The Creature Quorum (Scanline Media)

It's time to put the world of Pokemon in its place. Six and Allen are here with a new podcast, as they go through the pokedex, one by one, and trim it down. Which pocket monsters will be cut, and which will survive to our final list? Find out on the Johto Quorum.

The Johto Quorum will have its own podcast feed as soon as its podcast art is done! For now, it's up on Scanline Talks.

Our journey to whittle down the roster of pocket monsters continues, and Six and Allen find their resolve tested. Six's favorite pokemon is in this batch, as well as several divisive creatures! Can "disgusting" be a good thing? Are there necessary bummers? Why does Machoke exist? All questions worth asking, and keeping on your mind as the Johto Quorum assembles once again.

The Johto Quorum will have its own podcast feed as soon as its podcast art is done! For now, it’s up on Scanline Talks.

Our list of pocketable monsters can wait for another day. Today, we've got another pokemon-based score to settle. What if we ranked every city and town in the Kanto region of Pokemon? Note: towns from the main series games only, no towns only in the anime or weird side games. Jump in with us!

Our new art, done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), is now done! Check out our new Alolan Scanline-chan! She's switched out her glasses for contacts as she heads for a tropical pokemon adventure. Big thanks to Robin for their hard work, and an excellent result!

The Quorum assembles once again, as Allen and Six are joined by Allen's cohost from Chatz: hey, it's Magellan! With our council gathered, we begin to delve into the doldrums of Kanto, where mediocre monsters seek potential pockets. We'll see who makes their way into ours... this week on TJQ.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com. Thank you to Magellan (@justapfluke on Twitter) for guesting on this episode. Next episode, we'll have another guest for y'all! Enjoy!

This week, it's another guest episode! Our good friend Ryan (@BluestRose430 on Twitter) drops in as we push towards the end of Kanto's pokedex. Boy, there sure are some stinkers in this part of the dex, huh? But next episode, we'll finish out Kanto with a bang.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com. See you next time!

The Quorum reassembles. It's time to finish the Kanto pokedex, as Six and Allen's first task comes to an end. With all these legendaries, how do Red Blue and Yellow handle the most powerful of pokemon? Only one way to find out. Join us.

This week on the Johto Quorum, Six and Allen are back, but... they're not quite ready to close the book on Kanto. There's still some unfinished business to attend to. What could it be...? Perhaps they want to just have a good time? Remember, folks, we don't need a holiday to start to celebrate.

Repeat after me: I need a vacation.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

It's into the region we're named for that we now head. Gold, Silver, and Crystal's menagerie awaits judgment, and they may be certain that it's on its way. Will we kill Cyndaquil? Is it see you later, Feraligatr? And what of the babies? We're really in the weeds now, y'all.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

It has never been more apparent that the idea of a "quorum" is flexible: the minimum number of members for an assembly varies. This episode starts out with just Six and Allen, but when the debate breaks down, they need to call in help, in the form of returning guest Ryan. What on EARTH do we do with Sunkern and Sunflora? Help us, Ryan. You're our only hope.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

After many complaints along official channels from the cities of Kanto, claiming that it was "demeaning" for us to rank them by quality, we decided to spare Johto's cities the shame of a ranking. But, they still need the Quorum's assistance: that much is inarguable. And so, Six, Allen, and guest Kat are here to assign mascot pokemon to each city, so that they may better promote themselves and attract tourism. We're so thoughtful!

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Boy, the second Pokemon movie... not a winner, y'all. From the writing to the acting, there isn't much nice to say about this one. After our ordeal with Loog-yah, we go on to some more pokemon rating. Like true professionals, even bad cinema cannot deter us from our mission!

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

It's easy to forget about the late-middle of any pokedex, and this week the Quorum runs into a lot of monsters they haven't thought about in a long time. Qwilfish and Octillery, the constant letdown of shinies, and the bug pokemon that moves three times faster than an ordinary bug... don't miss this week's assembly.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Let's set the pokedex aside again, and imagine a world where Ryan Reynolds is popular. Why is he popular? I mean, he's kinda cute. He's got an okay voice. But he honestly hasn't been in that many movies, and definitely not many good movies. I don't get it. I don't have a beef or anything I guess. I just don't understand. Allen and Six are joined by guest Jen to talk about the Detective Pikachu movie, and not about why Ryan Reynolds is so popular. Apparently that isn't weird to them, so I didn't bring it up. Go figure.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com. At a certain point in this podcast we reference a picture (near the end): here's a link to it.

