nerdy-sessions

[nerdy-sessions]

Pokémon of the Week! #889: Zamazenta!

Welcome, nerds, to Pokémon of the Week!

Where I, Sesh, generate a random Pokémon to highlight each week! Last week, we covered our first legendary, one of the Swords of Justice, Virizion! You can find that post below:

The generator I use has blessed us with another legendary for this week's highlight! The shielded good boi knight of the Galar Region, Zamazenta!

As much as Sword & Shield received a lot of negative reception, I enjoyed it a lot! The story and lore behind the legendaries in these games is part of what drew me in!

So let's get to it!

~ORIGINS~

Zamazenta debuted in 2019's Sword & Shield versions for the Nintendo Switch. Zamazenta is the box-legendary for Shield version (box legendaries are the legendary Pokémon on the cover of each game box).

I mean...his face a literal shield, so...

When it isn't equipped with the Rusted Shield item, it takes it's "Hero of Many Battles" form; a battle-damaged form that is plain Fighting-type.

When it is equipped with the Rusted Shield, it takes on it's much-more-powerful "Crowned Shield" form that is Fighting and Steel-type.

Together with his younger sister Zacian, the box-legendary for Sword version, they supposed teamed up with a King hundreds of years ago to defend the Galar Region from a phenomenon known as "The Darkest Day", where Dynamax Pokémon ran amok. They then went into hiding to heal from their wounds and, like Arthurian Legend says, will one day return to save their country.

As the Galar Region is based on England, Zamazenta draws heavy inspiration from King Arthur's shield of legend, Wynebgwrthucher...

Um...wow...that name, tho...

It's got a simpler name, so I'll use that: Pridwen.

Zamazenta's appearance could also denote a reference to King Arthur's Knights of the Round Table, who all carried shields with the same insignia.

More simply, there is speculation Zamazenta is a wolf because wolves are native to Great Britain in general, and was used a symbol is many noble families throughout Britain.

In a more "out there" reference to Lithuanian mythology, Zamazenta resembles the Iron Wolf, which was supposedly seen in a vision by a Lithuanian Duke that inspired with to found the capital city of Vilnus.

Other fans speculate the armor plating on Zamazenta's body resembles "barding", which was a form of horse armor in the Middle Ages.

As Zamazenta (in it's Crown Shield form) is said to be able to withstand even the hardest blows from Dynamax Pokémon, he could be inspired as a phenomenon known as "irresistible force paradox."

What is that, you ask?

It's a philosophical question: "What happens when an unstoppable force meets an immovable object?"

Most people theorize that...well, nothing would happen. If this were the case with Zamazenta, his ability to withstand otherwise unstoppable Dynamax attack would be a reference to this. Zacian's sword, that is said to be able to cut through everything, upon meeting Zamazenta's shield, could cause this paradox.

Another example of possible mythological inspiration comes from ancient Greece, where a hunting hound named Laelaps could supposedly never be caught. When a deadly fox started hunting it in return, it escaped into the sky and became a constellation.

Speaking of constellations, Zamazenta could also be based on a star coined Sirius B.

Lastly, when using it's trademark attack, Behemoth Bash, it references a wolf from Morse mythology, Sköll, who chases after the sun.

Whew...a lot of lore. But I love it.

What do Sword & Shield's Pokedex entries say about the shield doggo?

Basically everything we've covered so far. That it teamed up with Zacian to save Galar back in the day. That it went into hiding to heal from it's wounds, waiting for another catastrophe to come back. That when it's equipped with it's shield, it can "shrug off" Dynamax attacks. In Galarian legend, it's been given the name "The Fighting Master's Shield."

The works.

~DESIGN~

Here's Zamazenta's official artwork:

Quoted from Zamazenta's biology section on Bulbapedia:

In its Hero of Many Battles form, Zamazenta is a large magenta lupine Pokémon with yellow eyes, a bulky frame, and a ponytail on its head. Its tail and ponytail are a deep blue; it also has deep blue accents on its neck and forelimbs. Its body is covered in battle scars and part of its right ear is missing. Its head and neck have thick fur resembling a shield. The Crowned Shield form causes Zamazenta to generate a set of golden armor covering the front of its body like a shield; while the side portion normally covers its forelimbs, it can slide forward to allow Zamazenta to use Behemoth Bash or protect itself from frontal attacks more effectively. Its ponytail also grows to cover most of its backside.

By absorbing metal particles, Zamazenta can change to its other form in battle. In the past, Zamazenta was feared and respected by people of Galar, and it worked together with a king to save the region. In legends, it was known as the Fighting Master's Shield due to its ability to deflect any attacks. By becoming a statue, it can rest for eons; even while asleep, it can cast illusions including a projection of itself. Zamazenta is capable of flying. It is variously believed to be the younger sibling or the rival of Zacian. When together with Zacian, it cancels out the power of Eternatus, even in its powerful Eternamax form.

Zamazenta's regal and majestic movements enable it to overwhelm opponents who face off against it. Zamazenta uses its golden shield to fend off attacks and as a weapon. The shield has tremendous strength, capable of withstanding scratches from the sharp claws of Dragon-type Pokémon, and attacks from Dynamax Pokémon. Its resolve does not falter in any battlefield, and it will charge at its enemies head on. By bashing with its full might, it is said that Zamazenta's power can cause cracks in the land, and that the resulting shockwaves can knock out hundreds of enemies.

Zamazenta is the only known Pokémon capable of learning the move Behemoth Bash. By using Behemoth Bash, it is said to be able to bore holes through mountains.

~ADVANTAGES~

LEGENDARY. FETCHIN'. POKEMON. 'nuff said. Amazingly high base stats.

It's best stats, obviously, are Defense and Special Defense. Both are tied at the insanely high number of 145. Field against Dynamax Pokémon and Pokémon with hard-hitting attacks.

Due to it's Fighting/Steel typing, it is highly resistant to 8 types of attacks: Normal, Rock, Bug, Steel, Grass, Ice, Dragon, and Dark.

It is completely immune to Poison-type attacks due to it's Steel-typing.

Despite it being a mainly defense-based Pokémon, it's base Attack stat is also very high at 130. It is also quite fast by default as well.

It's signature ability, Dauntless Shield, raises Zamazenta's Defense by 1 upon entry into battle.

It is the only known Pokémon capable of learning Behemoth Bash, a devastating Steel-type move. It never misses, and has 100 power.

~DISADVANTAGES~

The main disadvantage of any legendary Pokémon is how hard they are to capture (ya know...if you don't have a Master Ball) and how difficult they are to befriend and level up.

Despite it's high Defense and Special Defense, it's HP stat is surprisingly low. Avoid Pokémon with Defense-lowering moves. If it's Defense falls, it doesn't have the HP to back it up.

It's lowest base stat is it's Special Attack. Don't teach Zamazenta special attack moves. They won't have much effect.

DO NOT field against Fighting, Ground, or Fire-types.

~HOW TO OBTAIN~

As stated above, Zamazenta has only appeared and is obtainable in Sword & Shield versions. Both Zamazenta and Zacian are available for capture after completion of the main story.

It is a version-exclusive Pokémon for Shield (obviously). If you have Sword version, you'll have to obtain it by trade. Your rival Hop will obtain Zamazenta if you have Sword version.

In Shield version, after entering the Slumbering Weald post-game, you and Hop will encounter some of the stupidest looking villains the Pokemon Company have ever dreamed up, Sordward and Shielbert.

#dathairtho #ugh

They'll go off on some dumb exposition about how they are descended from Galar's royalty and have a right to control Zacian and Zamazenta...I guess...?

This will kick off a post-game quest will you will obtain the Rusted Shield item required to transform Zamazenta into it's Crowned Shield form. You will end up at the top of Rose Tower again, where you will have to battle and capture Zamazenta.

Again, make sure to save before the battle because, as with most legendaries, there is only one in the game.

~COOL ZAMAZENTA FANART~

As it is the box legendary for Shield version, there is plenty of epic fanart of this good boi shield doggo.

Gettin' ready to shield smash ya!

Taking a Dynamax-slaying break with Galar's non-legendary token good boi, Yamper!

Backing you up for an intense battle!

A more realistic take...?

Gearing up for a fight with his sister, Zacian!

~CONCLUSION~

WHAT A METAL FRIGGIN' POKEMON

BOTH LITERALLY AND FIGURATIVELY

He's really cool. Even though I'm one of the people who purchased Sword version, Zamazenta and his sister have some really cool medieval lore behind them. And as someone who made Medieval History as one of the emphases of his degree in college, nothing would make me happier.

Thoughts of this shield pupper? Let me know!

Join me next week for a really BEEG BUG.

[nerdy-sessions]

Pokémon of the Week! #640: Virizion!

Welcome, nerds, to Pokémon of the Week!

Where I, Sesh, generate a random Pokémon to highlight each week!

Last week, we covered Doug Dimmadome...er, I mean, Galarian Weezing and his non-stinkiness. You can find that post here:

This week is special, my friends. For the first time here at Pokémon of the Week, we have a legendary Pokémon as our featured guest! Virizion, on of the 3 (or 4) Swords of Justice from the Unova Region!

I am really excited to cover this amazing Pokémon! It's got come pretty metal lore behind it that I can't wait to get into!

~ORIGINS~

Virizion, a Grass and Fighting-type, debuted in 2010's Pokémon: Black & White versions for the Nintendo DS. She (I assume...she has a female voice in the anime movie she's in) appeared along with 3 other legendary Pokémon referred to as "The Swords of Justice"; Terrakion, Cobalion, and Keldeo. They all share the Fighting-type and the "Justified" ability. They also all share swordplay-based moves, such as Sacred Sword, thus justifying the name of their group.

Pokemon fans have collectively decided to compare Virizion and the others Swords to the Legendary Musketeers.

For those unfamiliar, the famous French novel The 3 Musketeers by Alexandre Dumas feature swashbuckling swordsman characters, fighting for justice in the cruel world of the French monarchy. Virizion and the other swords have major comparisons to the 4 main characters in this novel (a couple movie adaptations have been made, which I will use screenshots from).

Of the legendary Musketeers, Virizion herself shares a resemblance to Aramis. According to Bulbapedia, Virizion is "the best at swordplay" like Aramis, is feminine, and very romantic as opposed to the others in the group.

The shape of Virizion's head also shares a stark resemblance to tricorn hats worn by Musketeers of the colonial era.

As far as the animal Virizion appears to be based on, fans speculate it shares qualities of an antelope or a stag of some kind.

Some really cool lore, amiright???

But what do the Dex entries say about our green Sword of Justice?

Generation 5 entries about Virizion say that you might wanna look out of this thing, saying that "[t]his Pokémon fought humans in order to protect its friends."

Huh?

FOUGHT HUMANS?

I'm getting Legends: Arceus flashbacks here...and now I'm getting afraid of what a potential Legends: Kyurem game might be like.

Other entries say that it "sprouts blades" from it's head and swiftly cuts it's opponents down, and that it moves so fast it's opponents can't land a hit.

This tracks with Virizion's comparison to Aramis, supposedly the quickest and most skilled of the Musketeers.

Other Dex entries from later games are mostly the same, with the exception of Sword versions Dex entry, which states that it teamed up Cobalion and Terrakion to protect their friends from humans.

So all the Swords of Justice attacked humans that were mean to Pokemon...got it.

Jeez, evil team beware...you might get skewered by angry sword goats.

~DESIGN~

Here's Virizion's official artwork:

Quoted from Virizion's biology section on Bulbapedia:

"Virizion is a stag or antelope-like, quadrupedal Pokémon that is primarily green. On the sides of its head are long horns that end in dull, curled points. It has a pointed snout with a black blaze running from its nose to the back of its head. Its face, hind legs, and underside are white. There is a pinked-tipped leaf on each side of its neck, and leafy tufts on its shoulders. On its back, there are pointed tufts of fur forming a medium-long tail. Its lower legs resemble knee-high boots with pink highlights at the knees, and it has black hooves.

Like the other Swords of Justice, Virizion battled against humans in order to protect Pokémon. Virizion attacks its opponents by first darting around them with whirlwind-like speed, before using its horns to swiftly cut them down. The horns are as sharp as blades. In Generation V, Sacred Sword was its signature move.

~ADVANTAGES~

It's a LEGENDARY POKEMON. I'm always going to start with that when we get a legendary featured here on Pokémon of the Week. Not only is there only one of Virizion in each game you find it in, but all it's base states are ridiculously high.

It's best base stat is Special Defense. In fact, it has the highest special defense out of all of the Swords of Justice. Field Virizion against Pokémon that know heavy hitting special moves.

It's Grass/Fighting-typing is very rare; there aren't many Pokémon that have that type combo. Use Virizion against Water, Rock, Ground, and Dark-types. It is also highly resistant to Electric and other Grass-type.

It's base Speed, true to the lore, it also very high. If you are needing to outspeed your opponent to win a match, use Virizion. Odds are you'll win that race.

It's signature ability that is shares with the other Swords, "Justified", makes it so that if it is hit by a Dark-type attack, it's attack shoots up by 1 stage each time. That's a huge advantage over Dark-types; a deadly combo with any Fighting-types moves, like Sacred Sword, against Dark-types.

~DISADVANTAGES~

Legendary Pokémon are hard to capture and even more difficult to train once obtain...but you all know that by now (hopefully). They level up slower than normal Pokémon and are harder to befriend.

