How to Become a Pokémon Master (In Real Life)

Pokémon Worlds. In a sense, it’s like challenging the Elite Four and Champion at the Pokémon League. The countless hours training are put to the test fighting against the best of the best. There’s no turning back, you can only hope for the best with the team you brought and just keep moving forward. While I didn’t attend this year’s competition, I enjoyed watching the stream and seeing how much the community has evolved since my last foray in 2011. Pokémon Worlds offers the highest level of play, so how does one prepare for the biggest battles and become a Pokémon Master in real life?

The coveted Worlds trophy. They even give you a card!

Know the game. This goes beyond knowing what moves are super effective. It’s about knowing the trends of the metagame and what to expect before the first Pokéball is sent out. Looking at player statistics from Pokémon's Global Link, Charizard ranks as one of the top used Pokémon in doubles. Thanks to its useful Mega Evolutions, Charizard is a force to reckon with. When building your team, ask yourself “what do I have to take down this threat?” If you don’t have a good answer, go back to the drawing board. It’s impossible to deal with every threat, but be prepared for the common ones like Charizard, Kangaskhan, and Garchomp. Plan on using a Charizard of your own? Know ways people tend to counter it and address those issues. Maybe have a Wide Guard user to stop Rock Slide, speed control like Icy Wind or Tailwind so Charizard outspeeds opponents, Pokémon like Marowak who can switch in and redirect Electric moves that threaten Charizard, things like that.

Do you have a plan in case of Charizard?

Once you know the metagame; take past assumptions and turning them upside their head. A great example of this is Germany’s Markus Lie and his Machamp. When one sees a Machamp in Team Preview, they’ll most likely come to the conclusion that:

·       Machamp will abuse No Guard and Dynamicpunch to spread confusion with a strong move

·       Machamp will support his teammates with Quick Guard and/or Wide Guard

·       Machamp will be slow yet bulky and physically strong

Markus’ Machamp went against convention to emphasize speed over power and support. By holding a Choice Scarf, Machamp was able to outspeed threats like Charizard before they could hit first. Many Charizard players, including myself, are familiar with Wide Guard stopping Heat Wave. One way to stop this is to single-target Machamp, letting it waste its turn with Wide Guard while I knock it out. With Machamp out of the way, I can continue to spam Heat Wave for game. So you happily hit the Air Slash or Overheat button only to have Machamp knock you out before you can move.

Look how fast he goes!

But the surprises don’t stop there. Instead of No Guard and Dynamicpunch, Markus’ Machamp uses Guts and Close Combat. While usually an inferior choice, the current metagame makes it a superior option. As I mentioned earlier, Kangaskan is a huge threat. One of the ways to deal with physical hitters is to deliver a burn to half their attack power. For this reason, Rotom is a prominent Pokémon thanks to Will-o-Wisp and other support moves in its arsenal. Naturally, one would burn Machamp to weaken it, and this is true if it was the No Guard variant. However, Guts actually boosts Machamp’s attack when afflicted with a status effect. Players will instinctively burn Machamp, only to make Machamp even stronger. A hindrance for physical attackers becomes an advantage for Machamp, and the choice of Guts over No Guard is a great metagame call from Markus.
 

Competing in live events differs from online competitions due to human interaction. While it might seem weird to have a “strategy” for it, human interaction can prove either helpful or hurtful depending on the way you look at it and should be something to keep in mind before going into battle. For one thing, you don’t want to go blabbing your mouth about how trainers won’t anticipate your “Choice Specs Gyarados” only to have your strategy fall flat on its face.

Quit your blabbing and start battling!

That example seems obvious, but even subtle hints before you fight can be detrimental. During VGC Nationals 2013, one trainer I fought was talking up about one Pokémon on his team no one really expects. During Team Preview, I saw an Electabuzz and thought “he’s probably means that.” Sent out my Landorus first turn and “surprisingly”, he led with Electabuzz who immediately ran tail.