With this final stretch, the Johto pokedex is at last complete. Babies! Legendaries! Allen's favorite pokemon! A fight over dogs! The Quorum's really got their hands full this week.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

A scattered dream that's like a far-off memory. A far-off memory that's like a scattered dream. Despite our distance, you are mama. Six and Allen tackle the strange but charming third Pokemon movie, and learn what it truly means to have family. ...Ok, that is super not true. But we had a good time, and we hope you will too.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

We have fun on this show. Pokemon are wonderful, and even when we cut them, we usually have a fondness for them anyway. This show is a celebration of pokemon. But. Ludicolo is not okay. And whoever designed it needs to apologize. To the world. To us. We're in the Hoenn dex now, and at times we wish we weren't.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

One day, I will start saying "Hoenn" instead of "Johto" every time. The problem is, I fear by then we'll be on to Sinnoh. But maybe I'll get it right in Sinnoh? That's a good name, after all. Not like Hoenn. ...Hm. It works better spoken: written out, "Hoenn" looks kinda cool. But it doesn't feel good to say. Well, whatever. I'm filling space because this is the doldrums of the Dex, though we do get the Ralts line and they're all very precious.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

The Great Educator returns to the Quorum! Six and Allen are joined by Chatz cohost Magellan for further Hoenn dex adventures. Cat fights, a whale of a tale, Doug Trio... it's time for more judgment.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

I've been trying to think of some sort of pun for this generation. Hoenn = hone? Hoe-in'? Hoe in (as in the farming implement)? I have absolutely nothing. It's a sad showing from me in the pun game here, but in this podcast it's a different story. I have to give the Hoenn Dex more credit: as we head through what are normally the doldrums of a dex, Allen and I are actually hitting a lot of gems.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

For this week's Quorum, Six and Allen bring in a Trainer who started their journey with the Hoenn region. You might know Harri from guesting on other Scanline shows, but you probably weren't aware that he's head over heels in love with the Game Boy Advance, and its (admittedly fantastic) array of titles. Between the three of them, can they survive another stretch of very questionable Pokemon design?

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

So that title isn't, like, incorrect. But it's probably a little misleading. We have a plan for the Hoenn finale, but it's not ready yet, so Six and Allen join together to find the best Pokemon to surf with!

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

It's time to bring the Hoenn Dex to its finale. But we can't do it alone. "Quorum," as I've said many times, means the minimum number of members present to make a decision. To close out the third generation, just Six and Allen aren't nearly enough. This episode, Scanline Media's Jennifer Unkle joins us, along with Ryan and Kaity from Fireside Friends for a full-on five person pod. Between these five minds, how could any of our decisions POSSIBLY be questioned? Obviously every call we made was right.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Sinnoh! Oh, sorry. That's how we say "hello" in the Sinnoh region! Yes, I am still grumpy about the Alola thing. It doesn't make any SENSE. Ah, whatever. It is not a time for grumpiness. It is a time for celebration! Ryan joins Six and Allen to inaugurate the Sinnoh Pokedex into the Quorum, with a rousing start and a whole heap of judgments. Dig in!

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

The question is simple. It's one of respect. Now, you may think you respect me. You may tell yourself that. You may tell me that. But I don't care what you tell me. I care what your actions tell me. And, my friend? A pokeball? You don't put Don Honchkrow in a pokeball. That is not respect. It breaks my heart to see you treat me like this.

And what else can I do? When I am disrespected, do I not need to respond? Take Jimmy here, for example. Not the brightest Murkrow. But he has respect. In truth, trainer, it is the pokemon that are easy to trust. It is the trainers like you who forget your place. And there will be another trainer. There is always another would-be "master," who thinks they've gotta "catch em all." You do not catch the Don. And if you are very, very lucky, the Don decides not to catch you.

You, my friend, were not lucky. Now I have to ask the boys to get rid of you.

Oh, and boys? Make sure Officer Jenny has to really work to identify the body of our trainer friend. We have to give the cops something to do, after all. And it always pays to keep public servants busy.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Gen 4 is a bit smaller than the others maybe, but our conversations are bigger than ever! Six and Allen blaze through another 28 pokemon in their quest to a more perfect Pokedex... and joining them is first time guest and Pokemon Go expert Emily! (Pssst, you might know Emily from a few other appearances on Scanline shows!) Between the three of them, they're sure to get a lot of work done.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

This episode calls it quits shortly into the Great Sinnoh Legendary Wasteland. Can you blame us, dear listener? Would you want to sift through dozens of uninspired, lifeless legendaries back to back? Nay. Even with the mighty guest Magellan at our side, a break is required, lest we lose all hope in the process. I don't think I've ever heard as much contempt for a pokemon as I heard for Arceus today, and we didn't even reach that critter. Tis better we finish the Sinnoh Dex another day, with lighter hearts and open minds.

