Bunnelby is looking pretty Loony Toons to me. for some reason, it's really throwing me off. I think it's the eyes? I dunno
uh, this rabbit has fingers on its hands. that's cool. not got a lot to say for this one...
Overall: 5/10
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
No. 659: Bunnelby
gotta have a useless little rodent, right?
Bunnelby is looking pretty Loony Toons to me. for some reason, it's really throwing me off. I think it's the eyes? I dunno
uh, this rabbit has fingers on its hands. that's cool. not got a lot to say for this one...
Overall: 5/10
Bunnelby is looking pretty Loony Toons to me. for some reason, it's really throwing me off. I think it's the eyes? I dunno
uh, this rabbit has fingers on its hands. that's cool. not got a lot to say for this one...
Overall: 5/10
Monday, October 28, 2013
No. 658: Greninja
there might be more badass frogs than this one, but I don't think I know of any
He's a ninja frog, which is apparently a thing in Japan. toads/frogs get associated with Ninjas. I don't know, maybe it's something in the sake.
But anyway, Greninja has dat ninja scarf, but it's his tongue. This is so insane and disgusting and creative and I love it. The back of his head starts to look like a hand, which is kinda weird, but okay. Big thighs reinforce the ninja design, like those poofy pants ninjas are all the time be wearing. and his special attack is water shurikens.
So I think Greninja is cool, but I'm wondering if we couldn't have set more of a precedent for the tongue. Now that I think of it, this is the first "frog" Pokemon whose design has actually emphasized the tongue. and Frogadier certainly could've added that into the mix, seeing as how he didn't add anything else.
I really like the design and idea, and I appreciate how things are still pretty low-key except for the head which is a little busy, but otherwise super-neat. I just wish that his awesome tonguescarf didn't come outta nowhere.
Overall: 8/10
He's a ninja frog, which is apparently a thing in Japan. toads/frogs get associated with Ninjas. I don't know, maybe it's something in the sake.
But anyway, Greninja has dat ninja scarf, but it's his tongue. This is so insane and disgusting and creative and I love it. The back of his head starts to look like a hand, which is kinda weird, but okay. Big thighs reinforce the ninja design, like those poofy pants ninjas are all the time be wearing. and his special attack is water shurikens.
So I think Greninja is cool, but I'm wondering if we couldn't have set more of a precedent for the tongue. Now that I think of it, this is the first "frog" Pokemon whose design has actually emphasized the tongue. and Frogadier certainly could've added that into the mix, seeing as how he didn't add anything else.
I really like the design and idea, and I appreciate how things are still pretty low-key except for the head which is a little busy, but otherwise super-neat. I just wish that his awesome tonguescarf didn't come outta nowhere.
Overall: 8/10
Sunday, October 27, 2013
No. 657: Frogadier
what a chill frog
alright, I like where this is headed. That cloud is expanding, he's getting longer limbed and more cocky.
He's possibly the most boring evolution of the three starters, but that doesn't make him bad. like I said, it's a simple natural progression. I don't really have much more to say, Frogadier is a bigger, cooler Froakie.
Overall: 6/10
alright, I like where this is headed. That cloud is expanding, he's getting longer limbed and more cocky.
He's possibly the most boring evolution of the three starters, but that doesn't make him bad. like I said, it's a simple natural progression. I don't really have much more to say, Frogadier is a bigger, cooler Froakie.
Overall: 6/10
Saturday, October 26, 2013
No. 656: Froakie
you may have gotten the idea I don't think much of the Kalos starters by now.
But there's still one line left, so don't despair!
Froakie was my pick, because I like frogs, and this one seemed like it would turn into a big kung-fu frog like from Super Mario RPG, the one with the beard and such. Or like the Wind Gods in Wind Waker, cause of the cloud on his back. So anyway, I detected a lot of promise, and took the plunge.
because Froakie himself is also just kinda eeeeeehhhhh. Little blue frog, cloud on back, I guess it's alright. Simple colors, using the exact same palette as the last two Water starters. His head is also large, but becauze the "head" itself is actually pretty flat, it's just the eyes taking up the space, I don't perceive it as overly huge.
Overall: 6/10
But there's still one line left, so don't despair!
Froakie was my pick, because I like frogs, and this one seemed like it would turn into a big kung-fu frog like from Super Mario RPG, the one with the beard and such. Or like the Wind Gods in Wind Waker, cause of the cloud on his back. So anyway, I detected a lot of promise, and took the plunge.
because Froakie himself is also just kinda eeeeeehhhhh. Little blue frog, cloud on back, I guess it's alright. Simple colors, using the exact same palette as the last two Water starters. His head is also large, but becauze the "head" itself is actually pretty flat, it's just the eyes taking up the space, I don't perceive it as overly huge.
Overall: 6/10
Friday, October 25, 2013
No. 655: Delphox
wow I got locked out of my house this morning with no phone or wallet, and had like a dozen important things to do. fun times!
look at Gandalph the Red here, off to lead a band of hairy dwarves through some caves.
I don't care for it. first off, full robes are often stupid. and this is one of those times. secondly, wands are often stupid. a staff is what a true wizard uses, or just conjure with your hands. wands are for Hogwarts losers.
I miss the broomstick theme that was coming along, and also the ear hair is just insane and looks really really silly when I think about it for more than 2 seconds.
It's a good typing, in fact all of these starters end up with good typings, but I just think the design looks so... lame. like the most uncool mage wizard they could think of.
Overall: 3/10
look at Gandalph the Red here, off to lead a band of hairy dwarves through some caves.
I don't care for it. first off, full robes are often stupid. and this is one of those times. secondly, wands are often stupid. a staff is what a true wizard uses, or just conjure with your hands. wands are for Hogwarts losers.
I miss the broomstick theme that was coming along, and also the ear hair is just insane and looks really really silly when I think about it for more than 2 seconds.
It's a good typing, in fact all of these starters end up with good typings, but I just think the design looks so... lame. like the most uncool mage wizard they could think of.
Overall: 3/10
Thursday, October 24, 2013
No. 654: Braixen
Tonosama, this one's for you.
