Pokémon Sun and Moon Set New Sales Records.

Alola everyone. I'm currently working on studying for finals and finishing some journals I have before they take place on Monday. You will most likely see some of my material for December after that, since I have plenty planned for the holidays.

To end this month on a high note; I shall share the news of the record sales of Pokémon Sun and Moon. The games have sold a record 7.5 million units combined in less than two weeks on the market; with 3.7 million units sold in the US alone.

The games have also been met with near-universal critical and fan acclaim; and I can honestly say they're my favorite entries in the series yet. With 64 hours logged combined since I got them, I can honestly say they'll keep me busy well into 2017. I also just got my Z-Ring and Z-Crystals today along with the 20th anniversary Comic-Con figures; so I'm eager to see what they can do (I'm wearing the Z-ring and some of the extra crystals as I type this).

So, with the continued success of one of my favorite video game series; I am very eager to experience more, especially if there are future entries planned on the upcoming Nintendo Switch. For now, I want any of my readers who have the game and are playing it to tell me what they think; but don't spoil anything for those who haven't yet and are thinking about doing so. That will be all. Bang.

What Yo-Kai Watch Means to Me as a Lifelong Pokémon Fan.

So, my speech went relatively well, and I am in the process of studying for finals as well as writing some journals I have left over.

On that note, I am about 60 hours combined into Pokémon Sun and Moon; and I consider the games excellent. I expect the games will keep me busy well into 2017; and I've ordered the Z-Ring and Z-Crystals as part of a Black Friday/Cyber Monday/Week Sale on Amazon (along with a 20th anniversary figurine set and a copy of Super Smash Bros. 3DS).

Still, it's finally time for me to address a subject that has been on my mind for a while: what Yo-Kai Watch means to me as a lifelong Pokémon fan.

Even though I have often been critical of the series; it goes beyond simply being disappointed with something that many others value so highly. It also turns out that I'm not alone in holding this mindset, and this would be a good opportunity to explain that.

Don't get me wrong, I don't hate yokai as a concept in themselves. Even before the series came to the US, I have seen my fair share of stories that were heavily influenced by these mythical Japanese creatures. It's just that even as an anime fan and an RPG enthusiast; I didn't really have the same reaction most others did. In fact, I still feel that Ni No Kuni, the previous RPG from Level-5 took a lot more risks in how it approached the same concepts. I will be coming back to that game later on in this post; but for now, I'm going to further address this matter from the perspective I have on it.

As someone who's been a big Pokémon fan ever since the series came stateside; I have long appreciated the craftsmanship and stories that the people at Game Freak and OLM have put into their series. Even in points where I wasn't always into it; I still at least appreciated it for making efforts to stay relevant in a changing entertainment landscape.

Of course, when competitors were brought to the US; I also got curious of those. While not every one has had a lasting impact compared to Pokémon; the more notable ones at least had something to offer that I couldn't get from Pokémon. Digimon had cyberpunk aspects that intrigued me, Yu-Gi-Oh often told darker and more serious stories; and even Monster Rancher and Beyblade had a good amount of camp value in their cheesiness (even if the finale of Monster Rancher was shockingly depressing for an anime of its type).

Yet, when Yo-Kai Watch first came to the US; I never really understood the appeal others saw in it. In fact, I was thoroughly disappointed by the anime when I saw it; and that also soured my enjoyment of the game even if I admit the game is decent.

The article I linked above had a similar experience to mine. I have long felt the Pokémon series' capacity for world-building is one of the things I enjoyed most about the series. Ni No Kuni has succeeded in being akin to a Studio Ghibli movie in playable form; and Sun and Moon have been some of the most cinematic entries I've played yet in a Pokémon game. Yo-Kai Watch, by comparison; felt like a low-budget Saturday morning TV series to me in style and tone.

When news broke that the sequels were being localized; many people hoped that they would kickstart the series like they did in Japan. So far, they haven't. As of November 5, Bony Spirits and Fleshy Souls have only sold about 70,000 copies in the United States; and critical reception has been a bit more polarizing than it was in Japan. While I admit that Western critics and gamers often have different expectations than ones in Japan; the consensus that I'm noticing seems to be that it has the weight of its predecessor on its shoulders even if there are improvements that make it a bit better than the original game. Even I admit the demo for the sequels was a bit better than the one of the first game; but it was nowhere near enough to justify me buying the games at list price. Again, I might consider it if I see them at a reduced price somewhere like Nintendo eShop; but I don't see myself doing that until 2017 at the earliest.