Can you believe this editing software is STILL trying to tell me I'm spelling Johto wrong? Get with it, man.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

The Quorum is back to finally conclude the Sinnoh Dex! After that, it's time for a music extravaganza as we listen to all the town/city music in Gen 4, and rank the cities by the quality of their music! Hey, the DS had a pretty cool sound chip if you ask me.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

We're here. Unova. Allen's favorite gen of pokemon. Well, more the games than the dex, but let's not sweat the details. ...Actually. Actually! Sweating the details is LITERALLY our job! Let's sweat the design details of all these new pokemon, and decide whether or not they belong in the Quorum!

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

We're a legislative body. It's nice to talk about Treecko and Tropius, or ponder Pikachu and Pachirisu, but sometimes the job of running the Pokemon world is less fun and games. Crime is real. And we have a responsibility to address it. Join Allen and Six on this episode while we tackle organized crime.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Unova, I love you, but you're bringing me down. This generation of Pokemon has a rhythm like no other, and so it makes sense that our pace of judgment has been thrown. Such great designs next to such lousy designs, such powerful highs and lows... I can't say I understand what they were thinking. Maybe you don't need to create an analogue for EVERY pokemon from the original gen, y'all.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Hey, 535 is an anagram for 553! I just noticed that. Neat! Six and Allen continue to fight their way through the Unova dex, slowly coming to the realization of just how massive this gen of pokemon is. Did we really need a Poliwag 2.0? And yet we absolutely DID need Whimsicott. Ups and downs, highs and lows. Same as it ever was.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

What should have been a normal Quorum episode quickly takes a turn as Six and Allen consider the swirling conversation about the upcoming eighth generation of Pokemon, and what it means for a game to be pokemon. Don't worry, zero spoilers or mention of the leaks. In the wake of that conversation, we rank the seven existing generations, from best to worst. The results... might surprise you. Or they might not, I guess you've listened to us talk quite a bit by now =P

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

So, this episode's late. I'll be up front with you: this edit was a nightmare. We love having guests, but one of the things about having guests is sometimes you get people who haven't been on a podcast before. And sometimes that's no big deal! But sometimes... their audio sounds terrible. That was the case here. It was awesome to have Lee on the show, but cleaning up their track took hours, and still probably doesn't sound fantastic. I hope y'all can enjoy it anyway.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Finally, we're starting to get somewhere in the Unova dex. Goths and lime jello, good birds and bad. It's hardly a new observation, but this dex would really be a lot better if they didn't feel the need to create analogues for every gen 1 pokemon. Did we really need a Not-Voltorb? We also tackle the ice cream cone pokemon, and it's a fairly interesting conversation.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Six and Allen may be poking at Sword and Shield for months to come, but they've both played enough to have a lot of thoughts about how the games turned out. I doubt anyone would call this a perfect gen of Pokemon, but overall, how does it stack up?

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Well, the Galar Dex left us with a fine mess to clean up, didn't it? Galar Forms, Gigantamax, now our Quorum list is full of holes! Let's go back and plug those up, and then hit a few Unova pokemon at the end. We WILL finish this gen. Someday.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

What begins in Chargestone ends in a tale of revenge. Ghosts continue to kick ass, we found the Andross of Pokemon, and also Klinklang! I... don't have anything to say about Klinklang! To be honest, if you have a lot to say about Klinklang I don't trust you.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

The end is in sight. We're ALMOST THERE. The long, long Unova Dex is finally winding down. We got Great Ghosts and Brave Birds, we got vultures and anteaters. Let's just power through, gang. We can do this.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

At last, our terrible task is complete. The Unova Dex is behind us, and ahead, shining daylight. A few clingers-on, a long line of legendaries, and it's all done. We're not gonna head into Kalos just yet though: oh, goodness no. We're ready for a break. And after this marathon ep, you will be too.

In retrospect I am starting to doubt this Kabutops-Genesect theory. Kabutops isn't even bug type!

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

I thought about releasing two versions of this podcast, one Zekrom and one Reshiram, with a few little tweaks. You know, as a fun goof. It turns out I already saddled myself with enough of a "fun goof" in editing, as you'll soon hear. it was a huge pain in the (rear). Anyway, Six and Allen watched the 14th Pokemon movie, and hey it was pretty good!

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Kalos! Land of kings and fashion, of heelies and and sunglasses. It is to this region that the Quorum now turns its steely gaze, ready to pass judgment upon its pokedex. But... so far it's pretty good? Hey maybe Gen VI was alright. Diggersby can get lost, though. What a loser.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

As the Quorum continues its Kalos crusade, Six and Allen are joined by Kyrie for the first time! Let's debate a doggo, ponder some psychics, consider a cub, and much more on this week's Johto Quorum!