It may be fast and able to take special attacks well, but it's base Defense is it's lowest stat. If it gets hit by a hard-hitting physical move, it will go down just as fast as it can move.

DO NOT use against the deadly BIRB. Do NOT field against Flying-types. It's Grass and Fighting-type combo makes it QUADRUPLY WEAK to Flying moves.

Also avoid fielding Virizion against Fire, Poison, Psychic, Ice, and and Fairy-types.

~HOW TO OBTAIN~

As our first legendary Pokémon here on PotW, I would advise you to go mass-buy some Ultra Ball and Quick Balls...

Where can Virizion be found in each of the games it appears in? Well...as cool as Virizion is...it takes some tracking down.

Make sure to hit SAVE before battling this thing...as there is only one per game, as stated above!

Let's dive in.

In it's debut games Black & White, it can be found in the very depths of the Pinwheel Forest; a place called Rumination Field. You must battle and catch it.

In Black 2 & White 2, it appears later in the game on Route 11, where (in a small cutscene) it jumps off of a cliff to battle you.

In X & Y, it can only be obtained by trade from another game.

In the Gen 3 remakes Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire, Virizion (as well as Cobalion and Terrakion) can be found post-game while soaring on the Pathless Plain. If you want Virizion, it needs to be on a Monday or a Thursday...which is...oddly specific...

In Sun & Moon, it can only be obtained by trade from another game.

In Ultra Sun & Ultra Moon, Virizion can potentially be found post-game in the Ultra Space Wilds on a Rocky World.

Virizion is unobtainable in Let's Go! Pikachu & Let's Go! Eevee.

Originally, Virizion was yet another #dexitvictim when Sword & Shield were initially released. However, upon the release of the Crown Tundra expansion, you can find a Virizion (and the other Swords) via an event where you must track down 50 of it's footprints around the Tundra. Once you have done that, it will appear in the Giant's bed area.

Virizion is unobtainable in the Gen 4 remakes Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl.

Virizion is unobtainable in Legends: Arceus.

~COOL VIRIZION FANART~

Does a legendary Pokemon have cool fanart?

UM YES

Not even a question.

Takin' a well- deserved human-slaying break, I guess.

THE 3 POKETEERS! WITH HATS!

Well, ain't that a snarky grin. Channeling her inner Aramis, I suppose!

stabby stabby

A cool marker-esque piece; she gettin' ready to Razor Leaf ya!

~CONCLUSION~

I've always thought the Swords of Justice were cool! Though, Virizion has been my favorite...

Mostly because the others become ROAMING annoyances to capture...

Nah, her design is neat, and Aramis has always been my favorite 3 Musketeers character.

What are your thoughts on Virizion? Let me know!

Join me next week for...ANOTHER LEGENDARY! The goodest boy with the shield, Zamazenta!

[nerdy-sessions]

Pokémon of the Week! #110-A: Galarian Weezing!

Welcome, nerds, to Pokémon of the Week!

Where I, Sesh, generate a random Pokémon to highlight each week!

Last week, we covered the Pokemon universe's floating stink-mine, Weezing! Find that post below:

This week, we have something I've been looking forward to ALLLLLLLL WEEK: The Doug Dimmadome, Owner of the Dimmsdale Dimmadome Weezing! (aka: Weezing's variant from the Galar region!)

Mmmmm...yes, of COURSE it's British, top-hat Weezing! Wot wot, n' all that!

Does Galarian Weezing smell as bad as it's vanilla counterpart? Thankfully not.

~ORIGINS~

Galarian Weezing debuted in 2019's Sword & Shield versions for the Nintendo Switch. Thus far, Weezing's Galarian variant has only appeared in those games.

With normal Weezing being a pure Poison-type, Galarian Weezing has a Fairy-type added.

GAH! THE DREADED FAE-FOLK HAVE FINALLY MADE IT TO MY TUMBLR!

#PTSD

At the time of writing, Galarian Weezing is the ONLY Pokémon to have a Poison/Fairy-type combination. It's a unique typing because Fairy-types are weak to Poison-types, so adding the Fairy-type to a Poison-type like makes for some unique play strategies.

Galarian Weezing's appearance denotes a couple of things. Firstly, when Galarian Weezing was announced, the Internet did what it does best and related it's appearance to an obscure early 2000's cartoon reference (thus explaining the title art of this post). In Nickelodeon's The Fairly-Odd Parents, a background character named Doug Dimmadome (a rich real-estate and business tycoon in the town of Dimmsdale) would always been seen sporting a comically tall cowboy hat. It was SO TALL we could never see the top of it.

HA! HAHAHA! Classic...

I LOVED The Fairly-Odd Parents as a kid, as Galarian Weezing being compared to Dimmadome is one of my favorite things that the Internet has ever done.

In all seriousness though, Galarian Weezing's "hat" appendages seem to be an inspiration of Victorian-era British chimney hats British gentlemen wouldn't be caught dead without. Would make sense, considered Sword & Shield's Galar region is based on the U.K.

Time to flex my history-teacher muscles here, nerds.

The Industrial Revolution that mechanized the modern world took off in Britain during the Victorian Era. As such, factories (and their tall chimneys) were a common sight in big cities in Britain. Galarian Weezing's hat-like appendages also appear to make a reference to those factory chimneys and the pollution they shot into the air.

Seems like a suitable habitat for a vanilla Weezing, right? We learned last week that Weezing loved gross places like this.

But here's the kicker about Galarian Weezing.

That smog you see coming out of it's hat things?

Clean air.

WUT

According to the Sword Pokedex entry regarding our Galarian friend, it says Galarian Weezing "consumes particles that contaminate the air" and "[i]nstead of leaving droppings, it expels clean air."

Clean. Air.

So our Galarian friend is the exact opposite of our sentient fart-cloud from last week! This thing cleans the air instead of stinking it up!

So how did Weezings in Galar go from stinking to cleaning???

Evolution, I guess? (And not the instant Pokemon kind of evolution. The real-life kind that takes years.)

Shield's Pokedex entry states that "during a time when droves of factories fouled the air with pollution, Weezing changed into this form for some reason."

It's just one of those things that not even the Pokémon professors and their Pokedex can't answer for sure. My guess? The air in Galar got too stinky for even Weezing, so Weezing adapted to clean the air as opposed to fouling it. Just like how animals in real-life adapt to live in and even help their environments.

Sounds like we could use some Galarian Weezings in the real world when we have thick air pollution in bigger cities. They'd clean it right up.

What a cool 180 the designers made when designing this variant.

~DESIGN~

Here's Galarian Weezing's official artwork:

Quoted from Galarian Weezing's biology section on Bulbapedia:

In the Galar region, its appearance has changed due to absorbing polluted air from factories. It has a gray body with the skull, crossbones, and ring changed to the color yellow. Both heads have a hat-like tube located on top of them that constantly releases purified air. Five puffs of green poison gas clouds can be seen floating around it. The gas clouds also partly cover its faces: the larger head has a mustache-like cloud on its upper lip, while the smaller head has clouds on its face in the shape of eyebrows and a beard.

Galarian Weezing consumes particles from the polluted air, and expels clean air instead of droppings. The toxins within Weezing's body are accumulated into poison gas clouds that leaks and drifts around it. The gas is Weezing's best weapon in battle, being potent enough to stun and immobilize an opponent with just a whiff. Galarian Weezing preys on Trubbish for the fumes it produces.

~ADVANTAGES~

With it's added Fairy-typing, Galarian Weezing is highly resistant to lots of different types of attacks, including Dragon, Fighting, and Dark-types.

As one of the deadly fae-folk, it it now a DRAGON SLAYER.

Like it's vanilla counterpart, it is possible for Galarian Weezing to have the "Levitate" ability, making it immune to Ground-type attacks (which it is weak to). Also like normal Weezing, it could also have the "Neutralizing Gas" ability, which nullifies the abilities of all Pokémon on the field when it is first sent out.

It's hidden ability "Misty Surge" generates a Misty Terrain battlefield type upon entering battle. What does this even do, you ask? It halves the power of Dragon-type moves while it is in effect, in addition to transforming some moves into Fairy-type moves. It can even cure non-volatile status conditions of some Pokémon, like a Burn or Poison.

It's base stats are the same as vanilla Weezing's. As such, it's base Defense is the highest stats. This makes Galarian Weezing a wall to try and take down with it's natural type resistances.

It is the only known Pokémon capable of learning the Fairy-type move "Strange Steam." As such, it is Galarian Weezing's "signature" move. It has a chance of confusing the target in addition to dealing damage. Great move!

~DISADVANTAGES~

Though it's added Fairy-typing is mostly an advantageous thing, it makes Galarian Weezing the only Fairy-type weak to Psychic-type moves. It's OG Poison-typing didn't go away, and trainers need to be cautious of that.

It is also now weak to Steel-type moves as a Fairy-type.

It has the same offensive problems as vanilla Weezing. It's base Attack stat isn't very high, and trainers using Galarian Weezing should focus on moves that whittle down the opponent's HP instead of hard-hitting attacks.

It's HP stat is also very low, like Kantonian Weezing.

~HOW TO OBTAIN~

As stated above, Sword & Shield are currently the only games where Galarian Weezing can be obtained. Here's how to do it:

Catch a Koffing in the Galar region and evolve it by leveling it up to level 35. (NOTE: If you level up a Weezing traded from a previous generation, it will evolve into normal Weezing. The Koffing needs to be caught in the wild in Sword & Shield to get a Galarian Weezing).

If you don't want to go the evolution route, wild Galarian Weezing can be found in the Wild Area in East lake Axewell and the Lake of Outrage. They can also be found in the Slumbering Weald later in the game.

It is also possible to battle and catch a Dynamax Galarian Weezing in a Max Raid Battle in the following locations: East Lake Axewell, Giant's Cap, Hammerlocke Hills, Motostoke Riverbank, and North Lake Miloch.

~COOL GALARIAN WEEZING FANART~

Let's see if our air-friendly Weezing has some epic art like it's smelly counterpart...

Cleanin' the air while lookin' down at me wasting my life on Tumblr...

Some cool pixelated art of Galarian Weezing that makes it look like it's fouling the air instead of cleaning it...interesting.

Styled like it's an enemy in the Legend of Zelda: The Windwaker game. Love it.

A What If...? design of a potential Gigantimax form for Galarian Weezing.

HE'S WITH A CHIMNEY SWEEP! Oi Bruv, that's kinda cute, in'it?

~CONCLUSION~

I've always thought Galarian Weezing's design was fun and interesting, and the lore behind it is pretty cool, too. I'm just...not a big fan of Poison-types usage-wise, ya know? I'm more of a had-hitting battler. I still like it, though!

Any of you use Galarian Weezing in your playthroughs of Sword & Shield? Let me know!

Join me next week for our FIRST LEGENDARY on Pokemon of the Week! One of the Swords of Justice, Virizion!

[nerdy-sessions]

Pokémon of the Week! #110: Weezing!

Welcome, nerds, to Pokémon of the Week!

Where I, Sesh, generate a random Pokémon to highlight each week!

Last week, we highlighted the zappy, pre-evolution from Johto, Elekid! Find that post down below!

This week, we go back once again to the OG 151 to highlight an infamous floating ball of farts, Weezing! Most recognizable for it's appearance in the original anime series as the signature Pokémon of the titular nincompoop, James, from Team Rocket!

Does this sentient poison-spewing cloud of toxic gas have a lot of cool trivia and and lore behind it?!?

I sure hope so, or I'll be deviating to fart jokes a lot. That's all I got, otherwise.

~ORIGINS~

Weezing debuted as one of the original 151 Pokémon in Pokemon Red & Blue versions for the GameBoy Color in 1996. It often appeared as an enemy Pokémon belonging to Team Rocket grunts the player would fight.

In Pokémon Yellow, which has Jessie & James from Team Rocket in the game, James uses his Weezing against the player just like he does against Ash in the anime.

Weezing is a Poison-type Pokémon, marking the first Poison-type we've covered here at Pokémon of the Week. Poison is for sure a unique typing, with most moves being centered around the gradual weakening of your opponent using the Poison status condition rather than brute force attacks.

Ya know...THE THING THAT CAUSED YOUR SCREEN TO SHAKE AS YOUR POKEMON SLOWLY DIED OFF-SCREEN IN THE OLD GAMES

#stressincarnate

No wonder Weezing is usually depicted as a villain in the anime. Besides James having one originally, other villains (main and side villains) have often been depicted as using Weezing in battle as well.

So what's the lore behind this literal gasbag?

Let's start with a fun fact. In the Red & Blue beta, Weezing had the codename "La". People have theorized this was meant to be a reference to the polluted air in Los Angeles, California.

Yuck...

I mean, Weezing would probably live in big cities with lots of air pollution like this in real life, because we learn from Dex entries that's literally what they do in the Pokémon world, but we'll get to that in a moment.

Bulbapedia states that, seeing how it looks and floats around (AND HAVE A TENDENCY TO SELF-DESTRUCT), that Weezing's appearance could most likely be attributed to naval mines

Some also speculate that the designers created Weezing and it's pre-evolution, Koffing, to represent the fear that increased air pollution could create undesirable lifeforms like them in real-life. Hence, the skull and crossbones symbol on Weezing's bigger head. I mean...it's literally called Weezing...ya know...just add an H after the W...

