Pokémon Go Event Rollup, 4/30/2023

Since Community Day Classic was yesterday, I was consequently unable to make the event rollup for Pokémon Go on that day as I had in some years prior. And now that there is exactly one day left in the month, it is necessary to make that rollup today before the month ends. This month was also no short of events, so that becomes yet another impetus for its creation, to detail the events and their significance. There's some of that to go around for all the events of this month as well.

As is the norm for April, the month started off with April Fool's Day - or to be more exact, April Fowl's Day - as this year's edition on April 1. My post at that time was intended to tease the happenings of the event, and as can be guessed by it, it involved Pidgey. On that day, Professor Willow's Pidgey apparently "flew the coop" from 1 PM onwards, and they could be found in the wild and as Field Research task rewards with increased XXS and XXL chances. There was also a two-page Special Research set to be claimed from 3 PM onwards that day, which served to assist the Professor; at the end of the day, all things normalized.

Like past years, April is the time to Spring into Spring, which means the return of the event of the same name, from April 4 to 10. New this year are the Cutiefly species family, as well as Pikachu and Eevee species families (yes, all evolved forms) with cherry blossoms. They and other seasonally appropriate Pokémon, including some past flower crown forms, appeared in the wild, raids, 2 km Eggs, and Field Research task rewards. Eggs rewarded twice as much Candy and took half the distance to hatch, while Lucky Eggs were extended; a Collection Challenge upped the ante and a new fashion item made things festive. During this event, Regieleki Elite Raids also occurred on April 9 in select EX Raid Gyms to lend an additional zip to the start of the season, although like Regidraco last month, some issues did come up. This event was nevertheless a nice primer for the season.

This month also hosted the first "signature event" of the Season of Rising Heroes, at least if last month's "An Everyday Hero" event isn't considered to be quite characteristic. It's called "A Mystic Hero", and as can be guessed, it dealt with the team in question and its leader, Blanche. From April 13 to 17, with bonuses of doubled XP, two Candy XL for evolution, and extended Lure Modules, one assisted Blanche through a Special Research set on researching evolution that can be claimed from that point, which ultimately rewards a special Lapras with a bowtie. A different set of complementary Timed Research and Field Research tied things together for the evolution perspective that Blanche needed.

Yet another event that repeated previous editions this month is Sustainability Week, and this time, from April 20 to 26, things got fruity and earthy. That's because it marked the debuts of the Bounsweet family as well as Shiny Drilbur, who could be found in the wild, 7 km Eggs, and Research (Field and Timed task rewards) along with other natural Pokémon. Buddy Pokémon also brought gifts and souvenirs, stayed longer on the overworld, and took less distance to earn hearts; Bounsweet Trainer fashion sweetened the deal. A Limited Research Day on Stunfisk (both forms, Unova and Galarian) also coincided on April 23 with the debut of the Unova form's Shiny variant and increased appearances of Ground-type Pokémon. All told, it was a lovely mix for nature.

Over the entire course of this month, the events may be said to have evoked the inward and outward nature of the involved Pokémon, and that's a fine matter. It was especially helped by the multitude of events, each offering something for everyone to take and obtain; some of the events too were routine as with past years, and they thus offer a spirit of continuance. And so they do, as this Season of Rising Heroes moves into the final salvo.

One year ago: Pokémon and Virtual Pets

Two years ago: Road of 25th Anniversary: Shaping for Success

Three years ago: Pokémon Go Event Rollup, 4/30/2020

Four years ago: A New(?) Pikachu Doll

Five years ago: A Sun & Moon Doujin Manga

Six years ago: Cosplay: ComiCamp 2, Day 2

Pokémon Go Community Day Classic, 4/29/2023

As noted in the main Community Day post for this month, there are two editions of Community Day, one of them a Classic edition. Evidently, that is scheduled for today, the penultimate day of the month. Now, in the northern hemisphere, things should already be warming up for spring, but there may be some chills left over; in the southern hemisphere, things are cooling down for winter. Either way, it is still appropriate for the Pokémon of this edition of Community Day Classic to be featured.

That Pokémon would be Swinub, who was last featured in February 2019. Just like that time, evolving it to Mamoswine (after Piloswine) gives it the special move of Ancient Power, satiating the main series evolution mechanism but - apparently - not as satiating for PvP. The evolution process requires a Sinnoh Stone, so as with some previously featured Pokémon, Timed Research (in lieu of PvP battling like last time) is here to furnish them. The main bonus is tripled Stardust, which is always lucrative regardless of Pokémon. The usual perks of extended Incense and Lure Modules are present, and so are the newer novelties of photo bombs and paid Special Research (this time titled just "Swinub Community Day Classic", but still insightful on the characteristics of the species family, according to Professor Willow). The perks are spartan but effective.

Due to certain concerns - the weather being one of them - I opted to have Community Day at a more nearby place compared to the place for some recent Community Day editions, yet it itself had hosted others in the past. As it turns out, some of my fellow Trainers had the same idea, including the one who usually helps to furnish official merchandise for the main editions - though there are none to speak of this time, as it's not a main edition. The Stardust bonus remained a priority, so we mostly hunkered down and caught Swinub to earn as much Stardust as possible. Evolution was also secondary in our regard; since I already had a good one with the special move and it wasn't too usable, I opted to evolve just two: one for Great League just in case and a Lucky one that I obtained from a friend during the event. Though their usability is questionable, it still might help just to have them.

In essence, some people may consider today's Community Day Classic as a "useless repeat" due to the way things are, which may be true in some ways. Yet as a way to build up stock of resources for the species family as well as Stardust, it is quite workable in that regard and thus useful to some degree. The chilly disposition of the species family is still appropriate for the current time, as is obtaining as many things as possible for them to make them appropriate for any battle at any time, beyond the confines of today.

One year ago: Pokémon Go Event Rollup, 4/29/2022

Two years ago: Pokémon Go Event Rollup, 4/29/2021

Three years ago: The State of Cosplay

Four years ago: Cosplay Team Projects, Revisited

Five years ago: Cosplay: Isshoni Tanoshimimashou 13

Six years ago: Cosplay: ComiCamp 2, Day 1

Attraction to Poké Balls

The Poké Ball is the ubiquitous, classical, and archetypal capture device or item of the world of Pokémon. For people, it is what they will likely reach for when intending to capture Pokémon. For Pokémon, it is what determines their loyalty to a Trainer and possession by that Trainer. It may seem that either party may become attracted to the item for certain reasons, some obvious and others esoteric. It would therefore be fascinating to reason out how that would be for both parties above.

People would naturally be attracted to the device given its role in capturing Pokémon. As such, some of them might go out of their way to obtain enough of the item to make the captures that they need. That attraction, though, might lead them into some "traps", as some Pokémon have developed appearances that look like the item - Voltorb and Foongus to name just a couple - and can ensnare them, let alone other Pokémon. Then again, it's hard to blame them for their dependence on it.

As for the Pokémon, they might have some minds of their own about the item. It's used for capturing, so some free-spirited Pokémon will likely try to avoid the device to maintain their free spirits. However, other Pokémon might decide to embrace rather than avoid the item for all its advantages, and become one with the item as well as its owner. The Poké Ball appearance imitation above applies here as well, as "traps" that function by the avoidance or attraction of other species.

Given the above, the power of attraction is one that applies very well to the item. The people are attracted to it by their desire and focus, and the Pokémon are attracted to it by seeking ways to steer clear of it or just fully accept its entitlement. It seems like a strange two-sided relationship, but then so is the one that people and Pokémon share, with or without the presence or existence of the capture item. Yet if something is evident for that item, it is that attraction remains an influence on its use.