Of course, one could argue that someone could bluff you with prebattle talks, so it’s best to avoid those mind games to begin with. I find it helpful to introduce myself, shake hands, and maybe throw in light banter to help people relax. During battles, it’s all focus. I don’t say much and tend to just look at my screen when making moves. At the end, I’ll extend my hand for another hand shake and compliment my opponent (Good prediction with your Abomasnow’s Safeguard!).  When you’re less nervous, it’ll help you think clearer in battles, so have a plan to go in with a calm mind. Raise your Special Attack and Special Defense by one stage!



Be calm young one.

Probably the most helpful advice I can give is practice. A LOT. Coming up with winning strategies doesn’t happen by only reading articles online or watching a few matches. You can only level up through experience. In a previous blog post, I mentioned how Kangaskhan caused significant problems for my team. So I battled and failed, multiple times, until I could finally secure a strategy to effectively take her down. I might not have a trophy of my own, but I don't plan on giving up anytime soon. It took Se Jun Park, the current World Champion, five years to finally claim his title. Any champion can tell you their success comes from their failures. So never give up! Go out there and battle to become the very best like no one ever was!

Always a joy to see my boy Pikachu

 

18 Years of Pokémon

Pokémon recently celebrated its 18th anniversary. Shortly after Red and Green's release in Japan, it became a worldwide phenomenon and the rest is history. I have no idea what my life would be like without Pokémon. I met some of my best friends through it and learned a lot from the series. So of course, it's only appropriate I give 18 cheesy, cliched reflections from the wonderful world of Pokémon.

1. Never give up, no matter how many times you fall

You ever met Ash Ketchum? This kid has the dream to become the very best like no one ever was. Out of the current 721 Pokémon, how many has he obtained? 72. If "to catch them is [his] real test", Ash is about 10% done. He's managed to collect the badges in each region, but falls short of being the League Champion (except in the Orange Islands). And yet, he keeps at it.

We can't all stay 10 forever, but we can learn something from this idealist.

I mean, if you like Muk go right ahead.

2. With over 700 creatures, you got to have a favorite!

Pokémon has variety. Maybe floating magnets or living piles of sludge aren't your forte. But there are so many to choose from, you got to like at least one! As weird as it may sound, Pokémon is kind of like life. Even though there are aspects that are less than favorable, there's so much to enjoy.

 3. We can take a different path to reach the same goal

I start with Bulbasaur, you choose Charmander. We'll catch different Pokémon to complement our team, have a different strategy to defeat each Gym Leader, and maybe even choose a different Eevee evolution (or none at all)! But at the end of it all, we will both collect the 8 gym badges, defeat Team Rocket, and eventually become the champion. It just goes to show that there's no singular way to play the games. Which brings me to my next point.

 4. The world isn't black or white

5th generation will always have the best story in my opinion. It was the first to raise the issue of the ethics behind Pokémon battles, and while N, the leader of Team Plasma, didn't meet a clear resolution, he learned to value others' opinions. When ideals clash, a new truth emerges that we can learn from.

 

 

 

5. The rules change from time to time, but the fundamentals stay the same

With the addition of held items, abilities, new moves, new typings, and new battle formats, Pokémon battles have changed a lot since Red and Green. Regardless, the basic principles behind battles stay the same. Pokémon battles is like rock-paper-scissors with elements of chess. Water beats Fire, Fire beats Grass, and Grass beats Water. But Water can move in a way that let it beat Grass. The rules of life change constantly with new technologies and discoveries, but the fundamentals like honesty and humility remain steadfast.

6. A journey with friends beats a journey alone

If I had to summarize what the overall message of the Pokémon series is, it's friendship. Ash and Pikachu's travels across the land show the deep, emotional bond these two share. What I enjoy most about Pokémon is how a seemingly single-player game can transform into the greatest multiplayer experience thanks to trading and battles. And now with online trading and battles, I feel part of the bigger worldwide community. I can't begin to tell you about the countless hours me and my friends spend talking about Pokémon. It's a powerful tool that breaks down barriers and connects people. What other game could unite an entire community to simultaneously play and beat it?

When thousands of people gather to play Pokémon, Omanyte becomes a God.

7. There are some things you just can't explain

What is underneath Diglett? How does a Wailord and Skitty create an egg? Why was Hulk Hogan chosen to be the spokesperson during Pokémon's 10th anniversary? The world may never know.

I got to keep training brother!