Support of this pollution theory is the case that Weezing looks like a diagram of a molecule with the way it's heads are attached.

Now to the Podedex entries!

In the Pokedex for Red & Blue, it says that "[w]here two kinds of poison gases meet, 2 Koffings can fuse into a Weezing over many years."

...wut...

So originally, Weezing didn't evolve normally? Yikes...I mean, it makes sense, given how it looks. But the implications behind this are crazy...like...can other Pokémon fuse in ways like this?

...questions for later.

Yellow version's Pokedex states that it lives and grows by sucking in toxic chemicals and air from garbage dumps.

That tracks. Maybe having a Weezing around could be a good thing then? If it doesn't stink too badly, it could just absorb the stink.

Gold's entries states that it's constantly being an alchemist, mixing poisonous gases inside it's 2 heads, which can make them inflate and deflate.

Silver version's entry is...shocking. It says "top-grade perfume" is made from Weezing's poisonous gases by...diluting it, I guess.

So...women in the Pokémon universe be walking around spraying Poke-farts on themselves?

Dang. That's a bruh moment right there.

Generation 3's entries get more specific about where Weezing makes it's home, saying that it will find "dirty, unkempt" houses and go through the trash when the people living there sleep.

Yuck...so ya'll don't want Poison-types sifting through your garbage, clean your friggin' house!

Another Gen 3 entry says that the more it mixes it's gases, the stinkier it gets. Why would anyone want this thing? I can't even...

Generation 4 gets spicy with it's Weezing lore. In Diamond, Pearl, & Platinum versions, the Pokedex says that in "rare cases", a TRIPLET variety of Weezing have been documented. 3 HEADS. Despite this, nothing official has ever been done with this bit of trivia.

So leave it to the fans! HERE'S SOME COOL FANART OF A TRIPLET VERSION:

Next week, we will give the Galarian variant of Weezing it's own post. But Sword & Shield's Pokedex entries on vanilla Weezing say that although it isn't as good at sucking in air like it's Galarian counterpart, it's gases are much more...potent.

Again...yuck. I'm just talking about Pokefarts here, guys. That's what it keeps going back to.

~DESIGN~

Here's Weezing's official artwork:

Quoted from Weezing's biology section on Bulbapedia:

"Weezing is a purple Pokémon consisting of two spherical heads connected by a thin tube with another sphere in the center. The heads have different sizes and features. The left head is larger and has prominent eyebrows, pointed teeth protruding from its lower jaw, and two flat teeth in its upper jaw. The smaller, right head simply has two pointed teeth, one at each corner of its mouth. The larger head has a cream-colored skull-and-crossbones marking below its face, while the smaller head has a ring marking instead. It is covered with many geyser-like protrusions, which usually expel mustard-colored gases. Weezing is said to form when poisonous gases pool and two Koffing fuse over many years. Very rarely, two Koffing can become a Weezing in a short time span because of a sudden mutation. Triplet Weezing have been discovered, although they are extremely rare.

Each of Weezing's heads contains a different toxin. It mixes its gases by inflating one head and deflating the other. When its gases mix, Weezing becomes more toxic and putrid. Weezing can hover in midair, presumably due to gases lighter than air, as is the case for Koffing. Despite their stench and poison, Weezing's gases can be used to make top-grade perfume by diluting them to the highest level.

Weezing lives in urban areas. It seeks a dirty, unkempt house and nests there. At night, when the people in the house are asleep, it will go through the trash. Weezing feeds on the dust, microorganisms, and especially gases emitted by garbage and toxic waste. Weezing's body expands and smells worse upon inhaling poisonous gases. The Kantonian Weezing used to be common in Galar and created more potent toxins than their Galarian relatives."

~ADVANTAGES~

Pure Poison-types like Weezing are only weak to Ground and Psychic attacks. They are highly resistant to a lot of other types as well. (NOTE: If your Weezing has the "Levitate" ability, Ground-type moves will have NO EFFECT on your Weezing. Another plus, Holmes.)

It's attack will do well against Grass-types, as well as being one of the few weaknesses those dang Fairy-types have. SLAY THE FAE-FOLK, YOU FLOATING FART CLOUD!

It has an exceptionally high base Defense stat at 120. Physical attacks won't do much against it, so field Weezing against physical heavy-hitters.

If your Koffing has the signature "Neutralizing Gas" ability, upon entering battle, the abilities of all fielded Pokémon will be nullified.

If your Weezing has the hidden ability "Stench"...pfft, what a name...your Weezing has an increased chance to make your opponent flinch if hit by an attack.

~DISADVANTAGES~

As a Poison-type, do not use against Ground-types (unless it has the "Levitate" ability that I mentioned) or Psychic-types.

As potent as it's fart clouds may be, it's Poison-type moves will have no effect on Steel-types, so I wouldn't recommend using Weezing against Steel-types, either.

It's HP and Speed base stats are low. It's slow and can't take a hard hit.

Weezing doesn't have a lot of heavy-hitting physical attacks in it's potential moveset...ya know, besides SELF-DESTRUCT.

~HOW TO OBTAIN~

Since it's been around since the ol' days of Gen 1, we've got quite a bit to cover here, so once more, buckle up. There are many ways to obtain this sentient stink mine.

In any of the games were Weezing is available, you can obtain a Weezing via evolution by catching a Koffing and leveling it up to 35.

In Red & Blue, wild Weezing can be caught in the Pokémon Mansion on Cinnibar Island.

In Gold & Silver versions, you'll have to catch a Koffing in the Burned Tower and evolve it. In Crystal version, wild Weezing can be found with Koffing at the Burned Tower.

In Ruby, Sapphire, & Emerald versions, you'll have to catch a Koffing and evolve it. Wild Koffing can be found on the Fiery Path in all 3 games.

In the Gen 1 remakes FireRed & LeafGreen, wild Weezing can again be found in the Pokemon Mansion like in Red & Blue.

In Diamond, Pearl, & Platinum versions, wild Weezing can be found postgame on Route 227 and Stark Mountain.

Weezing is not obtainable in the wild in Black & White versions. However, they can be obtained in Black 2 & White 2 at the P2 Laboratory and traded to Black & White if you wish.

Weezing is not obtainable in X & Y versions, except through trade with Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire versions, where you'll have to catch a wild Koffing from the Fiery Path and evolve it like in the original Ruby, Sapphire, & Emerald.

Weezing is not obtainable in the wild in Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun, & Ultra Moon. However, if you have a Weezing from past games stored in Pokémon Bank, you can bring a Weezing to the Alola Region and stink it up.

In the again unneeded Gen 1 remakes Let's Go! Pikachu & Eevee versions, Weezing is a version exclusive Pokémon to Let's Go! Eevee, where it can be found at the Power Plant and, again, at the Pokémon mansion.

There are only 2 ways to get a vanilla Weezing in Sword & Shield versions. If you catch a wild Koffing and evolve it, it will become the Galarian Weezing. To get vanilla Weezing you need to either transfer it from Pokémon Bank, or (if you have the expansion pass) trade a Galarian Weezing for a vanilla one with an NPC named Regina on the Isle of Armor.

In the Gen 4 remakes Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl, Weezing can again be obtained postgame on Route 227 and Stark Mountain. In addition, wild Weezing can possibly be found in the Grand Underground in swampy biomes.

Weezing is not obtainable in Legends: Arceus.

~COOL WEEZING FANART~

Can a sentient fart cloud have any fanart at all? The answer is...yes. But some of it is...

Very realistic and disturbing.

So I, Sesh, ventured bravely once more into the void known as Google images to find some descent Weezing fanart!

This one looks like it's water-color painting, which is pretty neat.

Born of the stink, it is happeh in the stink.

HOLY MOLY HE'S PUFFIN' ON A CUBAN!

Quite possibly one of the only thing this floating fart would be good for in real life...

An actually really cool idea for a potential Fire-type Mega Form!

~CONCLUSION~

I'll be honest, aside from having an appreciation for Weezing because of James having one in the anime, I'm not really the biggest fan of Weezing or Poison-types in general.

HOWever, it was fun to lurk around the Internet finding lore behind this literal stink-stain on the Pokeverse.

What are your thoughts on Weezing? Have any of you ever used one? Let me know!

Until next week when WE highlight the far more interesting DOUG DIMMADOME, OWNER OF THE DIMMSDALE DIMMADOME Weezing!

[nerdy-sessions]

Pokémon of the Week! #239: Elekid!

Welcome, nerds, to Pokémon of the Week!

Where I, Sesh, generate a random Pokémon to highlight each week!

Last week, we highlighted the flappin' apple dragon, Flapple! You can find that post down below:

This week, we have our first Pokémon of the Week that isn't a final evolution form. Rather, we have a "baby" form. The pre-evolution of OG Electric-type 'mon, Electabuzz: Elekid!

Does this energetic, slightly angry "baby" 'mon have anything more to it than being based on an electrical plug?

Let's find out and get to it!

~ORIGINS~

Elekid debuted in 1999's Gold & Silver versions for the GameBoy Color. Generation 2 introduced a handful of "baby" pre-evolutions for some of the OG 151 Pokémon, such as Pichu and Magby. As stated above, Elekid was introduced as the pre-evolution of Electabuzz alongside the other "babies".

Elekid is a pure Electric-type Pokémon, and lemme just take this opportunity to say how much I LOVE Electric-types! Fire-types are my best true love, but Electric-types are a close second.

Why?

They are only weak to ONE TYPE: Ground.

And that's pretty neat.

In the anime, pro-douchebag rival Paul from the Diamond & Pearl seasons of the anime has an Elekid. It evolved into an Electabuzz later, but dang, is Elekid cute in the anime.

Other Elekid have made appearance a time or two, and overall, has an iconic look I feel most Pokefans will recognize.

Unfortunately...

I can't really find any super cool lore behind Elekid...

The obvious inspiration for Elekid are American and (to my surprise) Japanese electrical plugs. I had NO IDEA we had the same voltage as Japan here in the states...I need to pay more attention in anime, I guess.

#shocking

BUT let's move on to what the Pokedex has to say about our angry electric child.

According to Generation 2, Elekid generates electricity by spinning it's arms. It also loves to play while thunderstorms, hoping to steal some delicious electricity from the sky. from "violent thunder".

Generation 3 Pokedex entries state that when it's charged, it cannot touch metal, or all of the stored electricity it has will discharge.

Oof. Silly little baby Pokémon...learn your BASIC SCIENCE ON CONDUCTIVITY, DUDE.

Generation 4 dex entries add on the fact that Elekid can't store electricity it creates itself, which is why it constantly spins it's arms to charge itself and why it plays in thunderstorms hoping to get struck. It's also made known there's a small electric current that's constantly flowing between it's horns...er, prongs...

A Generation 5 dex entry states that spinning it's arms to generate electricity gives it's horns a "light blue" color.

Um...ok? Doesn't show in the games or art, but ok. Maybe it's in the anime?

Generation 7 dex entries tell us that...pff...Elekid uses electrical outlets as "baby bottles"...

...right. Guess it sneaks into people's houses to suckle energy from outlets.

Gen 7 also introduces a rivalry between Elekid and Gen 7 Pikachu clone Togedemaru, competing for electricity.

Gen 7 also gives advice to potential trainers who want to raise an Elekid, saying that since thunderstorms are something they love, "it can be useful to record that sound and play it when Elekid's feeling down."

That's...kind of adorable.

The Legends: Arceus Pokedex says that if you hear children laughing and playing in the wilderness during a thunderstorm, it is actually Elekid playing in the storm.

#creepy

~DESIGN~

Here's Elekid's official artwork:

Quoted from Elekid's biology section on Bulbapedia:

"Elekid is a yellow, round-bodied Pokémon with black stripes. Elekid's arms are bulky in proportion to its body, and it has three claws instead of fingers. It has two stripes on its arms, which wrap all the way around. There are two horns on top of its head which resemble the prongs of a plug, complete with holes in their sides. These horns glow bluish-white when Elekid is fully charged. Elekid has a black lightning bolt marking on its chest. Two rows of stripes are near the marking, with the pattern continuing around its lower back. Its legs are black, and its feet are rounded and toeless.

Elekid tends to become restless and full-on rowdy when it hears the sound of thunderstorm coming, and likes to play out in the middle of thunderstorms. It can generate electricity by rotating its arms, but it tires easily and can only charge a small amount. Elekid cannot store the electricity it generates, so it prefers to break into the houses of humans in order to consume electricity from their electrical outlets. It lives in the grasslands."

~ADVANTAGES~

As I've said before, the biggest advantage all pure Electric-types have is a weakness to only 1 type: Ground.

Very useful against Water and Flying-types (if this li'l baby knows any good Electric moves).

It's resistant to Steel moves as well (in a throwback to our lesson on Electrical conductivity from earlier).

It's ability, "Static", is a common Electric-type ability. But BOY is it useful. If your Elekid is hit by a physical attack, there's a 30% chance the offender will end up paralyzed. This can even effect Ground-types.

If your Elekid has the hidden ability "Vital Spirit", it CAN'T FALL ASLEEP. That's awesome.

It's pretty fast for a baby Pokemon. It's highest stat is Speed at 95.

~DISADVANTAGES~

It's biggest disadvantage is that it's a baby. Simple as that. It's base stats are all really low (with the exception of it's Speed kind of). Unevolved, it won't be very useful as a endgame Pokémon or against bosses or gym leaders.