Well, Braixen certainly isn't boring anymore. We have a clearly witchy theme going on, appropriate for the upcoming Halloween-style events.
Her tail in particular looks like a broom, though it is actually connected to its body. uses the twig as a wand, black tights and a skirt, yeah she's like Little Witch Pokedemia.
the only thing is, those arms are also twig-like. shit, I think they're thinner than the stick. Other than that, though, I can dig it. Changing to bipedal isn't a problem.
Overall: 7/10
Well, Braixen certainly isn't boring anymore. We have a clearly witchy theme going on, appropriate for the upcoming Halloween-style events.
Her tail in particular looks like a broom, though it is actually connected to its body. uses the twig as a wand, black tights and a skirt, yeah she's like Little Witch Pokedemia.
the only thing is, those arms are also twig-like. shit, I think they're thinner than the stick. Other than that, though, I can dig it. Changing to bipedal isn't a problem.
Overall: 7/10
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
No. 653: Fennekin
blow it out yer ears
damn, that is one huge noggin. preposterously huge, I'd say. also, I'm not content with red fur in the ears, it ought to be honest-to-goodness flames. though that would be insane, but then again it seems like each generation they experiment on different ways to expel fire from one's body. Charmander used his mouth, Cyndaquil used his back, Tepig used his nose, and finally Fennekin shoots fire out of her ears. I think.
I guess this one is okay. Though it seems a little bland. Color it a shade darker, and I'd believe it was a 2nd route Normal type 2-stage crap Pokemon. thank goodness it at least has good colors.
Overall: 5/10
damn, that is one huge noggin. preposterously huge, I'd say. also, I'm not content with red fur in the ears, it ought to be honest-to-goodness flames. though that would be insane, but then again it seems like each generation they experiment on different ways to expel fire from one's body. Charmander used his mouth, Cyndaquil used his back, Tepig used his nose, and finally Fennekin shoots fire out of her ears. I think.
I guess this one is okay. Though it seems a little bland. Color it a shade darker, and I'd believe it was a 2nd route Normal type 2-stage crap Pokemon. thank goodness it at least has good colors.
Overall: 5/10
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
No.652: Chesnaught
Well the first two were lacking, but this third form should be able to turn it around, right?
oops.
yeah, something wrong has happened here. We got white fur instead of brown, with big-ass arms like the robot warriors from Laputa or something. Also now he's wearing an armor dome, with giant tan spikes. remember the orange tips? haha, those aren't happening anymore. and while we're at it, throw the world's most awkward-looking lower body on there for good measure.
jesus, this is a mess. Like, it's a different sort of mess than what I would have expected, but it's still terrible. For one, its ignoring nearly everything about its first two forms and coming outta left field. and secondly, it looks like the segmented eggshell king from planet dunkass.
the only good thing going on here is that he's Grass/Fighting, and that his name kicks ass.
Overall: 2/10
oops.
yeah, something wrong has happened here. We got white fur instead of brown, with big-ass arms like the robot warriors from Laputa or something. Also now he's wearing an armor dome, with giant tan spikes. remember the orange tips? haha, those aren't happening anymore. and while we're at it, throw the world's most awkward-looking lower body on there for good measure.
jesus, this is a mess. Like, it's a different sort of mess than what I would have expected, but it's still terrible. For one, its ignoring nearly everything about its first two forms and coming outta left field. and secondly, it looks like the segmented eggshell king from planet dunkass.
the only good thing going on here is that he's Grass/Fighting, and that his name kicks ass.
Overall: 2/10
No. 651: Quilladin
ah, feels good to get back on the horse.
Okay, this isn't really too bad of a step up. Now he's got orange on all the tips, and his hoodie took over his body to become like a casing of sorts. facial marks are still recognizable, too.
but I'm still wondering what part of this exactly is supposed to be a plant. he's green, but that's about it. are those brown patterns supposed to resemble leaves? do chestnuts have leaves? what even does a chestnut looks like?
also, this particular picture makes Quilladin look high as a kite.
Overall: 4/10
Okay, this isn't really too bad of a step up. Now he's got orange on all the tips, and his hoodie took over his body to become like a casing of sorts. facial marks are still recognizable, too.
but I'm still wondering what part of this exactly is supposed to be a plant. he's green, but that's about it. are those brown patterns supposed to resemble leaves? do chestnuts have leaves? what even does a chestnut looks like?
also, this particular picture makes Quilladin look high as a kite.
Overall: 4/10
Sunday, October 20, 2013
No. 650: Chespin
you don't know how good it felt to type that title. it's like coming home.
Like coming home to find that your house has been taken over by suitors vying for the hand of your wife, eating your food, wearing your clothes, beating your servants, and mocking your son. And their names are Chespin.
I mean, shit. this is the thanks I get? Big 'ol hiatus, give GameFreak time to come up with some good ideas, and the first thing they can cook up is "generic rodent in a hoodie"? seriously? seriously?
Chespin is ass. First off, he's not a reptile. That ought to be enough to know things are going south. It's like whenever there's a Fire-starter without live flames on it. Just not the same. Secondly, he barely looks plant-y at all. No one knew what he was even supposed to be at first, he's just got that freaking generic pikachu-esque body type, and green whatevers a'comin' outta his head.
Further research shows he's supposed to be like a chestnut, but I'm not even close to buying it. Also that orange tip of his tail pisses me off, especially since I know it's a design choice that's going frigging NOWHERE.
Look, I want to like this generation, and I think I probably will, but this is NOT the welcome I wanted. Chespin is easily the worst starter Pokemon I've ever seen.
Overall: 1/10
Like coming home to find that your house has been taken over by suitors vying for the hand of your wife, eating your food, wearing your clothes, beating your servants, and mocking your son. And their names are Chespin.
I mean, shit. this is the thanks I get? Big 'ol hiatus, give GameFreak time to come up with some good ideas, and the first thing they can cook up is "generic rodent in a hoodie"? seriously? seriously?
Chespin is ass. First off, he's not a reptile. That ought to be enough to know things are going south. It's like whenever there's a Fire-starter without live flames on it. Just not the same. Secondly, he barely looks plant-y at all. No one knew what he was even supposed to be at first, he's just got that freaking generic pikachu-esque body type, and green whatevers a'comin' outta his head.