Yet, even if some of the fans concede that some media outlets were a bit hard on the game in comparison to Sun and Moon, I still feel that it's a problem that many fans of the series seem to have. Anytime someone expresses an opinion that's average or critical; this is usually the result. The sentiments can range anywhere from confused to outright hostile that someone might not share their enthusiasm for Yo-Kai Watch or accuse people of blindly shunning it in favor of Pokémon. The reality is that a lot of people do genuinely enjoy Pokémon and thus aren't guaranteed to enjoy Yo-Kai Watch in the same manner. I even had to drop the banhammer on a someone making such comments on some of my recaps of the anime; which is something I honestly didn't want to do. Unfortunately, the continued opinion myopia many fans of the series have just furthers that unhealthy way of thinking.

I mean, the first article I linked to put it quite nicely at multiple points. A character doesn't necessarily have to be complex in order for a player or viewer to identify with them. In fact, the player characters of Pokémon and Animal Crossing; as well as the likes of Mario and Link tend to work incredibly well because they're like ciphers, and anyone can put themselves in their stead. When you're given someone like Nate or Katie who has a very specific characterization; someone tends to have more trouble identifying with them if they don't fit that mold. I know Ash Ketchum may be a very common archetype as a character, but so are Luke Skywalker and Indiana Jones.

The second article deconstructed the issues that many critics (and by proxy, a fair amount of players from Pokémon and other RPGs) had with the games; so I'm going to once again offer some counterpoints to the writer.

The argument about the mechanics is made that they're often incredibly daunting to new players. I must once again play devil's advocate and state I had the opposite problem. I found the mechanics, while competent for battle; a bit too simple for my taste. Apart from the quicktime events and special moves; the combat is almost entirely on autopilot, and the tribes such as Charming and Mysterious lack the strategy of type balances in Pokémon. I don't think I'll ever forget what someone said to me on YouTube about the matter: "some of the Yo-Kai designs are interesting, but the battling is very lame. Pokémon has such a complex battling system, and Yo-Kai is so easy even a toddler could win."

Even given the reputation online comments often have, I feel that's a very succinct assessment. Call me crazy, but Jibanyan and Whisper didn't really resonate with me the way Pikachu and Lucario have. However, some of the supporting Yo-Kai like Manjimutt and Venoct were more interesting to me because of how they had more grotesque designs and more interesting backstories than the series' mascots. The writer even compared the combat to Xenoblade, which didn't hold water for me because I don't really care about Xenoblade.

On the subject of the story; there is the matter of retreading the plot points introduced in the first game because of the outcome of the story there. The writer argues that it's like a soft reboot; something I objectively disagree with. A soft reboot generally implies that it keeps some of the continuity of the previous story; but goes in a different direction after a certain point. Key examples I can think of would be how Superman Returns was a direct sequel to the first two Reeve films that ignored the events of Superman III and IV, and more recently; how Jurassic World reinvigorated the Jurassic Park series by being closer in style and tone to the original film than its sequels. In many ways, it's a similar issue people have with Ghostbusters II; that it sticks too closely to its predecessor while not giving certain parties enough of its own material to stand out. What if you went to go see Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them and the final battle was just a re-edit of the one from The Sorcerer's Stone? You'd be angry, wouldn't you? I'm sorry, but I just can't be invested in a conflict about donuts any more than I can about pudding unless there's something else the story can offer on its own merit that wouldn't require me to be aware of the previous entries. It's essentially the same reason why even if we're familiar with the origin stories of Batman and Superman, there is at least some effort to distinguish them from one another.

As for the side-quests: I'm not a big fan of them in video games either. They are slightly more tolerable than escort missions for me, but overall; they're just another thing that makes the experience a disappointment.

Another new feature that's a point of contention is the train system. I can't verify things one way or the other since I haven't played Bony Spirits or Fleshy Souls yet, but from where I'm sitting; it's really not all that different from how elevators hide load screens in games like Mass Effect or the Metroid Prime Trilogy.

As for befriending the Yo-Kai: while I admit there is a learning curve to getting ones you need for your quest compared to lowering the HP of a Pokémon and throwing a Poké Ball at the right time, it still can be a deterrent for some players. That, and I don't really feel the same level of attachment to the Yo-Kai as I do with the various Pokémon.

Beyond all this however, is roughly the same conclusion I drew about the first game. Much of the fanbase seems convinced that the series will be as beloved here as it is in Japan; failing to realize on a fundamental level that the two cultures are completely different, as are the fandoms of YKW and Pokémon.

Another analogy I can use is this: I went into Suicide Squad expecting to like it, and sure enough, my expectations were not only met, but by all means exceeded.

By contrast, Doctor Strange ended being one of my biggest surprises this year even with my unfamiliarity with the character (though I consider him to be underrated all the same).


