Thursday, July 24, 2025

The Past, Present, and Future of Pokémon Animation

Since another edition of Pokémon Presents has appeared, I thought I'd go for writing up a few discussions related to matters that are raised in the presentation. One of them is the state of Pokémon animation, which includes but is not limited to the anime proper; this matter is certainly taken from the feature of the two stop-motion series in the presentation, one coming (again) soon and the other in development. For that, I thought about discussing how that has been in the past, is manifested in the present, and might be manifested in the future.

Being Japanese in origin, the one certain form that Pokémon animation can take is the anime, and in the (distant) past - aside from certain cutscenes in certain games - that may be considered all that there is and was for Pokémon animation for pure enjoyment purposes. Back then, of course, Pokémon was still "sectoral", a Japanese thing but with good numbers of fans in other parts of the world. As such, it would be understandable that besides the above, there wouldn't be much in the way of animation to go around, let alone outside of Japan.

Meanwhile, in the more recent past and going into the present, Pokémon is loved more globally and by more groups of people, which allows for the entry of their own ways and styles of appreciation. That then translates into more and different kinds of animation, which has in fact happened. There was the PokéToon project from a while back, and then the puppet play for the monpoké line (if the latter can be considered "animation" in a broad sense). Obviously now there is Concierge and how that may have "opened the door" for Aardman.

For the future, then, the reasoning may be that Pokémon would be willing to open up its doors to accept even more works from all kinds of animators from around the world, bringing their styles and putting them into official projects. That has already happened on social media with non-animated fan art, featuring them officially; in fact, I became a witness to this happening with one of the Pokémon artists whom I follow. How more broadly this can be applied is anyone's guess, but it's still likely to happen today.

Looking at the past and considering the present, Pokémon animation has come quite a way. The anime is still the primary vehicle for animating Pokémon, and that in itself has had its improvements. Becoming open to other styles besides the traditional anime as well as to other creators from around the world who share the same appreciation for Pokémon as those where it came from is a big thing for all parties concerned. In the end, the future of Pokémon animation seems to be, well... "animated", as in "lively" with those who will keep it going.

Six years ago: Making Things Simple
Seven years ago: The Greatest, Everyday
Eight years ago: Pokémon School

Wednesday, July 23, 2025

Making a Difference: Pokémon Presents, 7/22/2025

Well, that (bi)annual happening I referenced in this year's Pokémon Unite anniversary post is none other than an edition of Pokémon Presents. Sometimes there's just one of it in one year, but other times there are two of them in one year; evidently it's the latter for this year because there had already been one earlier. And if there's a second one, then that means some of the information is important and can't wait for the usual anniversary edition. It may be construed as a way of "making a difference"... which becomes highly evident.

First up, dedicated fans and viewers who tuned in early could catch a one-hour long DJ Pikachu performance featuring tunes from the first generation games from the early game to the endgame, all remixed in typical DJ fashion but still with different styles. This is certainly different from earlier iterations that don't have actual "pre-show" entertainment, and though it's not really part of the presentation proper, it's still pretty much adjacent and rather complementary to it, something to be considered for future iterations of the presentation.

The actual presentation, meanwhile, is approximately half an hour long and contains all the expected info and more. One of those is for the upcoming World Championships in Anaheim, CA in the U.S., with a preview of the festivities. This was followed by info for existing games: Scarlet and Violet (main series) with a new battle event, the physical TCG with card content for the new Mega Evolution expansion, Pokémon Go with a really big wrap-up, Unite with its anniversary festivities, Café Remix with a seafaring event, Sleep with a beastly trio event and a new area, and Masters EX with a new Sync Pair and bonuses - all of them a handful and varied.

Entertainment is also hot on the list. Pokémon Concierge, the stop-motion series on Netflix, now has a preview of its upcoming episodes slated to premiere in September. Speaking of stop-motion, the "kings" of it - Aardman Animation - also want in on Pokémon, and they've come up with a different animation featuring Sirfetch'd and Pichu, also teased here and slated for release in two years. For more realistic entertainment, there is also PokéPark Kanto - not a game this time, but a whole amusement park in the flesh (at least, a subset of one); it's due to open early next year. All the entertainment will come in due time.

Also hot are new games on tap. The first is a wholly new game called Pokémon Friends, which combine brainteaser puzzles and plush collections, available now on the Switch and mobile platforms. Meanwhile, Pokémon Champions has revealed more of its mechanisms (a "Recruit" feature and stat adjustments), which may just affirm its "battle client" spirit, as well as a planned release next year. As for the eagerly awaited Legends: Z-A game, it'll be due in three months and its most tantalizing additions are revealed here as well, including a new Mega Evolution of a very familiar dragon. Worlds of differences seem to await players and fans alike.

If certain worldly and life principles are of any indication, being different is not necessarily bad, and this edition of Pokémon Presents had that quality in spades. This edition had that for its introduction, the new content to existing games, the forthcoming entertainment forms, and certainly all the new games that fans can't wait to get their hands on and play. They're all important and beyond the usual norms, and that may be useful for Pokémon in general, as the maintenance of norms while occasionally breaking them for variety.

Two years ago: Cosplay: Shokumatsu
Three years ago: Respect for Zeno Robinson

Tuesday, July 22, 2025

Pokémon Unite 4th Anniversary

Since the past four years, July has become a happening month for anniversaries of Pokémon game, one of them being earlier in the month and another one being around this day. The latter is of course for Pokémon Unite, as the implementation of MOBA with elements of the franchise. In those four years, a lot has happened, shaping the game from a rudimentary implementation to something for working and playing well with others. That said, it would be helpful to recap some of the most recent changes that have been made to see them in the perspective of these past four years.

Perhaps one of the most significant things in the past year, besides the addition of new Pokémon through Unite Licenses - which I'll deal with shortly - is the addition of new, other means of providing bonuses like discount coupons and event mechanisms. Still, the players might need to provide something of their own (paid, that is) in order to take advantage of these bonuses, although a lot of the perks can be obtained freely. Wallets may or may not be a determinant of the festive quality.

For the Pokémon, it might be said that some of the more esoteric choices are being pulled out even now and will continue to be pulled out along with the remaining sensible ones. One of the former in this regard, added just a while ago, is a particular yellow duck whose powers are best manifested with a headache (yet it won't evolve into its more sensible next stage), while the latter comprises two "siblings" whose ventures are well-known to fans and their addition is right here and now, at least in stages, through its usually instituted anniversary event.