Further research shows he's supposed to be like a chestnut, but I'm not even close to buying it. Also that orange tip of his tail pisses me off, especially since I know it's a design choice that's going frigging NOWHERE.
Look, I want to like this generation, and I think I probably will, but this is NOT the welcome I wanted. Chespin is easily the worst starter Pokemon I've ever seen.
Overall: 1/10
Friday, October 18, 2013
Pokemon X First Thoughts Vol. 7
well, here it is, the final volume. I'm more than halfway through the game at this point, and have made it quite far enough to start opining on the Gen 6 Pokemon.
-Clawdaddy evolved into Clawitzer, and he keeps getting KO'd. but I think it's more because I keep putting him in dangerous situations than his being actually weak
-Wow, Laverre Town is really neat-looking. so was the gym, and the Furisode trainers inside. Gym Leader's Sylveon really gave my team a beating, but Hermes actually came trough, despite being a Dragon-type. I had taught it Infestation and Thunderbolt, y'see. (and the name is supposed to be a reference to JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, when Hermes Costello was turned into a snail-person due to the effects of Heavy Weather. Also I liked how the "herm" suggests "hermaphrodite", which snails are. also the irony of a slow snail being named after Hermes, god of speed.)
-In general, I love the npc trainer art in this game.
-Team looks like it'll be Brave One, Solarpowered, Archnuxilean, Vanilla Ice, Clawdaddy, and Calimari. though if I meet some kewl doods, I might be inclined to switch somebody out...
Overall, I'm really enjoying this game. Love the 3D models, the movement, the music, most of the new Pokemon are neat, and all the gameplay upgrades are appreciated. I'm gonna go back into regular review mode tomorrow, starting with Chespin, so look forward to that.
-Clawdaddy evolved into Clawitzer, and he keeps getting KO'd. but I think it's more because I keep putting him in dangerous situations than his being actually weak
-Wow, Laverre Town is really neat-looking. so was the gym, and the Furisode trainers inside. Gym Leader's Sylveon really gave my team a beating, but Hermes actually came trough, despite being a Dragon-type. I had taught it Infestation and Thunderbolt, y'see. (and the name is supposed to be a reference to JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, when Hermes Costello was turned into a snail-person due to the effects of Heavy Weather. Also I liked how the "herm" suggests "hermaphrodite", which snails are. also the irony of a slow snail being named after Hermes, god of speed.)
-In general, I love the npc trainer art in this game.
-Team looks like it'll be Brave One, Solarpowered, Archnuxilean, Vanilla Ice, Clawdaddy, and Calimari. though if I meet some kewl doods, I might be inclined to switch somebody out...
Overall, I'm really enjoying this game. Love the 3D models, the movement, the music, most of the new Pokemon are neat, and all the gameplay upgrades are appreciated. I'm gonna go back into regular review mode tomorrow, starting with Chespin, so look forward to that.
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Pokemon X First Thoughts Vol. 6
-Returned power to Lumiose City, Team Flare is a hoot as always
-the badlands were cool, especially how the Pokemon chased you, but the wind was frustrating
-There aren't any good Ground-types in Gen 6, so I wasn't very prepared for the Electric gym. Beat it with Gogoat's and Solarpowered's Bulldoze, though. screw that Magnemite, Thunderbolt really hurt at this stage of the game
-Got lost in the city. I feel like they should have been able to make the streets connected, instead of loading new areas every 5 seconds. breaks the immersion and ruins the point of having a giant city. between this, the lack of new Pokemon (less than 100 even counting Megas), and the frame-rate issues I've mentioned before, I'm starting to think GameFreak is just piss when it comes to optimization. makes me remember an anecdote about how Iwata was the one who condensed the GSC code to the point where they could fit Kanto in as a bonus, because it definitely wasn't planned from the start. And because of that, my friend goes "can you go to the other regions?" whenever I talk about any Pokemon game and dismisses them with a "wow that sucks you could in Gold" when of course you can't. pisses me off. especially since the new regions are larger than both Johto and Kanto put together.
-wow that one got out of hand
-caught a female Goomy, named it Hermes, 10 internet bucks to whoever correctly places the reference
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Pokemon X First Thoughts Vol. 5
I guess the "15-30" sweetspot I mentioned earlier actually extends to at least level 40 in this game. Errbody evolvin' left and right all ovah herr.
-Calimari evolved, and is now more badass
-Goemon is now in his final stage, and as I thought, it's the best option out of the starters. Caught a Clauncher, named it Crawdaddy, and am training it to replace him, though...
-my dear Brave One became a Talonflame, and now is competing against Nala the Pyroar for a spot as my Fire-type. If I decide I even need one, that is.
-Looked it up and evolved Solarpowered with a Sun Stone, Parabolic Charge is still such a pro move
-That grass gym was easy, but fun. Vanilla Ice just ate everything stone-cold raw, and the few things he couldn't wipe out were Bravely dealt with, if you get my drift.
-The music is pretty good in this game, I gotta say. I usually don't listen to Pokemon music, just play the games with the sound off, but maybe I won't end up doing that this time.
-Calimari evolved, and is now more badass
-Goemon is now in his final stage, and as I thought, it's the best option out of the starters. Caught a Clauncher, named it Crawdaddy, and am training it to replace him, though...
-my dear Brave One became a Talonflame, and now is competing against Nala the Pyroar for a spot as my Fire-type. If I decide I even need one, that is.
-Looked it up and evolved Solarpowered with a Sun Stone, Parabolic Charge is still such a pro move
-That grass gym was easy, but fun. Vanilla Ice just ate everything stone-cold raw, and the few things he couldn't wipe out were Bravely dealt with, if you get my drift.
-The music is pretty good in this game, I gotta say. I usually don't listen to Pokemon music, just play the games with the sound off, but maybe I won't end up doing that this time.
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Pokemon X First Thoughts Vol. 4
Didn't get a chance to play much today.
-Beat the 3rd gym, it came up pretty soon after the 2nd. Makes the gap from 1st to 2nd seem even more insane.