Even in cases where it's clear that Yo-Kai Watch is starting to influence other series; least of all Pokémon itself, I just feel that it's not what I'm looking for. In obvious fact, the Sun and Moon incarnation of the Pokémon series is what I wanted Yo-Kai Watch to be. Don't get me wrong, I feel that Yo-Kai Watch has the template to be a truly great series on its own; it's just not there yet with the approach it's taking. I don't know if I'll ever see YKW as a worthy opponent like I have with Digimon and Yu-Gi-Oh, or even a cultish oddity like with Monster Rancher or Beyblade; but I do know that I will definitely keep enjoying Pokémon Sun and Moon as they go.

Even if there is talk of localizing Yo-Kai Watch 3 (which the sequels heavily hint at); unless the sequels sell more, it might not happen. Pokémon Sun and Moon, on the other hand, are shattering the records set by their seniors. Both the Japanese and UK launches had the games sell over 1.9 million copies in each country after 3 days on the market. Even though official figures have not yet been released for the US launch, I expect similar numbers based on the record amounts of preorders and downloads of the demo (my nearest GameStop had lots of copies in stock to be safe). Even if Yo-Kai Watch 3 has sold 1.3 million copies since it launched in Japan (with a third "Sukiyaki" version on track to launch soon); it's still sold about half of what the second game has.

I honestly don't know how Yo-Kai Watch will do in the future. Personally, the anime has yet to win me over as a viewer; since it's taken more than 150 episodes to get to Keita experiencing misfortunes as simple as ripping his pants in gym class and losing his shoe when he tries to play kickball. The Sun and Moon series, on the other hand; has managed to balance its idealistic tone with the game's elements and paints a relatively nice picture for Ash and Pikachu's journey in Alola. I'm also thinking about starting Digimon Appli Monsters, or "Appmon;" as its premise is essentially that of Yo-Kai Watch applied to a more standard shonen action series. Even if I end up disliking it (my favorite version is still Tamers, might do more of that in the near future); I can still do the same thing I did when I was disappointed with Yo-Kai: turn it into content here, much as I'm doing now.

Overall, even with the offers I was presented; I just don't think the Yo-Kai Watch series is meant for me. As a lifelong Pokémon fan and RPG enthusiast; I just didn't get the same level of enjoyment out of it as others have. I'm sorry if I come off the way I do, but I needed to get this off my chest. Depending on how the games do in December, I will probably do the second movie then with my usual style. For now, I just plan to keep enjoying Sun and Moon. See you space cowboy.

Pokémon Sun and Moon: The First 48 Hours.

Alola everyone. I just thought I would give you something until I write this other piece I've been thinking about for a while. That, and I'm getting ready for this speech I'm giving tomorrow.

That said, here are my views on Pokémon Sun and Moon from the first combined 48 hours of gameplay. While there is a definite learning curve even as someone who's been a fan since the beginning, overall; they are ideal games for both newcomers and true believers alike. They are well worth your time and money.

Having cleared the first three trials, I am currently preparing for the next grand trial against Olivia. I am still not spoiling anything about the story, and I highly encourage whoever wants to find out to play the games themselves and find out.

Needless to say, I think my journey through the Alola region should keep me busy well into 2017; and I am intrigued by the possibility of a third entry being developed for the upcoming Nintendo Switch. The sheer amount of content that Game Freak has put into these games is astounding; and I will continue to tell you more about what I think as it happens. That will be all for now, you should see this article I'm working on after my speech. See you, space cowboy.

Recap: Snack Attack

Alola everyone. Happy Thanksgiving to all my readers in the US. Before I get started on this recap, I thought I would share some more thoughts on Pokémon Sun and Moon; both the games and anime. Since the second 1-hour special has aired today in Japan, I can now definitely say that the journey in Alola isn’t going to be the disaster many were expecting it to be. The animation is also very energetic and fluid; and I still don’t find the redesign to be as bad as others. Some of my favorite anime use that kind of bizarre style. One Piece is a key example of that. The tone is also the anime that I keep wanting Yo-Kai Watch to be. Since Cyber Monday is coming, I may order the Z-ring and Z-crystals soon, to say nothing of anything else for my collection.

As for the games: I’m about 36 hours in combined; and I’ve already cleared the second trial. While the absence of the gyms may seem easier on paper, there is a definite learning curve; and the abilities of both newcomers and true believers alike will be tested. I’m also still not spoiling anything about the story. Go play them yourself if you want to know what happens. So, in order to give my thanks as a fan and for the special DLC I got for getting the games at launch; I thought I would do a recap that ties into that. I also noticed I haven’t done any recaps of the Orange Islands yet, so let’s open up “Snack Attack” and fix that. 