8. Don't be surprised if you run into a surprise

Right before my management class, I pulled out my 3DS thinking I could get some training down before the lecture began. Three battles in, I run into a shiny Eevee! I ran out, hugged a random girl, and apologized saying it was "Pokémon business." Granted, I caught 10 or so shinies before, but it was still exciting! Always have those Pokéballs ready, you never know what you'll run into the wild.  

9. Old Arcanines can learn new tricks

Charizard has always been the laughing stock of competitive battling since Red and Green. Now, he's one of the biggest threats thanks to his Mega Evolutions. It took him 18 years, but by Arceus he did it! Other Pokémon have also broken from obscurity since their debut. Blaziken went from being good, to just average, to being banned TWICE! Wobbuffet? He got a new ability and bam! Straight to Ubers! There are so many Pokémon that got better over time, so never say it's too late to learn something new.

 

10. "It's Super Effective" doesn't necessarily mean it's effective

Just because Blissey is weak against Fighting-type moves doesn't mean Aura Sphere is the best choice. Brute strength alone can only take you so far. Different strategies such as putting your opponent to sleep or slowing them down through paralysis can easily turn the battle in your favor. Analyze the situation and come up with a plan; don't go charging head first.

11. Learn from the stupid mistakes you make at the beginning

I am guilty of only training my Venusaur when I first played Red. He was the backbone of my team at level 97. I prided myself on the fact I didn't use a Rare Candy. My second highest? Pidgeotto at level 32. You can tell I knew what I was doing. But hey, how else can we learn if we don't make our own mistakes? It's always a laugh to look back and see how much of a noob trainer I was.

12. Patience is a virtue

Have you ever hatched eggs in Pokémon? It takes bloody forever! You’re moving back and forth for 30 minutes only to realize the baby has the wrong nature or ability or whatever. Sure, shortcuts like having a Pokémon with Flame Body in your party exist, but I remember going through countless eggs in Firered just to hatch a decent Totodile. If I already hatched over 400 eggs in X alone, I shudder to think how long I spent in Pearl. But if I’m still at it after all these eggs, then I must have learned a thing or two about patience. Which reminds me, I probably need to go back and finish hatching those Machop eggs. That will be fun…

I've listened to the bike theme plenty of times.

13. With teamwork, even Magikarp can sweep a team

The videos are absolutely hilarious, but given the right circumstance, the flopping fish has what it takes to take the world. To pull this off, Magikarp requires teammates to help give it a boost to sweep. It just goes to show that the power of teamwork can overcome all.

 

14. There’s a time and place for everything. But not now!

Yes Professor, I know I can’t ride my bike indoors. Yes, I also know I can’t use the Helix Fossil during battle. Yes, I know I can’t use the Super Rod in the middle of the city. It’s an annoying reminder, but Oak’s got a point.

Riding your bike indoors? He'll know...

15. The world is a big place to explore

From the majestic snow peaks of Mt. Coronet to the glistening shorelines of Cianwood City, the Pokémon world offers breathtaking scenery. There are so many places to see and things to do, so stop being cooped up and get out there! After you finish reading this post of course :)

16. Sometimes, it’s just luck

You might have the winning strategy that can take on the biggest threats, but a stray Ice Beam could freeze your Pokémon and all hope for victory is frozen. It happens. You just got to accept that luck might play a role in determining a battle, so don’t take it personally. It’s not all bad though, sometimes luck might get you out of a bind when you need it most. How else can you explain Ash winning the Boulder Badge?

Thunderbolt sets off the fire sprinklers, soaking Onix. That's dumb luck right there.

17. Follow what you love regardless of what other people think

As my good friend Terral once told me, “middle school is the worst version of yourself.” For a time, I left Pokémon because I didn’t want to seem uncool or nerdy. I remember asking a pair of 8^th graders with their Gameboy Advances out if they were playing Pokémon. “Yeah we’re playing,” they responded. “So what?” They were probably used to people mocking them, but they didn’t care. They had guts and I envied them. It only matters what you think. Nothing else matters.