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

As the Quorum sinks deeper into the Kalos dex, I am starting to see the pattern. When a pokemon exists because there was a type they felt they "needed," and when someone had a genuinely inspired idea. And it's strange to see that the ratio hasn't really changed, even over all this time. There aren't more or fewer "junk" pokemon in the newer generations. It varies a bit of course, but it's all within standard deviation. The passion for monster creation continues unimpeded, and hopefully will into the future.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

This week, the Quorum's taking a little break for a movie and a game. From the world of Pokemon, Allen and Six check out the CG remake of the first Pokemon movie: Mewtwo Strikes Back Evolution. Outside of Pokemon, the two check out the Pokemon-inspired indie MMO that's been getting everyone's attention, Temtem!

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Even the best pokedexes have their dregs. I still hold that the Kalos region has some great pokemon, and is one of the better pokedexes... but we certainly aren't going to prove it today. Well, Goodra's pretty great. And Sylveon. There's always a Sylver lining.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

The rhythm is gonna get you. Six and Allen are on a weekend fishing trip, so no official Quorum business is gonna go down! But... they could spare time to listen to some music, surely. The songs of Gen 6 are on display, from Kalos to the Hoenn remakes! Enjoy!

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

And so we bring Gen 6 to a close. A few regular pokemon, and then it's a slew of legendaries. Who could have foreseen the plot twist with Carbink? Why didn't they write anything for Zygarde to do? Why is Volcanion? So many questions. We don't have answers to those. All we can tell you is, will these pokemon stay, or will they go.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

We get by with a little help from our friends. Another meeting of the Popplio Pals commences as Six and Allen dive into the Gen 7 pokedex, with guest judgment from Ryan! The best starters ever? They're in the conversation. Does it go downhill from there? My goodness, does it ever.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

How are we going to deal with Alola? It's hard to talk about an island paradise given the miserable state of our modern world. We need help. We need MAGELLAN, defender of the unloved. With Six, Allen, and Magellan in the Quorum, we have the energy to tackle this Pokedex. Toxapex! Mudsdale! Charjabug! Pay for the whole seat, even though you'll only need... wait this is a free podcast, don't pay for the seat at all! Whew, almost got carried away.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

The Gyms and Champions are not sufficient to honor the efforts of trainers around the Pokemon world. Who will speak for the Cooltrainers, the Supernerds, the Dragon Tamers? The Johto Quorum must step up. This is our first class of our Hall of Fame, for the trainer classes that have made our world what it is.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Oh dear, oh dear. The (surface) tension is palpable this episode, as the Pokedex brings us some real... interesting customers. Reverse harems, Digimon, arrested for horny crimes... big yikes, gang. Buckle up.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Cute... isn't enough?! A stunning revelation as Kat joins Six and Allen to be the unexpected harsh critic of pocket monsters. Ghosts continue to reign supreme over the Quorum like sour cream, we're not entirely comfy with Comfey, and OH MY GOD IT'S MIMIKYU. I LOVE IT SO MUCH.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Rails are for other people. With Bottle Crow Reborn's Nick on the show, we're going OFF the rails. We're not just talking pokemon, we're talking Taco Bell and Emily Dickinson. Err, excuse me... Diglettson. Join us!

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Awlright gang, it's time to go BEAST MODE. Everyone's talking about the extradimensional threat of Ultra Beasts. They're dangerous. They don't follow the rules of our dimension! And dang isn't their design quirky?! Well don't worry friends and folks, Six and Allen are here to put these critters to the ultimate test: the Quorum.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

It's time to say "alola" to Alola. Wait. So in Hawaiian "aloha" means hello AND goodbye. And Alola is obviously just Hawaii. Does that mean it's fair to assume "alola" also means hello and goodbye? It definitely means hello. And I still think it's incredibly stupid that they just NAMED THEIR HOME "hello." It's the stupidest thing. But. Anyway.

We also talk about the possibility of doing different starters, based on a different trifecta: fighting, fairy, steel. It's Clefairy's time to shine, baby!