We open on Ash, Misty and Tracey venturing through the seas of the Orange Archipelago on Lapras’ back when they happen on the 7 Grapefruit Islands and decide to land there. As I pointed out in my recap of Pokémon The Movie 2000, I just find Tracey bland on a personal level. I can honestly say that from both the perspective of an 8-year-old and a 24-year-old; I can’t think of any major positives or negatives for him. He merely exists to me, that’s all.

Ash picks one of the grapefruits, but unwittingly runs afoul of one of the farmers! 

After they clarify what’s going on, the farmer apologizes and introduces herself as Ruby (no relation to the player character of the Ruby and Sapphire games).

Even as Ruby explains what’s going on, they discover their keep is being eaten by a massive Snorlax! 

Sixty-four, (om), sixty-three, (om)...

Needless to say, they’re all aghast at the situation; least of all, Ash. Confound these yokai, they drive me to drink! Don’t worry fellas, it’s Mountain Dew Throwback, even if certain unnamed parties have made me want something stronger.

Everyone then decides to start picking as much of the grapefruit as they can, but Snorlax just keeps guzzling down what they pick! Yeah, the one’s I’m training in my games really like the Poké Beans; so I’ll probably keep them in my roster for a while. Still figuring out the Z-moves (though I did at least get the gist of them from the demo). 

Ash then wonders if Snorlax can get to the other islands, and Misty dryly replies “Not unless it has a ticket on a jumbo jet.” Maybe it could be airlifted on a pair of Black Hawk helicopters like that old movie Operation Dumbo Drop! You may have to Google that one, fellas.

Yet, it seems Snorlax can swim! I wonder if it can learn Surf.

So, Ruby goes to alert the other islands while Ash and his friends try to stop Snorlax from doing more damage! 

Of course, on the second island, Team Rocket is cooking up another scheme when they’re confronted by Snorlax and the children! 

Meanwhile, Ruby is working hard to help stockpile all the grapefruit before it’s too late! On another note, look at that big old cell phone she has. No games, no texting, no mobile web, no camera or video, and an external antenna! I’m old enough to remember when just having one was a big deal; and not just wanting to be the first to get the latest iPhone or Android device. 

However, not only does Snorlax overpower Squirtle, he tries to eat Misty’s Goldeen! Hey! That’s not a piece of sushi!

Despite Team Rocket boasting they can do better, Snorlax just sits on Jessie’s Arbok and wipes his face with Lickitung’s tongue! Typical.

Even Psyduck cannot conquer Snorlax, largely because he tries to eat a whole grapefruit; but it gets stuck in his throat! Always love that Pokémon’s comedic potential, even in failure.

James then tries to hypnotize Snorlax, but unwittingly puts himself to sleep instead! Not exactly David Copperfield, huh?

Misty then tries to lull Snorlax to sleep by counting Snorlax! We won’t come up with Mareep for at least a year! 

Misty then falls asleep by mistake, but then they decide putting Snorlax to sleep to catch him is actually a good plan! 

Even when Jessie poses as his mother, Snorlax kicks them away after a tone-deaf attempt at a lullaby!

Ha ha ha! Yataa!

So, everyone else decides to lure Jigglypuff to the main processing plant to put Snorlax to sleep! Yeah, I forgot to mention that she was floating by them earlier in the episode; but it works pretty well, all things considered. 

They have a stage set up with multicolored markers, now all they need is the star!

Jigglypuff takes the stage, and Ash and Pikachu engage Snorlax as he enters the space! 

Though Snorlax has a high resistance (most likely going to be using the DLC I got as one of my walls in Sun and Moon); he does eventually succumb to Jigglypuff’s song as Ash catches him!

Then, everyone else falls asleep; including Ash as his hat turns sideways; like this pillow I used to have when I was younger. 

Ash used Rest! Ash regained health!

In addition to a new friend, the land has been fertilized for new trees because of Snorlax! Everyone is given a bag of candied grapefruit peels as a reward, and they set off on their way!

“Snack Attack” is a solid outing in the Orange Islands. While it may not be my favorite Pokémon saga; it does have plenty to enjoy to watch it every so often. As such, it’s one of the ones I very rarely pass up an opportunity to watch. With fast-paced battles and delightfully-colorful animation for the time; it’s a fun little episode in its own way and that’s all it needs to be. With that on the table, I expect to enjoy the Sun and Moon series in a similar fashion. I may look at some of it when it officially comes stateside; since it’s going to start on Disney XD next year after a preview with the Volcanion movie. Overall, I think it’s probably going to be the hit for the network that Yo-Kai Watch was supposed to be. It should prove a good companion to the likes of Gravity Falls, Star Wars Rebels and Star VS the Forces of Evil. December is going to have plenty on the table, but there’s something I want to do before the month is out. You’ll probably see it after my speech on Monday. That’s all for now. Bang.