This year's anniversary for the game, it has to be said (at least for the writeup part of it), is also closely coincidental with an annual or even biannual Pokémon happening, which involves not only this game but also the broader world of Pokémon and all things related to its games and entertainment. This is surely to be discussed in another post, but it has to be noted that Unite is definitely part of that package.

It might appear that this year's anniversary for Pokémon Unite might be a bit on the blander side, but it's an anniversary nonetheless and should be celebrated for what it is, especially for what it brings. That means appreciating what has been developed since its rudimentary beginnings and continuing to deal with all the complexities that have been and will be presented for dedicated players.

All things considered, it seems not that bad at all. Happy fourth anniversary to Pokémon Unite.

Monday, July 21, 2025

Cosplay: Seishun! Japan Fest 2025 "Vol. 2"

Me: So, here's that "something" from yesterday.

Goh: Oh! It's the return of this festival.

Me: Indeed it is. Same festival, same organizer... but at least a few things can and have to be different.

Goh: Like, maybe... the location?

Ash: Yeah! It was at a school this time.

Goh: Wow. That's different.

Me: It's not as different as you think. There have been school festivals before, but the last one was... wow, ahem, over six years ago.

Ash: It's the first time in a real long time!

Pikachu: Pika pika pika! ["A very long time!"]

Goh: Looking at things, I think the stuff from just a few years back might have made things not go over well at schools.

Me: You have a point, one way or another.

Goh: Well, how was the festival anyway? 

Ash: The school was a little far, but I got there and got in. It was all on the sports field with the stage on one end. And it was big!

Goh: So it was roomy.

Ash: But there weren't many stands for communities, goodies, and all. Everything was really spread out.

Me: I would think they'd at least fill it with a few more.

Goh: I would think so too. Well, what about competitions - you know, what our friend usually looks for you?

Ash: They had games, like an eating contest, but...

Me: I didn't think too much about putting you in them. The eating contest, for example, was probably for spicy stuff anyway.

Ash: It was!

Pikachu: Pika pika... ["Too spicy..."]

Me: Mm-hmm.

Goh: I guess the usual ones would be for characters. Did it have one? 

Ash: It looks like they had one for every character who came, just by having a picture taken. But they had only three prizes.

Goh: And... they weren't for you. 

Ash: Yeah.

Me: Hey, at least something was there. So today was really just for hanging out.

Ash: I met a lot of your friends - some we haven't met for a long time.

Goh: That's pretty nice. Our friend must appreciate that. 

Me: Of course. They make all the difference.

Goh: And there had to be entertainment as well.

Ash: Bands and dance groups. And a DJ at the end.

Pikachu: Pi pika chu. ["The usual."]

Goh: OK, standard. But I think you missed a couple when you went off for Community Day.

Ash: Yeah. I don't think I missed much. Next time.

Me: So I think we got everything. Thoughts?

Ash: It all worked out this time, not like last year when two festivals were on the same day.

Goh: Oh, right! That happened. So they had good scheduling this time.

Me: Well said. 

Ash: And we got to go back to a school for a festival. You know, that was the theme too for this one.

Goh: I think it'd be great if my school allowed something like this. 

Me: You know, it's been a long time coming for something at a school, so this is pretty good to start off.

Goh: And maybe we'll have more.

Ash: I can't wait for that!

Pikachu: Pi! ["Sure!"]

Goh: It might take a while.

Ash: Definitely.

Me: The good old days - school or otherwise - might never return, but at least this festival is a great glimpse into that.

Sunday, July 20, 2025

Pokémon Go Community Day, 7/20/2025

OK, so today is the regular Community Day edition of the month since there was a Classic one early on in the month (and a major one, at that). What is also major, though, is the fact that Community Day for this month and the next month has already had its featured Pokémon decided at around that time. Next month will be dealt accordingly - and that's where and when the story will be told - but this month is to be dealt with today. For that, the story is watery and somewhat showy, which might be a good thing depending on the situation. 

This month's featured Pokémon is the unique Quaxly, the Water-type starter (or first partner) Pokémon from Paldea and the ninth generation. It completes the circle of the starters that are (were) featured this year. Given that fact, its fully evolved form (Quaquaval, from Quaxwell) has to get the Hydro Cannon move, which it does - and the Charged move Aqua Step is made available as well. The main bonus for this edition is triple catch Stardust, once again something useful for those out there who are always hungry for this resource.

As for the remaining bonuses, they're the standard cavalcade from past and present editions. Those would be double Candy and Candy XL chance, extended Lure Modules and Incense, discounted trades and an extra Special Trade, event item bundles, and photo bombs, as well as common and rare Field Research, paid Special Research, and background Timed Research. Not much more needs to be said about them with them being the usual ones for a Community Day of usual proportions as well.

With that, I have to say this edition of Community Day for me personally also involved another set of hands for its execution...

Me: ...so we go into "talk mode" for that.

Goh: Hmm, Quaxly, huh? Water starter from Paldea, you say.

Me: Sure. I hear it works out for a particular Trainer.

Ash: I might just meet that Trainer! 

Me: You might, but that could depend on a lot of things.

Goh: So, where did Ash go for this one? 

Ash: I stopped by the new usual place, but just for a bit. 

Goh: It must be a side agenda from something our friend also asked you to do.

Me: Um... yeah. We'll deal with that very soon. Anyhow...

Ash: You didn't have many Quaxly, so I caught a lot more for you - with two perfect ones! 

Me: Awesome! That helps immensely. I'll deal with the rest over this week.

Ash: And I traded two Inteleon with that could go G-Max with a friend of yours.

Goh: That sounds neat! Did that work out?

Ash: Only one had really good stats, so I guess it did. 

Me: Very nice! 

Ash: After that, I went back to that "something".

Goh: OK, this one has to be neat too.

Ash: Sure!

Me: Again, details very soon. 

Quaxly can be said to be a "dapper" Pokémon, and the title of the Special Research set today ("A Splash of Style") very much reflects that. Its fully evolved form is also a rather flaunty dancer of sorts. Perhaps most Trainers who partook in today's Community Day festivities will have no trouble flaunting off at least a few of what they could catch.

Saturday, July 19, 2025

On the Live Service Aspect of Pokémon Games

In today's breadth of gaming, including in relation to Pokémon, games are offered for play through different mechanisms. One of those mechanisms is having the games as what is called a "live service" that players essentially "sign up" for - just like services of the non-game kind - and play it while it is active. The mechanism has a certain relevance for Pokémon games as well, and it is useful to draw insights from that through a discussion, as a post on this blog.