One year ago: Employing a Loudred "Speaker"

Two years ago: The Mysticism of Pokémon in Caves

Three years ago: The Allure and Wonder of "Shundo"

Four years ago: Cosplay: J-COSHOKAI 4 - Hibana no Utopia

Five years ago: Other Pokémon Competitions

Six years ago: Pokémon Floor Mat

Other Trainers for Legacy Trainer Challenge?

Presently in Pokémon Unite, the Legacy Trainer Challenge has returned after its initial stint last year. If back then the main focus was on Leon, this time, the main focus is on Cynthia, the ever-popular Garchomp Trainer. The other Trainers from back then are also still present, this time as backup. Given this situation, "other Trainers" also seems to be a prompt for this special match mode and may be discussed, especially now since more and more Pokémon are entering the fray in Pokémon Unite.

Starting with the Pokémon that are already present, since Green took Blastoise instead, perhaps Red can take Venusaur in lieu of Charizard also being taken (by Leon above). Lance may also still be an option to be included, given the presence of Dragonite. The same is also true of Sylveon, with which Serena could also work. All of these are purely based on what Pokémon are available right now and the Trainers with the best match for those Pokémon; they are regardless effective choices for the purpose.

On the more speculative side, since the evolved forms of Eevee are making their way in, the Kimono Girls that represent some of these evolved forms could also work as a Legacy Trainer Challenge in its own right. Alternatively, this can work with representation of the Trainers whose names serve as the Eevee evolution keywords in Pokémon Go, though this would seem to be a bit more obscure (in fact, so is the other idea). But this is quite thematic, and it would seem to have some potential.

Even more speculative is a lineup that consists of currently available Pokémon and some possible ones that might just make it in the future. Pikachu and Cinderace are already in the game and they can and do make an effective duo. To go with that, one might hold out hope for Blaziken, Togekiss, and Haxorus to make their way in, all of which are plausible even though it might take time for all of them, and most likely not at the same time. Dedicated fans by now ought to know which Trainers these represent, all from the same source.

While Pokémon Unite is no Masters EX, the Pokémon that are present can be a way to align with them virtually, almost like being certain established character Trainers from all parts of the Pokémon franchise. If anything, that may be considered the spirit of what the Legacy Trainer Challenge offers, even if now its only two editions are nearly the same except for the focus Trainer. What is clear is that the expansion potential for it is there, and it just might be the thing that needs to happen later on.

One year ago: TCG, My Past and Future

Two years ago: Quickies: Trainers as Independent Learners

Three years ago: Resolving Differences

Four years ago: Pokémon Go Event Rollup, 4/27/2019

Five years ago: Groups and Sub-Groups

Six years ago: Out of This World: Episode 690 - "A UFO for Elgyem!"

Slow Living with Pokémon

Some people around the world today think that the world has now entered a state of moving too fast. More and more things are demanded out of them at a faster rate, and they can't seemingly keep up. At that point, it might become preferable for them to turn to a new kind of lifestyle that lets them live life at a less demanding pace, and that lifestyle has a name: slow living. By its name, it appears to be an intriguing lifestyle if one can stand to apply it, and it may become especially so for people who are intricately connected with Pokémon, in more ways than one.

Real fans who might desire to apply slow living to their Pokémon dealings might choose to play the games to a less intense extent and/or play games that can be tailored to this lifestyle, like Pokémon Go or even Pokémon Sleep, when that one comes out - essentially, they might go and undertake "lifestyle gaming", likely with relaxed targets. They might also forego the games entirely and just treat Pokémon as a brand that they can integrate into their lifestyle, whatever or however that might be. In either case, they can have and delight in Pokémon, even with the lesser demands of the lifestyle.

Then there are the people who actually exist in the world of Pokémon. For them, slow living might mean taking care of Pokémon in less demanding ways; that perhaps might even mean starting a Day Care to aid other Trainers in the care (and breeding) of their Pokémon, or running a Pokémon farm and living off of what they can provide and give back to them and others. Of course, they might be demanded to battle at some point if necessary, but that ought to not occur too often. What's important is that they can stay productive with Pokémon even as life demands less out of them.

And that is the gist, really, of "slow living": being able to have a life that is lesser in what it wants out of them, but still having the chance to give back to life and other people who live differently. It's definitely an alternative to being stuck in the fast-paced world of today yet still having a leeway to live life as needed. Even so, if that life can involve Pokémon or is itself set within the world, that may be considered rather unique and welcoming, especially for those who are fans and/or enjoy the eponymous creatures as such. In that way, slow living just might have its place with Pokémon.

One year ago: Forced Updates to Pokémon Games

Two years ago: (Re-)Join for Good

Three years ago: Tournament: Raid Group Voyager Cup

Four years ago: Raising the Pokémon Go Level Cap

Five years ago: Working with Shuffle's Item Limits

Six years ago: In Pursuit of Collections

Prefixes in Pokémon Unite?

By now, Pokémon Unite has become rather popular as a game. Many players are getting into it, by themselves if not with a team. In the case of the latter, they even proudly - or in some cases necessarily - display their affiliation by emblazoning it on their player name. This is something workable, even if it means having to change the player name, which is possible by way of a paid item (that is, purchased with Gems). Even so, perhaps it may be best to allow this to be done, but separately without having to change the main part of the name. A feature in another MOBA game seems to provide the answer to this issue.

In that game, the part that is used to display affiliations (to teams, groups, what-have-you), is called the "prefix". In gameplay, this is displayed in another color, which in that game happens to be yellow. It is also clearly delineated from the player name, in that way complementing it as well. By reasoning, it becomes obvious that the part has to be independently changeable without having to change the player name. Something like this is what may be desirable to implement in Pokémon Unite, although this could prove to be a major change in many ways that would have to be well-prepared if so implemented.

One good reason to implement this is that some eSports registries - which may not support Unite now but may potentially do so later - have already implemented the prefix concept and provided a way for players to enter it, even though it is by no means mandatory for the other games they support. The implementation in Pokémon Unite may have to be as such as well, being optional for unaffiliated players until they become affiliated with someone or something, at which time they can then fill in the affiliation and have it appear when they play, especially as necessitated by their affiliate groups.

If it should be implemented, then there is the cost to consider. Again, changing the player name effectively requires real payment for Gems to purchase the Rename Card item, and this source of revenue may be lost to some degree if prefixes are implemented, as necessary as they are. Thus, one way to deal with this is to have the first use be free as with setting a player name in general, and further changes would also require purchase of an item, which would have to be cheaper than for changing the player name. This could also deter potential abusers of the feature to some extent and force players to use it wisely.

Being that Pokémon Unite is undeniably a MOBA game, comparisons can't help but be drawn to others of its kind, including for features that the latter have but the former doesn't. That would include prefixes, which can now be considered almost essential for competitive play to indicate affiliations with others. Such affiliations are now on the rise just like how Pokémon Unite itself is rising to greater heights of popularity alongside its more familiar MOBA brethren, and a way of indicating them may be necessary not only for the players but also to be internally supported by the game.

One year ago: Pokémon Audiobooks and Audio Dramas

Two years ago: Pokémon Airplanes

Three years ago: Pokémon Go Community Day, 4/25/2020

Four years ago: The World Is All Here

Five years ago: I'll Be... The One

Six years ago: Shuffling in Alola

Tournament: SWEEP JR vs. Ferrothorns (SA Factions)

Silph Arena Factions continues after the week-long break, and my team, SWEEP JR, has to continue our struggle in the APAC Open Tier. Perhaps, as a way to lessen the struggle, for Bout 5, we were paired up with another Australian team called Ferrothorns. This is yet another veteran team that has "fallen by the wayside"; it has once ranked as high as the Platinum tier, but since then, its performance has been dismal and it has been bottom-feeding, relegated to Open. But at any rate, we haven't been doing that well either, and thus we aligned to meet up in this Cycle.