Further Observations on Pokémon Sun and Moon.

Alola, everyone. My grandfather was very ill last night, so I will probably be back again around Thanksgiving. I still have something in mind to tie in with the special Munchlax DLC; but for now, I will give further observations on both the games and anime of Pokémon Sun and Moon.

Over the first combined 24 hours of gameplay, there are many changes to the long-standing formula; and the experience is highly engaging for both newcomers and true believers alike. The graphics, sound and design are bursting with appeal to longtime fans and the trend of 1990s nostalgia.
While I admit competition from Yo-Kai Watch may have influenced some of the design choices; make no mistake: your abilities will be tested whether you're a seasoned veteran of the franchise or a newcomer wanting to try the main games for the first time after getting hooked on the "Pokémon Go" mobile game. Don't get me wrong, while some folk are getting better at arguing the merits of Yo-Kai Watch 2; I may admit the sequels are a tinge better than the original game, they didn't "wow" me.  For an intents and purposes, Sun and Moon have.

By that same proxy; there has also been a preview of the dub of the anime from a UK airing of the Volcanion movie (which I will cover once I do the numerous other ones from the Jirachi movie onward), consisting of the first 1-hour special that just aired in Japan. Most of the voices sound decent, all things considered; and Team Skull's inclusion is a prospect that intrigues me about the story. As for the overall presentation: I still don't think the redesigned art style is that bad, since it seems to fit the tone quite nicely. In essence, the Sun and Moon anime is shaping up to be a sort of anti-Yokai Watch; a sentiment that my associate Kohdok seems to agree with. I may consider covering it officially when it starts airing in the US in 2017. As more episodes air, I will definitely give you my official thoughts on the series; since my threshold to determine whether or not I'm willing to continue a show is about 3 to 5 episodes. If all else fails, I can't imagine the whole thing turning out worse than The Legend of Thunder.

As I am currently expecting to do some work on a presentation I have to give with my class next week, I will try to get out the piece I had in mind by Thanksgiving. See you, space cowboy.

Pokémon Sun and Moon Game+Anime Early Impressions.

Alola everyone. Since I'm going to be at my grandfather's place until sometime tomorrow, I thought it would be a good time to tell you my early impressions of Pokémon Sun and Moon: both the game and the anime.


Since this is an anime-themed blog; I think I will talk about that first. It started airing in Japan this past Thursday with a 1-hour special consisting of the first two episodes; with another scheduled to air on Thanksgiving day. I was among many who didn't think the concept they were going with was as bad as everyone else thought it would be, and my cautious optimism was rewarded. Rather than try to move away from its insane lineage, the show seems to have wholeheartedly embraced it. Not only that, the redesigned art style seems to fit the tone quite well. I personally don't mind the redesign that was given to Ash; since it's not that different from the character I'm playing as, and I still think the idea of redesigning characters itself is kind of a crapshoot.


On the subject of the games: I've logged about 12 hours combined since I picked up my preorders yesterday. Without spoiling anything (go play them yourself if you want to know the story); it blows my mind how much Game Freak has managed to put in these two cartridges. Even in the early stages of gameplay, it manages to not only provide a new experience as a lifelong fan; but also recreate the feelings of playing the original games for the first time.


The overall style of this section of the franchise; in terms of graphics, sound and animation is also delightfully '90s; so it's just the thing I need to feel good about myself in a time when I need it the most. I will make another post next week as things progress further, but for now; I can easily recommend both to those wanting to get back into the franchise as well as those wanting to try it for the first time (possibly as a result of the success of the Pokémon Go mobile game). It's well worth the asking price; and there is also talk of a possible third entry on the Switch.


I will get into more detail when the next 1-hour special airs next week; but first I want to do the piece I had planned to help tie into this. You should see it after I'm done with some schoolwork I have. Bang.

Recap: To Catch a Rotom

Alola everyone. Well, Pokémon Sun and Moon is officially within striking distance; and I will be picking up my copies when they launch on Friday. As per usual, the anime is being rebranded to help sell them. To be frank, I don’t think the Sun and Moon series looks as bad as everyone says. The whole thing doesn’t look like it’s trying to be taken too seriously and I feel that the shakeups to the usual formula might actually provide a good opportunity to compete with Yo-Kai Watch and maybe even do the premise of that anime better. Not only that, but the redesigned art style actually fits the tone pretty well and I don’t mind the redesign of Ash himself too much. It actually isn’t that different from the male player character of the new games, and it wouldn’t be the first time people have reacted this way; and that’s coming from someone who generally considers the idea of redesigning characters to be a crapshoot.