First, a little more about the mechanism is in order. In contrast to games that are offline, live service games are necessarily online and continuously updated as a result. Players would authenticate to play the games, and all their progress is stored online, making for easy retrieval but also making that fact even more of a necessity. Other aspects would also be able to keep the players engaged in the games... at least until some kind of an "end" presents itself.

Based on the description above, Pokémon Go fits the bill of a live service game in pretty much all respects for online authentication, record-keeping, and engagement. In fact, the fate of other similar games from (ex-)Niantic also pretty much affirms the case. The virtual TCG clients both past and present, as well as Pokémon Unite, are also essentially live service games that are heavily dependent on the online aspect to keep all of their things together to play them.

Similarly, Café Remix is also really a live service game as it is totally dependent on an online connection, in contrast to its predecessor Shuffle that can be played mostly offline and only has a few online perks (and is in fact otherwise still playable even now). The main series games have mostly kept up their offline nature, though some of their parts nowadays may necessitate them - and players - to interface online in different ways, mirroring some live service aspects.

The concern of the "end" as suggested above does raise questions for what would happen if it becomes necessary if the online part was cut. This has also resulted in some initiatives to address the issue, although there isn't yet a full resolution. Regardless, those who play the Pokémon games above that are essentially live service games may have their hands full wondering what should be done if (and when) the service becomes unavailable to them.

A live service game isn't all that bad, of course, and evidently it's already the case for some Pokémon games. Yet the characteristics that make such games what they are also present some caveats for those who engage in the games, keeping in mind that they're just like certain non-game services. No service is needed for fun, though, and knowing that, players are free to get their fun from any game they like with any mechanism - also applicable for Pokémon ones.

Friday, July 18, 2025

Dreaming of "The Chase"

For readers who know what it is I'm referencing, no, there is no involvement of the pursuit between a knowledge master and a challenger in this post. However, Pokémon may be construed to have some elements evocative of pursuits. Besides adventuring and battling, some efforts of progression in the Pokémon world might involve pursuing several things in due time, much like a scavenger hunt complete with all the dynamics that it offers. Lately, I've had a dream that may reflect this happening in real life, but still with a focus on Pokémon things and how they play out.

The dream appeared to be set in a city that is far away yet I know so well for Pokémon affairs or otherwise. In it, I had been catching up to a friend - or that friend had been catching up to me - for a Pokémon activity (most likely involving Pokémon Go) and we were at a "checkpoint" before our next target. But just as the dream was to proceed to that next target... the dream ended and I woke up. What was clear is that there was a competitive Pokémon element to what was going on, making it one of my Pokémon dreams.

I must admit that many of the details of the dream remain sketchy - even as I was trying to remember them for the purpose of writing them up here - but the point above still stands. With consideration of what happens in Pokémon, at least a bit of chasing is involved, whether it's for the Pokémon species or the items that assist them. The suggestion of familiar places and exploring other wonderful ones is a part of that package.

Adventures and battles in the Pokémon world certainly require knowledge as the above background might suggest, but pursuits such as the one that occurred within the dream I just had are not completely out of the question either. The hunt then continues for the best things a Pokémon fan or Trainer can have.

Six years ago: The State of Nominations
Seven years ago: The Eevee Identity
Eight years ago: Only One Save File

Thursday, July 17, 2025

Quickies: The Fancy of Pokémon Leaves

One of the most common types of Pokémon is the Grass type, and its associated species often feature parts of some sort of botanicals - that of plants and such. Then, one of these parts is the leaf, which is recognizable as a sign of a plant. True to that, many Pokémon of this type do have leaves of some sort, even becoming a striking visual characteristic for the "fancy" of some Pokémon fans like me. Considering that, I've decided to go through a few Pokémon of this type with leaves that really stand out in this manner.

Two species that stand out with some large and lengthy leaves are Venusaur and Tropius, and they're definitely some of the most impressive leaves, especially with their details that reflect (at least in part) a tropical background. Less lengthy are the leaves of Victreebel and Shiftry, and the latter's are considerably more functional than the former's, but they're still impressive for their size and still characteristic of these Pokémon. In a way, size does seem to matter somehow, at least for appearance if not for function.

Meanwhile, some species have less significant leaves but they are still a part of what makes them what they are. Exeggutor and Leafeon notably have leafy ends on opposite ends of their bodies that aren't too massive yet are still a fair marker of them as species of the Grass type. Then there are Sunkern and Petilil with miniature leaves, on par with them being "seedlings" or "sprouts" for their later evolved forms. Anatomically, the leaves still work for them and are a nice part of their representation for their type.

If in real plants (and botanicals) the leaves become a key part of what makes them tick, for the Pokémon species above and others of the same type, the leaves become their identifiers while they perform the same function that real leaves do - and more, for their special abilities, given their use in combat. That may serve as sufficient "fancy" for Pokémon fans as well as botanists, and it's a well-deserved one for all that the species are significant, as a wild representation of the botanical yet combative side of nature.

Wednesday, July 16, 2025

Café Remix Delivery Disillusionment

Around two years ago, I had noted that one of my "woes" with Café Remix concerns the Delivery feature, for which I've pretty much gotten all the "common" rewards and the "rare" rewards seem rather out of reach. That situation is still pretty much true today, and in a way, it has expanded into a kind of "disillusionment" when dealing with the feature in general. It's a feeling that may be considered as odd in some ways and typical in others, and it seems necessary for me to take a post to write up about it, especially in light of recent happenings.

For that, recently I had obtained a five-star outfit for Espeon (and thus the Pokémon itself) through the feature, using a ticket with a specifically greater chance of obtaining this. The "disillusionment" arises because most times I've used similar tickets for other rare rewards, they never seem to come any more often than paying up Golden Acorns for running a Delivery - or 10+1 of them - without any specific greater chance of certain rewards. In fact, there are still Pokémon I'm missing that could only come from Delivery, and they're supposedly not too rare when they come up - yet they still don't come regardless.

Being that the Delivery feature is a thinly veiled gacha, it might seem that subpar results are to be expected at certain periods of time, and thus the "disillusioned" feeling is one to be shrugged in those times. Still, with the way of some of its aspects (as the directed tickets above with the greater chances) and again in consideration of the "common" rewards having been gained as above, the "disillusionment" is rather warranted. That then leads to the reduction of expectations for what can be gained through the feature now and for the foreseeable time ahead - again, unless something changes somehow.