Due to last weekend being more or less equal to another "break" (which could have been complemented by the SA Factions break had it lasted for another week or been scheduled for that week instead), two of my regular teammates requested to be off for that break. Coupled with the current situation of my Faction, that meant there were exactly seven people that can and had to play, one of them being me - but that's to be explained shortly. For this, I opted to have my teammates in a position that would minimize change from the previous Bout, which does seem like it would sound. Yet reality can and had the power to speak differently.

Partly because of that "break", most matches took place throughout Friday my team time (plus three hours for the Australians). The run of matches started in the afternoon with the Catacomb Field Specialists, bakalikur vs. Digitor1 and Wina1403 vs. Maddog250189. In order, they both resulted in 0-3 and 1-2 losses, putting my team behind by four points and making me slightly nervous about what's to come, especially my match, which came in the evening and shortly after theirs.

And so it did come, the Arcana Field Specialist match of PokeMasterBP348 (that's me) vs. Shad0wXo. Remarkably, this also became the "captains' derby", as my opponent is the opposing team captain. I had practiced for the match earlier with a couple of my teammates but always lost, so I wasn't sure what results I would get. Amazingly, in my first time out, I pulled off a 3-0 win (a sweep), allowing my team to catch up; there were moments where I thought I would lose, but I managed to turn them around. A piece of advice from my teammates also did the trick and immensely helped out, slightly changing the way I battled - but that was definitely for the better.

With that sweep, things may have been turned around. Aside from YukiXCyz vs. Fantendo in the Arcana Field an hour after mine, which turned out as a 1-2 loss and slightly increased the difference, the rest of the matches turned out as wins. RaymondHrtwn vs. Sygmassacre (Justicar Field for Ultra League) on Friday night, riman12 vs. Crystalzero (Open Great League) on Saturday afternoon, and Orioo16 vs. JaySliceOO4 (Open Master League) on Sunday evening had results of 2-1, 3-0, and 3-0 respectively. After all was said and done, my Faction turned out as the winner with a final score of 13-8, the first win since Bout 2 and the first result that didn't have a margin of one point since the Cycle began. It is a win that we desperately needed for us to show we have the chops.

From this Bout, something that I gained is that the most obvious strategy may not always be the most effective strategy. This applies to me as I practiced for my battle and when it took place, as well as how I set up the player lineup for this Bout. For the latter, I might have been able to set things up in a more intended manner, and the score difference could have been greater, although this seems to be just as fine. For the former, it seems that I can arm myself with all the tools I need to battle, but I also need to make considerations that go beyond that, and in doing so, something like this Bout might just result.

The opposing team adopts as its slogan "every rose [Roserade?] has its Ferrothorn", and so it seems to be true for this Bout as well, as my team encountered theirs in a rather symbolic manner. It was a truly appropriate Bout after the break, and our victory (plus my debut, and a sweet one at that) makes things all the more sweeter. While the next remaining Bouts may not as be sweet-smelling as roses, we ought to be able to find and avoid the thorns.

One year ago: The Flame of Cyndaquil

Two years ago: Days of Friendships Persisting

Three years ago: The Signature Electric Type Species

Four years ago: Partners in Crime, Partners in Time

Five years ago: Pokémon Craft Figures - Mewtwo

Six years ago: Crossovers!

Keeping It Simple with Pokémon

After I've discussed about keeping things real, now I'd like to discuss about keeping things simple - as always, with Pokémon. This is not intended to be a follow-up post to that, though it may have much of the same overtones as such. I got inspired to write this post by a quote that I heard recently: "simple life, simple problems" - the word "simple" could also be replaced with "simplify". I've decided to flesh out the quote and make it into a discussion regarding how it would work with Pokémon.

One way to interpret this quote is to make gameplay simple. That may be taken to mean knowing what to do and when to do it, which should apply well to Pokémon moves in different games (main series, Go, Unite). Of course, the moves themselves come from the Pokémon, so the principle extends to them for making things work as needed with just the right effort - and if it's something like Unite, making sure that others can do the same. Making preparations for the expected and solutions for the unexpected also comes naturally, though sometimes the simplicity in this is not so clear-cut. Still, there is room for the simplicity to be realized in all these ways.

The next effort for simplicity may be to trim down or shape the focus of what is to be played for Pokémon. It may be worth putting focus on certain games at certain times in lieu of or in addition to playing many games. It doesn't mean that playing many Pokémon games is bad - it just means they have to be managed to make them as simple as possible. For example, Pokémon Go could still work as a daily game even with limited length, and the main series games could benefit from weekend efforts or when something important happens. This simplifying effort may not be too simple either, but the simplicity might become evident in the results after the effort.

Regarding the situation above, it may be necessary to keep in mind that Pokémon may be as simple as one might perceive it to be (but no simpler, if the text of a certain but different quote from the above has something to say). It may be that the simplest solutions, even for certain Pokémon problems, might just be under one's nose without having to overexert things - which I happened to have discovered lately and will soon be made clear, simply. Anything more might just mean a greater departure from simplicity, which is not the point. The point is that things (like PvP battling, for instance) might already provide the simple solution one needs if one is willing to look.

While the person has stated that the inspiration of the quote at the beginning came from certain situations in life, I've taken inspiration from it for Pokémon situations in general. Yet that seems to be OK, as Pokémon remains a part of life and itself may be life, within which the quote may further apply. It's still a wonderful thing, especially given the circumstances of the previous post, of which the impressions may still be felt now. In doing so, it might just be worth looking into simplifying even Pokémon things.

One year ago: Pokémon Go Community Day, 4/23/2022

Two years ago: The (Post-"General") Longest Journey

Three years ago: Touching and Caring for Pokémon

Four years ago: Pokémon for a Puzzle Professor

Five years ago: (A Late) Local Ex-Raid, 4/23/2018

Six years ago: Luffy and Infernape

Keeping Relationships Real with Pokémon

Today is a special time, one that I've referenced in the past (last year and two years ago) but not directly and never will, though I can discuss things that are often thrown around during that time - certainly with Pokémon in tow as per this blog. This time, well... I've thought of two of those things that I've always wanted to discuss but cannot do so because there's an aspect of them that I don't wish to touch on this blog. But since the two are vaguely related on a certain level, I've decided to fuse the discussion of them (along with Pokémon) and the point should still come across.

Evidently, one of those things is relationships, as suggested by the title of this post. This comes naturally for Pokémon, as there are people and Pokémon that exist in the world. It also touches on the "Let's Talk" that I made exactly last year with Ash and Goh (see below), which addresses some of those relationships. People connect with each other, as is the case in the real world, but they also connect with the Pokémon, and then the Pokémon connect with others of their kind as well. There is also a lot of appreciation and reverence among all of them, and it takes a lot to keep them going... and to make that "real".

And that brings up the other part of the title. For the people to people part, that can be attested without the need of this blog. For the relationships involving Pokémon, there may be a lot of trust and devotion that makes up those efforts, and that doesn't come easily, especially in the eyes of others. Yet if the feelings are true, then the parties that are involved can then strive to keep things as real as possible, and even make that evident for others. It's almost miraculous (or perhaps it actually is... but that's a digression).

In relation to this special time, there's a certain struggle that is magnified just before it, even resulting in the need to pent up stresses, some of which may be the effect of attempting to maintain those relationships as well as to maintain the reality of them. But in the process, one then learns (or should learn) how to pent up stresses any time of the year, not just in the time before it. It may be construed that the same process could occur with the Pokémon relationships and in much of the same ways, even without a special time.