-I'm coming to dislike my friends. Fat kid won't say a sentence that isn't about dancing, and the Rival girl talks tough but gets beat like a rug. Shauna is cute but seriously needs to find a purpose in life, and the redhead is okay.
-Reflection Cave was pretty, reminded me of Voltstone Cave.
-Pancho evolved into a Fighting/Dark, and I'm disappointed because for some reason I thought he would be Fighting/Grass.
-Beat the 3rd gym, it came up pretty soon after the 2nd. Makes the gap from 1st to 2nd seem even more insane.
-I'm coming to dislike my friends. Fat kid won't say a sentence that isn't about dancing, and the Rival girl talks tough but gets beat like a rug. Shauna is cute but seriously needs to find a purpose in life, and the redhead is okay.
-Reflection Cave was pretty, reminded me of Voltstone Cave.
-Pancho evolved into a Fighting/Dark, and I'm disappointed because for some reason I thought he would be Fighting/Grass.
Monday, October 14, 2013
Pokemon X First Thoughts Vol. 3
there sure are a lot of people playing this game.
-it took freaking forever to get to the 2nd gym, holy piss. If the rest of the game keeps up this pace, it's gonna be a long long game.
-New catches (some of these might be old and I forgot to mention):
Arco Iris the Hawlucha
Calimari the Inklay
Carbuncle the Carbink
Cedric the Espurr
Vanilla Ice the Amaura
Solarpowered the Helioptile
Amazy Dayzee the Flabebe
-Picked the Ice fossil because making all Normal-type moves into Ice-type is based as heck.
-I find it funny that they give you walking, running shoes, skates, and also a bicycle. we multiple levels of speed now, baby
-Team Flare is hilarious. These fools literally just want to get fabulous, and they come right out an say they don't give a damn about other people or Pokemon. a welcome break from all these well-intentioned-extremists that have been Pokemon villains the last few times.
-still trying to feel out my final team. I usually have this sort of thing planned from the get-go, but this time around I've been just catching and trying to use everybody. Calimari seems weak, and Acro Iris is surprisingly not as good as I'd like.
-it took freaking forever to get to the 2nd gym, holy piss. If the rest of the game keeps up this pace, it's gonna be a long long game.
-New catches (some of these might be old and I forgot to mention):
Arco Iris the Hawlucha
Calimari the Inklay
Carbuncle the Carbink
Cedric the Espurr
Vanilla Ice the Amaura
Solarpowered the Helioptile
Amazy Dayzee the Flabebe
-Picked the Ice fossil because making all Normal-type moves into Ice-type is based as heck.
-I find it funny that they give you walking, running shoes, skates, and also a bicycle. we multiple levels of speed now, baby
-Team Flare is hilarious. These fools literally just want to get fabulous, and they come right out an say they don't give a damn about other people or Pokemon. a welcome break from all these well-intentioned-extremists that have been Pokemon villains the last few times.
-still trying to feel out my final team. I usually have this sort of thing planned from the get-go, but this time around I've been just catching and trying to use everybody. Calimari seems weak, and Acro Iris is surprisingly not as good as I'd like.
Sunday, October 13, 2013
Pokemon X First Thoughts Vol. 2
Played it all night and as much as I could today. Damn, I'm having fun. Just entered my favorite phase of the game, the "levels 15-30" phase, when you being actually catching cool things, dudes are evolving right and left, learning cool moves, the plot starts to kick in, and all while the levels still come easy.
-speaking of easy, the new Exp share seems kinda powerful. The guy in front doesn't split anything? EVERYONE else gets 50% of what he got? that's crazy. some might say it makes the game "easier". But honestly, Pokemon has never been "difficult", just "time-wastey". and this new exp share cuts down on the grind significantly.
-Just finished the whole "wake up Snorlax" quest. That palace was legit, reminded me of the Palacio Real in Madrid. of course I know this one must be based off something in France, but I'm pretty sure the Spanish one is better.
-New Pokemons added to the mix:
Napoleon the Furfrou
Archnuxilean the Honedge
Tony Tony C. the Swirlex
Bomba the Charmeleon
Pancho the Pancham
Skiddo (got in trade)
-Been doing some trades with random people online. So far got the aforementioned Skiddo, a Japanese Pansage, and a Japanese Pikachu.
-Goemon and Brave One evolved. Gotdayum am I glad to see a bird that isn't Normal/Flying. It's like all my prayers were answered.
-I chose the Charmander because of the following reasons:
Used a Venusaur on my last run of FireRed, like two years ago
Going to use either my starter, or Clauncher as a water-type, Blastoise would be redundant
Might use Nala or actually the Brave One as Fire, so honestly Charizard is redundant
and in the end, I just went "hell if I'm not going to use any of them in endgame anyway then why not Charizard" and just picked that mother.
how far are you guys? I'm already at level 20 even, but that friend is being pokey, so we delayed our match until level 30. If there's anyone at similar levels, we should battle or something. Friend code is 2406-5163-4164, send me an invite or whatever. If you're already at like the 5th gym, though, don't bother, you know it won't be fun for either of us.
-speaking of easy, the new Exp share seems kinda powerful. The guy in front doesn't split anything? EVERYONE else gets 50% of what he got? that's crazy. some might say it makes the game "easier". But honestly, Pokemon has never been "difficult", just "time-wastey". and this new exp share cuts down on the grind significantly.
-Just finished the whole "wake up Snorlax" quest. That palace was legit, reminded me of the Palacio Real in Madrid. of course I know this one must be based off something in France, but I'm pretty sure the Spanish one is better.
-New Pokemons added to the mix:
Napoleon the Furfrou
Archnuxilean the Honedge
Tony Tony C. the Swirlex
Bomba the Charmeleon
Pancho the Pancham
Skiddo (got in trade)
-Been doing some trades with random people online. So far got the aforementioned Skiddo, a Japanese Pansage, and a Japanese Pikachu.
-Goemon and Brave One evolved. Gotdayum am I glad to see a bird that isn't Normal/Flying. It's like all my prayers were answered.