It seems that my "disillusionment" with the Delivery feature in Café Remix will continue for some time, even if at times the coveted rare rewards like the one above are obtained, in an apparent contrariness to that "disillusionment". Similar sentiments (and situations) may also be shared by others, which becomes another reason for me to address them as in this post. Whether or not that's true, what remains true is that the Delivery feature will continue to persist, and at least some rewards may not be as illusory.

Four years ago: Go Fest in the Time of...
Five years ago: Starting from Somewhere
Six years ago: Pokémon Go Version 1?
Seven years ago: Daily Tasks
Eight years ago: Flying Quirks of Charizard

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Common Event Types in TCGP

After several months of its presence, the mobile platform for virtual Pokémon TCG as TCGP continues to pique interest among its players. This is accomplished in part through its regular events, which by now has also settled to a structure of its own. That structure is made up of a few distinct event types, which also have their own rewards that are given out regularly. Such regularity demands at least a little bit of discussion, and that becomes the point of this post.

One kind is a "Card Drop" event, where players have to battle against the CPU (and of course, win) in order to obtain rewards, the ultimate of these being a pack containing a signature Promo card; this will usually involve winning an event battle at the highest level, and lower levels will reward other cards instead. Items are also given along with the packs, so there are incentives for partaking in the event, for the special Promo card or otherwise.

Sometimes, there are also Wonder Pick events, which utilize the special picks to furnish some special cards, notably Promo ones with the Chansey emblem and those accordingly through the Chansey Pick as well. Iterations of this event also have an event shop associated with it, which has some nifty accessories that can be gained by exchanging its shop tickets with said goodies. The wonder can be said to be doubled up, in a way.

Mass Outbreak events are similar to the Wonder Pick events, except that they're focused on existing cards from the expansions and are thematic in nature (for example, Metal type or Ultra Beasts). Players can still open up packs and utilize Wonder Picks to obtain the theme cards, and while its associated missions only give out regular shop tickets, partaking in the event is still a useful way to obtain the thematic cards and tickets in question.

Events in TCGP since its inception have mostly fallen into these three types, but they've been able to extend the world of cards introduced with the expansions and bring a few more special things while keeping players active in a regular fashion. The expansions, both old and new, are still the primary draw and the "meat" for the actual battle gameplay, but the special things add embellishment that players may just be interested in for all their efforts.

Two years ago: The (Master) Magnet Man
Five years ago: More on Remote Raids
Six years ago: The Switch Lite
Seven years ago: Mew @ Everywhere

Monday, July 14, 2025

A Tale of Some Psychic Pokémon

Somewhere in this world, there are three Pokémon of the Psychic type that used to appear just on certain days of the week at a certain time of the night, but now appears almost every day of the week. Psychic-type Pokémon (at least some of them) might be known for some odd and mischievous ways, especially as they peer into the hearts and souls of others, so they pretty much encapsulate the figures I'm referring to. And the ways that they are then and now really can be considered a "tale" as well.

One of these Pokémon is a Gallade whose words and thoughts can be as sharp as its physique - perhaps some have considered it too sharp. Another one is a Mr. Mime who came at about the same time as the Gallade, and together they were the ones who decided to appear to do that "peering" at that certain time. The third is a Gardevoir that appeared only later on but might be primed to appear in place of Gallade should the circumstances necessitate. These three become the primary movers of the tale.

For that, they "peer" by taking all that they see and presenting it to others - to Pokémon, certainly, but who knows if people could and would be present for that as well - with a little "punching up" along the way, perhaps invoking (the sound of) a Mightyena in the process. That may be a bit out of character for them, but given that it occurs in the nighttime, any other Pokémon seems welcome to join in without making things too much of a riot.

The rest of the night then would probably involve some light entertainment from other lifeforms - Pokémon or otherwise - that are present at that time, before everyone parts ways to let the night run its course before doing it again either the next night or after a break of two nights, the latter being at the end of the week. With that, the Psychic-type Pokémon let the tale run its course for the concerns of all who are interested in it.

Yes, the above might be somewhat of a stretch. Yet somewhere in the world, even at this very time, the Psychic-type Pokémon might just be gearing up to make their tale known to all.

Five years ago: Miss You, Brandon
Six years ago: Cosplay: COSTHNIFEST
Seven years ago: Spending on Pokémon
Eight years ago: A Pokémon Forum Persona

Sunday, July 13, 2025

Respect for James Carter Cathcart... in Memoriam

One of the "prerequisites" for voice actors or actresses for the Pokémon anime could be the possession of multiple abilities, which for some might come naturally. Those abilities might lend themselves to the process of being able to voice multiple characters, including the creatures that the series is aptly associated with. So it is that the voice talent I'm spotlighting in this "Respect for" post may be considered to have such abilities and is practically a star that burns brightly for the English dub of the Pokémon anime.

James Carter Cathcart is part of the cavalcade of new English voice talents brought in in the late 2000s for the Pokémon anime. Since then, he has voiced James (of Team Rocket, by name appropriately), Meowth, and even Gary Oak and Professor Oak, certainly among others. That's a wide breadth of characters that were all previously voiced by different talents, and that would certainly call for different abilities for each character; it's thusly a fulfillment of the "prerequisite" and works out for the many and varied characters.

In fact, he also wrote the scripts for the new dub episodes, in a way putting him as a production helm for this case in particular, since the script is such a crucial part of any production for any screen. Outside of dub production, musical abilities have also been demonstrated, with a video recording of him playing the piano (actually a keyboard, but set to the piano instrument nonetheless) with sufficient flair. Those are also manifestations of multiple abilities, with or without them being realized in the anime.

Unfortunately, as indicated by the second part of the title of this post, the star has burned brightly and is now no more, having passed away. Over the weekend, Sarah Natochenny disclosed of his passing on Instagram with a post and a story, revealing and/or affirming the intricate details as mentioned above. As such, this becomes the loss of a relatively modern voice talent linked to the Pokémon anime - at least on the English side of things - and it's a bit of a hard one to take with all his contributions being considered.

The possession of multiple abilities is always impressive for any person, and even more so for people who go on to be linked with Pokémon. In this case, being able to voice a diverse group of characters and writing the script for that purpose - as well as a bit of musicality outside of that - are great hallmarks for the voice talent that was James Carter Cathcart. Respect is then very well-deserved (and commanding, due to the scriptwriting factor) for him, whose voice has been heard for many years and will remain so for a long time.