For their importance, the topics I've mentioned are hard to discuss, with or without that aspect. But that doesn't erase the fact that relationships exist among and within the parties mentioned, and that they develop in different ways, making their maintenance hard and seemingly requiring unreal efforts. Yet, if it can be accomplished, that should be real and rather special for all concerned.

One year ago: Let's Talk About The Ways of People and Pokémon

Two years ago: Ideas for Pokémon Vehicles

Three years ago: Reading the Signs

Four years ago: PokéMania and WhatMania

Five years ago: Tournament: PTC18 Online Tournament 7

Six years ago: Costume Issues

Draft Pick in Pokémon Unite

Even though it is somewhat different than other games of its genre (MOBA), Pokémon Unite is still a member of this genre of games to a good capacity. That means it can also adopt some features that those other games have, at least for specific tidbits. One of those features is "draft pick", a method of selecting characters for battle with a twist. It's a method that especially suits tournament play in those other games, so it would not be surprising that Pokémon Unite adopts that way as well, now that its tournaments are all the rage.

The method involves three phases. The first is the "ban phase", where both teams each select one Pokémon that cannot be used - that is, banned. The second is the "pick phase", where teams alternate selection of Pokémon: the leader of one team picks one, then the leader and one other player of the other team each pick one, followed by two others from the former, and so on until the last player on the other team picks the last Pokémon. The third is the "preparation phase", which involves the usual Pokémon setup (Holowear, items, and so on) before battle; in some cases, it may also be possible to swap Pokémon with the others the team picked. In this way, each Pokémon chosen by the players is "drafted" into play, with everyone knowing what the others pick, including those of the other team.

It is likely that if one plays largely outside tournaments (like me), one won't encounter this selection method, as only normal selection is available in most cases. Regardless, one can try out the method by starting a Custom Battle and selecting the map marked as having "Draft Pick", filling with human players if possible and CPU for the rest, and having a go. For those who play in tournaments, many of them now practically require this method, especially the qualifiers for the upcoming World Championships and eventually that very tournament, so it is worthwhile to be able to get used to that selection method regardless, even if it only can be initiated as above.

Part of that effort of getting used to the method also involves familiarizing with as many Pokémon as possible, because the selection process (particularly the banning portion) may leave some Pokémon that one depends on unable to be played. Therefore, one would have to prepare a few alternative selections beforehand in case the above happens, including but not limited to a role that one may specialize in. It is still likely that based on team requirements, present demands, or other factors, one will already have a bevy of Pokémon of one role ready to be played for that purpose.

Draft pick may not be original to Pokémon Unite, but the method is shared with some of its MOBA brethren, and in a way, it does affirm the game as a genuine member of the genre. That is of particular importance now that its tournaments, which will likely impose said method on the matches, are picking up steam. Likewise, players and their teams will have to "pick up" a grasp on the method to be successful there.

One year ago: Community Day Meetups (Plus Local)

Two years ago: Quickies: The Pokémon School of Martial Arts

Three years ago: All Rumbled Out

Four years ago: Cosplay: Isshoni Tanoshimimashou 14

Five years ago: Crazy Decisions

Six years ago: Tropius Fruit and Other Pokémon Edibles

Places to Shoot Live-Action Pokémon Movies

It's been a few years since the first-ever live action Pokémon movie came about, which became a phenomenon of its own. Because it's live-action, it automatically means that it was shot somewhere in the real world, using the place as the depiction of the fictional locations (and they can "serve" honorably as those locations). I've been thinking about this as well as a few locations that can be used to shoot another live-action Pokémon movie, moreover a follow-up to the movie mentioned above, and it's a nice thing to flesh out in a discussion.

Before discussing current potentials, it helps to discuss about what has been used. As a couple of examples, portions of that first movie were shot in Colorado in the U.S. and London in the U.K., the latter for the urban Ryme City setting and the former for some of the "natural" scenes. This means that as is common for other movies, the shooting locations don't have to be in close proximity, even if the fictional settings are. That also means that there are certain freedoms in the selection of shooting locations, yet what remains important is choosing the best-looking place for the best reasonable time and budget.

That said, lately I've been presented with a place somewhere in my resident country that somehow looks like one side of the Hisui region and perhaps could be used to shoot a potential live-action movie based on the region and the related game (Legends: Arceus). A bottom-up camera shot in the place only makes things all the more evident and seemingly perfect for that purpose. Of course, there are different sides to the Hisui region, so that will have to be complemented with shots in a different place but similar landscape. Yet all this also depends if the game gets a movie based on it at all.

Speaking of which, word on the next possible live-action Pokémon movie has been scant, even as the follow-up movie above; if it weren't, it would be all over my communities by now, and that's not the case. Whatever idea that could be implemented for that movie will likely become the deciding factor for its setting and thereby the shooting location, which could partially confirm or deny my conjecture. This could also include an original story specifically meant to be realized as a movie and not as or derived from a game, for which the possibilities are wild and so are the possible shooting locations.

A live-action movie will demand to be shot in the most appropriate yet wondrous and viable locations, and the same goes for a live-action Pokémon movie as well. The very first one of that did quite a good job, and any follow-ups that are being considered ought to live up to that in the choice of shooting locations as well, even if that totally depends on the concept. In any case, the world isn't short of great places (even where I am) to shoot movies, and the next one for Pokémon should totally take advantage of this fact.

One year ago: Ideal Parks for Playing Pokémon Go

Two years ago: Getting In and Out Of Character with Pokémon Games

Three years ago: Rumble Tumble, and...

Four years ago: Legends for Lunch and Dinner

Five years ago: Curveball Wisdom

Six years ago: The Music of the Poké Flute

One-Minute Cooking: A New Standard?

Since its "effective introduction" around half a year ago, One-Minute Cooking in Café Remix has taken off like a storm. It was its own event (or rather, it facilitated the event) to start with for introducing certain Legendary Pokémon, but then it was implemented for common Pokémon. Further, it even encroached individual points events - becoming the "hospitality" format - and now the visit events that implement it occur together with team events, forcing it to be played to contribute to the latter. With all these things happening, it could be considered that the framework has become a new "standard" for events, and this situation seems important to be discussed.

It is also important to recall that One-Minute Cooking is real-time rather than turn-based (by moves) as it is for practically the rest of Café Remix. The fact that it provides this mode of play means that there is an incentive to continue to provide it and maintain a balance, like how Shuffle has both turn-based and real-time stages. It also serves as a means of competitive play, again like what Shuffle provides, although in Shuffle it can also be turn-based. Given the above, they are neat reasons for the framework to be maintained, in this way acting as a "standard" not only for competitive purposes but also for play modes in general, especially in similar vein as its predecessor.

At the same time, this "standardization" does seem to be a little heavy-handed. For those who have nothing else to do, for example after clearing all currently available main orders and raising Pokémon (which can happen), this seems to be fine. But for those who still have other things to do in the game (and outside, for that matter), it may be considered forced on. This is especially true given that recently, events featuring the framework have occurred one after another, seemingly without a break and forcing players on what feels like an eternal grind - although and even if grinding is the way of things in Café Remix in most cases. Yet it may not have to be as such.

Regardless, it is hard to deny that the framework has grown beyond the time (and the way) of its introduction way back when. It's just as defining for how Café Remix plays out in the current day and age as it was when it was introduced, as it's different enough from the typical and initial turn-based approach. For that reason, it shouldn't be a surprise that it is now prevalent for many events, though the scale and quantity of them vis-a-vis how things had been before its introduction does seem to be questionable. In that way, One-Minute Cooking is and has indeed become a new standard for Café Remix and just becomes something everyone needs to contend with, even now.