-I chose the Charmander because of the following reasons:
Used a Venusaur on my last run of FireRed, like two years ago
Going to use either my starter, or Clauncher as a water-type, Blastoise would be redundant
Might use Nala or actually the Brave One as Fire, so honestly Charizard is redundant
and in the end, I just went "hell if I'm not going to use any of them in endgame anyway then why not Charizard" and just picked that mother.
how far are you guys? I'm already at level 20 even, but that friend is being pokey, so we delayed our match until level 30. If there's anyone at similar levels, we should battle or something. Friend code is 2406-5163-4164, send me an invite or whatever. If you're already at like the 5th gym, though, don't bother, you know it won't be fun for either of us.
Saturday, October 12, 2013
Pokemon X First Thoughts Vol. 1
Got the game this morning, but because I had to do something in the afternoon I haven't played it as much as some of you out there.
regardless, I just beat the 1st gym, so I feel like this is a good time to make a post.
-The game looks/feels/sounds great. Models are good, and moving in 8 directions is more fun that it should be. also the music has been pretty neat so far, I especially like the Pokecenter and Clothes Shop. I just wish the 3D worked better, not having it on the overworld, and then dropping all the frames in battle, it's slightly lame.
-I've been catching all the Gen 6 guys I run across, but not really bothering with the older pokes. so my current team is as follows:
Goemon the Froakie lv. 11
Brave One the Fletchling lv. 12
Bedbug the Spewpa lv. 10
Hopalong the Bunnelby lv. 10
Nala the Litleo lv. 12
-First gym wasn't much of a challenge, the Brave One and Nala just steamrolled everything. Neat aesthetic, though. Gym leader was a photographer, which is a nice way to set her apart from the other Bug leaders. In general, I like the characters in this game. Having a group of friends is neat
-I love that you can reorganize your part just by dragging their icons around on the bottom screen.
-Had a battle against my friend, we both got 5 dudes to level 10 and fought it out. He had a Pikachu, though, which trumped both Goemon and my Brave One, so I was on the defensive. I ended up losing, but it was close enough to leave me satisfied. We're having a rematch at level 20, so hopefully I'll be ready that time!
-on that note, the wifi stuff is actually pretty cool. Being able to just tag random online people for a trade or battle, or see their customization, it's pretty much the interactions a "pokemon mmo" would have, without all the other bad stuff that would go along with it.
So yeah, really enjoying myself. I'm not really sticking to a "post a day" schedule right now, because I think I might have to post more often than that. Just kinda whenever I feel like it, for this next week.
regardless, I just beat the 1st gym, so I feel like this is a good time to make a post.
-The game looks/feels/sounds great. Models are good, and moving in 8 directions is more fun that it should be. also the music has been pretty neat so far, I especially like the Pokecenter and Clothes Shop. I just wish the 3D worked better, not having it on the overworld, and then dropping all the frames in battle, it's slightly lame.
-I've been catching all the Gen 6 guys I run across, but not really bothering with the older pokes. so my current team is as follows:
Goemon the Froakie lv. 11
Brave One the Fletchling lv. 12
Bedbug the Spewpa lv. 10
Hopalong the Bunnelby lv. 10
Nala the Litleo lv. 12
-First gym wasn't much of a challenge, the Brave One and Nala just steamrolled everything. Neat aesthetic, though. Gym leader was a photographer, which is a nice way to set her apart from the other Bug leaders. In general, I like the characters in this game. Having a group of friends is neat
-I love that you can reorganize your part just by dragging their icons around on the bottom screen.
-Had a battle against my friend, we both got 5 dudes to level 10 and fought it out. He had a Pikachu, though, which trumped both Goemon and my Brave One, so I was on the defensive. I ended up losing, but it was close enough to leave me satisfied. We're having a rematch at level 20, so hopefully I'll be ready that time!
-on that note, the wifi stuff is actually pretty cool. Being able to just tag random online people for a trade or battle, or see their customization, it's pretty much the interactions a "pokemon mmo" would have, without all the other bad stuff that would go along with it.
So yeah, really enjoying myself. I'm not really sticking to a "post a day" schedule right now, because I think I might have to post more often than that. Just kinda whenever I feel like it, for this next week.
Friday, October 11, 2013
Steven Stone of the Hoenn Elite Four
a dude cool enough to have a last name, a rarity in the Pokemon world
Steven is such a better Champion than Wallace. I mean, Wallace is alright, but it's redundant to have a Water Gym and then a Water guy in the Elite Four. And Steven is just so damn great, he makes a lot of "good" characters look "okay".
First, check that swag style. Black suit, purple stripes, red cravat. striking effect. subdued, yet you can tell he means business. but the best part is those steel arm rings, and steel rings on his fingers. Did you know he was a Steel-type specialist? maybe not, because he's not being garish about it, but you can pick up the hints. Also those rings look badass.
Mr. Stone doesn't go all-out to make the sort of impression Lance does, or have quite the attitude that Blue carries, but he certainly looks in-control and makes for an exciting climactic battle. and like I said, the dude knows cool. super-smooth super-swag steel-plated cool, that is.
Overall: 10/10
In the remake...
Steven is such a better Champion than Wallace. I mean, Wallace is alright, but it's redundant to have a Water Gym and then a Water guy in the Elite Four. And Steven is just so damn great, he makes a lot of "good" characters look "okay".
First, check that swag style. Black suit, purple stripes, red cravat. striking effect. subdued, yet you can tell he means business. but the best part is those steel arm rings, and steel rings on his fingers. Did you know he was a Steel-type specialist? maybe not, because he's not being garish about it, but you can pick up the hints. Also those rings look badass.
Mr. Stone doesn't go all-out to make the sort of impression Lance does, or have quite the attitude that Blue carries, but he certainly looks in-control and makes for an exciting climactic battle. and like I said, the dude knows cool. super-smooth super-swag steel-plated cool, that is.
Overall: 10/10
In the remake...
Thursday, October 10, 2013
Drake of the Hoenn Elite Four
yo watch out we got a stone-cold killer comin' thru
Drake looks like he just wandered in out of some horrible storm of salt and spray. His coat is tattered, he lost his shirt, but he didn't lose his captain's hat by God, and he sure as hell didn't loose his gallant 'stache.