With that, there is nothing more to say but rest in peace to a great voice talent.

Saturday, July 12, 2025

Getting Irked by Bugs in TCGL

Bugs in any app or game are bound to become a source of annoyance if (and when) they come up, and Pokémon ones have not been immune to them. Since its launch a couple of years ago, the new virtual platform for playing the Pokémon TCG, as Trading Card Game Live or TCGL, has also had its share of bugs, some more apparent to those who play frequently and less so for those who don't. Regardless, their appearance has resulted in a feeling of irk and annoyance for all players of concern.

For that, players have reported that they can't engage in certain actions even though the requirements for them have been fulfilled, or that some things get stuck and become not meant to be in certain situations. One of these happenings was captured by one of my player friends, showing that a certain card appears over another one in the player's Active Spot during that player's turn, making it seem like both cards are active even though only one is supposed to be. Predictably, these have led to unexpected results and hindered progressions that lead to inconvenience for either or both players in the card battles.

They further have led to inconvenience for tournaments (certainly, online and remote) that are meant to involve the usage of this game. Some time ago, it was reported that one of them had to be delayed for two weeks while bugs in the game had to be fixed so that the tournament can proceed in its intended manner. This is one of the greater inconveniences for sure, beyond having them just in regular play where less is at stake - although some matches will inevitably have similarly great stakes to a full-on tournament. The irk and annoyance of players and their associations become rather apparent.

While bugs are to be expected at times for apps and games, it seems that the ones affecting the TCGL platform as above could be considered rather inopportune for their appearance and their influence on current situations involving virtual play of the TCG. At this point, they certainly need to be (and should have been fixed) and the feelings of irk or annoyance relieved to an extent, but at least some of those feelings might remain, especially as players become wary of new ones that might appear as more new things are introduced.

Friday, July 11, 2025

Next Targets for the Pokédex Plush Dolls

To close off this run of discussions related to Pokémon merchandise, I have a quite sensational discussion topic. The Pokédex Plush dolls, which are the life-size plush dolls I referred to in an earlier post, have taken the Pokémon merchandise realm by storm. This is especially true of the latest release, which I'll get to in just a bit. With such a state of affairs, it seems to make sense that the merchandise series will continue, and to that end, I've decided to pose a few potential targets for the series. 

Regarding the latest members, they are the Eeveelutions - all eight of them - also becoming a complement to this "Year of Eevee". Since a number of evolved Pokémon species are being featured (think Gardevoir and Lucario), other evolved Pokémon that make for good "cuddle buddies" could receive the treatment - the recently popular Meowscarada and the timeless Wigglytuff are strong candidates for this purpose, and several fan sectors might just pony up their support (and cash).

Of course, a few of the other members of this plush group are some of the "familiar yellow" ones, being Pikachu and Psyduck. Both not to mention are also rightful "cuddle buddies" in the same vein as the above. Other Pokémon that fit either of the above criteria - and as such may become potential plush targets - could be Yamper and Zeraora. Granted, the support for these Pokémon are even more sectional than the above, but if the demand is present, they might just get their way.

As for the rest of the Pokédex Plush doll crew, there is the oddball of Porygon, which suggests that other "oddballs" may have their ways of making them be realized as part of this illusory group. Those other "oddballs" might then consist of Rhyhorn (since Jolteon has been done and there are other beanbag-sized merchandise) and Primarina (which has overtones of certain senses but is an odd choice in itself). Others might be good choices to and would reflect other preferences.

If there's one other word that could be used to describe this series of plush dolls, it would be "engaging", since all of the ones realized so far have had this quality for the fans of the Pokémon species of concern. The potential species that could be realized as part of this series may be considered to have some of that "engaging" quality even without the existence of plush dolls in this manner, and if they were realized, that might just make for a different world of "engagement".

Thursday, July 10, 2025

The Future of My Pokémon Merchandise Collection

Being that this is a week for discussing Pokémon merchandise "issues", I can't help but include those of my own in a dedicated post. One of them in particular is what the future holds for the Pokémon merchandise I already collect and accumulate. The topic of the post then parallels one that I wrote up a couple of years back for my cosplay costumes and can be considered to have the same overtones. In that regard, there's an understanding that there may be the need to address the topic - and why not do so now, with this being an appropriate time.

So, in accordance with the previous post, at the present, my merchandise items are still in my possession, and I'm sure to receive at least a few more of them. For those and the ones I do already have, I'm also still considering ways that I can display them, as through something like a display case or any other approaches. In fact, I'm still searching for ideas and/or alternatives in relation to this since I have not realized anything that I posed earlier in that post. What is important is finding that display approach that works well for me and the merchandise.

When all that's fit to display, it may then be the time to consider selling, trading, or giving away some of my collection - which might be hard to do but will likely need to be done. A lot of considerations might also go into these processes, including having merchandise types that are emblematic of currently available ones, as well as merchandise that reflects particular personal preferences for species, characters, or both. That may already be reflected in the items that I already have, but I'm also open to others per the above.

Like for costumes, I also have to consider what should be done when the time comes for me to be "forever absent" - again, still a touchy matter. The same is also pretty much true: I'd like them to find good homes and people who would take them up, which could mean in the hands of others in the Pokémon communities I'm a part of and wherever I may be. They'll certainly have to be contacted - perhaps with better means than how I've interacted with them - but above all it is necessary for everyone to understand the intent.

Having accumulated Pokémon merchandise of various types and forms, it is natural for me to think about what will become of them in the future, in consideration of their presentation and management. The items remain an inherent part of any Pokémon fan - especially diehard ones like me - and the personal considerations are not only apparent but also necessary. It rivals any kind of merchandise "issues" that have pervaded Pokémon and may still at times do so, and so there's a place for its discussion even here and now.

Wednesday, July 9, 2025

Limiting Pokémon Merchandise Purchases?

It seems there may be no end to what forms that Pokémon merchandise may take, with them running the gamut from being directly related to games and other media to unique ones for lifestyle purposes. Yet, what could need to be limited is the possibility of obtaining them for a variety of reasons, even for seasoned Pokémon fans like yours truly. It's this limiting that makes for a good discussion in some of the relevant ways.

An obvious limiter is size, which dictates what kinds are purchasable and maybe even deliverable (also playing into other factors). For example, the life-size Pokédex Plush dolls are somewhat significant in size owing to their nature (and by extension to price), and getting them may require workarounds, not to mention having a place for keeping them. It's also likely that a fan may get only one or two at the most because of all of those factors. In other words, the factor really does matter for merchandise.

