Ice types become a sort of an emphasis - in fact, teams would be composed of "flyers", "anti-flyers", and others to mediate between the two.

Moving on down the line, there was the "Kingdom" themed cup, which I've also explained in the first linked post but no further than the types involved - for reference being Fire, Ice, Dragon, and Steel. The key counter relationships here are Fire against Steel, Ice against Dragon, Fire against Ice, and Steel against Ice, while Dragon against Fire and Steel against Dragon serve as buffers. Even so, it seems that most of the interactions - based on the run of the themed cup - center on Lucario as the biggest offender and others that can mitigate that, which might still remain true even if it were active today.

Then there came the "Nightmare" themed cup, with its featured types of Fighting, Psychic, and Dark. Immediately it becomes obvious that there is a rock-paper-scissors relationship here, and only the "best of the best" suffice to counter others. Specifically, there was Xatu with its power to fend off Fighting types and Poliwrath to fend off Xatu, as well as Dark and Poison types together to hassle the other two. They were lucky that Charm (ahem) wasn't the norm back then, which could be the norm now. It was a real "nightmare" of a themed cup, which is why now the Arena seeks to move away from such a relationship in recent ones.

While I did mention "Rainbow" at the beginning of this post and in the first linked post, like "Kingdom", only the types are mentioned with no further explanation, so it's fine to discuss about it as well. As the featured types are Grass, Fire, and Water plus Electric and Flying, it becomes apparent that it may be considered as "Element Cup++", as the Silph Arena basis is the Great League and there are those other two types in addition to the ones that make up the themed cup above. Species picks for the first three types are certainly important, but so are ones for the other two types, overlapping if possible.

Silph Arena evidently has a quite rich history, even (just) prior to my involvement in battling under its themed cups. Admittedly, it could be considered slightly based on trial and error, but that is essentially what paved the way for the design of later themed cups. In the same way, my current involvement might be said to be sparse at present in comparison to back when I started, but that good start still prepared myself for what came down the line afterwards. The hope may be that there would be a lot of fruitfulness for us - my participation in the Arena and the development of its future themed cups - as we look back and move forward.

One year ago: Travel to Atlantis

Two years ago: Reminiscing More of My Early Days with Go

Three years ago: A T-Shirt for One's Journey

Four years ago: The Wonders of Weather in Go

Five years ago: Going Back to the NDS