He's a badass. He's probably strangled an octopus with his bare hands, eaten more kinds of seagulls than I'll ever know about, and spent over a years worth of combined time adrift at sea.
however - he's a Dragon trainer. which is still kinda badass, but... you've got this obvious nautical theme going, why use Dragons? because you don't want to be associated with those pansy-asses Wallace and Juan, I guess.
Other than that, Drake is exactly what I want to see in my Elite Four. Not sporty-looking, teacher-looking, well-mannered, official-sanctioned waypoints. But the Elite in their field, tested over years of hard work and sacrifice. and few characters sell that as well as Drake does right here.
Overall: 9/10
Previously
Drake looks like he just wandered in out of some horrible storm of salt and spray. His coat is tattered, he lost his shirt, but he didn't lose his captain's hat by God, and he sure as hell didn't loose his gallant 'stache.
He's a badass. He's probably strangled an octopus with his bare hands, eaten more kinds of seagulls than I'll ever know about, and spent over a years worth of combined time adrift at sea.
however - he's a Dragon trainer. which is still kinda badass, but... you've got this obvious nautical theme going, why use Dragons? because you don't want to be associated with those pansy-asses Wallace and Juan, I guess.
Other than that, Drake is exactly what I want to see in my Elite Four. Not sporty-looking, teacher-looking, well-mannered, official-sanctioned waypoints. But the Elite in their field, tested over years of hard work and sacrifice. and few characters sell that as well as Drake does right here.
Overall: 9/10
Previously
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
Glacia of the Hoenn Elite Four
notice how you see Ice, Ghost, Dragon, and Dark specialists in Elite Fours a lot? I guess those are just considered endgame-types is all.
you know, I don't think I've ever seen this official artwork before. I'd always seen her battle sprite, she looks a lot younger and, uh, prettier here. Definitely got that Scandinavian stylings, which works if she's gonna use Ice types.
I'm noticing those pants, though, and they're throwing me. not sure you're supposed to wear pants under a long dress like that. also holy piss, I thought that was a scabbard on her side for a moment there, that would've been viking queen as Hel.
but really, the more I look at her, the more bored I get. She's really proper and refined, but that can also translate into Boring, and in this case it does.
Overall: 4/10
In the remake
you know, I don't think I've ever seen this official artwork before. I'd always seen her battle sprite, she looks a lot younger and, uh, prettier here. Definitely got that Scandinavian stylings, which works if she's gonna use Ice types.
I'm noticing those pants, though, and they're throwing me. not sure you're supposed to wear pants under a long dress like that. also holy piss, I thought that was a scabbard on her side for a moment there, that would've been viking queen as Hel.
but really, the more I look at her, the more bored I get. She's really proper and refined, but that can also translate into Boring, and in this case it does.
Overall: 4/10
In the remake
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Phoebe of the Hoenn Elite Four
oh, be still, my heart!
Brown? check
Hawaiian brown? check
Confident about showing some skin? check
Short hair? check
Uses Ghost-types? check
Giant pink flowers stuck to the side of her head like alien growths? check
yeah, that's pretty much everything on the "my ideal woman" check list right there.
no seriously, Phoebe is great. Memorable design, if a little questionable as to why she would use Ghosts. But I think one has to cut the Elite Four some slack in this regard, as I've said before - they're already the elite trainers, they don't got nothin' to prove. She's a spunky islander girl who just so happens to love Ghosts, that's all there is to it.
okay, I guess there should be more to it than that, but c'mon. is Phoebe. is cool. Especially like the consistency between the flowers on her skirt and the flowers in her hair, and I'm a sucker for the Pokeball motif appearing anywhere on clothing it seems.
Overall: 8/10
In the remake
Brown? check
Hawaiian brown? check
Confident about showing some skin? check
Short hair? check
Uses Ghost-types? check
Giant pink flowers stuck to the side of her head like alien growths? check
yeah, that's pretty much everything on the "my ideal woman" check list right there.
no seriously, Phoebe is great. Memorable design, if a little questionable as to why she would use Ghosts. But I think one has to cut the Elite Four some slack in this regard, as I've said before - they're already the elite trainers, they don't got nothin' to prove. She's a spunky islander girl who just so happens to love Ghosts, that's all there is to it.
okay, I guess there should be more to it than that, but c'mon. is Phoebe. is cool. Especially like the consistency between the flowers on her skirt and the flowers in her hair, and I'm a sucker for the Pokeball motif appearing anywhere on clothing it seems.
Overall: 8/10
In the remake
Monday, October 7, 2013
Sidney of the Hoenn Elite Four
I'm actually very familiar with this incarnation of the Elite Four.
I may have not mentioned this before, but my first run through Sapphire was disastrous. My starter was Sceptile, who proved useless, so I had to abandon him. I wanted to use Sableye to fight against Ghosts, but Sableye actually really sucks. I also brought Shedinja, hoping to cheese out a few trainers, but that never really happened. I used a Hariyama, who did okay against Sidney here. I brought a Castform, planning to have it use Hail and then be Ice-type to fight Dragons. Needless to say, that didn't work. Torkoal was my attempted Fire, but he's also kinda shitty. So in the end, it just came down to my Kyogre running a train all over everything with Surf and Ice Beam. It ended up near lvl 65. Everyone else was hovering around the 40's.
I picked somehow the worst team of Pokemon for the job, and got my ass handed to me more times than I could count. By the time I finally gave in and let Kyogre do all the work, it was too late, my enjoyment of the game had been ground into nothingness.
anyway, my point is that I've fought Sidney possibly more than any other single trainer in any other game, so he's like a close friend to me. A close, douchey-hipster friend who happens to have a team of Pokemon I all think are awesome.
Sid looks like a prick, but he uses Dark-types, so I'm actually gonna say it works. He oughtta look a little punk. Could have more black on him, instead of that much red, but eh.