Timeliness may also be a limiter in merchandise purchasing. In this case, timeliness refers to purchasing certain items to take advantage of certain shipping deadlines - specifically of holidays such as Halloween and Christmas. In fact, those who subscribe to the Pokémon Center newsletters will be notified of these deadlines for their convenience. Still, it is likely that for peace of mind (and if the items in question aren't limited-time), fans might just lump purchases of merchandise items to suit those times.

While not quite related to merchandise and more to a game element itself, it is known that scalpers have infested the TCG system to the players' nuisance. Pokémon Center thus also implemented a "virtual queue" and "waiting room" in addition to a one-item limit for certain recent TCG products to combat them. By reasoning, these features could also be used to limit purchases of certain merchandise items, especially those that are extremely limited in quantity as well as time, which may be a last resort in some ways.

Limits may not be something that comes to mind when obtaining (purchasing) Pokémon merchandise, but they may be needed (or are otherwise inherent) for their viability in more ways than one, especially in order that everyone can revel in the enjoyment of Pokémon through the merchandise. At least, with no end to the possibilities, the enjoyment of fans by merchandise may not be something limited either. 

Four years ago: Twilight Wings Addendum
Five years ago: Pokémon Primer?
Six years ago: Picking Battles
Seven years ago: Cosplay Cards
Eight years ago: Ghosty and Me

Tuesday, July 8, 2025

Pop-up Stores for Pokémon Merchandise

The next issue (or just matter) of Pokémon merchandise concerns the places where one gets them - as in, shops or stores. Specifically, it concerns a bit of an unusual kind of them: pop-up shops or stores. These are a kind of stores that, by their name, appear for that purpose at certain times or during special events, and in relation to Pokémon merchandise would sell these for prospective fans. It sounds like a great thing... and in fact, it has already happened, becoming something neat to discuss for its implementation.

In essence, the shops that appear during local special events (PIJ, Pokémon Festival) may be considered pop-up shops for their purposes during the goings-on of the special events. But there have also been pop-up shops in certain locations in direct relation to the events though the events themselves are not actually going on; in this way, they really are "pop-ups" in that their appearances may be considered unexpected. Given the special events, the pop-up approach suits their progressions and makes for convenience.

Meanwhile, a number of international Pokémon tournaments - which includes the World Championships - have begun to adopt the same approach and instituted pop-up shops for their own selections of Pokémon merchandise. Those who are fortunate enough to attend the events as either competitors or spectators will surely enjoy being able to take away some Pokémon merchandise, not to mention the convenience, and it makes for another social venue as well at the event - more pluses beyond merchandise.

As for having more pop-up shops beyond the above scenarios, that may seem to be only viable in Japan - the homeland of Pokémon - where it is practically entrenched and doesn't really need events to show it off. Elsewhere, events are practically what is needed to get Pokémon things going, let alone the associated shops for buying merchandise; awareness is a factor in this regard, like for the Pokémon Go Road Trip in Europe or the MLB collaboration in the U.S., as events that are necessary to generate just that. 

Pop-up shops or stores (and other establishments) are still interesting concepts, especially when considering how they are implemented outside of Pokémon. Bringing that back into Pokémon, there may just be the greater interest in having a few more of these implemented beyond the ways that they are already implemented as above. That might require a lot of planning for the arrangements and the interests of the fans, but with at least some of the global popularity of Pokémon, the interest might just "pop up".

Four years ago: Every Word Is a Prayer
Five years ago: Dream of Pokémon Life
Eight years ago: Pursuing Shiny?

Monday, July 7, 2025

Making Pokémon Merchandise Cheap...?

For those who haven't seen the pattern, since January I've been making a series of posts all within a week for particular Pokémon topic, which I've dubbed as "gimme five", in line with the theme I've set for this year. This month, I've chosen the theme of Pokémon merchandise - but not all of them will be about specific items. Some of them will also be about other aspects or issues of Pokémon merchandise, including considerations and challenges. Incidentally, today's post deals with the latter, and it's a significant one at that.

The challenge or issue is the expense incurred for certain Pokémon merchandise items and how that could be minimized - that is, making things "cheap" or "on a budget". It's a difficult matter to consider, and that might also be reflected in the actual composition of this post for other reasons, though I digress. Yet with the state of the world today and the state of everyone's pockets for Pokémon and otherwise, the matter bears some consideration so that today's fans can get their fix of merchandise without spending a lot.

And that is where the problem lies. Many items of official Pokémon merchandise are expensive because their materials are excellent or their size is large (or both), and they have licensing fees attached to them. Even if something official (in other words, given "blessings" by Pokémon itself) were to be made by a small business, the licensing is expected to be where the costs would lie... which is essentially the case for the PIJ batik shirts, being produced by an actual local entity for Pokémon. As such, it might seem that most official merchandise cannot come cheaply in one way or another.

If fans are interested in cheap Pokémon merchandise, they might have to settle for something previously owned (which is certain to be affected in some way), something not very big in size (which is likely to be priced less depending on other factors), and/or something independently made (which almost surely dispenses the licensing). All of these obviously have their pros and cons in the same way that anything cheap - merchandise or otherwise - does as well, being that one gets what one pays for. Then, the tenets of buying good things for good prices would apply, and at that point, one might settle for official in any case and for support.

"Cheap" perhaps won't ever come to describe most official Pokémon merchandise, but it may still something that most fans think about, especially in this day and age. Some amount of money is still needed to make the world of Pokémon merchandise go around and around, but there may be no fault in fans wanting to suppress that in some way. Depending on what is on offer, at least a few things may be gained reasonably.

Four years ago: Go Fest Gets Musical
Five years ago: Everyone's Go Fest
Six years ago: Cosplay: Konbini Anime
Seven years ago: ...However Things Turn Out
Eight years ago: Shiny Stories

Sunday, July 6, 2025

Pokémon Go 9th Anniversary

So, that "special day" I had mentioned earlier in the writeup for Pokémon Go Community Day would be the ninth anniversary of the game in question. It's one year shy of it reaching double digits in years, and that's an impressive feat, not to mention close. In fact, it seems that the latter's description is a fitting one to describe all the things that have happened since the last anniversary (one year ago, of course - see below). That "closeness" can be considered to be reflected in various ways for those happenings. 