Obviously, don't use against Ground-types. #onlyweakness

~HOW TO OBTAIN~

Elekid's been around since Gen 2, so like with Dewgong, buckle up.

In it's debut games Gold & Silver, Elekid can only be obtained by breeding Electabuzz at the Pokemon Daycare and hatching the resulting egg.

In Crystal version, in addition to the breeding tactic, the player can receive an Odd Egg on Route 34 from an NPC. This egg can potentially hatch into any of Gen 2's baby Pokemon, including Elekid.

In all the games in Generation 3, Elekid can only be obtained via breeding Electabuzz in FireRed version and trading it over.

In Diamond & Pearl versions, wild Elekid can be found in Route 205 and by the Valley Windworks (a power plant...which makes sense).

In Generation 5, Elekid is a version exclusive Pokémon that can only be obtained in White and White 2 versions. In White version, wild Elekid can be found in the White Forest. In White 2, wild Elekid can be found in the Virbank Complex.

In X & Y versions, Elekid is only obtainable via breeding Electabuzz and it's evolved form, Electivire.

In Gen 3 remakes Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire, wild Elekid can be found on a Mirage Mountain postgame.

In Sun & Moon versions, wild Elekid can be found on Route 12 and Blush Mountain.

In Ultra Sun & Ultra Moon versions, in addition to Route 12 and Blush Mountain, wild Elekid can be found on Mount Hokulani.

Elekid is unobtainable in Let's Go! Pikachu & Let's Go! Eevee.

Elekid was originally a #dexit victim in Sword & Shield, not being included upon release. Upon the release of the Crown Tundra Expansion, Elekid and it's evolutions were reintroduced. Elekid is only catchable in certain areas of the Crown Tundra.

~COOL ELEKID FANART~

Our electric baby here actually has some pretty epic fanart!

The Elekid family of Electric beasties!

HE GON PUNCH U

Finally found some art of the supposed "light blue" electricity it can generate...

BLEH

I'm a real fan of these cartoony takes on Pokémon that I've been finding.

~CONCLUSION~

In my first playthrough of White 2, I did catch myself an Elekid at the Virbank Complex pretty early in the game. Before evolving it into Electabuzz at level 30, it was a pretty solid beginning-of-the-game Pokémon!

AND IT'S GOT ATTITUDE

What are your thoughts on Elekid? Have you ever used one? Let me know!

Until next time! Join me next week for a classic villain from the anime and games that spews farts into the air!

[nerdy-sessions]

Pokemon of the Week! #841: Flapple!

Welcome, nerds, to Pokémon of the Week!

Where I, Sesh, generate a random Pokémon to highlight each week!

Last week, we highlighted the OG water pupper good boi Dewgong. That post can be found down below:

This week, we are highlighting a...very unique Pokémon. An adorable, yet powerful, apple-based Dragon-type, Flapple!

I mean, he's a flappin' apple! FLAPPLE!

HE'S A FLAPPIN' DAD JOKE, GUYS!

So let's dive in!

~ORIGINS~

Flapple debuted in 2019's Sword & Shield versions for the Nintendo Switch. Thus far, these are the only games Flapple has appeared in.

Besides a handful of Mega Evolutions (as far as I know), Flapple and it's other evolutions are the only Pokémon dual-typed at Dragon and Grass.

I feel like Flapple is overlooked quite a bit. I mean, Sword & Shield has another dragon type that kind of overshadows our appley friend here.

And it's Ghost and Dragon type.

But this is a Flapple highlight post, not a Dragapult post...

Flapple hasn't had much media attention in the anime, either, which might contribute to it taking a back seat to Dragauplt.

BUT DRAGAPULT DOESN'T HAVE A GIGANTAMAX FORM

For those out of the know, Dynamax and Gigantamax are gimmicks from Sword & Shield that allow Pokémon to grow to massive sizes for 3 turns in certain locations, changing their moves into HUGE DEATH MOVES THAT SWALLOW ENEMY POKEMON WHOLE.

Dynamax just increases size, but some Pokémon have Gigantamax forms, which increase size and change their appearance as well.

So Flapple appears to turn into a massive, gooey apple worm when it Gigantamaxes. Go figure. It's divergent evolution, Appletun, shares this G-Max form with Flapple, which is unique.

Which segues quite nicely into my next point...

Clearly, Flapple is inspired by worms that burrow into apples to feed on their cores. Geometer moth larvae in particular, according to Bulbapedia.

Why geometer moths? Well, according to the Pokedex in Sword version, Flapple keeps "an acid capable of causing chemical burns" in its cheeks. Geometer moth larvae feed on apple cores to ingest a chemical compound called 'amygdalin', which releases CYANIDE into the body when digested.

bruh

The fact it's a dragon may be a pun on the old English way of referring to dragons as "wyrms".

So...yeah. A flappin' apple wyrm.

Flapple may also be inspired by the tale of Ladon, a mythical Greek dragon that guards golden apples in the garden of the Hesperides, nymphs that supposedly controlled the sunsets. Below is a statue of Hercules fighting it:

In a more Biblical idea, Flapple may also be inspired by Satan, in the form of a serpent, persuading Eve to eat the forbidden fruit in the book of Genesis. That might be a bit of a stretch, but it still works.

This next idea of it's inspiration, though, is freakin' metal.

Flapple's signature move, Grav Apple (which causes giant apples of draconic death to fall on your opponent), may imply an inspiration from the discovery of gravity by Sir Isaac Newton in England when an apple supposedly fell on his head. As Galar is based on England, that isn't too much of a stretch at all.

SO MUCH FLAPPIN' APPLE-BASED LORE TO EXPLORE

One more fun apple fact for ya'll...

When it's in it's G-Max form, the Shield Pokedex entry states that when it stretches out it's neck, "the strong aroma of its nectar pours out. The scent is so sickeningly sweet that one whiff makes other Pokémon faint."

MOTHER OF

This flappin' dragon wants to make you faint with it's honey-smellin' neck farts.

Anyway...

~DESIGN~

Here's Flapple's official artwork:

Quoted from Flapple's biology section on Bulbapedia:

"Flapple is a green, worm-like dragon Pokémon with a light green underside and yellow eyes. It uses parts of an apple to form its body. The top part of the apple sits on the top of its head, with a single horn sticking out; the bottom of the apple is attached to its tail; and the sides are attached to its limbs, which have three-clawed hands, allowing them to act as wings.

Its cheeks store acid strong enough to induce chemical burns. It can attack by spitting this acid at its targets. It is also able to disguise itself as an apple by folding its wings."

Below is the official art for G-Max Flapple:

Next, the biology section on it's G-Max form:

"When exposed to Gigantamax energy, Flapple changes into the shape of a giant apple with a green dragon-like Pokémon inside. Its leaf-like eyestalks stand up straight and it has the top of the apple on its head with yellow carvings on the apple resembling nostrils. Its tail is elongated and wraps around the base of the apple. The Pokémon has rounded cheeks and hangs its mouth open letting a red tongue hang out of its mouth. Three red clouds float around the neck.

The sweet nectar that covers its body increases in thickness, allowing it to absorb more damage than normal. It can shoot out nectar, enough to be able drown its opponents in the blast of nectar. Flapple can produce significantly sweeter nectar in Gigantamax form. An intensely sweet aroma of nectar pours out when it stretches its neck, and this aroma is so sweet it can cause other Pokémon to faint by merely taking a sniff of the scent."

~ADVANTAGES~

Flapple is best fielded type-wise against Water-types, as it's grass typing makes for a huge advantage against them.

Flapple is highly resistant against Ground and Electric-types as well.

Flapple has an exceptionally high base Attack stat at 110. Teach it physical attacks that hit hard. It's Special Attack state is not that far behind at 95.

Your Flapple may have the signature ability "Ripen". If so, this doubles the effect of berries used on it in battle.

If your Flapple has the "Gluttony" ability, HP-restoring berries will take effect at 50% HP rather than 25% HP.

Further making Flapple a really heavy-hitter, if your Flapple has the hidden ability "Hustle", upon entering battle, your Flapple's Attack state will automatically skyrocket by 50%.

It's G-Max form HITS EVEN HARDER.

~DISADVANTAGES~

Dragon-types hate Ice-types normally. But DO NOT field Flapple against Ice-types AT ALL. It's added Grass-typing makes it QUADRUPPLY WEAK to Ice.

Like other Dragons, it is weak to other Dragon moves, as well as Ice.

It's Grass-typing makes this Dragon-type weak to more things than normal Dragon-types. Be cautious when fielding against Flying, Poison, and Bug-types.

It's kind of a glass cannon. It's lowest base state is Special Defense, and can't take hard hits very well.

Going back to the "Hustle" hidden ability; though your Attack skyrockets 50%, the accuracy of your physical moves goes down by 20%. Make sure to use moves with high base Accuracy if your Flapple has "Hustle", or you'll be missing your target a lot.

Flapple is capable of learning the hard-hitting move "Heavy Slam". However, it is the lightest Pokémon capable of doing so. As a result, the damage it deals out using "Heavy Slam" is actually quite low. I wouldn't recommend teaching it "Heavy Slam."

~HOW TO OBTAIN~

As stated earlier, the only games Flapple are obtainable in as of the writing of this post are the Sword & Shield versions, where it debuted.

Catch it's base form, Applin, and evolve it. Applin can be found it quite a bit of locations; Route 5, and in possible Max Raid battles in the Wild Area at Dusty Bowl, Giant's Mirror, Axew's Eye, Bridge Field, Dappled Grove, Giant's Mirror, Rolling Fields, and the Stony Wilderness. It can also be found in multiple locations in the expansion pass zones which I won't list.

Evolve Applin into Flapple by giving it a Tart Apple. Tart Apples are only available in Sword version, and cannot be purchased or found in Shield, making Flapple somewhat of a version exclusive Pokémon. If you have Sword version, you can by a Tart Apple from the Pokemart in Hammerlocke. Otherwise, you'll have to try your luck finding a Tart Apple in the Wild Area at Axew's Eye.

If you'd rather skip the drama of tracking down a flappin' Tart Apple for evolution, you can obtain a Flapple directly exclusively in Sword version. You'll need to battle and capture it in possible Max Raid battles in Axew's Eye, Bridge Field, Dappled Grove, Giant's Mirror, and Stony Wilderness. If you want to find one with the ability to G-Max, you'll need to narrow your search to the Dappled Grove.

~COOL FLAPPLE FANART~

Does Flapple have cool fanart, you may ask yourself? IT SURE AS FLAP DOES!

D'aww...it's cute. I get a Looney Tunes vibe from this design.

Getting ready to spew some hazardous apple-based cyanide at ya!

Hanging out with it's Shield exclusive brother/sister, Appletun!

The Pokémon Apple family!

Oh no! I don't think it knows it's also throwing anxiety-apples, too!

~CONCLUSION~

Maybe one day the Pokémon of the Week will be one I've actively had on my team. As much as I enjoyed learning all the flappin' apple-based lore about Flapple, I haven't ever used one. I do really like the idea behind it, even if it is a little silly. Overall, a solid Attack 'mon with a unique typing I like a lot!

Have you guys ever used a Flapple? What are your thoughts? Let me know!

Until next time! Join me next week for a real short-fused pre-evolution 'mon with a temper!

[nerdy-sessions]

Toy Story 2 - Buzz Lightyear to the Rescue! Review: Nostalgia on the PS5

Once upon a time, my younger brother @genwzrd came to visit me at my house after spending almost a year in England getting a Master's degree. One of things he was very excited to see (besides my little girl and...ya know...me) was my brand spanking new PlayStation5. We've both been PlayStation purists since the PS2 when we were kids.

So what game...what utter graphical masterpiece...did I dazzle him with first, you ask? Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart? The Last of Us Part 2? Far Cry 6? Ghost of Tsushima?! GOAT SIMULATOR!?

Nah. This.

THIS MASTERPIECE

The first game I showed my brother on the PlayStation5 was Toy Story 2 - Buzz Lightyear to the Rescue.

I'm not proud of it either...

#iactuallyamtho

But I just bought the rereleased version for 7 dollarbucks on the PlayStation Store, and nostalgia blinded us. The original came out in 1999 for the Nintendo 64, the OG PlayStation, PC, and Mac.

I owned this game as a kid on the PC, which was released under the name Disney/Pixar's Action Game: Toy Story 2. And we played the HECK out of it.

We all know the story of the classic Pixar sequel Toy Story 2, right? Woody gets toy-napped by Wayne Knight, and Buzz leads a rescue mission to save him. The game essentially follows the story of the movie, but takes creative liberties with characters and levels to streamline things.

...but Buzz's laser actually works and can be used as a weapon to straight-up destroy enemy toys.

The implications are...through the roof here.

The game is a platformer at it's finest, so if you enjoy old-school platformers, I definitely recommend checking this one out. It runs really well on the PS5...obviously...

The game is divided into 15 "levels" that (sometimes) follow the movie. All the levels are organized into groups of 3; 2 levels that are explorable and open, followed by a boss level after that.

You play as Buzz, using your aforementioned actual REAL laser, to blast your way through the levels. You can also use your wings as a melee attack (Buzz will comically spin his upper half all the way around doing this).