...terrace house: alola state. i'm sorry i'll stop.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Movie time! We decided to bust out the popcorn before moving into the Galar Dex, checking out a short and a movie: Pikachu & Pichu, and Pokemon the Movie: The Power of Us. The short is no Pikachu's Vacation, but it's a decent enough little Pikachu side adventure. The movie, though? It's ambitious, for better and for worse. I bet it's the only Pokemon movie to star a gyaru.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Departing gyaru, entering Galar! At last, the Quorum is starting the current pokedex! Is the Pokemon Company out of ideas? Not if the Scorbunny line is any indication. Squirrels and birds, drums and soccer! A kingdom divided must unite. See, that's like a Three Kingdoms thing but also a play on United Kingdoms, which- hey where are you going

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

There's new Pokemon to talk about! Game stuff, I mean: there are ALWAYS new creatures for the Quorum to discuss. But with the release of SwSh's first expansion, the Isle of Armor, we get to not only rate monsters, but a new chunk of game content. Unfortunately it isn't the GREATEST piece of content they've ever made, but what can ya do.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Oh, dear lord. We let Nick on the show again. Well, there's plenty of time to regret that decision. In the meantime, let's appreciate some pokemon. We're here for Toxtricity! Silicobra is a-okay! And Cramorant? Man, that guy's an ALL-TIMER. What a fantastic 'mon. Plus, the first ever actual Digimon corner.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

This week, Six and Allen are joined by Scanline staffers Jen and Kyrie to discuss a very special set of pokemon. Using this link (https://tcrf.net/Proto:Pok%C3%A9mon_Gold_and_Silver/Spaceworld_1997_Demo/Pok%C3%A9mon), we're going through all the pokemon from the 1997 Pokemon Gold and Silver SpaceWorld demo that didn't make it into the final games. They cut a lot of pokemon out of the 'dex for space reasons, and a lot of fascinating designs were left behind. Let's look at them! Open the link, look along with us as we judge!

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

We're gonna put our judgment of betamon on hold for a bit, as Six and Allen are joined once again by Magellan! And Magellan's played Sword and Shield, so we should PROBABLY talk about the Galar Dex. We got imps and hatgirls, fighting octopuses and tea ghosts, and much more.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Six and Allen return, pushing through more of the Galar dex. Galar forms, a disappointingly whipped form of cream, tap dancing, and so much more. Plus Falinks, who RULES. It's a good week.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Our journey, which many claimed was impossible, seems to be approaching its end. Misassembled fossils, metal elephants, evil guinea pigs, and more. There isn't much left to say... let's see how this Quorum concludes. This isn't the last episode, but we can see the end from here.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

We will be back, friends, of that you can be certain, but for now... this is goodbye. Sword dogs and punching bears salute our farewell episode, with ghost dragons trailing behind. Pokemon will ever remain a love of our lives, but it's time to head to other shores.

We'll see you in The Genius.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Is this the last Quorum for Gen 8? Maybe so, but if it is, we're ending on a very high note. The Isle of Armor wasn't what we were hoping for, but Allen and Six are very happy with the Crown Tundra. Not only that, but we get some great Pokemon to rate, too! Good times had by all.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

We're out of Pokemon to rank, for now... but the pocket monsters are back regardless! This time, Six and Allen play host on a Guess the Pokemon's Type game show with contestants Jen, Kyrie, and Nick, AND a magnificent prize to boot!

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Let a new journey begin. There are no more pokemon to rank, for now. Doubtless they will return in time. But what about monsters you CAN'T fit in your pocket? Monsters that destroy, that prey upon men, that rule the land. Some would say, hunt them. We say... rate them. Henceforth begins the Hunter's Quorum, as we put the creatures of Monster Hunter to the test!

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Charizard's great and all, but can you turn him into a sick-ass princess dress? Actually, please don't answer that, be nice to Charizard. We finish up one beastie from Monster Hunter Gen 1, then it's on to Gen 2! Elder Dragons and Wyverns, sure. Fanged Beasts? Carapaceons? Oh hell yeah, NOW it's getting fun.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

We've sharpened our weapons and consumed our nutrients: let's talk about Monster Hunter's monsters! On this episode, the friends abound as we reach our first Brute Wyverns like the Barroth and world-famous fan-favorite Deviljho. We head under the sea with the Ceadeus, and we tenuously grasp at mastery of the elements with the Alatreon. These beasties and many more as we start the third generation of Monster Hunter!

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

They made a monster out of a mecha! Usually it goes the other way, like with Mechagodzilla. We also get a big bear friend, a gross worm-mouth enemy, and a whole lot of other pals as we carve our way through the third generation of Monster Hunter monsters. Please do not call them Monsties.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

The thing I appreciate most about these episodes is being able to record with Allen. But the thing I appreciate second-most is that MonHun critters are so cool in such a different way than pokemon! The vibes couldn't be more different, and I'm luxuriating in this cruise through a world of mean but lovable beasties.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com. If you want to see the list of what creatures we've discussed, including direct links to Monster Hunter wiki pages for each monster, it's right here! Don't forget to switch to the MonHun tab!

Six and Allen are joined by the first guest in a while, Kyrie (@KyrieAPage) to talk about the release of the most ambitious Pokemon game in decades, Pokemon Legends: Arceus. I won't be coy, we're all having a great time with the game, and really loving a lot of the changes it's made. But where does it fall short, and what do its changes mean for the future of the Pokemon franchise?