In a way, the entry of other species from the eighth generation (Galar) is starting the process of closing up the gap between all species represented in the game and all currently existing species - and later, it might just happen more quickly than one would expect. That also goes for Dynamax and Gigantamax forms, certainly facilitated by the addition of Power Spots, and that would mean other unique Pokémon forms are due soon, if not whenever the game feels like it's due for them - as in, "close enough" for their inclusion.

"Close" may also have been the game's state (as well as that of other Niantic Games), in the sense of approaching decline, before they were all sold off to Scopely. The deal has since been made - that is, "closed" - but now there seems to be no telling whatever "close" things might be afoot with the new management. The only thing players (Trainers) can hope for is that the game remains close and closely approachable to them and others to prevent one thing or another from dragging down "to a close".

As is true of years past, there is also the associated anniversary event, which has just happened to "close up" today for the most part. More details of this are better suited for much later on, but this year's edition that started close to the beginning of the month and an instance of a major Pokémon Go event also makes things "close enough" for the concerns of many Trainers. Yet with this month being the anniversary month, things may never be too "close" for whatever it is that Trainers are willing to do.

Of all the senses of "close", the one that Trainers may dread most is the one that means the "end" of things. Though nothing in Pokémon Go may ever really suggest that, at least at the present time and on the surface, many happenings might suggest that Trainers are close to needing to up their game to keep the game on the up-and-up, never mind themselves and whatever else the game will bring in the future. On this anniversary, they might just be the considerations for the close (near) future and beyond.

Happy 9th anniversary to Pokémon Go.

Saturday, July 5, 2025

Pokémon Go Community Day Classic, 7/5/2025 and 7/6/2025

Having run for many years, some things about Community Day become instantly predictable, like what is involved when it runs for two days as is today and tomorrow. It's also a Classic edition, which means that something from the past is brought back to the present and updated with modern perks. The possibilities are plenty for that purpose, but then that also might be true for the the featured Pokémon, how many of them Trainers catch, and in what ways they'll evolve them (or how they themselves evolve).

If one still hasn't figured things out, the featured Pokémon for this Classic edition is the one, the only, and the variable Eevee along with its evolutionary family. This makes it its third time featured in Community Day after its earlier features in August 2018 and August 2021. The present Classic edition, however, takes the latter as its base, which means that all the evolved forms of Eevee get all the moves as I listed in that post - it's a lot, and it can get kind of repetitive if, well... repeated.

Unlike last time, all the Eevee appear for just three hours (2 PM to 5 PM) as things have normalized, though still certainly with Lure Modules and Incense extended to aid with their capture. The "move window" also now follows that of modern editions of Community Day, lasting for one week after the start of the event from today, along with accommodating changes. For that, like last time, evolution requirements are relaxed: for Espeon and Umbreon, setting as Buddy Pokémon and walking for 1 km is sufficient (the intended way for that time), and Sylveon only requires seven Buddy hearts. 

Meanwhile, other aspects are as expected. There is the main bonus of quartered Egg hatch distance (as before), common and rare Field Research (as is the current norm), the modern background Timed Research set, the paid Special Research (just titled "Eevee Community Day Classic"), photo bombs, showcases, and item bundles galore. All the old perks and modern conveniences blend into the event's experience.

As for why I'm "jumping the gun" and writing all this up today, tomorrow is actually a special day of sorts and has always been reserved for that purpose - and it will stay that way. I did, however, make my way to the place of my local area's meetup just to smooth things over with good people and to evaluate how things will be for the grander meetup, scheduled for the second day. In the process, I've also identified the possible issues that may pervade that meetup while I also deal with the continued process of gaining resources and going through the "hoops" of this event. That much is always certain.

With all the variable quality that Eevee and its entire evolutionary species family has, at least some elements of its Community Day feature will be just that - variable - even for a Classic "rerun" like today (and tomorrow) with all its constants. One of those other constants is evolution, and Eevee has a lot to offer for that in many ways for Trainers to exploit and especially on these two days.

Two years ago: Is Pokémon Second-Rate?

Friday, July 4, 2025

A New Order of the Ages...?

OK, it's July 4 again, so it's the day that the United States commemorates its independence. Since several years ago, I began the norm of discussing it (by a theme related to the country) along with some relevant Pokémon matters, and that remains true for this year. The theme taken last year was a Latin saying found on a piece of national imagery... and yet it's actually one of two on that imagery, like either Plusle or Minun. With that, I figure I need to discuss the second of the pair, moreover since now there is some relevance and importance to some other Pokémon matters.

That second saying is "novus ordo seclorum", which means... more or less the words in the title of this post. Its apparent history is that it's a reinterpretation of a phrase found in a certain classical Latin piece - which I would consider to be of interest to me, but I digress - and it was chosen (along with the saying above) to represent the dawn of the new country, implicatively as a place of independence and freedom, spiritually speaking. It then goes back to the occasion of this day as the commemoration of that.

As for the relevance of this with Pokémon matters, recall that years ago (see below), I had written about how the U.S. can be regarded as a "center" - a focus place, so to speak - of Pokémon happenings. That is still true today, although recent upheavals outside of Pokémon (not to be discussed here) might seem to make that fact a little less on the pleasant side. It's as if the saying above is realizing its premise, only in a darker direction. Even people beyond Pokémon affairs feel exactly this way, as if the spirits above are becoming lost.

With that, what would be needed for this "center" to become viably pleasant for Pokémon players - since a few Pokémon events (like the World Championships) are invariably held there - is... perhaps the phrase itself, but in a better direction for the country. What's done is done, and it's clear that the current situation of an age shift has been nightmarish, but that doesn't mean it can't change again for the better, as far as all Pokémon fans are concerned.

Independence for this country has been a wonder such a long time ago, which might just explain the choice of using the saying in the national imagery. That seems equivalent to the wonder Pokémon has aroused in a fraction of the time of that independence. Time keeps on changing and ages keep on shifting, and for all that is good (like Pokémon) in this world, the ages may need to shift again for the country before it's too late.

But what is never too late is wishing well for the independence of a country, especially as the pertinent occasion comes up for Pokémon fans there and all other people of interest. On that note, that is just what I'd like to do - to wish well on the occasion - and hope that the ages may newly turn for the better.

Two years ago: From Sea to Shining Sea

Thursday, July 3, 2025

Redecorating with Café Remix

I had noted in this year's anniversary post for Café Remix that the present one is a "visual" anniversary because of something recently added to the game. That feature is rightly called "customization", but it's also really about "redecorating" because... that's what it really is. It's still pretty early, but the gist of the feature seems to be readily understandable even now, so I thought I'd go ahead and make a discussion out of it.