Each normal explorable level has collectables called Pizza Planet Tokens to collect. Collecting these tokens is how to progress in the game. You need to collect at least one token to move on to the next level. There 5 of these tokens on each of these levels to collect if you are going for 100%. Collecting some of these tokens will require you to progress to further levels to unlock required items. You can return to the level and collect the tokens.

Each of the 5 tokens per level have a specific thing you must do to collect them:

Each level has coins you can collect. Collect 50 of these and deliver them to Hamm to get a token (this is the easiest way to get tokens).

Each level has a mini-boss to find and defeat. Defeating these bosses awards a token. Some of these bosses require special weapons to defeat.

Each level has a character that will ask you find 5 missing things located throughout the area and return the items to them (i.e. Bow Peep wants you to find 5 missing sheep on Level 1). Doing so will award a token.

Each level has some kind of race or time trial-esque event to win. Doing so will net you a token.

Each level has a secret token to be found, usually requiring you to solve a puzzle or complete a tricky platforming maneuver to obtain.

I've mentioned special weapons and items. How do you unlock them? Occasionally, on the normal levels, Mr. Potato Head can be found. He will inform the player he has lost one of his precious body parts. Locate the said missing body part and return it Potato Head to unlock the item in not just that level, but all the levels the item can be found in.

The boss levels are a harder-than-normal boss fights. The most difficult and fun ones have got to be the last two boss levels: fighting Zurg in the elevator shaft, and fighting Prospector and his cronies on the plane at the end.

Well, that's basically the premise of the game. Let's get to the pros and cons of this PS5 port.

PROS:

As stated above, the game runs fabulously on the PS5. I mean...it was originally on the OG PlayStation, so that's a given.

It's a really fun platformer with lots of running, jumping, climbing and swinging around to get to where you need to go.

The collectables are fun to find in the various levels. Platforming and exploring is rewarded for sure.

The levels are amazingly designed and easy to navigate. The designers invented a handful of levels not from the movie to provide more content (i.e. a construction site, a part of Al's Toy Barn dedicated to sci-fi and space toys, etc).

Definitely a better Buzz Lightyear experience than the new Lightyear movie. #yeahIsaidit

CONS

The controls are...odd. For example, instead of using the right stick to rotate the camera around Buzz, you have to use R2 and L2. On top of that, you have to disable automatic camera rotation in the options. This can make for some difficult platforming at times.

Speaking of the platforming, if you mess up on a platforming obstacle (i.e. climbing the tree in Andy's Neighborhood, the construction yard, etc.), you can occasionally fall allllll the waaaay down and have to start all over. That can be immensely frustrating.

The graphics aren't updated. This can make the game look...well...cursed.

#oi #toinfinityanddankness

The cutscenes are just clips from the movie. I've seen the movie, ok game? Let's see some old-school PlayStation graphics cutscenes, a'ight?

So...this game is 23 years old. That's the fact. However, if you are a sucker for old school platforming nostalgia, give this a shot! Even if it's pretty dank at times, it was pretty fun to revisit.

It's not a GREAT game, but it was a good time-killer for a couple of days.

Overall, I give Toy Story 2 - Buzz Lightyear to the Rescue on the PS5 a 3/5.

...I mostly played it for the nostalgia and the meme, to be honest. As a kid, I was stuck on Level 1 for weeeeeeks. My dad even tried to hack them game so I could progress to level 2 without collecting a token.

A spoiled child am I.

Have you guys ever played this li'l gem? What are your thoughts? Let me know...

And remember...

~to infinity, and beyond!

[nerdy-sessions]

Pokémon of the Week!

#87: Dewgong!

Welcome, nerds, to Pokémon of the Week!

Where I, Sesh, generate a random Pokémon to highlight each week!

Last week, we highlighted the Hisuian variant of our slimy dragon friend, Goodra. If you wanna see that one, you can find it below:

This week, we are highlighting an OG water pupper with a warm heart of gold, Dewgong! It's a crying shame Dewgong and it's pre-evolved form Seel aren't in the latest Sword & Shield and Legends: Arceus games. But as it is one of the original 151 Pokémon, there is a good deal to cover and discuss!

LOOK AT THIS GUD BOI

Let's dive in! PUN INTENDED.

~ORIGINS~

Dewgong debuted in Generation 1 as one of the original 151 Pokémon in Pokemon: Red & Blue for the GameBoy Color. It has since appeared as an obtainable Pokémon in every mainline entry except Sword & Shield and Legends: Arceus.

Dewgong is dual-typed at Water and Ice (a good combination, though it allows Fire attacks to have normal effect against it).

Dewgong last appeared in the anime as a Pokémon belonging to newer main character, Goh. Evidently, it's got a simping problem for female water-types.

There's some debate about this adorable water-pupper's name...

As first glance, Dewgong could very well be inspired by real-life "dugongs", which are a family of marine mammals that include manatees. In the Red & Blue beta, Dewgong even had a different name: Manaty.

Below is a common dugong:

Ehhh...not really...dis chonky boi's got too big a nosey to look like Dewgong. And it ain't got no white fur, either.

According to Bulbapedia, Dewgong shares more characteristics with harp seal pups than actual dugongs because of their "white fur and icy habitat." I'm inclined to agree.

HNNNNNGH...

Anyway...

It's elongated body shares characteristics with fairy-tales of mermaids (which seals were often mistaken for mermaids by sailors of old).

It could also be inspired by beluga whales...again, due to the hue of it's fur and icy biome.

And the horn on Dewgong's head?

Narwhals. Easy.

Narwhals, narwhals, swimmin' in the ocean...

The OG Pokedex entries from generation 1 say is can swim at "8 knots". Now, I'm not a seafarer by any means, but I assume that's pretty dang fast? The anime seems to portray it as such.

The dex also says is gets..."frisky"...in cold water...

WELL THEN

#he'sgoingatmachsimp

Other entries describe it as being able to swim very fast and very well in colder waters, saying it thrives in the colder climates and "snoozes" on icebergs.

Generation 3 dex entries make a callback to olden times when, as I mentioned above, sailors would often mistake seals and manatees for mermaids.

Generation 4 entries describe it's white coat as being a camouflage from predators, which tracks with most arctic species of seal.

In Ultra Sun & Ultra Moon's entries, it gets darker, saying it is straight-up a predator, liking to munch on Wishiwashi, a small fish Pokémon introduced in Generation 7.

Oof...well, even the world of Pokémon has a circle of life. Bye bye, fishy! It's gonna be hard to avoid 8 KNOTS of solid blubber coming at ya!

~DESIGN~

Here's Dewgong's latest official artwork:

Quoted from Dewgong's biology section on Bulbapedia:

"Dewgong is a pinniped Pokémon with a snowy white, furry body. Its fur renders it virtually invisible in snowy conditions. Its face has two black eyes, a black nose, and two tusks extending from its upper jaw. It has a streamlined body with two front flippers and a long flowing tail. Even in extremely cold and ice-packed waters, its tail allows it to be a swift and agile swimmer at speeds of 8 knots. On top of its head is a sharp horn, which allows it to cut through the thickest ice floes.

It lives on icebergs adrift in frigid ocean waters. It thrives in lower temperatures, becoming increasingly more active the colder the weather. By storing thermal energy within its body, it is completely unharmed by even the most intense freezing weather. During daylight hours, it sleeps on bitterly cold ice or under shallow water. However, at night when the temperature drops, it becomes a hunter and searches for prey such as Wishiwashi. Following a meal, it sunbathes on the beach. This raises its body temperature and aids in digestion."

~ADVANTAGES~

Being a Water-type, you'll naturally want to use Dewgong against Fire, Rock, and Ground-types. It's dual Ice-typing can also be handy against those pesky Flying and Grass-types as well. This is an upgrade from it's pre-evolved form Seel, which is only a Water-type. It's typing saves it from Super Effective death more than Seel.

True to real-life manatees and seals having a layer of blubber and fat to keep them warm, Dewgong's highest base state is Special Defense (closely followed by HP). Field Dewgong against Pokémon that use special attacks.

If your Dewgong has the "Thick Fat" ability (yeesh, what a name), any attacks against you that are Fire or Ice-type deal half the damage they normally would.

If your Dewgong has the "Hydration" ability (like our friend Goodra), any status conditions it has will heal if it is raining.

It's hidden ability, "Ice Body", heals 1/16 of damage against Dewgong if it is hailing at the end of each turn of battle.

Handy to have around as an HM user if you are playing one of the older games (i.e. learning moves to use outside of battle like Surf, Waterfall, and Dive).

IT'S CUTE AS HECC

~DISADVANTAGES~

AVOID THE CHU! Do not field against Electric-types.

No Grass-types, either.

As I mentioned, Fire-types now have normal effect against it instead of less effectiveness.

It's base states as a whole are not impressive. None of them break 100. That's not very desireable in a final-form Pokémon like Dewgong. Don't be thinking your Dewgong will outspeed or overpower anything decently fast or strong by default without some Hyper Training.

~HOW TO OBTAIN~

Buckle up, nerds. Since this Pokemon goes all the way back to the first generation, this might take a while:

In the original Red & Blue versions, you can catch a Dewgong while surfing in the Seafoam Islands, or by catching a Seel and leveling it up to level 34. You can also trade a Growlithe for a Dewgong with an NPC at the Pokémon Lab on Cinnabar Island.

In Gold & Silver versions, the only way to obtain Dewgong is to evolve a Seel. They are unobtainable in the wild.

In the Gen 1 remakes FireRed & LeafGreen, Dewgong can be obtained in the Seafoam Islands (as before) and Icefall Cave. Dewgong is in Ruby & Sapphire, but only by trading with FireRed & LeafGreen versions.

Dewgong is a version exclusive Pokémon in Generation 4, being available in Diamond, but not Pearl. Dewgong can be found in the postgame while surfing on Routes 226 and 230.

In Platinum version, wild Dewgong can be found while traversing Victory Road.

In the Gen 2 remakes HeartGold & SoulSilver, wild Dewgong can be found, again, while surfing in the Seafoam Islands.

In Black & White, wild Dewgong can be find while surfing in rippling water in the Giant Chasm. In Black 2 & White 2, Dewgong can also be found in rippling water in Seaside Cave.

In X & Y versions, Dewgong is only obtainable via an Ice Friend Safari.

In the Gen 3 remakes Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire, Dewgong can be found postgame in the Shoal Cave as a hidden Pokemon that needs to be searched for in rippling water.

It is unobtainable in the wild in Sun & Moon. However, it is obtainable in Ultra Sun & Ultra Moon by evolving Seel, which can be found in Seaward Cave.

Once more, in the somewhat unneeded Let's Go! Pikachu & Eevee games, it can be found while surfing in the Seafoam Islands.

As stated above, Dewgong is not available in any form in Sword & Shield. #dexitvictim

Dewgong is available in the Gen 4 remake Brilliant Diamond, like Diamond before it, in the same locations postgame (Routes 226 & 230). In addition, it can also be found in Icy biomes in the Grand Underground postgame.

Dewgong is not obtainable in Legends: Arceus.

~COOL DEWGONG FANART~

There's some beautiful pieces of Dewgong out there that really capture this water pupper's natural beauty and inclination toward Arctic climates! Here are a couple:

Beautiful. No wonder sailors mistook them for mermaids once upon a time.

A bunch of Dewgong and Seel together!

A more realistic Dewgong that actually looks pretty good.

A What If...? Dewgong that has a mega form! Love it.

OG Pokegirl Misty hanging out with a bunch of OG water-types, including a Seel and a Dewgong!

~CONCLUSION~

Like with Goodra, I've never had a Dewgong on my team. But BOY have I had a hard time taking down those belonging to NPCs on my journeys. It's not the most powerful Pokémon around, but it's handy for water-based HM moves and it's added ice-typing is certainly handy as well. It's also a beautiful and realistic Pokémon; a very good reminder of some of the amazing creatures we have out there in the real world.

Overall, a decent OG 'mon!

Let me know your thoughts on Dewgong! Or if any of you have ever used one!

Until next time! See you next week for a real flappy apple!

[nerdy-sessions]

Pokémon of the Week!

#706-A: Hisuian Goodra!

Welcome, nerds, to Pokémon of the Week!

Where I, Sesh, generate a random Pokemon to highlight each week!

With last week's inaugural post being about our slimy dragon friend, Goodra, I figured this week could be about Goodra's regional variant from Pokémon: Legends Arceus.

If you'd like to view that post, you can find it below!

I figure I can do this whenever I do a Pokémon of the Week post about a Pokémon that have regional forms. To me, they aren't the same as their "vanilla" counterparts and are different Pokémon all together that deserve their own posts. So here we are!

Hisuian Goodra is a fairly new Pokémon, only appearing in the latest installment, Legends Arceus. As such, there is a pretty limited amount of information on it. But I will try my best to give it the attention it deserves!

...because, like...out of all the Pokémon a feudal Sinnoh region would have in it, it'd be a jacked-up version of the slime dragon from Kalos...it shocked me when I first ran into it. It really did.

But it was a pleasant surprise.

Mostly.

#alphagoodra #takesnoprisoners

So, as before, let's dive right in!

~ORIGINS~

As stated above, Hisuian Goodra debuted and has only appeared this year in Pokémon: Legends Arceus, a game that takes the player back in time to an ancient Sinnoh region (the region from the Diamond & Pearl games) that was then called the Hisui region.

Unlike vanilla Goodra, which is a pure Dragon-type, Hisuian Goodra adds the Steel-type into the mix, making it a wall to try and take down.