That said, this mentality is nothing new among certain fans. Virtually no two people I’ve talked to have drawn the same conclusion about the various sagas of the anime. It’s gone up, down and sideways in quality for me; but as time has passed, there’s always been at least something I can get it out of it for content here. This brings me to the episode I’ve chosen today, so let’s open up “To Catch a Rotom!” 

We open on Ash, Iris and Cilan heading to Torom Island in the Decolore Islands to meet Professor Oak for a new topic he’s researching! 

As they disembark, Iris and Cilan say that it’s a pleasure to meet the professor.

Of course,Team Rocket is not far behind, with Meowth wanting to know what the professor is researching so they can steal it! Yes, because that line of work has turned out so well in the past! Why not take up tennis?

Professor Oak explains he’s there to research Rotom and its forms, leading to a staple of the Japanese version, Pokémon Live Caster! 

As he explains their forms, I also note that the images onscreen actually have Japanese text as opposed to that not-quite-Japanese, not-quite-English lingua code they usually have to make show easier to dub for foreign markets. Isn’t that something?

Their forms can take the shape of refrigerators, fans, lawnmowers, microwaves, and even washing machines!

However, they are known for being rather mischievous, always playing jokes; as this poor Purrloin learns the hard way.

You think your dirty socks can stop me? Well, they are making me dizzy. (groans)

So, everyone goes to this “electric playground” they have set up for the Rotom, and Ash says it’s really fun as he pushes this lawnmower around. You bet it is, dude.

The Rotom appear from the power poles, and start making mischief as promised!

The professor tries to catch one, but it doesn’t work! Oh, pooh!

One of them zaps the professor, and his hair turns into an afro! 

I'm going nowhere, somebody help me, somebody help me yeah!

Iris tries to attract them with her Emolga, but the Rotom are genderless, so it doesn’t work! 

Ash decides to keep drawing them in with Pikachu’s electricity, like a cat with a laser pointer! Let’s light them up! 

Then, all of a sudden, Team Rocket appears with these electricity-shooting guns; which may or may not bear similarity to a film franchise that involves busting ghosts which may or may not have a polarizing reboot with Kristen Wiig and Melissa McCarthy in lead roles. I’m not going to make any assumptions, but I am going to play this music. 

They put Rotom in a box with their trademark seal on it! Now, that’s odd.

After capturing one Rotom, they try to go for the others, but they’re on the move!

However, Ash, Iris and Cilan send out their Krookodile, Excadrill and Stunfisk to stop them! This will not stand! This aggression will not stand, man!

One of the other Rotom even takes control of a fridge and freezes Team Rocket!

I WAS FROZEN TODAY!

The last Rotom is freed, and Team Rocket is sent blasting off! Some things never change, huh?

Cilan is impressed by the ordeal, much more than this Ben 10 Omniverse! Yeah, not a big fan of the franchise; the reboot of that looks kind of weak to be honest. Besides, any comparisons they make towards the Sun and Moon series using that don’t work for me as someone who never watched Omniverse. When the original series was on, I was more of a Samurai Jack/Avatar guy; and I will probably be compiling my top 13 best/worst anime-influenced Western cartoons soon. 

So, after it’s healed, Rotom agrees to join the professor, who proudly declares he’s caught a Rotom!

Iris says she “just loves happy endings!” So do I, Iris. So do I.

So, we close on the professor heading back to Kanto as the others continue their journey, as they bid each other “best wishes” in a nod to the Japanese title of the saga.

“To Catch a Rotom” is an enjoyable episode among the later BW episodes; full of slick, colorful animation and clever nods to previous sagas. As the Sun and Moon series begins; I am totally fine if the writers and animators want to adopt a similar model for the journey in Alola. I will get into more detail in another post after I pick up my preorders of the games tomorrow afternoon; but sometimes I want to watch a fun series. If the people in charge want to do more specials like Origins and Generations, that’s totally fine; but without more idealistic takes like this for contrast, the series will not only get boring because of how bleak it might be; it will get depressing and the audience will lose interest. Let’s just say for now that my early impressions of the Sun and Moon series are actually rather positive, and I want to keep that energy going.

Seeing as how this recap helped tie into the new Rotom Pokédex (love the idea of a companion in the vein of Kremzeek or BB-8); the last one I have on the table before December will be related to Snorlax, seeing as how he has a new Z-move in the games via special DLC given to those who buy it at launch. You’ll just have to see what it is. See you, space cowboy! 