The customization involves placing Pokémon and furnishings in different parts of the café in order to make it look unique, reflecting what the players may like. The ten different areas of the café can have specific Pokémon placed in them (some more than one), while the Entrance and Lounge (currently) can have different furnishings. It's pretty much a certainty that other areas might have furnishings later on as a development.

Customizations are made by going into the feature from the main café screen and selecting a specific area to start. Here, one then places Pokémon with specific outfits - and if applicable, furnishings for areas that have them - and then confirms the selection. Layouts can also be saved as "blueprints" and then restored at any time, and even Pokémon can offer layouts automatically. They're all pretty nice touches.

How does a player obtain furnishings? Many of them can already be obtained through certain achievements - including the star front signboard for completing main orders - and some can be obtained through exchanges at currently ongoing events, which has resulted in their shops expanding for this purpose. As such, the feature is essentially being ingrained as "spiffy extras" for those who can and do go the extra mile.

Although for some players the café already looks great with the way that it has always looked, some may certainly want to make it look even better, and so the addition of the customization feature satisfies the desires of those players. Yet everyone can still take advantage of the feature to make their café really their own, and with that, players are bound to go on a "redecorating" spree for celebrating this "visual" anniversary and beyond.

Five years ago: More Pokémon Go "Goofs"
Six years ago: I Splurged, for Once
Eight years ago: Spicy Tamato

Wednesday, July 2, 2025

TCGP: In the Garden of Eevee(lutions)

TCGP continues a sensational run of new expansions with a recent introduction of one more of these, as a mini expansion or Themed Booster Pack. After the "crisis" of the previous one, it seems that there is a need to relax and let loose - and what better way than in a garden full of Pokémon, specifically one with a bunch of familiar ones with four legs. So it is that the new Themed Booster Pack is called "Eevee Grove" (incidentally, just "Eevee Garden" in the Japanese version) for its primary focus on this species family.

Being a large species family, it literally offers something for everyone, and so the Themed Booster Pack has all members of the species family in question in common card form and rare full art form, some of which are also in the ex variant. Any or all of them will likely be the targets of players, whether or not they'll use them in battle - though like the other expansions, there are suggested decks that illustrate how certain species may be or are meant to be used, and from there it's just a leap away from custom decks with greater powers and more species.

Speaking of more species, besides the Eevee family, the mini expansion pack also contains other Pokémon to pad out the expansion to 69 numbered cards, as with the previous Themed Booster Pack. Even so, the mini expansion does seem to be following on the Alola momentum of that and the previous major expansion, and still contains many Pokémon from this region. Meanwhile, the full art and Shiny Pokémon cards continue their role of adding bulk to the mini expansion and offering other rare possibilities for players to collect.

Notable cards in this mini expansion pack include the three-Star full art Eevee ex card as its only Immersive card with a special, familial showcase, as well as the game's first "pick one of two" card as an Item card. Either of these will surely see some use in battle, though it is likely the former that will see greater use since it is the key to having more evolved forms of Eevee (that is, "Eeveelutions") in battle. But then, for collectors, all cards are notable - even the rare ones that are hard to get.

Paradise is often said to be hard to conceive, let alone to find, though many conceptions will invariably involve a garden of some sort. For those involved with Pokémon, such a garden would likely contain a variety of Pokémon species, and some of them might just come from the family of Eevee. That imagery is what the TCGP seems to have gone for to introduce another expansion to continue a sensational run of them, and now all players can enjoy and relax in the conceptual paradise of cards.

Two years ago: Cosplay: Akazora Fest
Four years ago: The Element Cup of GBL
Seven years ago: Let's Go Trade

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

The Vibes of Go Fest... and a Festival

Me: Well, I said "friends" would be involved, didn't I?

Goh: OK, that's fair. If you say that, then Ash must have been involved too.

Ash: I'm here! And was there at Go Fest. And... I guess this makes it three years in a row.

Me: Yeah, something always seems to come up on the second day.

Ash: I'm fine if you're fine with that.

Me: Why not?

Goh: So this was for the second day, and you battled Zacian in raids.

Ash: It's an awesome Pokémon! With Zamazenta too - remember that time in Galar?

Pikachu: Pika pika pika! ["It was a big time!"]

Goh: Sure. That was a really big time - and now you two got to experience it (again).

Me: I hope you got all the spiffy Zacian just like I did for Zamazenta yesterday.

Ash: I got three Shiny ones and seven ones with a card image.

Me: Excellent! Just like that exactly.

Ash: And I traded one each of the card image ones with your friends. It wasn't perfect, but it looks like it'll be OK.

Me: Great!

Goh: Aren't these the "friends" you two have problems with?

Ash: I was with the ones who still hit it off OK, but then... there were the hard ones being hard - even if they weren't being hard on me.

Goh: Oh. That must have made you not comfortable.

Ash: Yeah... so I just moved after I couldn't stand to raid more.

Me: Luckily, there was a little festival I could have you drop by instead.

Ash: It was perfect!

Pikachu: Pika chu pi. ["Good thing."]

Goh: OK, so you actually went to that instead, not like in past years where you didn't.

Me: Emphasis on the "drop by", since Ash wasn't actually in attendance and can't partake in the usual things - so I (we) can't even say too much about it.

Goh: I see. And the usual things - you mean, like a character parade, if there was one.

Ash: There was, but like our friend said, I couldn't make it in. I just went on with mostly Go Fest stuff while at the festival while I met your other friends - good ones.

Goh: Hey, should be better than the ones before. Did everything work out for Go Fest?

Ash: I think I might have missed a couple of things, but I really did try to catch the Pokémon. 

Me: Well, let's see what I can do to make things up if there is an event with similar content. 

Goh: So then... our friend mentioned "vibes". I guess we have to talk about feelings as well.

Ash: Our friend really said it - this Go Fest is "royal", and big time, at that.

Goh: I can't disagree. Zacian and Zamazenta do make things that way.

Ash: And for the festival, it had really great vibes too for the characters and entertainment. I think they were mostly dance groups.

Pikachu: Chu pika... ["Good vibes..."]

Goh: It might be the usual vibes, same as Go Fest in general.

Me: But something always makes both of them different - the festival this time while we're on Go Fest, and for Go Fest it's obvious.

Goh: You can make them however you want to make them.

Ash: And they'd be great with the right people - and friends! 

Goh: Why not? 

Me: If the feelings are good, then they'll be mutual. 

Two years ago: A Virtual Cosplay Card