Right off the bat from the introduction image up top, you can tell that Hisuian Goodra is a big boi. Bigger than it's Kalosian counterpart, that's for sure. It's gotta be that big to support that MASSIVE snail-like shell that now adorns it's back.

As I stated in last week's post, Goodra could possibly be inspired by an eldritch horror from French folklore called Lou Carcolh (don't ask me how to pronounce that...), a giant, man-eating snail that supposedly lived in caves along the shores of France.

Again...oi...

This depiction of the beast has a shell on it's back, and this tracks with Hisuian Goodra's addition of a shell.

Hisuian Goodra could also be based on a deep-sea snail called a scaly-foot gastropod, which would make sense considering (according to Bulbapedia) this particular snail's shell consists of iron-sulfide compounds. That would explain the Steel-typing it has gained.

So, essentially, we have ourselves a bigger eldritch snail monster made of metal...

But, like normal Goodra...

At least it's f r i e n d l y ...

Maybe too friendly.

According to the only Pokedex entry it has from Legends Arceus, it "loathes solitude" and is "extremely clingy".

That checks as a Goodra...

BUT

It also says it will "fume and run riot if those dearest to it ever leave its side."

...

Ok...so the "jealous girlfriend" version of Goodra. Got it.

I'm seriously having PTSD flashbacks to the Alpha Hisuian Goodra boss fight in the game...and now it makes too much sense.

The dex also says it is able to control the hardness of it's shell. That's pretty neat! And useful defensively.

~DESIGN~

Here's the official Hisuian Goodra artwork:

Quoted from Hisuian Goodra's biology section on Bulbapedia:

"Hisuian Goodra has droopy, gray eyes and horns that are longer and thinner than Kalosian Goodra's horns. It sports a large, spiral-shaped metallic shell on its back, which it can tuck its body into to protect itself, leaving only its head outside of the shell to observe its surroundings. It can control the hardness of its shell at will. It has fewer gray spots than Kalosian Goodra, with one on each side of its cheek and two on each side of its shell. From its chin and arms drips a metallic gray slime. Hisuian Goodra has a clingy disposition and hates being alone; it will become angry and run riot if its closest companions leave its side."

~ADVANTAGES~

With it's dual-typing of Dragon and Steel, normal Goodra's Ice and Fairy-type woes are are gone, instead doing normal damage. It is also, as I said, A WALL of defense. It's Steel-typing makes it completely immune to Poison-type attacks, and is resistant to twice the amount of types as normal Goodra.

According to Bulbapedia, Hisuian Goodra and Hisuian Sliggoo are the only known Pokémon that can learn the move "Shelter", which increases Goodra's defense and evasiveness at the same time. Dang.

With it's added Steel-typing, Hisuian Goodra can now be a more effective dragon slayer; meaning, Dragon-type moves are no longer Super Effective against it.

Unlike regular Goodra (which is very squishy), Hisuian Goodra's Defense is higher. It's Special Defense remains that same highest state, so field Hisuian Goodra against heavy special attack users.

~DISADVANTAGES~

It's a BEEG BOI. Meaning it's slooooooow. Slower than slow. Slower than normal Goodra. It's lowest base stat is speed, so don't field Hisuian Goodra against speedy bois.

Though it's Steel-typing is mainly an advantage, Hisuian Goodra is now weak to Fighting and Ground-type moves.

~HOW TO OBTAIN~

As I've said already, Hisuian Goodra is brand new and is only obtainable in Pokémon: Legends Arceus. You can obtain this massive steel death snail for yourself in 2 ways:

Catch yourself a Goomy or Hisuian Sliggoo in the wild of either the Crimson Mirelands (at the Holm of Trials or during mass outbreaks in Ursa's Ring) or at the Ancient Quarry in the Coronet Highlands. Like normal Goomy, is will evolve into Hisuian Sliggoo at level 40 and finally into Hisuian Goodra at level 50 when it is raining. NOTE: It is possible to catch a Hisuian Sliggoo in Alpha form, so be on the lookout for those red eyes of death.

If you don't want to trouble yourself with evolving it's pre-evolved forms and go straight for the prize of a massive murder snail, there are 2 places you catch them directly (but ONLY in Alpha form...so, you know...good luck...) As part of the story, you encounter an Alpha Hisuian Goodra in the cavern of Lake Verity (PTSD for me...first one I encountered). That is the only time you can try to catch that one. If you knock it out, too bad. It's gone. You can catch that one if you're lucky. But don't worry! If you're very lucky, fate may smile on you and generate an Alpha Hisuian Goodra for you to battle and (maybe) catch with it's Goomy and Sliggoo brethren at the Ancient Quarry in the Coronet Highlands.

~COOL HISUIAN GOODRA FANART~

The freakos on the Internet aren't as weird about Hisuian Goodra as they are about vanilla Goodra, so this delve into fanart wasn't as mentally-scarring as last week. Here are some cool pics of our steel murder snail!

D'aww...with a li'l Goomy on his shell.

A cartoony version enjoying splashing in the mud (I assume)...

Ah yes. Wouldn't be a Goodra without the trademark slimy hug. :)

Here they all are! The Hisuian Goodra crew!

Guh...this is adorable. I can't even.

IT CAN GO INTO IT'S SHELL. #myheart

~CONCLUSION~

Hisuian Goodra was a welcome regional variant for me to discover as I traversed the game of Legends Arceus. I know a lot of people out there aren't fans of the regional variants (and I can agree somewhat with some of them... *coughAlolanPersiancough* But THIS? It's a good aesthetic change and a good typing and play-type change for our slimy dragon friend while maintaining it's friendly demeanor. I was pleasantly surprised by it.

...but also terrified. Alpha Hisuian Goodra still haunts my dreams.

Let me know your thoughts on Hisuian Goodra!

Until next time! See you next week for an OG water pupper!

[nerdy-sessions]

MHA Class 1-A Highlight! Ochako Uraraka! (aka: Uravity)

My Hero Academia got me back into watching anime.

It brought me back to my good ol' childhood days of coming home from school and eating dinner while watching Dragonball Z on Toonami. Good ol' shonen anime...gotta love it. (Reeeeally surprised my parents were okay with me watching DBZ but not Spongebob for a while...like wut)

For those out of the know, shonen is a genre of anime about fighting. If you are one of the few people looking at this post that haven't seen MHA, you should go watch it. I can't recommend it enough. I'll perhaps review each season if these 1-A highlight posts gain interest.

Again, for those of you out of the know, the main character in My Hero Academia is essentially in "super hero school". Following traditional Japanese High School class organization, the students are put into classes together based on their year in high school. Thus, we have the 20 students in Class 1-A (first years).

Here they are with their mentor, the all mighty "All Might" and their dry-as-all-heck teacher Aizawa-sensei:

Part of what makes this show so great is that every single character in this class is interesting and has their own quirks (no pun intended) and personalities and backgrounds that leave me wanting to know more about them.

There are 20 of these super-powered teens on the roster. Choosing just one of these titular characters to highlight would be hard.

...so I rolled a D20 dice. :)

#perfect

Got a 5.

The student in the 5th seat in this classroom is one of the 6 girls in the class (and one of my favorite characters in MHA because she reminds me so much of my cute wife in personality and appearance), Ochako Uraraka! Hero name: Uravity!

In these Class 1-A Highlights, I'll be talking about their character, their quirk (or super-power), their personality, their costume design, and an overall ranking.

(DISCLAIMER: My geek-age of My Hero Academia is inclusive to the anime only. Sorry...I haven't read the manga. So I'll only be covering anime stuff with these characters).

~CHARACTER INFO AND QUIRK~

Ochako Uraraka is a bubbly, friendly, ADORABLE girl who very quickly befriends our main character, Izuku Midoriya. They are very similar in terms of awkward energy and how they react to different situations. Timid socially, she can be ditzy at times, but fierce and determined when the gauntlet is thrown.

Ochako's quirk (the word they use for the super-powers they have) is officially called Zero Gravity. She has pads on the tips of her fingers which, if touched to solid objects, can allow her to manipulate the gravity of said solid objects (including people), making them weightless. She can also float herself for a limited amount of time. When she presses her finger pads back together, the gravity returns to the objects she manipulated, often shouting "RELEASE!" when doing so.

It isn't a flashy or destructive quirk (at least compared to Izuku's One for All or Bakugou's Explosion), but dang, is it exploitative. Ochako can not only make enemies weightless by just touching them (leaving them wide open), but can use bigger objects as huge weapons by removing the weight from them at the last second, thus restoring the kinetic energy of the object (and the F O R C E) behind it.

(LOOOOOOK AT THIS CINNAMON ROLL SWINGING AROUND A CONCRETE SLAB WITH A DELIGHTFUL, EXCITED SMILE)

There are limits to Ochako's quirk, however. According to the MHA wiki, Ochako can't manipulate the gravity of an object or objects that exceeds a weight of 3 tons. Also, if she uses her powers too much or for too long or if she tries to manipulate more than 3 tons, she gets nauseous and sometimes vomits.

Combine her powers over gravity with the martial arts she learned during her work studies, and you have a potentially lethal weapon on the battlefield, learning how to quickly dispatch opponents without the use of her powers.

~DESIGN AND HERO COSTUME~

Now that we have explored her quirk, let's look at her costume.

At the beginning of the show, her costume isn't very practical. She even states her herself she doesn't like "how skintight" they made it.

...poor Izuku...

The helmet she had didn't really do anything, and we see her just ditch the thing more and more. It was all for appearance's sake.

However, in the latest season (season 5), we see Ochako's costume get a major upgrade with functionality.

The support department at UA hooked her up with these epic grappling hooks in her wrists. These become very useful when floating around and for rescue missions.

The helmet is gone. Her boots were upgraded to sustain her when falling from higher elevations, and the new headpiece is designed to reduce headaches associated with nausea.

~PERSONALITY AND BACKGROUND~

One of the things that immediately endeared me to Ochako's character is her background and reasons for wanting to be a hero.

Early on in the show, Ochako admits to wanting to a Pro Hero "for the money".

Hold on, guys. Before you judge poor Uravity here, listen up...

She comes from a poorer family. Her father runs a construction business (that he often finds himself lacking help with), and in a flashback, we learn she wanted to help her parents as a small child.

UGH DON'T CRY. MY HEART BE BREAKIN'

Her motivations for being a hero center around making money to help her family out.

And I admire that. Like crazy.

Deciding on a career just to help your family?

Respect, girl.

Now...the elephant in the room...

#whoissheshippedwith?

One of her main things she's dealing with throughout the series thus far is her feelings she has developed for our protag, Izuku.

LOOK at this girl staring at Izuku training outside after getting embarrassed and floating away:

I ship her with Izuku hardcore.

She admires Izuku for his compassion, thoughtfulness, and actions during combat, and developed a crush on him as a result. As we go through the show, Ochako decides she needs to repress her feelings for Izuku for the time being because hero training is more important.

Again, girl...respect.

Instead of going the route of just giving her the purpose of being the protag's love interest and nothing else like some other shows out there, we get to see her progress personally just like everyone else in Class 1-A.

...doesn't mean we get moments like this, though...

Look at her after saving Deku during training:

...also, those of you out there who have the audacity to ship this girl with the angry explosion child Bakugou...

#nuffsaid #comeatme

~FINAL RANKING~

Ochako is one of my favorite characters. Her early introduction in the show and how close she gets to Deku's circle of friends really endeared to me. Her design is fun, and as I said, her bubbly, fun personality and her appearance remind me of my sweet wife.

I agree wholeheartedly with this ranking cited on the MHA wiki:

Alone, 1-on-1, with nothing to work with, poor Ochako wouldn't do too well. Maybe she could take you down with her martial arts knowledge, but still.

BUT with the right environment, equipment, and potential allies on her side, Ochako is awesome sauce.

My personal ranking of the Hero-In-Training Uravity is:

4.7/5

Plus Ultra, everybody!

And remember, there is no shame in being in something for the money if you are wanting to help your family.

Have some fanart of Ochako using One for All:

[nerdy-sessions]

Pokémon of the Week!

#706: Goodra!

Hello, nerds! Welcome to the very first Pokémon of the Week post! This is something I plan on doing every week (as I am able) on weekends. I randomly generate a Pokémon to highlight, and this week, our favorite gooey dragon-type was selected!

Every week, I will highlight the Pokémon in question, talk about origins, design, advantages and disadvantages, how to obtain it, and share some epic fanart!

So let's dive right in!

(Note: I am aware that in Pokemon: Legends Arceus, Goodra has a regional variant. I will not be covering Hisuian Goodra in this post; just the normal Goodra. I will give Hisuian Goodra it's own post next weekend).

~ORIGINS~

Goodra debuted in 2013's Pokémon X & Y as Generation 6's psuedo-legendary endgame beastie. It is a pure Dragon-type.

It has become quite popular in the franchise due to Ash Ketchum, the protagonist of the Pokémon anime, managing to nab himself one.

As you can probably assume from the name and image of Goodra, it's body is coated in a thick slime.

Why?

...um...slugs, I guess? Specifically, a species of slug called the blue dragon sea slug (according to Bulbapedia). This is one powerful slug. Would also explain Goodra's natural tendency to gravitate towards water and wetter climates.