One year ago: Scoring in Pokémon Unite

Two years ago: Friendships Like Pokémon

Three years ago: Everyday Discoveries

Four years ago: Local EX Raid (and a Whirlwind), 4/19/2019

Five years ago: Cracking the Case

Six years ago: Oddest Things with Pikachu

Hunting for "Smurfers" in Pokémon Unite

There's a phenomenon that one might not realize is occurring in Pokémon Unite, but that is the case, even if it's imperceptible. It might affect those who are of lower ranks, but as time goes by, it might encroach those of higher ranks as well. As indicated by the title, that phenomenon is called "smurfing" as performed by "smurfers". It's not necessarily a good one, and it may affect things in different ways. As such, a friend and I have taken some effort of trying to hunt them down, and while we can't conclusively pin them down, there are signs that they do exist.

On the match results screen, it is possible to tap on the Trainer names to check out their profiles, and if things work out, those profiles should display. If not, one will be presented with a little message that says that the profile cannot be displayed because the Trainer has set the profile to be private. A "smurfer" will likely have set the profile to be private, hidden from prying eyes. Aside from checking profiles, as with bots, they might have strange names and might not respond to a "good job" by a thumbs-up (or give out one in the first place), though this is a little more dicey.

Who are "smurfers"? They are players (Trainers) who use an alternate "little" or "small" account in order to boost themselves - and possibly others - up in rank. This is a natural thing, of course, given that lower ranks tend to be given easier opponents, and that is exactly the purpose of those "little" or "small" accounts for others of concern. Pokémon Unite is certainly not the only (MOBA) game in this regard, as other games of similar caliber also have their "smurfing" problem; the only thing that is different is that the other games have dealt with them, while Pokémon Unite hasn't. Yet that's also a point of contention.

My friend stresses that the "smurfer" issue is an important issue, on par with the usual issue of idling or "AFK" players, whose presence is not to be discussed due to their familiarity. Still, some of my other friends only consider the issue as "lukewarm", seemingly of little effect to them (being that the impact of idling players is much more serious and more severe than the "smurfer" issue, even with all mechanisms in place). My position is that any Pokémon issue of any magnitude, including this one, may deserve to be brought up, which is why I've taken this post to do so.

Lots of things go on in the workings of Unite, some obvious and others less so. It may be that "smurfers" represent the part of those workings that are not so obvious, yet still does exist and may need to be addressed to a certain capacity, especially if telltale signs of them may be present as above. Whether others consider it a grave issue or not is something else entirely, but if it has become keen to be detected like it has been for my friend, then it may just have some weight for its resolution, most likely to keep rank progression from being too mechanical - even if it already seems as such, moreover with this phenomenon.

One year ago: On the Two Sweepers and Cleaners

Two years ago: Cosplay: "Pass-the-Time" Contest

Three years ago: Love and All

Four years ago: Performance Critique: INOCHI 2019 Sing Cover

Five years ago: Getting Social with Cosplay

Six years ago: Console Renewal?

Going for (Real) Pokémon Cookies

Many festive times throughout the year, no matter when they happen, often call for cookies of some kind. They're celebratory in their representation of the festive times, even if they may look ordinary. For Pokémon fans, some of the eponymous species may also be as celebratory as they are ordinary, which means that they can share those same qualities with the food item mentioned above. Of course, diehard fans might think about combining the two, and that might become a food item to go for.

Those who play Café Remix might already have a semblance of what they might look like, as they are the featured items in the game for leveling up (more precisely, uncapping levels of) the Pokémon that one hires as staff members. Even so, the cookies as depicted are rather simplistic and generic, as most of them share a similar shape but only differentiated by the image of the Pokémon species stamped on them. This could still work as a realistic cookie inspiration and be less troublesome to make. Other fans, though, might (also) want to take the extra mile in making cookies that stand out.

That effort could be in the form of making actual cookies that resemble the Pokémon, most likely their faces. It could end up taking some time and quite a bit of work, but the results could be very, very nice. If less work is desired to be involved, it may be worth trying to take existing cookie recipes and give them a Pokémon twist. I, for one, can already think of "Voltorb fruit balls" or "Lickitung tongues" (these may be obscure cookies for some), as well as "Tangela hair balls" and "Sandshrew rolls" (these may be more familiar), in cookie form. Either way, the results are something to savor.

More than likely, certain festive times will demand a "cookie rush" for which many cookies will need to be made, and the selection of cookies will likely be standard. Pokémon is by no means standard in this area, and thus it could help to liven up that "cookie rush", especially through the suggested ideas above, if they may be considered. At the ultimate peak of those times, a celebration is still in order, and if Pokémon can be made to be present in cookie form, then that celebration could be more deliciously festive.

One year ago: Rotating to Objectives

Two years ago: Longing for Team Go Rocket

Three years ago: Impressions of Chef Mallow

Four years ago: Choosing Pathways

Five years ago: And Again, I Dream

Six years ago: We're All Tied to Pokémon

Pikachu and Paldea Starters Headbands and Visors

In the years where Pokémon Go Fest was solely a global "anywhere" event, a "craft (activity) pack" was offered. One of the things in that pack is a Pikachu headband and visor, which might make for a nice item to be worn by kids and adults alike. The same may be said to be true of a set of headbands and visors for Pikachu and the starter Pokémon from Paldea, which were made for local celebrations and events involving Pokémon. I've obtained all the headbands and visors, and thought it would be good to make a review of them.

The Pikachu one could technically have been obtained from a certain faraway festival, but I didn't obtain it that way; instead, it was obtained as one of the goodies from the Community Day meetups in either December or January, if there were leftovers from December. The ones for the Paldea starters, meanwhile, were obtained as part of the closer exhibition (but still not by far in terms of distance), although some of the Pikachu ones were also available. Though the closer exhibition did have a Pokémon Go feature, it was more directed towards the TCG, so the ones for the Paldea starters only had the TCG branding; meanwhile, the Pikachu one had both as both had equal presence.

All of the headbands and visors work the same way: they are folded in the front to make the visor and the character species pop out. The headbands are looped around the back, with a tab and adjustable slits depending on the intended wearer. However, in part because they are made from paper, they are a little flimsy and fragile; a number of them have suffered from tearing, especially at the visor portion. This was especially evident when the Pikachu ones were distributed during the Community Day meetups, much to the chagrin of my "friend organizers" and me. More recently, even the little tuft of hair that Fuecoco has is further evidence of this. Because of that, I've opted to store them unfolded.

Regardless, they're still well-designed as much as they can be, and they're fitting as free giveaways wherever they are or were found. I also have my favorites, and they would be for Pikachu (of course) and Fuecoco as the starter I like and would pick first. A friend of mine, however, would probably pick Sprigatito as that friend has shown some fondness for that one, while the friend I took a picture with obviously preferred the Quaxly one. In the end, it goes back to personal preference.

While the events or occasions that featured these headbands and visors have (long) passed, they're still a perfect memento of those times - at least as perfect as they can be anyways, considering their design. These too are something that any fan can enjoy having, whether realized in their folded forms or just unfolded as a pure collectible. They are and were meant to make the occasions enjoyable, in the same way as the prior "at-home craft" for Pokémon Go Fest did - only these are arguably more festive. 

One year ago: My Current Holowear of Interest

Two years ago: In Need of Rotom, Right Now

Three years ago: Fanboys and Fangirls

Four years ago: The First Unova Saga Japanese Opening Theme

Five years ago: Pokémon Go Community Day, 4/15/2018

Six years ago: Dialectics

Pokémon Go Community Day, 4/15/2023

For this edition of Community Day, I'd like to preface it by saying that there will be two editions of the event this month, one of them being a Classic edition. And this one isn't the latter, so that means it's the main edition. It should also be festive and happy in some ways, not the least because of the Pokémon being featured, which definitely fulfills those characteristics and is unique in that regard.