Recap: Gone Corphishin'

Alola, everyone. Due to circumstances beyond my control; I have decided to switch up what I had planned to recap. While I was going to recap an episode of Pokémon Advanced on my radar; I decided to do another one to provide some levity based on what just happened. I can also use it to illustrate how I feel about AG in hindsight and use that as how I don’t think the Sun and Moon anime will be as bad as many others think it will. So, let’s open up “Gone Corphishin’” and talk about the matter as Sun and Moon draw ever closer. 

We open on Team Rocket planning for another crazy scheme before they’re sent blasting off in the first act. Wow. 

We then get our title card after the theme song, which is OK to me in hindsight even if I found the later AG themes to be better.

On Dewford Island, Ash, Pikachu and the others are training on a small inlet on the far side. 

Nearby, Brock is making breakfast as Max is helping with the laundry! Love that morning fresh scent! 

As Ash and his Pokémon listen to the waves, they try to read their movements! While Treecko doesn’t move quickly enough, he and Ash get wet!

Control, control, you must learn control.

After hanging up his hat and jacket, he continues his special training by the beach. Even though I may not be the biggest fan of Advanced; I do genuinely like moments such as this. Helps contribute a bit to my growing head canon version of the series (I’m already working on what I might do for Sun and Moon).

May is also practicing for her first contest. Even though she’s not my favorite female companion (I kind of prefer later ones, as well as game and manga Sapphire), she grew on me as time went on. 

Then, all of a sudden; everyone witnesses something odd with the tent. 

Hey! The sheriff is a nig-(bell rings)! "What'd he say?"

Something underground is wrecking their campsite, and they try to stop it! 

Yet, whatever messed up their campground pulled them underwater! 

While they attempt to get things cleaned up, they hang their clothes up to dry. It makes sense in context, kind of.

Needless to say, even in his boxers, Ash is determined to find out what did this to them! Even though I’m usually not the biggest fan of this kind of humor, I do find this screen cap pretty amusing. 

Pants are an illusion, and so is death.

That night, after their clothes are dry; they are still baffled by what could have done all this damage. They try to set up a trap to find the culprit, to no avail. 

The next morning, Ash decides to double his efforts to catch the vandal citing one of Professor Oak’s poems: “What happened before will happen once more” as a pair of Sandslash appear onscreen. Can’t wait to play with the Alolan Sandslash, to be frank. 

As night falls again, they set a new trap for their vandal; and it attracts a few strange folk covered in seaweed. 

Then, all of a sudden, the culprit is revealed to be a Corphish! Ash then decides to catch it!

Pikachu tries to attack, but Corphish grabs him by the tail and flings him into Ash! I also note how this position is kind of suspect. Get your mind out of the gutter!

Ash then sends out Treecko, and now the battle truly begins! 

GLACIUS! RIPTOR! FIGHT ON!

With little difficulty, Ash captures Corphish; gaining a new friend for his journey! 

“Gone Corphishin’” is a notable standout in early Advanced. While I may not share the enthusiasm many have towards the series; I am glad about the overall experience. With some relatively nice animation and humor that is pulled off better than other episodes I’ve covered here (looking at you, “The Bicker The Better” and “A Double Dilemma”); it’s a solid episode that made a good backup for what’s happened. The episode I originally intended to do can be done another time, I’m just waiting for certain things to blow over. That said, I have a couple more episodes on the table to help ring in Sun and Moon’s release on Friday, to say nothing of the new anime on Thursday. You should see them within the first couple weeks of Sun and Moon’s release, since this recap took longer to write than I expected. See you space cowboy! 

Brief Night Post: 10 Days to Pokémon Sun and Moon

Alola everyone. Even amid this furor that's going across the US and all these leaks that just came with early copies of the game, I'm just going to keep things brief. As of this writing, there are 10 days to Pokémon Sun and Moon. No matter what happens tonight, I will be writing another new recap to help with this event. You'll just have to wait and see what it is. Bang.

Update: Based on what just happened a few moments ago, I will be altering my plans. I still have the same episodes on the table, but I will be switching them around because of the circumstances. That will be all for now. Take care.

Recap: A Festival Trade, A Festival Farewell

Alola everyone. While I regret once again that I’m doing this recap later than I expected; I can also take this opportunity to celebrate the release of Pokémon Sun and Moon drawing ever closer! While I didn’t initially intend for this recap to be used for that purpose; given how much work I’ve done on it already, I might as well keep going as part of other things I had in mind. So, let’s open up “A Festival Trade, A Festival Farewell” and celebrate!

I also notice this is the first recap I’m doing of the XY series; which I found to be quite enjoyable. While some people are apprehensive about the rebrand for the Sun and Moon series; I plan on approaching that series with an open mind, and waiting to pass judgment on it till I actually watch it, but I digress.