It also could be based on a mythological beast from French folklore (Kalos is based on France, after all) called Lou Carcolh...which...oi, look at this thing:

I mean, I wouldn't wanna mess with giant, man-eating snail that lives in the caves along the French coast...

#ripnormaninvaders

And then, of course, it could be based on a Japanese yokai Shussebora, which after spending 3,000 years as a snail, ascends and becomes a dragon. A lot of Pokémon are based off of yokai, so I wouldn't be surprised if this were the case.

In the end, Goodra is a sea slug eldritch monster of death. Something I will now forever remember when encountering one.

...but at least it's f r i e n d l y.

According to multiple Pokedex entries, Goodra is very friendly towards humans. If a Goodra loves it's trainer, the Dex says it will often hug the trainer.

...ugh...cute, but...ugh...

It's slime, however, can prove to be advantageous in battle, as physical attacks can sometimes have no effect because enemies will cha-cha slide right off of it.

Despite it's friendly and outwardly timid demeanor (which it is often teased for), the Dex from Sword version states it's retractable horns can hit "100 times harder" than a pro heavyweight boxer. Yeesh.

~DESIGN~

Below is the official art for Goodra:

Quoted from Goodra's biology section on Bulbapedia:

"Goodra is a bipedal, draconic Pokémon that is coated with slime. Most of its body is pale purple with a darker purple underside. It has bright green eyes, two green spots on each cheek, a relatively long neck, and a short, rounded snout. On top of its head are two pairs of antenna-like horns. The foremost horns are small nubs, but the hind horns are longer, thicker, and curve down its neck. The tips of the larger horns are slightly curled. It has proportionally short limbs with two digits each and a large, thick tail with a curled tip. Along each side of its tail are three green spots. A pale green slime is usually visible dripping from its chin and arms. It is known for having a great affinity for water, being able to live within water with no difficulty at all, as well as dive and surf all around the area."

~ADVANTAGES~

Being a pure Dragon-type, Goodra can be useful against other Dragon-types (provided you can out-speed your opponent).

It's best stat being special defense, it would be a good idea to field Goodra against Pokémon with non-physical attacks.

Goodra is also best fielded against Pokemon that know Fire, Water, Grass, and Electric attacks, as it have a natural resistance against them.

SPEAKING OF resistance, if your Goodra has the ability "Sap Sipper", then Grass-type moves will have no effect on it. Upon being hit, your Goodra's attack will increase instead of taking damage.

If your Goodra has the ability "Hydration", it will be healed of any status conditions it has if it is raining on the battlefield.

~DISADVANTAGES~

It's not the fastest Dragon-type around. So you better be dang sure your Goodra is faster than your opponent's Dragon before using it.

AVOID THE DEADLY FAE-FOLK AT ALL COSTS! (aka...do not field against Fairy-types...at all...)

Also ice. No ice. Ice is bad.

It's squishy. Both literally, and in an RPG sense. Meaning, it's lowest natural stat is defense, so do not field Goodra against physical heavy hitters.

~HOW TO OBTAIN~

In this section, I'll detail how to obtain the said Pokémon in each of the games it can appear in.

Pokémon X & Y: As usual, you can't obtain pseudo-legendary in it's final form in the wild. You will have to obtain Goodra by evolution. You will have to go to Route 14 and capture Goodra's first form, Goomy. Train it up to level 40, and it will evolve into Sliggo. At level 50, it evolves into Goodra. Like most powerful Dragon-types, they evolve at higher levels than is normal, so you'll need some patience.

Pokemon Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun, & Ultra Moon: As with X & Y, Goodra is unobtainable in the wild in Alola. You will have to catch and evolve a Goomy, which can be found in Route 17 and the Lush Jungle.

In Pokémon Sword & Shield, Goodra is a Shield exclusive, meaning it is unobtainable in Sword (except by trade). You can catch a Goomy in the wild at the Lake of Outrage in the Wild Area and level it up like with the other games thus far. OR you can catch a Dynamaxed Goodra ONLY in Max Raid battles in Axew's Eye or the Rolling Fields. Goodra itself still cannot be found roaming the wild. Below is where you can find wild Goomy in the Wild Area.

~COOL GOODRA FANART~

Here are a few images of Goodra fanart I found awesome. There are a lot of...strange...images of Goodra out there (the Internet is a scary, dumb place sometimes). So I, Sesh, have ventured bravely into Google images to find some safe fanart for you!

Here is Goodra hanging out with it's pre-evolutions and Hisuian variants.

A beautiful piece of a Goodra enjoying itself in the water.

A cartoony version holding a Pokeball with it's tail. Adorbs.

Another cartoony Goodra enjoying the rain (as Arceus intended).

One of my favorite human characters, Iris, giving a squishy Goodra a squishy hug. Iris loves dragons, so...this piece makes too much sense.

~CONCLUSION~

I, personally, have never used a Goodra on my main team in a Pokémon game. But, it is refreshing to see a tough, pseudo-legendary Dragon-type getting a friendly, timid archetype rather being than mean and ferocious. Perhaps the designers were looking for a throwback to a gentler, Dragonite-type of dragon for the X & Y games.

Let me know if you are a Goodra fan or if you have ever used a Goodra on your main team!

See you next week for Goodra's Hisuian variant...

[nerdy-sessions]

Amphibia Review: Of Frogs, Toads, Newts...and Anime!

Once upon a time, the beloved Disney channel put out these weird things called "cartoons." Animated adventures starring Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, and other classic characters. Everyone enjoyed these cartoons very much for some reason or another.

Then, one day, the Disney channel stopped making cartoons. They threw their hat in the ring of horrible, cringy teen sitcoms. For a while, these shows dominated the channel, and this man, as a teenager, fell away from the Disney channel and it's...

...cringe.

Then something amazing happened.

In 2012, a show called Gravity Falls hit the Disney channel, and it was good, and everything changed. @pocket-ozwynn, my good buddy, can agree with me is saying that this show was incredible, and would also agree with me in saying the momentum it generated spawned other original cartoons that became gems and instant classics: Star Vs. the Forces of Evil, the Ducktales reboot, Big City Greens, The Owl House...

And this, my personal favorite out of all of them, Amphibia.

The creator of Amphibia is a guy by the name of Matt Braly, who previously worked as a director on Gravity Falls (which explains why this show has the same humor and vibe). The guy honestly deserves an award; this show is close to 3 seasons of perfection.

Why? Let's dive right in.

I promise to keep it non-spoilery. If some of you want spoilery things discussed, let me know.

~THE PREMISE~

Ya'll ever seen an isekai anime?

For those out of the know, isekai anime is a genre of Japanese cartoon in which a main character or characters are mysteriously transported to an alternate world or dimension under mysterious circumstances, usually to save a magical fantasy kingdom or to fulfill an ancient prophecy. (My favorite isekai anime is currently The Rising of the Shield Hero. Ya'll should check it out.)

Amphibia is American isekai, and it's wonderful. (The show even brings up isekai and anime several times!)

Teenager Anne Boonchuy (pronounced boon-CHOY), after getting into some mischief with her friends that involved a weird, stolen music box, is transported to the fantastical world of Amphibia. This world is populated, as you can imagine, with anthropomorphic talking amphibians such as frogs, toads, and newts (as well as a myriad of horrific creatures that would like nothing more than to eat you, a fact we are reminded of hilariously often in this show).

Anne is found in a swamp (go figure) by an energetic adolescent pink frog named Sprig Plantar, who quickly becomes Anne's best friend in this strange new world. After managing to convince the townsfolk of the local frog village Wartwood that Anne is not a freakish frog-eating monster (much to the chagrin of Wally, the town fool who saw her early on and started spreading rumors of her existence), Sprig's family takes her into their home.

Thus, Anne and the Plantars set about trying to discover the mystery of how and why she ended up in Amphibia, and to find her two friends that may have been transported as well. Yes, this is a cartoon for kids with an overarching plot that spans 3 seasons, and it's amazing.

~THE CHARACTERS~

I'll just go over Anne and the Plantars as our main characters, and then 2 minor characters I really liked (there are MANY lovable minor characters, and it would take eons to gush over all of them, so I narrowed it down to 2).

MAIN CHARACTERS

Anne Boonchuy, our protagonist. Played amazingly by Brenda Song (of The Suite Life of Zack and Cody fame), she starts off the show as kind of your typical self-centered Gen-Z middle school teenager who can't live without her phone (which she somehow manages to keep charged while in Amphibia). It's quite funny to watch her try to introduce modern-day Earth tropes to the frogs of Wartwood using her phone (i.e. TV shows, memes, and other teenager-y stuff). As the series goes on, she becomes courageous, less selfish, generous, an amazing fighter, a talented problem solver, and the hero that Amphibia needs. Her interactions with the Plantars and the plethora of other characters in the show change her for the better and it's amazing to see. I wish I could say more about Anne's progression, but I don't want to risk spoilers.

Being a Thai-American, we see some cool things from Thai culture bleed through in Anne's actions in some episodes. Matt Braly himself is a Thai-American, and has stated this his upbringing in that culture helped him create Anne.

Sprig Plantar, our froggy protagonist and the first frog Anne befriends in Amphibia. Sprig is played by Justin Felbinger, who had up to this point done several other voices for other Disney projects, such as The Lion Guard. Sprig is energetic, kind, preppy, and adventurous; all personality traits that rub off on Anne as they share adventures together. Not to mention he has a propensity for slingshot skills.

Hopadiah 'Hop Pop' Plantar, the patriarch of the Plantar family and Sprig's grandfather. Hop Pop is voiced by Disney voice acting veteran Bill Farmer, who you all might know as the long time voice of Goofy. Hop Pop is my wife's favorite character because of how funny the dude is. He is over-protective of his grandchildren and Anne (for a good reason, trust me). When Sprig and Anne get into trouble, Hop Pop is usually the voice of reason, given his knowledge of Amphibia and how dangerous it can be. Poor guy gets his shirt and coat ripped off comically often throughout the show, so...poor guy.

#oldmanfrogbod

This adorable, legless ball of death is Polly Plantar, Sprig's little sister who, as you can see, is still a tadpole. Played by voice actress Amanda Leighton, Polly has an incredibly dry personality for her age. She is also very smart, showing a propensity for robotics and other advanced technology (which does play a part later in the series). She's also very...violent. And enjoys fighting. Which, for a baby character, is hilarious. She is a great foil for Sprig and Anne, who are the opposite in terms of personality.

2 MINOR CHARACTER HIGHLIGHTS

LOOK at this friggin' guy. LOOK AT HIM. This is Wally, aka Wartwood's town fool (who nobody believed when Anne dropped into town). With a bum eye, cockney accent, and a propensity for the accordion, Wally makes any situation funnier when you throw him in any scene. Like most other minor or side characters, there's way more to his character we find out later.

This nefarious looking frog girl is named Maddie. A girl about the age as Sprig and the daughter of the town baker, she dabbles in the...ahem...dark arts. Potions, alchemy, spells...necromancy. Her character is brazenly cryptic and devious, and her involvement in the dark arts makes for funny episode plots (there's legit an episode there the gang thinks she cursed them for...reasons. No spoilers, though).

~THE GOOD~

Allow me to now list the many great and amazing things about this show:

The cast. MOTHER OF, this cast is star-studded. With Brenda Song as Anne, Bill Farmer as Hop Pop, and KIETH DAVID as a newt character in seasons 2 and 3, the voices are NEVER off.

The art style and animation is amazing. Boy, do I wish people would stop relying on computer generated animation so much these days. These new Disney cartoons going back to 2D animation is refreshing. I mean, just look at this end card for season 2:

#friggincathartic #smoothaf

Now that I've posted that end card, you probably heard the MUSIC. Not only is the show excellently scored, but the main theme song and end credits song get stuck in your head. And they are dang beautiful pieces. Listen to the main theme and watch the season 1 intro down below to see what I mean:

The writing is phenomenal. Look...I get it. This is a show for kids at the end of the day. BUT, in my opinion, a kid's show can only truly be good and memorable if the writing not only caters to the kids, but the adults who undoubtedly watch it along with the kids. Amphibia is a near perfect example of the balance between kid and subtle adult comedy. It's bright, silly, and colorful enough for the kids, and clever enough for adults to enjoy as well. I mean...see below...this scene lives rent-free in my head 24/7...

#ded

In addition to being a comedy like most cartoons, the high adventure theme is ever present. Almost every episode has a "monster-of-the-week" style plot that includes the overarching plot. Even if the episode's plot seems tame enough, be prepared for some kind of hellish beast from the 9th ring of Hades to make an appearance somehow. Going back to the animation, the fighting scenes are smooth and fun to watch.

The ending (NO SPOILERS) is satisfying and doesn't leave me wanting another season. It wrapped up everything with all the characters, main and minor, quite nicely.

And SPEAKING of the ending:

IT'S ANIME AS FEEEEEEETCH. All the anime tropes in this show are so blatant, it's fun. If any of ya'll like DragonBall Z, shonen fighting anime, or the aforementioned isekai genre of anime, you will LOVE this show.

This show was DESIGNED to have 3 parts divided into seasons. Matt Braly himself said, during the run of the show, that his plan was to have the show go for 3 parts. Alex Hirsch, the creator of Gravity Falls, said the same of his show; 2 parts in 2 seasons. This just goes to show when you go into creating a series of movies or a television series with an actual plan of where you want to go, it goes off without a hitch. Flying by the seat of your pants just...doesn't work.