So, this month's main featured Pokémon is Togetic, the Happiness Pokémon. It is technically the second Pokémon of its evolution line, the first being the popular baby (or Egg) Pokémon and its principal member, Togepi. Since Togepi only hatches from Eggs, however, the only logical choice is to have Togetic for this species family to be featured. This is in contrast to Electabuzz and Magmar, who are the principal members and their baby forms (Elekid and Magby respectively) are secondary. Togetic remains nevertheless to be had.

Of course, the other members are still important too. Evolving Togetic to Togekiss during the event gives it the special move of Aura Sphere, which may befit certain PvP dynamics (mostly in the Ultra and Master Leagues). For this edition of the event, Togepi also hatches out of 2 km Eggs obtained during the event, which may have the same chances of being Shiny as with Togetic when it appears. Naturally, suiting the event - and its "spring" vibe - the main bonus becomes quartered hatch distance.

The rest of the bonuses are the expected lot: double Candy (and Candy XL chance), extended Incense and Lure Modules, extra Special Trades and discounted trades, photo bombs and bonus four-star raids (with Togetic), bonus Special Research (titled "Spreading Cheer") and special Field Research, and commemorative stickers. Like Electabuzz and Magmar as above, Togetic needs Sinnoh Stones to evolve, and five of them are provided graciously by Timed Research during the main part of the event.

Also as expected are the local meetups, for which I participated in mine today. Cheery weather and a cheery bunch of Trainers awaited in the same place as some of the past meetups, a familiar city park with deep local ties to Pokémon Go. Lure Modules were set up, Incense was turned on, and everyone caught as many Togetic as possible. Unlike past meetups, there were no "perfect surprises" this time, at least not ones that could be shared - though I'm sure that like me, everyone caught a bunch of Shiny Togetic in addition to the regular one.

The best picture, at the end of the day.

With that, I evolved the best one I had, my Buddy Pokémon, a Shiny one, and ones for Great League and Ultra League (which may or may not be used, particularly the former). These represent a good part of what I evolve for Community Day, which could stand to be discussed separately. After Togetic stopped appearing, the festivities moved to other places, mine being with a group of friends who I know well and recognize; it makes me happy to meet them as much as Togetic makes everyone and me happy.

Not surprisingly, happiness is, was personally, and should be the theme of the day (moreover where I am - but that's moving into a digression that I'm not privy to discuss). It ties very well with the featured Pokémon, which has the appropriate species classifier. As far as I'm concerned, that should be a happy spot in the midst of things, and a happy medium for this edition of Community Day.

One year ago: Love Nature, Find Beauty

Two years ago: Great League, Remixed

Three years ago: On Pokémon and Computing

Four years ago: The Fullness of the Cup

Five years ago: Cosplay: GAME - Games Animation Marketplace and Exhibition

Six years ago: True Colors (...of a Logo)

Rising Heroes in the GBL, First Half

I'll have to admit that I've been "out of the loop" with the Go Battle League due to other things I've got going on, but because it's still related to Pokémon Go PvP, some attention to it occasionally comes. Specifically, some of that attention has been for the new themed formats that the GBL has introduced over the course of this season, the Season of Rising Heroes. Since the season is at this point approximately mid-way through, I thought I'd make a recap of the new ones that have been introduced up to now.

Early on, the season truly lived up to its name with a themed format called the Fantasy Cup. In this case, it takes a base of the Ultra League and restricts types to Dragon, Steel, and Fairy. Further, in an act of early anticipation, the species of Galarian Stunfisk and Cobalion are banned, and it is easy to see why: the latter's Fighting type and the former's Ground type are sweeping strengths in even a regular Ultra League, and thus they are banned. As this is also the debut of the cup, it may be that a Great League edition could follow later on, but this Ultra League start is a fine one.

A week later, the Color Cup came into being. Going to a Great League base, the format restricts the types to Grass, Fire, Water, and Electric. If this sounds all too familiar, that's because it may be described as the "Summer Cup" with two less types or Silph Arena's Rainbow theme with one less type included. It seems that a lot of tangents can be made with  a format with just these types, this new format being one of them. It may be worth it to imagine what may come next.

Last month, there was something called the Mountain Cup, and it had a fascinating set of restrictions. The allowed types were Rock, Ground, Ice, and Steel, all things one may expect to find on a mountain. There was also a species ban: Swampert, the ever-popular "mud boy", though one may wonder why others of the same type are also not banned - likely because they don't pose as much a threat as this one. The restrictions still allowed for some earthly dynamics to occur.

Just last week, the Spring Cup made itself present. Its types were restricted to Grass, Water, and Fairy, and Toxapex (a Water and Poison combo, and a current "rising star" in PvP) was banned. With just three types, team selection had to make sense, and the Poison type - which may be found with the first two types - makes itself appear to be necessary. Regardless, it was a rather apropos themed format.

Overall, "apropos" seems to be an appropriate descriptor just for this first half of the GBL season, which is part of the overall Season of Rising Heroes. Four new themed formats - a big number for such a time - became present, each with their own complexities and twists, surfacing just like the heroes that would rise in this season. Even with me being "out of the loop" recently, I can vouch for all these in their qualities and deem them part of a dynamic start to the season.

One year ago: Keeping a Balance for the World Championships

Two years ago: Whence I Am, Whence We Are

Three years ago: Levels and Half-Levels in Pokémon Go

Four years ago: Cosplay: INOCHI 2019 - Sengoku Jidai

Five years ago: Shiny Here, Shiny There

Six years ago: Friendly Plays

The Minuscule and Enormous Qualities of Pokémon Species

Something that may or may not be obvious to some Pokémon fans is the size of the species, specifically the finer details regarding this quality and how small or large they can be. Like the creatures of the real world, they come in various sizes as well, which is in part a certainty due to the workings of biology. But by those same workings as well, even a single species may have certain size variations as well, on both ends of the spectrum. It's one of the kinds of variations that Pokémon species can have in appearance, and there has been a need to discuss that in more depth.

Those who are well-versed in individual species will already be able to pick out outstanding individuals from the two spectrum ends, for example Cutiefly and Joltik on the minuscule end and Rhyperior and Wailord on the enormous end. And that's just the way they are by nature; they are most biologically feasible in the sizes they are - give or take a few variations - and it's practically impossible for them to come in a size that is extremely larger or smaller than that. So in this case, nature remains able to work its "magic".

Of course, the world of Pokémon has other things that can measure up to "magic", and one of them would be transforming Pokémon like Ditto and Zorua. In regard to Pokémon sizes, that may be considered a slightly iffy thing for them, as they may or may not be able to accomplish that perfectly. In fact, if a Pokémon appears to be smaller than expected, that may be a sign of an imperfect transformation by either of these Pokémon, such as in the case of "mini Ditto" and possibly a good number of Zorua transformations, which are more illusory than physical in nature. The "magic" is in part telltale in this way.

It is perhaps for the above considerations that Pokémon Go just a short while ago introduced Pokémon with XXS and XXL sizes (indicated on the encounter screen with "It's tiny!" or "It's HUGE!" popups), with noticeable variations for Pokémon that possess these sizes. They even get their own set of achievement medals and are practically possible for a great deal of Pokémon, even possibly having increased chances at certain times. It's a further testament to the biological "magic" that the species may have.

Magic or not, having fantastic creatures like Pokémon in all sorts of sizes is just an expected matter. This is more so the case if some of those creatures can transform themselves to others, with or without the size implications that might be carried. Though size may be a less relevant characteristic compared to abilities and skills, it does put into perspective of how they fit in their world and life. And that's something relevant for the fans who may consider Pokémon as truly vivacious.

One year ago: The Type Icons, A New Standard

Two years ago: Differing Amounts of Pokémon Knowledge

Three years ago: Pokémon Helmet Covers?