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

I think when we signed up to quorum all the beasts of Monster Hunter (or all the boss ones anyway), we might have underestimated the size of the task. We figured we'd be done in a handful of episodes. But what do you do when you realize a task is much more daunting than you thought? Back down? Ha. Of course not. You get help. And that's why we've called for an expert.

A big thank you to our (likely to be returning) guest Minovsky, who you can find on Twitter at @MinovskyArticle! Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com. If you want to see the list of what creatures we've discussed, including direct links to Monster Hunter wiki pages for each monster, it's right here! Don't forget to switch to the MonHun tab!

Our cuts were so much more efficient when we had no attachments! But we're incredibly grateful for the context Minovsky gives, and while I hate to say it? I think the design process for Monster Hunter might be more involved and considered than the one for Pokemon. They'd never allow something like Magneton through.

Probably.

A big thank you to our guest Minovsky, who you can find on Twitter at @MinovskyArticle! Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com. If you want to see the list of what creatures we've discussed, including direct links to Monster Hunter wiki pages for each monster, it's right here! Don't forget to switch to the MonHun tab!

Legends: Arceus added some 'mons, and it is our duty to cover them. Monster Hunter is still our current mission, but we're not gonna neglect upkeep to the Johto mission! We're joined by Abnormal Mapping's Em Marko to handle the beasts of Hisui.

Thank you so much to Em for joining us on this episode! You can find them on Twitter at @em_being. Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

You DO in fact have to take a shot every time Minovsky says a monster is one of their favorites. But it's ok, you also have to drink a whole glass of water every time Allen and I admit that for all the shit we give Minovsky for their enthusiasm, Monster Hunter designs just kinda don't miss, so at least you won't get hung over. We even kept a Great monster this time! As in one of the ones with the prefix "Great." Listen if you play MonHun you get it.

A big thank you to our guest Minovsky, who you can find on Twitter at @MinovskyArticle! Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com. If you want to see the list of what creatures we've discussed, including direct links to Monster Hunter wiki pages for each monster, it's right here! Don't forget to switch to the MonHun tab!

We're outnumbered! Minovsky is a great pal and wonderful Monster Hunter resource but lacks the killer instinct that makes a TRUE Quorumer. Now we've invited Dylan to guest and they TOO lack the bloodlust required to get work done! Well I guess that's not outnumbered. That's 2v2. Still! The hardest it's ever been to do the necessary work of the Quorum. Plus we're getting sick boss monsters and then starting World, a game all of us have played! It's ok. I believe in us. I believe in our ability to nitpick minor infractions.

A big thank you to Minovsky, who you can find on Twitter at @MinovskyArticle! Thank you as well to Dylan for guesting, whom is at @LowPolyRobot. Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com. If you want to see the list of what creatures we've discussed, including direct links to Monster Hunter wiki pages for each monster, it's right here! Don't forget to switch to the MonHun tab!

Be vewy vewy quiet, we're hunting OH GOD IT FOUND US FIRST. Thank you everyone, this was my one-line skit about Elmer Fudd hunting an Odogaron. There are a few beasts we missed in the past, so we take care of those, and then it's on to more World friends!

A big thank you to Minovsky, who you can find on Twitter at @MinovskyArticle! Our Pokemon podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), our MonHun podcast art is done by RitSkyZ (@RitSkyZ on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com. If you want to see the list of what creatures we've discussed, including direct links to Monster Hunter wiki pages for each monster, it's right here! Don't forget to switch to the MonHun tab!

So, it's come to this. Pokemon. Monster Hunter. And now, Temtem. Wherever creature design exists in bulk, you can expect Allen and Six to come knocking, clipboard in hand. But for this one, we needed a Temtem expert.

We couldn't find one. So we invited Jackson!

Thank you so much to Jackson for joining us on this episode! You can find them on Twitter at @headfallsoff. Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

We're back, and ready to close out Monster Hunter World! We get a handful of friends humble and proud before we head into Elder Dragon Time. There's a Witcher crossover with Monster Hunter?! Who knew. Probably some of you, I suppose.

A big thank you to Minovsky, who you can find on Twitter at @MinovskyArticle! Our Pokemon podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), our MonHun podcast art is done by RitSkyZ (@RitSkyZ on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com. If you want to see the list of what creatures we've discussed, including direct links to Monster Hunter wiki pages for each monster, it's right here! Don't forget to switch to the MonHun tab!