We open on Ash, Bonnie, Clemont and Serena stopping by a Pokémon Center on their way to Anistar City; and it just happens to be in the middle of an event known as the Gourgeist Festival! 

Upon seeing Nurse Joy dressed up as her assistant Wigglytuff, everyone decides to take part; thanks to Serena and her costume kit! 

In a few short moments, everyone is dressed up; human and Pokémon alike! I myself was an OC Pokémon trainer this past Halloween, and I plan to very likely wear the same outfit when I go the Sun and Moon launch in about two weeks (I have my preorders paid off; plan on going after communications on launch day). 

After the “Be a Hero” theme song (which I still enjoy, and I am eager to hear the music in the Sun and Moon series); we get our title card, which like my favorite episode “Pikachu’s Goodbye;” helps raise the stakes but doesn’t outright spoil the end.

It turns out Team Rocket is taking part in the festivities as well, with Jessie as Mismagius, James as Gourgeist, Wobuffet as Sawk; Inkay as Pikachu, and Meowth as Banette. Meowth likes his costume; but points out it’s tough to talk when the mask is zipped. 

Bring out the gimp. "I think he's asleep." Well, someone's gonna have to go wake him up, then.

Then, our character of the day, Count Pump; spies Jessie’s Pumpkaboo from his balcony. He also looks kind of like Mario and sounds like Prince Lemongrab. 

This castle is UNACCEPTABLE CONDITION! ONE MILLION YEARS DUNGEON!

After the count’s steward invites Team Rocket to dinner; he asks to trade with his Pumpkaboo, who happens to be a prince. We also find out that Jessie’s Pumpkaboo is not only the largest size that can be caught, but a female as well. Who’d have thunk it?

With an ulterior motive in mind; they agree on the condition they go after some “thieves who have their Pikachu.” Those sly devils.

Everyone is taking part in the celebration, with Ash as Snorlax, Pikachu as Psyduck, Serena as Florges, Bonnie as Ludicolo, Dedenne as Corphish, and Clemont as Watchog; from the left. As for someone I’m omitting: don’t worry, he’ll get his turn a minute.

Suddenly, the steward confronts them in an attempt to get Pikachu; but because Chespin was dressed as Pikachu, they got him by mistake! It’s a fair cop. 

The count tries to initiate the trade; but everyone else confronts the count and demands Chespin! He orders them not to interfere, even trapping them in a cage! Is that really necessary? Heck, he just decides to keep going on with the trade even though they’re trying to escape! 

Yet, Jessie is reluctant, saying that she’s been through a lot with Pumpkaboo! Yeah, I have a habit of getting emotionally attached to a lot the Pokémon I catch in my games. It’s the primary reason I can’t do the Nuzlocke challenge without hating myself. 

Meanwhile, Clemont starts using the Aipom arm on his backpack to short circuit the cage. Yeah, the count’s not very smart; given how he believed Team Rocket’s cock and bull story and didn’t even take his bag despite it being literally the only thing on him besides his costume.

The count even decides to sweeten the deal by throwing in a Mawile, which can Mega Evolve! That’s one of my favorite ones that can; and I can’t wait to see what the Z-moves can do.

The trade is made, and she evolves into a Gourgeist! Isn’t that something?

Yet, when the count rescinds his offer, Jessie decides to welcome Gourgeist with open arms; including the ones that make up Gourgeist’s hair! Aw! How sweet!

Even so, Bonnie pulls off Meowth’s costume and the count realizes he’s been had!

I would have gotten away with it too, if it weren't for you meddling kids and that Pikachu!

Even being sent blasting off doesn’t bother Jessie, as she has a new Pokémon to call her friend!

As an apology, the count treats everyone to dinner and a fireworks show to close out the evening. Even in silly side trips like this; I’m reminded of how much myself and others enjoyed this anime.

“A Festival Trade, A Festival Farwell” is an ideal way for me to transition from my Halloween celebration to getting hyped for Pokémon Sun and Moon. With the animation being slick and colorful and equal footing being given to both the leads and the villains; I honestly can’t wait to see how the Sun and Moon series will build on these successes. I’m trying to keep an open mind; since a lot of the arguments that people are making against it are roughly the same arguments that are made EVERY time the anime is rebranded to match the games. At this point; the phrase “Pokémon is done” has been said so many times that the words have lost all meaning. So, I might as well have a bit of fun with it as a lifelong fan. Anyway, I’m going to go see Doctor Strange this weekend; so I’ll be back next week with another piece I had planned to help get ready for Sun and Moon. See you, space cowboy.