#starwarssequels #I'mlookingatyou

~THE NOT SO GOOD~

There's really not much that isn't too good about this show, but it wouldn't be an honest review if I didn't bring up my teeny, tiny gripes:

I might catch some flak for this, but hear me out. Disney has been taking heat lately for shoehorning into their shows and movies...for lack of a better term..."woke" content. Now don't get me wrong; I'm all for representation, but not when it is so obviously put in for no other reasons than to make a statement. At the end of the show, on the very last episode, two female characters end up together. In my opinion, these 2 characters had zero romantic chemistry with each other and never showed a propensity for a romantic relationship throughout the show. Heck, they barely even interacted at all. It came out of nowhere, honestly. I call this "The Korra Phenomenon" (if you are familiar with the ending of Avatar: The Legend of Korra, you know what I mean). It would've been believable if the 2 characters in question had romantic chemistry. And before you guys say anything, even if the relationship in question was heterosexual, I still wouldn't have believed it. I definitely would have felt the same. Characters in a story need to end up together because it is meant to be and it works, not because of a need to shoehorn in a gay relationship for inclusivity's sake. (Also, maybe leave this kind of stuff out of a kid's show? If the show were meant for adults that had adult themes, it wouldn't have bothered me as much).

Sometimes, the comedy got a little too random at not-so-good times. That's something kid's shows sometimes fall victim to these days. The propensity for random, off-the-wall humor that makes little to no sense is wide-spread, and unfortunately, Amphibia is no exception. We could be in the middle of a deep, lore-based discussion between characters, then BOOM, random gross and/or shocking joke. Again, I get it. It's a kids show for kids who laugh at that stuff. But I'm an adult who watches those kids' shows, dangit! I can complain about whatever I want!

At least there were no Illumination minion-esque dance parties for no reason... *shudders*

~CONCLUSION~

My wife and I watched Amphibia together and thoroughly enjoyed it to the very end. Our only child is 2, and wouldn't enjoy it like we did (she, unfortunately, enjoys the ear torture that is Cocomelon and other such atrocities against humankind).

Don't let the fact that you may be an adult keep you away from enjoying this masterpiece. It's funny. It's clever. It's emotional. It's creative. It's a beautiful piece of art. My frog, you will not want to miss this. One day, it will sure to be an classic everyone will enjoy.

I give this show a rating of:

4.8/5

Amphibia plays on the Disney channel, and all of it is currently streaming on Disney+.

Spranne against the world!

[nerdy-sessions]

Far Cry 6 Review: The Tale of "Not Cuba" Under the Rule of "Not Castro"

Alright, let's get this party started with a game review. What better game to start with than one fresh on my mind because I just finished it last week on the PlayStation5.

I will keep it spoiler free. If any of you want my thoughts on the story later and are curious enough, I'll post a more spoiler-y review later.

For those unfamiliar with the Far Cry franchise, each game's plot surrounds taking down some kind of crazy tyrannical bad guy keeping a fictional area under an iron fist. For example, the previous installment, Far Cry 5 (and my personal favorite in the series) saw us in fictional Hope County, Montana, USA, going after a crazy religious cult leader forcing the populace to join with his group or suffer and die.

The latest installment in Ubisoft's FPS franchise takes us to the fictional Caribbean island nation of Yara (aka: basically Cuba). In true Far Cry fashion, "Not Cuba" and her people are suffering from the tyrannical rule of a megalomaniacal dictator, Anton Castillo.

"Not Castro" Castillo is played quite brilliantly by Breaking Bad and The Mandalorian actor Giancarlo Esposito. As far as I know, this is the first time the Far Cry franchise has employed a famous television actor to play their main villain, and my encounters with him in the game were some of my favorite parts.

You play as ex-Yaran army soldier Dani Rojas. Dani can be either male or female, and you pick Dani's gender, and therefore voice and appearance, at the beginning of the game (also a first for the franchise).

Through a series of unfortunate events Dani is lucky enough to survive, Dani ends up fighting for the revolutionary force bent on taking down "Not Castro" called Libertad.

Now some of you may be wondering: What did good ol' Giancarlo do THIS time (he sure plays villains a lot, doesn't he? He's pretty dang good at it...)

Well, "Not Castro" has evidently been enslaving the populace of Yara to produce a supposedly cancer-curing drug called Viviro. Viviro is grown using a poison that the plants love, but sickens and kills humans if exposed to it for too long. Combine this along with other classic fascist tropes like mass killings for speaking out against the government, and you've got yourself quite a messed up government.

You will be tasked with acting as Libertad's muscle and unite the various rebellious factions in Yara against "Not Castro".

You will be using an ungodly amount of customizable weapons, unbelievable furry and scaly animal companions called "amigos" (including a soccer-jersey wearing gator named GUAPO with a golden tooth and a ghost panther that EATS SOULS), a vast array of "Mad Max"-esque and military vehicles (you for real unlock a tank used in a previous revolution in 1967 named "Karlito" that shoots flames), and cobbled together super weapons called "supremos" to achieve victory and overthrow "Not Castro's" fascist regime.

That's the basic premise of the game. If you were looking for a realistic FPS experience, this game isn't for you. None of the Far Cry games are for you, really. BUT. If you wanna feel like an epic, unstoppable freedom fighter with many much guns and explosives, then this game is definitely for you.

Let's start with what I really liked about this game...

PROS:

The size of the map, the island of "Not Cuba" Yara, is incredible. It's definitely the biggest Far Cry game to date. The map is filled with all sorts of missions, outposts and bases to capture (in true Far Cry fashion), treasure hunts, caches to loot for weapons and clothing, and interesting side-characters to meet. I very much enjoyed exploring the island whilst taking down the FND ("Not Castro's" military forces) at every turn.

The map also features the sprawling metropolis of Esperanza, the capital city of "Not Cuba". In another first for the franchise, we get to sneak around and fight in a metropolitan setting. Previous Far Cry games have always been super remote with no big cities. The urban combat in Esperanza was really fun. If you venture to the city though, be warned: the toughest enemies lurk there.

The vast availability of weapons at your disposal was very refreshing. A massive armory of pistols, rifles, shotguns, rocket launchers, bow and arrows, and the aforementioned "supremos" are available for use once unlocked or found, most of them completely customizable (if you have the crafting components).

The "supremos" I mentioned are a unique component to the game and new to the franchise. They are essentially super backpacks you can craft (using depleted Uranium you can loot from the FND...lol such Cold War references) that have different attacks or effects. The game's starting "supremo", the Exterminador, is one I couldn't bring myself to part with. Why? It shoots missiles from your back. MISSILES! That lock onto enemies and blow them to smithereens.

Other "supremos" can do things like release EMP charges that disable vehicles, improve stealth, heal yourself and allies, and so on. I stuck with the missiles, though. For reasons.

Boom.

Now some of you may be thinking that's too OP. Well good news. "Supremos" need to recharge after you use them. So don't go thinking you can use the Exterminador over and over for easy victory. It ain't that simple.

The PS5 ran the game beautifully. The graphics were incredible, and I often found myself just looking around at the tropical landscape of "Not Cuba" as I traveled from place to place. There are small loading times when you fast travel or when you first load up, but they are insanely short and it never bothered me.

Also a first for the franchise, the cutscenes were mostly 3rd-person instead of 1st-person like before. I found that unique and fun to watch. I will admit it did ruin the immersion of it for me at times, but again, not really a big issue for me.

Once you complete the game, you can continue exploring the map and complete any missions you haven't completed in a way that doesn't retcon the story and everything you did. In addition, every real-life week, the FND will recapture a region of the map and all the bases and outposts in that region that you have previously captured. The enemies guarding these retaken regions are strong, and present unique challenges, rewards, and replayability after the game has been completed.

The vehicle selection, as I mentioned before, is really fun. In addition to the Libertad and military vehicles you can unlock, there are 4 special vehicles you can unlock throughout the game that you can customize with weapons, armored plating, and colors (again, provided you have the crafting components).

As you can see, the selection of vehicles is hilariously 1950's and 60's, which "Not Cuba" does well to reflect actual Cuba.

Actor Danny Trejo is in the game for seemingly no reason. He has his own side-mission you do for him and everything (defending him from the FND while he cooks tacos). It's delightfully entertaining.

A FREE STRANGER THINGS DLC MISSION. 'nuff said.

A fighting game-style mini game where you literally use roosters you find around "Not Cuba" in a COCKFIGHTING RING. It's frankly hilarious.

CONS:

My main gripe about Far Cry 6 is the story. In the most non-spoilery way possible, I will try to explain why.

Most of the characters that are a part of the main story are...forgettable. They have you running around doing everything for them; the most you interact with them is via phone when they are telling you what to do. Later, when some of these characters die, it's clear that the game wants you to feel bad, but I didn't. It's hard to feel sympathy for character you barely interact or have chemistry with. There are some side-characters I really enjoyed, though. Like Juan Cortez (the guy that makes your "supremos" for you) who tells you ridiculous stories about toppling countries with the CIA and the KGB...which can't be true...right?

The ending is lame. I expected some kind of big payoff after the main story end; a dramatic conclusion against "Not Castro"...but nope. Just...ends abruptly. Made me feeling unsatisfied with all the work I did.

Your character, Dani, doesn't have an interesting backstory besides the ex-Yaran military thing combined with an orphan trope. As the game goes on, I expected to learn more about Dani, but...he/she is just kinda there in the middle of the revolution. Which, I guess could be interesting? But it really wasn't.

Sometimes, the story has you make decisions that seem pretty important. But they really aren't, and don't have an impact on the story in the long-run.

Moving on from my story gripes, here are a few others:

Ubisoft's games have been pretty buggy lately, haven't they? Assassin's Creed: Valhalla has come under fire for bugs and glitches, and Far Cry 6 is no different, sadly. In addition to standard bugs like clipping and lag, there are potentially story-breaking bugs that can happen. There was a story mission where you have to blow up some rocks over a canyon to stop an FND convoy to steal some supplies. Once all the enemies were taken out, the mission objective was to wait for a certain character to show up and confirm the mission success. I waited for probably about 5 minutes before wandering around the mission area, trying to find the NPC in question. She was trapped behind some of the boulders that came crashing down the canyon as part of the ambush, and I had to reboot the game. Mission-breaking glitches happened like this a couple of times.

I really had no interest in the multiplayer. Usually games like this have fun or interesting co-op or multiplayer scenarios, but Far Cry 6 is lacking. The game tries to get you to do these side-missions (which you can do solo if you want, but it's kinda boring) where you have to steal chemical weapons from the military that overheat and explode if they are in sunlight for too long.

(Try stealing the dang things at night, guys...come on...)

The rewards for doing these optional side missions are lacking, so I didn't have any inspiration to do any more than 1 of them by myself.

There is a co-op feature as well for when you are on the main map doing missions and exploring, but I didn't see the appeal of playing with strangers. At time of writing, none of my friends or family had the game on PS4 or PS5.

There is a real-time, passive mission system that can net you extra rewards in the game called "Benito's Banditos". Essentially, you send Libertad members on missions (that you don't see happen or get to be a part of) and rely on arbitrary percentages to hope the mission doesn't fail catastrophically and get your resistance soldiers killed. Later in the game, I just started ignoring it because my weapons were fully upgraded and I didn't need or want anything else the system could offer. Just ended up taking time for nothing.

There is DLC for this game, by the way.

In addition to the thievery of wanting you to spend real money in their Ubisoft game store for cosmetic items and epic weapons, they also have 3 DLCs out (which can be obtained if you purchase the season pass). Evidently, you get to play as 3 of the previous games' villains (the ones from Far Cry 3, 4, and 5). So...yeah. Haven't played the DLC and don't plan on it right now. If I ever do, I'll add another review for them later. I doubt it, though. I don't have the season pass, and alone, each of the 3 cost about 20 bucks.

I'll have to look into them further...see if they are worth it. Maybe you guys have played them and have comments. I'd love to hear from you.

Overall, Far Cry 6 is a decent addition to the franchise. It definitely isn't as engaging or gripping as the previous 3 entries in the series, but it was a a good deal of fun anyway (if you aren't a stickler for good stories like I am, maybe you would rank it as bit higher).

My final score is:

3.8/5

Let me know your thoughts on Far Cry 6!

And remember,

~Viva Libertad!

[nerdy-sessions]

Greetings, nerds!

I guess introductions are in order!

You all can call me Sesh. I teach history at a local Jr. High, and it is exactly as glamorous as it sounds. When I'm not fighting for my very survival in the classroom, you can often find me consuming all sorts of nerdy media! I guess you can call me Sesh, the nerdy history teacher.

My plan with this blog is to give my various thoughts on nerdy topics. Perhaps a review here and there of a movie, game, cartoon, or anime. Maybe you crazies want my opinions on things you like.

My 3 favorite franchises I'll most likely cover quite a bit are Pokémon, Star Wars, and Assassin's Creed (history nerd, I know, get all the way off my back).

BUT! All franchises and series are welcome and up for discussion here. Just no NSFW things, ok? This is a family tumblr...please.

Give me a bit to drum up some posts to get things rolling, but until then, have a picture of a Sneasler (a regional evolution of Sneasel from the Pokémon: Legends Arceus game) giving Yzma from "The Emperor's New Groove" a good ol' ride in her evil villain tent.

Credit to the artist on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/garabatoons/status/1496318975797510144