With Scarlet and Violet now out long enough to settle in our minds, The Johto Quroum returns to start ratin' those monsters! Naturally, we open with a half hour discussion of the new games, and our time with them, but then it's on to what we do best: creature design crit. Should we have done Dudunsparce this early? Probably not. But these critters don't have National Pokedex numbers yet so all rules are off!

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

To all of you out there who can't find it in yourself to love an olive: I'm sorry, friends. That must be a hard place to live. For me, it's mushrooms. Can't do it! Hate the flavor, hate the texture, and they wreak havoc on my digestive system. But both of us are missing out. Minecraft golems, pawpad pikalikes, dough dogs and more are on the menu as we head deeper into the Paldean Pokedex!

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

Iceborne only added six monsters. Which incidentally is my name. Just... Six, not Six Monsters. Though can you IMAGINE?! Sorry, getting sidetracked. Six new monsters- plenty more returning friends. Six is a very manageable number, so let's just knock this expansion out in one episode. I'm sure there won't be anything cool, and we can just cut them all and move on to Rise without any surprises.

A big thank you to Minovsky, who you can find on Twitter at @MinovskyArticle! Our Pokemon podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), our MonHun podcast art is done by RitSkyZ (@RitSkyZ on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com. If you want to see the list of what creatures we've discussed, including direct links to Monster Hunter wiki pages for each monster, it's right here! Don't forget to switch to the MonHun tab!

We have National Pokedex numbers again! Thank god. Back on track. Lightbulb tadpoles, Megaman.EXE, Just Taillow Again, and more- this is the doldrums of the Paldea region, and it's not over yet. Doesn't that sound appealing? Doesn't that make you want to listen? Well how about this- Allen makes maybe the funniest joke I've ever heard them make this ep.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

As the Paldean Pokédex settles into its groove, we get, honestly? A bunch of freakin' winners. I mean sure, Wiglett and Wugtrio are here. They are stupid, and disappointing. But like. Espathra? Palafin??? Tinkaton????? The Pokémon Company has still got it, y'all.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

You didn't think we changed our name to The Creature Quorum just to more smoothly incorporate Monster Hunter, did you? Oh no no no. We did it to open the door. NO MICKEY, NOT THE DOOR TO DARKNESS. God. That guy never quits, does he? No, this is the door to talking about a whole lot of Heartless. And Nobodies. And I guess Unversed at some point, and... well yeah, point is there's a lot to do.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), though that's the Johto Quorum art, and we intend to get some Quorum That Never Was art at some point. You can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at emails@scanlinemedia.com.

As we start the latest Monster Hunter, our group of three becomes temporarily a four! The internet's Crasspants, or Crass if you're feeling... nasty? joins the crew for this one, and yet somehow they're not the one that starts the wrestling references rolling. It's a youkai-themed time as we check out Dirty Boys, MonHun Krampus, an incel tiger, and more!

A big thank you to Minovsky, whom you can find on Twitter at @MinovskyArticle, as well as to Crass, whom you can find on Twitter at @Crasspants! Our Pokemon podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), our MonHun podcast art is done by RitSkyZ (@RitSkyZ on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com. If you want to see the list of what creatures we've discussed, including direct links to Monster Hunter wiki pages for each monster, it's right here! Don't forget to switch to the MonHun tab!

Weird Fish Hour! We're back with more Scarlet & Violet Pokemon designs, and you know? They kinda went for it on this set! In weal and in woe, they went for it. Seriously what the hell is Cetitan.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com.

One. THOUSAND pokemon. And a lot more designs, thanks to their many forms. We've got a new third stage evolution for a Black & White design, then we're off to the Paradox Pokemon mines for a while. Finally, we end with a Jojo's reference. I know. I'm sorry to bring this cursed knowledge into your life. Not as sorry as Allen is at the Gholdengo fan art I sent them.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at emails@scanlinemedia.com.

Once again, we find ourselves reaching the end of a journey. It's like chasing a car- what do you do when you catch it? Well, we've done it before, so trust us- the best answer is to sit down for months or years and let the car get a healthy lead again, then resume the chase. We've got the Ruinous Quartet, some more Paradox Pokemon for you including our cover legendaries, and... oh. That's it! That's it. Then we all go home.

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at emails@scanlinemedia.com.

It feels gross to start our pod with Monstro. Why is there a level of Kingdom Hearts set inside a whale's stomach? ...No, I get why literally speaking, I've seen Pinocchio, it's just... ah nevermind. Let's just talk Heartless, shall we? Oh, hang on, I'm getting a call....

Our podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), though that's the Johto Quorum art, and we intend to get some Quorum That Never Was art at some point. You can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at emails@scanlinemedia.com.