Four years ago: Pokémon Go Community Day, 4/13/2019

Five years ago: Go at Home

Six years ago: Paint It, Picross

SA Factions: My First Four Weeks

As noted a few times, this week is the break week for Silph Arena Factions, so there is no Bout this week, and things will recommence next week. It's also the perfect time for me to make a recap of what has transpired this Cycle so far, as my debut (along with my Faction, SWEEP JR) in the competition, and reflect on what has happened. I've also got a few revelations on tap regarding how my Faction fared and what it means for the future - but that's for slightly later. The main recap and reflection is at hand.

It is evident by my last Bout recap that my Faction hasn't been doing well, with 1 win and 3 losses, all of them by a margin of one (not so) sweet point. In all the losses, at least one of my teammates got undone (swept 0-3) by the opponent, and in the last two Bouts, they happened to be in the very last match, which only needed just one win. It's extremely painful to say the least, and the two who are involved may have been kicking themselves, figuratively if not literally. The same may be said to be true of me as the Captain.

So far, one of my teammates has done a stellar job, having played in all four Bouts and racked up 10 wins (thus, only dropping 2) in the four matches. That would be Kucingimutt as an Arcana Field Specialist, who is truly an MVP in that regard. On the opposite end of the spectrum, RaymondHrtwn has almost completely bombed as the Justicar Field for Ultra League Specialist, with only 2 wins in the four matches of all currently played Bouts. Therefore, the former needs to be kept (in good shape furthermore), while the latter can stand to be changed. It is the least that I as the Captain can do.

Unfortunately, some challenges also have in one case, or had in another, befallen my Faction. DwiXsa had played in the first Bout, lost 0-3, was substituted for the next, and was promptly never seen again; the reason is that the Trainer is currently undergoing medical treatment and is unable to play at all, most likely for an extended time. As such, my Faction is now essentially "limping" on nine Trainers, since I cannot replace them in the middle of a Cycle, let alone after a "career-ending" situation like the above that just happened to occur early on. A replacement will have to be discussed, and my manager may already have a good idea.

For the challenge that had befallen, that is actually relevant to the previous bout. Back then, Orioo16 only took a 2-1 win, and that was because... the Trainer had failed to report the results of some matches in previous Bouts (even, on a prior Faction) and had been given a one-loss penalty if the Trainer played, which in fact happened. The implication, of course, is if this wasn't the case, then my team could have won instead - yet the Trainer was absolutely needed, per the above and by the necessity of substitutions at that time. It's an example of how some basic things (reporting results) can lead to major disasters if ignored.

With all the things that had happened in my Factions career thus far, I'm rather glad that I didn't choose to start a Faction from scratch as I originally wanted to; not only would I have trouble to get it going, if it did, it would be overwhelming for me as both Captain and manager. Thanks to my manager, who has been around the block, there is a lot less burden on me (but still a lot due to my being the Captain). Plus, I'm also aligned under a good Faction name, even if my Faction hasn't lived up to that name - perhaps eventually.

There's still much more to come in the remaining five Bouts of this, our first Cycle, for the Faction and me. But before that can happen, it is plain to see that much has already happened in the course of the first four weeks (and Bouts) of this Cycle. And that's already something above and beyond what I expected a long time ago if and when I would join Factions, not just observe it. Now that I've joined, and part of the decision-making lies with me, my Faction and I are in it for all that can be experienced, including as above.

One year ago: How Many Pokémon for Each Role?

Two years ago: Pikachu and Bulbasaur Donuts

Three years ago: I Believe, in Love

Four years ago: (Wet and Wild) Local EX Raid, 4/12/2019

Five years ago: Wallpaper: Pokémon 20th Anniversary

Six years ago: Pokémon Couriers?

Cosplay: Pokémon Exhibition and TCG Regionals

Me: As expected, something did come up after all. Only it's not exactly "little" and it may turn out to be quite familiar.

Goh: Wow, a Pokémon exhibition! But judging by how you got Ash to go here, it must be nearer than the one from three months ago.

Me: It was, but at the same time, well...

Goh: It was within the "rest" thing we talked about.

Me: Yeah, so you get the point. And it is (or was) somewhat far away, so I was hesitant to send Ash.

Ash: Hey, but you got me there! And speedy too, in about an hour!

Pikachu: Pika pika chu! ["Very, very fast!"]

Me: It's amazing how that can happen. A few years ago, it would still have taken two hours at the minimum. Still, technically it's not new for us, as we did it once before in a slightly different way - but don't expect this way to be a regular thing.

Ash: I thought you'd say that.

Goh: OK, so this happened on...

Me: Sunday, the very last day. So this happened from Sunday last week to two days ago. Before that, I also sent you on a Regieleki agenda; I hope you got that.

Ash: I got two!

Me: Great, that's all we need at the moment. Then you went through the speedy transport to get there. How was it?

Ash: It felt like the faraway event moved closer! You could battle, watch, and shop just like I did there. But the skating rink wasn't there. 

Me: No, that's probably because it belongs to the venue rather than the event. But that seems nice.

Ash: I got there just in time to watch the Pikachu dance, the very last one.

Goh: Was it any different?

Ash: There was just five this time - but they seemed to be all over the place when they came.

Goh: You might say... It was chaotic?

Ash: I guess so!

Me: Who else did you meet?

Ash: I met your special friend and very important friend! I thought I wouldn't, but I guess things worked out.

Goh: Did you take a picture?

Ash: Yeah!

Me: So let me guess, our important friend took the picture with you and our special friend.

Ash: That's what happened!

Pikachu: Chu, pi pika. ["Nice, that was."]

Goh: So how did you two get a picture with Pikachu, the big ones?

Ash: People lined up after the dance for that. It was the same as three months ago. Our friend and I just happened to get the last place in the line, so we just took one together.

Goh: I can see how that works out.

Me: OK, so part of the point of this event was to act as a regional championship for the Trainers who deal with the cards, so there had to have been something for that.

Ash: They had something to try out the cards just like last time... but I think the lessons would have been the same.

Goh: I would think so, if the process for that was exactly the same.

Me: I got a report from a different friend, and it seems that was the case. So you probably did not miss much.

Goh: But where was the championship, then?

Ash: It was a few floors upstairs, and it was over by the time I got to check.

Me: Sorry about that. If Regieleki had been earlier, you might have been able to peek because you'd also have arrived somewhat earlier.

Goh: Well, what can we do if that happens.

Me: It was already scheduled, so not much. Speaking of, I couldn't spare much for you to get goodies, so I have to apologize for that.

Ash: That's OK! I got you something neat and free.

Me: Nice - I'll deal with that later, as always. So, it seems safe to say that you had some fun, and that means I had some fun.

Ash: I want to come back next time! Maybe... not during a big "rest"?

Pikachu: Pika chu? ["Can that work?"]

Me: Hopefully, but if this situation happens again, we might have to make do like this time.

Goh: Why not? Now you know you can make it work with Ash.

Me: You have a point. In any case, Pokémon works out for us and there's always a way to do that.

Ash: It's like in battle - when it goes wham, bam!

Me: That's an interesting way of putting things, especially for Pokémon things.

One year ago: Mega Evolution Fates, Again

Two years ago: Pokémon Go Community Day, 4/11/2021

Three years ago: Three Simple Rules for a Great Adventure

Four years ago: The Songs of the Detective Pikachu Trailers

Five years ago: O Charizard

Six years ago: Romanticism of Tall Grasses

Tournament: SWEEP JR vs. Kingsman (SA Factions)

After the stinging loss in the last Bout, my SA Factions team, SWEEP JR, can't rest on our laurels yet, for the next Bout came soon enough. This time, our opponents were an Indian Faction called Kingsman. Now, some teams from the subcontinent tend to have a bad rap - and one team has effectively been banned because its members were causing a great deal of trouble - so this matchup was somewhat leery for that reason. Yet it turns out we had to be leery for other reasons.