Overall: 6/10
In the remake
I may have not mentioned this before, but my first run through Sapphire was disastrous. My starter was Sceptile, who proved useless, so I had to abandon him. I wanted to use Sableye to fight against Ghosts, but Sableye actually really sucks. I also brought Shedinja, hoping to cheese out a few trainers, but that never really happened. I used a Hariyama, who did okay against Sidney here. I brought a Castform, planning to have it use Hail and then be Ice-type to fight Dragons. Needless to say, that didn't work. Torkoal was my attempted Fire, but he's also kinda shitty. So in the end, it just came down to my Kyogre running a train all over everything with Surf and Ice Beam. It ended up near lvl 65. Everyone else was hovering around the 40's.
I picked somehow the worst team of Pokemon for the job, and got my ass handed to me more times than I could count. By the time I finally gave in and let Kyogre do all the work, it was too late, my enjoyment of the game had been ground into nothingness.
anyway, my point is that I've fought Sidney possibly more than any other single trainer in any other game, so he's like a close friend to me. A close, douchey-hipster friend who happens to have a team of Pokemon I all think are awesome.
Sid looks like a prick, but he uses Dark-types, so I'm actually gonna say it works. He oughtta look a little punk. Could have more black on him, instead of that much red, but eh.
Overall: 6/10
In the remake
Sunday, October 6, 2013
Juan of Sootopolis City
How many gym leaders does Sootopolis City have? let's count them! Juan, Two! Two there are! Ah ah ah!
He takes over after Wallace moves on to the big leagues. and he's kind of cool, I guess. he really looks like a 4th Gen design, though. It's the hair.
I like how he's keeping the same general color scheme, of white/blue/purple. and he's looking dapper as all get out, with that cravat and brooch.
I dunno, there's not much to say here, I never played Emerald. not sure what his personality is like. I do think I like Wallace more, though, because wearing such obviously period-piece European clothes in a Pokemon game just doesn't seem to fit very well. Modern-style clothes, and japanese-style clothes work fine, but whenever I see a dude gussied up in a similar way I'm wondering if he's cosplaying or some stuff.
Overall: 7/10
He takes over after Wallace moves on to the big leagues. and he's kind of cool, I guess. he really looks like a 4th Gen design, though. It's the hair.
I like how he's keeping the same general color scheme, of white/blue/purple. and he's looking dapper as all get out, with that cravat and brooch.
I dunno, there's not much to say here, I never played Emerald. not sure what his personality is like. I do think I like Wallace more, though, because wearing such obviously period-piece European clothes in a Pokemon game just doesn't seem to fit very well. Modern-style clothes, and japanese-style clothes work fine, but whenever I see a dude gussied up in a similar way I'm wondering if he's cosplaying or some stuff.
Overall: 7/10
Saturday, October 5, 2013
Wallace of Sootopolis City
it's a good thing Fly exists, because otherwise I don't think Sootopolis City would get like any mail
His official art doesn't show it, but Wallace is all the time posing his ass off, jazz fingers going wild, being basically the biggest flashiest most flamboyant trainer ever.
and it's pretty great. His color scheme is actually kinda subtle, being most white and cyan. maybe it might look like an Ice trainer to some, but the way everything about him is about flow, I don't think so. his cape flows like a waterfall, or spreads like a wave. it's a really neat design choice.
Then, in Emerald, he gets so full of himself he gets to be the Champion. Now, we've seen Koga get promoted, and Lance take back his place, but it doesn't make sense to me that he could just waltz up and become Champ.
actually, that's exactly what YOU do when you beat them. except you don't bother to wait around and fight other challengers. what's up with that, Player Character? show some respect for the position!
Overall: 8/10
In the remake
His official art doesn't show it, but Wallace is all the time posing his ass off, jazz fingers going wild, being basically the biggest flashiest most flamboyant trainer ever.
and it's pretty great. His color scheme is actually kinda subtle, being most white and cyan. maybe it might look like an Ice trainer to some, but the way everything about him is about flow, I don't think so. his cape flows like a waterfall, or spreads like a wave. it's a really neat design choice.
Then, in Emerald, he gets so full of himself he gets to be the Champion. Now, we've seen Koga get promoted, and Lance take back his place, but it doesn't make sense to me that he could just waltz up and become Champ.
actually, that's exactly what YOU do when you beat them. except you don't bother to wait around and fight other challengers. what's up with that, Player Character? show some respect for the position!
Overall: 8/10
In the remake
Friday, October 4, 2013
Tate and Liza of Mossdeep City
seriously thought these was two girls for the longest time
you know, there's not much chinese-dressed people in Pokemon. So it's good to see a little of that show up here, in these brats fashionable pajamas or whatever. I'd let my children sleep/pratice tai chi in those.
I also super like the idea of psychic twins being the gym leaders for a double-battles-only gym. Shows off the new system, which is good, because pretty much nobody else in the game did. While I'm on the subject, I just want to say how much I like triple battles, because it feels like I've got my actual party out there on the field and stuff, and it makes battling a lot more complicated and interesting, and I'd hate to see it gone in gen 6. so fingers crossed.
anyway, back to Tater and Liszt. I suppose they work, they're designs are more focused on looking like innocent twins rather than powerful psychics, but that works. because when you see two chinese twins in pajamas sitting together and holding hands and staring at you with shining unblinking eyes, you begin to expect them to have latent telekinetic powers. or at least I do.
Overall: 6/10
in the remake
you know, there's not much chinese-dressed people in Pokemon. So it's good to see a little of that show up here, in these brats fashionable pajamas or whatever. I'd let my children sleep/pratice tai chi in those.
I also super like the idea of psychic twins being the gym leaders for a double-battles-only gym. Shows off the new system, which is good, because pretty much nobody else in the game did. While I'm on the subject, I just want to say how much I like triple battles, because it feels like I've got my actual party out there on the field and stuff, and it makes battling a lot more complicated and interesting, and I'd hate to see it gone in gen 6. so fingers crossed.
anyway, back to Tater and Liszt. I suppose they work, they're designs are more focused on looking like innocent twins rather than powerful psychics, but that works. because when you see two chinese twins in pajamas sitting together and holding hands and staring at you with shining unblinking eyes, you begin to expect them to have latent telekinetic powers. or at least I do.