18. If you’re not having fun, you’re doing it wrong!

Seriously! I don’t say Pokémon is my favorite video game series for nothing. It’s an expansive game with thousands of hours of replay value. It’s a universal language where everyone from die-hard Pokémaniacs to moms with kids that play have something to say. It’s a strategic game that challenges you to use prediction and smarts to overcome your opponent. It’s a collector’s hobby with an expansive community full of traders. It’s a shared experience which solidified so many of my friendships and helped forge new ones. But most importantly, Pokémon is just plain fun, and I wouldn’t still be playing if it wasn’t.  

The games that started a phenomenon.

You Can't Judge a Pokémon by its Type

The world of Pokémon is filled with an infinite array of creatures. Like humans, Pokémon come in a wide range of shapes, sizes and personalities. From the cute and brightly-eyed Jigglypuff to the fierce and destructive Gyarados, no two species of Pokémon are exactly alike. But does that mean that every Jigglypuff is cute and every Gyarados is destructive?

If every Pokémon in a species shared similar personalities, then Zubat would be inherently evil. These blood-sucking fiends swarm inside mountains, causing misery to any trainer foolish enough not to invest in Repels. Besides my hate-hate relationship with these Pokémon, many of the evil teams like Team Rocket use a high volume of Zubats. Team Rocket battles with about a total of 35 Zubats throughout your journey in Pokémon Red. However, that doesn't necessarily mean that Zubats are inherently evil. There are many factors that play a role in Pokémon selection. If Giovanni needs to quickly build an army of grunts to storm Silph Co, he's not going to have time to hand-pick Pokémon for each member. He'll probably hire some guy to walk into Mt. Moon and hurl as many Pokéballs as he can.

These things are evil in their own right.

To say that Pokémon selects their trainer based on personality is absurd! It's the trainer who throws out the Pokéball; Pokémon rarely "choose" their trainer. So why is it that we see certain Pokémon with certain types of trainers? Perception. It is not to say that a certain species of Pokémon have the same personality, but trainers perceive them to act a certain way.

If you're a Biker on Cycling Road, chances are you're going to pick Arbok over Teddiursa. Why? Because one is a huge snake who poisons foes with venomous one. The other is a tiny bear who licks honey off its palms. Likewise, Lass Andrea on Route 8 opts for a Meowth over Grimer. One is a cat who likes to play
with shiny objects. The other is a pile of sludge with eyes. While trainers in the games adhere to Pokéstereotyping, the anime tries at times to break the mold.

Biker Ernest is outcasted from the other Bikers for choosing a Teddiursa and Marill on his team.

Houndoom takes its design from hell hounds. The Pokédex describes it as the "Dark Pokémon" whose cry

Even Houndoom can be heroic

was thought to be that of the Grim Reaper. Burns caused by Houndoom are said to be everlasting. Houndoom has a less than pleasant description, but its appearance in the show have been fairly positive. In "Houndoom's Special Delivery", a Houndoom finds Misty's Togepi alone in a forest. Defending it from a Pinsir, Houndoom takes Togepi under its care until they reunite with Ash and friends. Even Houndoom, who are seen as vicious Pokémon, can be heroic.



On the flip-side, normally benign and innocent Pokémon can have a dark side. During the Sinnoh saga, Team Rocket encounters a Pokémon that eats all of their food, throws Jessie's clothes in mud, and lights Meowth's fur on fire. You'd think a naughty Gengar or Murkrow would be behind these misdeeds, but a Togepi!? It's surprising that this dastardly Pokémon is the same species as the one that was coddled by Misty during the Kanto and Johto journies. It gets so bad, this Togepi literally blasts Team Rocket into space. Still think Togepi couldn't possibly be evil? This will change your mind:

Pokéstereotyping is a serious issue in the Pokémon universe. Oftentimes, trainers choose their Pokémon based on perception rather than a Pokémon's real personality. Vilified Pokémon like Houndoom can be loyal, trustworthy and heroic. Likewise, cute and innocent Pokémon like Togepi can have a mean streak. Even Zubats, who frequently harass me in caves, might have more to them besides blood-sucking. So challenge yourself. If you usually pick the water-starter, choose fire. Instead of training a Growlithe, catch a Koffing. After all, you can't judge a Pokémon by its type. When you break Pokéstereotypes and train new creatures, you might even find your new best friend.