For this Bout, I had to change the player lineup in a slightly deviating manner, at least according to the notes I have made regarding the skills of the Trainers in my team. This turned out to be not the least of my worries, however, as a few challenges (one of them - or two if counted separately - being two Trainers that had to take time off for various reasons) made themselves apparent, and I had to work with them. It was also a rather make-do moment for me and my Faction.

Those make-do efforts began on Saturday with a series of five matches. From midday to afternoon, there were the matches of riman12 vs. Hasnain2804 in the Open Great League, Kucingimutt vs. Casszeuss in the Arcana Field, and bakalikur vs. FABULOUSMANN in the Catacomb Field; in order, their results were 1-2, 2-1, and 2-1, an OK but shaky start - though the last was surprising, given that my teammate had originally played with Arcana in a previous Bout (but terribly). Later in the evening were the matches of Orioo16 vs. AJ23899 in the Open Master League (notably, involving the opposite team's Captain) and Almujha vs. Gagan27chabra in the Arcana Field, both of which resulted in 2-1 wins and a minor lead of 9-6 at the end of the day.

With that, my team only needed two more battle wins to win, just like the previous Bout. The Catacomb Field match of Wina1403 vs. fluffybigbunny accomplished half that goal (1-2 loss), but regrettably, the Justicar Field for Ultra League match involving RaymondHrtwn vs. Naman090 turned out "cursed", also just like the previous Bout's Open Master League match (0-3 loss). Ultimately, it was another 10-11 loss, the second in a row, third this Cycle, and fourth (along with an 11-10 win) result with a similar margin. Though it may not be a surprise that it can happen, it remains regrettable that it does.

It may be because of those "make-do" efforts that the Bout turned out the way that it did. It was also partially attributable to my own judgment (as the team Captain) as it was due to the necessity of things. Worse yet, it also almost led to a dispute due to a minor internal mishap, though ultimately none was filed (as the matter was resolved) and it became another dispute-free Bout, perhaps the only saving grace for it.

Regardless, the next Bout will come next week, as tomorrow is the start of the eagerly expected break week. That will be the time to reflect on what has taken place this Cycle, the very first for my Faction and me, and I've already got a post lined up for that - though the content remains to be realized then. Whatever opportunity for regroup that exists may just need to be used at that point.

One year ago: Pokémon Go Community Day Classic, 4/10/2022

Two years ago: Harkening Back to "Versus Guides"

Three years ago: Let's Get Going Today

Four years ago: Expecting the Detective

Five years ago: Bandai Pokémon Sun & Moon Pokémon Lover Mascot 6 - Wobbuffet

Six years ago: Evolution Revolutions?

Remote Raids: The Saga Continues

Remote raids have colored the raid scene in Pokémon Go since they were introduced nearly three years ago. Just about any Trainer who has used one (or more) can testify. Recently, though, this feature of Pokémon Go may be considered to have transitioned into a new but continuing saga, and it's not necessarily a delightful one. In fact, a good number of Trainers have made an uproar about it, and while I'm more soft-spoken about it, I still have my impressions about it too. Therefore, I find it necessary to make a discussion about it.

And... their next saga involves them becoming more expensive and more limited. The Remote Raid Passes, which are necessary for this purpose, are now priced at 190 coins, nearly double what they were before. A bundle of three of them now also costs 525 coins, which is discounted but not by much (that comes out to 175 coins apiece). Furthermore, one can now only use them a limited number of times each day, with 5 being the norm. The only consolation thus far is that the limit can be raised for certain events, a similarly discounted bundle for three regular non-remote Premium passes is available, and in-person raids can now reward more Candy XL. All these changes took effect earlier this weekend.

The reason behind all this is the "in-person (real-world) play" commitment of Niantic. While they admitted that many changes have taken place in the past few years, they also said that remote raids need to be "de-emphasized"; it currently forms the bulk of raids, and that doesn't mesh with the vision that they have. Their vision is noble in some ways, but the approaches above may be slightly flawed. I had been discussing things with others who play, and while they thought the limiting and price hike makes some sense, the extent may be questioned - particularly for the price, which may be better to be 150 coins or slightly less than that, with my suggestion being 120.

Meanwhile, others have deemed that the approaches above are rather "punishing" for rural, disabled, introverted, or otherwise homebound people, some of whom have been known to play. This too makes sense, especially considering that I may share some commonalities, weak though they may be, with all the kinds of people I mentioned above. While I love going out to meet people and raid together, it's not something that is permitting all the time, especially if I need to be home not because I don't want to go out, but because there is something that absolutely needs to be dealt with at home and only at home. Again, the answer may lie in adjusting the approaches as above.

If the past saga of remote raids is considered to be a disappointing one, it seems that the current continuing saga has the pendulum shifting in the other way yet still resulting in a disappointment. As expected as it may be, the solution still has to involve making that pendulum "meet in the middle". Or, going back to the "color" analogy, the right ones may have to be used in the right ways. If that were to happen, it may be believed that remote raids still have a place in the picture of the raid scene, only more pleasing to look at for everyone of concern.

One year ago: Quickies: Making Friends with Mud Skippers

Two years ago: The Sound of Instant Gratification

Three years ago: Pokémon Upbringings

Four years ago: Benefits

Five years ago: Ex-Raids and Cancellations

Six years ago: The (Current) Fate of the Megas

Pokémon: Hisuian Snow

I have a lot of overdue things that I want to cover in posts on this blog, but I'll have (and need) to deal with them one at a time. One of those is a little feature of the Pokémon anime, another web miniseries, which is titled "Hisuian Snow". As can be expected from the title, the miniseries takes place in and is set at the time of the Hisui region, a time (and region) before the present-day of Sinnoh. It also takes the setting of the cold and snowy Hisuian forest, which becomes somewhat foreboding for this web miniseries.

As for the story, it involves a young man (named Alec in the English dub) with a heartfelt connection to the region; this becomes clear in the first two episodes, which involves a flashback to what happened in Hisui when he was a boy. The third episode then serves to tie things together as the storyline resumes the present-day condition of the young man and the conflict he faces... and of course, its resolution. But of course, that's for viewers to enjoy by actually watching, not so much for me to tell about it.

This particular miniseries consists only of three episodes, the first one six minutes long and the rest 12 minutes long. It's a little more than a half-hour in total length, but that may not be hard to spare - except maybe in my case, with so many things going on that I've essentially been distracted of the intent to watch this from its release nearly a year ago. Still, by now I've spared that half-hour, obviously, and watched it.

Like Twilight Wings and its expansion, the entire miniseries is available online and conveniently for those who know where to look. And that's a good thing, because the story is powerful  from the beginning to the end, and the animation is quite well-done. It's a relatively minor taste of Legends: Arceus as the featured game setting, but it should be inspirational for that game and for the mind in general.

Since I can't leave well enough alone, the tradition of summaries continues even for this miniseries, as two-line ones below; may that be enjoyed along with the miniseries.

1: Onto the Icy Blue

Wandering in the snowy forests of Hisui,

a young lad makes an unexpected find.

2: Fiery Reflections in Snow

That unexpected find turns out to have...

a very much expected reaction?

3: Two Hues

The lad, now a young man, attempts

to reconcile past and present colors!

One year ago: On Trainer Footwear

Two years ago: Doing Well on Pokémon Quizzes, Right Now

Three years ago: Voyager of Glory

Four years ago: You Can, I Can

Five years ago: (Continuing the) Local Ex-Raid, 4/8/2018

Six years ago: On the Road Again