Overall: 6/10
in the remake
Thursday, October 3, 2013
Winoa of Fortree City
damn I forgot this one even existed
That's a pretty funky outfit she's wearing, I don't even know what to make of it. Like, I see an aviator's cap, okay. Hair going crazy like wings, okay. a choker I guess. Then some bizarre one-piece that turns into bloomers, which then turns into like sleeves for her legs? they can't really be called pants, I don't think. It's bizarre.
Like, is this what flight jumpsuits look like? I don't really think so. I don't really think Gamefreak knew what they were doing here. You just sort of breeze into her little Ewok-village-ass town, zap her or freeze her, and move on.
seriously, I don't remember shit about this girl. cool hat/hair, though.
Overall: 2/10
In the remake
That's a pretty funky outfit she's wearing, I don't even know what to make of it. Like, I see an aviator's cap, okay. Hair going crazy like wings, okay. a choker I guess. Then some bizarre one-piece that turns into bloomers, which then turns into like sleeves for her legs? they can't really be called pants, I don't think. It's bizarre.
Like, is this what flight jumpsuits look like? I don't really think so. I don't really think Gamefreak knew what they were doing here. You just sort of breeze into her little Ewok-village-ass town, zap her or freeze her, and move on.
seriously, I don't remember shit about this girl. cool hat/hair, though.
Overall: 2/10
In the remake
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
Norman of Petalburg City
No, May... I am your father.
Other than that little "twist", if you can even call it that, Norman is super boring. I mean, he's the Normal-type gym leader, I get it. Dude has about as much personality as Wonder Bread. He's Norman, and he's pretty frikken' normal.
I suppose having his gym revolve around using X Attack and X Defend and stuff is kinda unique, tho. Not that it mattered much, just gave my guys a free turn to attack.
He's got some sense of style, I suppose. I wear a sweater kinda like his, except grey. I dunno, he's pretty much living up to everything I'd expect out of a "Normal Gym Leader". I guess I shouldn't fault him too much. He actually feels like he's sort of a strategic all-rounder, but chooses to work with Normals because you have to specialize to own a gym, and they're the most flexible.
In the end, I suppose a totally normal score would be appropriate. Does "normal" not sound like a word to anyone else now? normal normal normal
Overall: 5/10
In the remake
Other than that little "twist", if you can even call it that, Norman is super boring. I mean, he's the Normal-type gym leader, I get it. Dude has about as much personality as Wonder Bread. He's Norman, and he's pretty frikken' normal.
I suppose having his gym revolve around using X Attack and X Defend and stuff is kinda unique, tho. Not that it mattered much, just gave my guys a free turn to attack.
He's got some sense of style, I suppose. I wear a sweater kinda like his, except grey. I dunno, he's pretty much living up to everything I'd expect out of a "Normal Gym Leader". I guess I shouldn't fault him too much. He actually feels like he's sort of a strategic all-rounder, but chooses to work with Normals because you have to specialize to own a gym, and they're the most flexible.
In the end, I suppose a totally normal score would be appropriate. Does "normal" not sound like a word to anyone else now? normal normal normal
Overall: 5/10
In the remake
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
October is my Favorite Month
I love October for a few reasons, and especially THIS October. Because Pokemon X and Y are coming out in less than two weeks. In case you didn't know.
So here's my self-imposed challenge - a post every day this month. Every single day, content of some kind comin' atcha.
I know I've got more than a few gym leaders and elite four members to get through, but I think I'm going to get through Hoenn and then stop. Because I'm getting bored. I want to wade into the Gen 6 Pokemon, and I don't want to wait too long. But I don't want to start immediately, either, because I need to actually PLAY the game before fully formulating my opinions.
so my plan is as follows -
1st - 6th: Hoenn gym leaders
7th - 11th: Hoenn elite four
12th - 19th: Random first impressions of the game
20th onward: 6th gen train gets rollin'
Any complaints about this plan? because this is looking like a damn fine plan to me. I like this plan.
So here's my self-imposed challenge - a post every day this month. Every single day, content of some kind comin' atcha.
I know I've got more than a few gym leaders and elite four members to get through, but I think I'm going to get through Hoenn and then stop. Because I'm getting bored. I want to wade into the Gen 6 Pokemon, and I don't want to wait too long. But I don't want to start immediately, either, because I need to actually PLAY the game before fully formulating my opinions.
so my plan is as follows -
1st - 6th: Hoenn gym leaders
7th - 11th: Hoenn elite four
12th - 19th: Random first impressions of the game
20th onward: 6th gen train gets rollin'
Any complaints about this plan? because this is looking like a damn fine plan to me. I like this plan.
Flannery of Lavaridge Town
THE MOST EXCITING TIME OF DAY HAS FLANNERY COME
now here's a little secret - I dig it when characters have baggy pants and tight tops. And I mean from a character-design perspective, male or female, I think it's neat. somehow combines a relaxed look (the bottoms) with an athletic look (the top).
so Flannery has that going for her. In addition to having hair that looks like it's exploding out of her head, and a helpful little flame symbol on her shirt. I'm saying she clearly communicates her Fire expertise, is what I'm saying. I'm also saying she's incredibly hot, and possibly the most memorable character in the entire 3rd Gen. She got that older-punk-girl thing going on. it's great
uh, yeah. I really like Flannery, I think that's apparent. I also think she has a good design, and Torkoal is a cool signature Pokemon. and she lives in a town his hotsprings next to a volcano, that's amazing.
Overall: 10/10
in the remake
now here's a little secret - I dig it when characters have baggy pants and tight tops. And I mean from a character-design perspective, male or female, I think it's neat. somehow combines a relaxed look (the bottoms) with an athletic look (the top).
so Flannery has that going for her. In addition to having hair that looks like it's exploding out of her head, and a helpful little flame symbol on her shirt. I'm saying she clearly communicates her Fire expertise, is what I'm saying. I'm also saying she's incredibly hot, and possibly the most memorable character in the entire 3rd Gen. She got that older-punk-girl thing going on. it's great
uh, yeah. I really like Flannery, I think that's apparent. I also think she has a good design, and Torkoal is a cool signature Pokemon. and she lives in a town his hotsprings next to a volcano, that's amazing.
Overall: 10/10
in the remake
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