It's time for the curtain to fall on Monster Hunter Rise. Six, Allen, Minovsky, and Crass assemble one more time to finish up the new monsters of Monster Hunter Rise. It's only four creatures, but we manage to go over an hour debating the merits of some particularly interesting beasts. Next time: Sunbreak. After that? Well, I guess we'll see. ...That's not like a sly tease, I truly have no idea.

A big thank you to Minovsky, whom you can find on Twitter at @MinovskyArticle, as well as to Crass, whom you can find on Twitter at @Crasspants! Our Pokemon podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), our MonHun podcast art is done by RitSkyZ (@RitSkyZ on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters at johtoquorum@gmail.com. If you want to see the list of what creatures we've discussed, including direct links to Monster Hunter wiki pages for each monster, it's right here! Don't forget to switch to the MonHun tab!

Everyone is asking, "what will the Generation 10 Pokemon games be like?" Always, we look to the horizon. That's not a bad thing: to neglect the future is to neglect progress. But it hasn't always been a step forward, has it? Are you going to be the first person to claim Sword & Shield were better than Sun & Moon? Do you really think Diamond & Pearl were better games than Ruby & Sapphire?

For years, Allen has told me, Six, that Gen 5 is the best generation of Pokemon. And y'know, those games were cool. But they're not Gen 2, or Gen 7... isn't "best" a bit too much? Well... maybe not. Over the course of 2024, Allen and I will play through Pokemon Black & White, then Black 2 & White 2, one gym per episode. The last 2D Pokemon. The last DS Pokemon. The Pokemon that dares to be about... New York state?! Join us we tackle Black & White, a game from our pasts with a shocking number of good suggestions for the future.

Our tour through the Unova Region continues! Travel Famous Route 3, see Complete Nothing Wellspring Cave! Drop by Nacrene City for a soda- but only if it's Wednesday, otherwise the local cafe won't serve you??? Check out the museum, see the home of famous artist Burgh! Then it's off to Pinwheel Forest- after you swing by the Challenge Rock of course- and onto the big city itself... next episode!

Five final monsters, and then the Hunters may rest. We've gone through every mainline Monster Hunter and talked about the big boss beasts, and now all that remains is Sunbreak. Will Malzeno make it big? Will Lunagaron pass our inspection? It's time to rate a few last friends, and then close down shop until the next Monster Hunter. Not that the Quorum's stopping- hell, our Unova journeys are only just getting started.

A big thank you to our guest Matthew, whom you can find on Twitter at @Infinite_Rewind! Our Pokemon podcast art is done by Robin (@CourageousRobin on Twitter), our MonHun podcast art is done by RitSkyZ (@RitSkyZ on Twitter), and you can contact the show with any questions, comments, or arguments for future (or past!) monsters, DM Six at @sixdettmar!

Little trainers in the big city! Our journey through PokéNew York hits a milestone as we finally reach PokéNYC! Big streets! Huge buildings! Lots of people! S... urprisingly little to do! I mean, don't get me wrong- there's more to do here than like a, a Nacrene City, or an Accumula Town, or something, but... lotta empty space! Lotta "skyscrapers" that in practice only have two floors! Well, whatever. Victini! The Insect Gym! Our first meeting with Iris! There's plenty to celebrate this week.

After, let's face it, a down episode, we're back up as we head to Nimbasa City, the electric city! Sports! Musicals! A ferris wheel! A roller coaster! Plus sand, a castle (but not a sandcastle), a spoOoOoky forest, and lots of new pokemon! We're feasting this week, and even N being sorta inappropriate and definitely a weirdo can't bring us down. Alright Empire PokeState, what have you got for us next?

For all the hype about the music, Driftveil is no great shakes. Ha! Cuz Quake Badge? It's a... yeah, ok. Driftveil City is a quiet town, and this is a quiet episode, as we partially foil an unclear Team Plasma plot before being forced to surrender the culprits back to their organization, check out a nice little market that doesn't sell anything we want, watch the sunset... y'know, a quiet day is nice too sometimes.

A quick jog to Chargestone Cave becomes a LONG slog through the cave itself as we deal with an onslaught of story, trainer battles, and an obnoxiously high encounter rate. Then it's on to Mistralton City, a city that- wait. That's it? There's no city here! Oh well. Off to Celestial Tower? Then the gym? I'll be honest- not Black & White's strongest showing this ep.

Snow and ice conjure hardship to the human mind. Bitter winter, and its challenges- something so many of us know well. It's something we can all relate to, and find hard. That's why ice-type gyms are so often near the end, but not actually the last dungeon: you want a relatable challenge, and clear communication that things are getting hard. But for the finale, things need to get more intense than anything you've experienced in your real life.

no sorry i made it sound like next ep is the finale, it's just the last gym. of the first set of games. there is a lot of UTC left.