RedAlert

June 5, 2019

My starter is serperior and it's literally the mvp.

Do u not have contrary on it? Leaf Storm + Glare set is fantastic, try it out

May 31, 2019

1 hour ago, KuroItachi said:

Do you have a good IV Bidoof? If you do I can give you a baby misdreavus

Do u mean like a 31IV one? I'll have to breed one if so...

For now, I have this one here:

May 31, 2019

I'm trying to complete the Pokedex but it looks like I've missed my chance on Misdreavus...

I've also been soft-resetting in front of a mining rock for days looking for an Odd Keystone. Can anyone help me out here?

Willing to trade anything you want.

May 10, 2019

I'm such an idiot.

I've never played Spork before and I downloaded DDL, thinking it was the main game and finished it first. Was wondering what the hell was going on...

February 4, 2019

Oh no, I've only recently started my intense run *gulps*

Spirit keta is as far as ive gotten as of the moment, took a little bit of strategy to beat thanks to his assortment of stupidly powerful fully evolved mons. Seriously why the fuck does he need a Donphan and a frigging Gallade?!

January 27, 2019

Get Detect on your Yanmega so you get a free speed boost.

It's too frail to take hits, unless they're resisted. As a general rule I only switch in to Yanmega when I predict a move that is 4x weak to it I.e., Grass, bug, fighting

So switch in, detect and watch it wreck havoc

January 27, 2019

Hello again, fellow Rejuvenation enthusiasts!

I originally decided to document this because I have the memory of a sea crustacean and wanted to keep track of the story. Rejuvenation is such a big game with so many characters, heavily dependent on plot and yadayada, most of you already know this - so one way I could ensure that I could be up to speed with interesting. My original purpose is for myself to look back at this thread one day while playing V15 in 2030 and go "Ohhhhh, killing the player was actually an act of true love" or "Ohhhhh, no wonder Venam is a little bitch".

Anyways...

Let's get this thing going.

- - - - - - -

6: Keta-genic

Spoiler

Listen darling, as long as you get Swords Dance on Geronimo I'll be satisfied.

...

For now.

(I want to make a quip about old people but all of them involve dying so I'll refrain)

Now that is something that makes sense to brag about.

Well... clearly you're not the WISEST

...

ha!

I'm so hilarious.

NO.

I respecc secrets

Let's go do some help center quests to get this thing underways

*yawns*

I see you game, trying to sneakily educate me under the guise of knowing strange lore...

So let me put this together.

There was a catastrophe in Aevium that occurred a while ago, exact date not known.

It's believed that the library is under water, but this guy concludes that it isn't through some research of his own.

Well it's obvious that someone intentionally sealed off the library in that case. Probably the ones that caused the catastrophe in the first place, too.

Well looks like we'll have to head back to Gearen.

This one doesn't have any battles of importance but it does have a high degree of sexual tension between Jenkel and Karen... which I'd rather not relive.

In any case, this happens at the end...

Well, not really.

Makes perfect sense because we'd probably end up OHKOing everything at this point. I don't even think we get the mega rings this early in the official games either, so this isn't bothering at all. It's more of a tease or a rub-in-your-face thing, I guess.

I guess that's a more relevant prize for now.

If only life were that simple.

Gotcha.

I'll give up on that Blue Moon Ice Cream for now.

What I am interested in is if we can read the book we found in the Gearen Library a while ago...

Guess not.

(Is it the same book?)

Finders keepers, Chad.

I don't know why I called him Chad. He looks like a Chad.

But that's what you get for getting other people do your work for you.

...

If that isn't a life lesson, I wonder what is.

I just realized how much we steal things that don't belong to us in Pokemon games.

It's like we pretend no one else exists.

Anyways, since I am such a beautiful soul...

Your Pokemon.

HANDS IN THE AIR!

Oh yes. That.

Lmao WHAT

This boi thinking we dumb as bricks

What's unfortunate is that we have no other option but to behave as if we are dumb as bricks

Now there's this particular dialogue that is repeated that was in the previous versions. While visually this looks better, it doesn't make as much sense as before. Even though we know something shady is up before we enter the cargo hold, we're not prepared to fight a whole gang of thugs at once. The surprise factor is eliminated when they show us some sort of resistance before the beatdown.

I'm not quite sure if I'm getting my point across.

I still gotta admit that the 4 on-1 is still intimidating AF and it would have been a fun challenging battle.

Buuut we're quite unprepared and help would be great.

I feel like I could have one this battle on my own...

Well they give up easy don't they.

You ain't nuffin, little smurfs

I know.

But the game forces me to make stupid decisions against my will.

...

She'll never understand the pains of being a silent protagonist.

Thanks to Venam, we have some lovely advice.

Anyways, now we're in Gearen city, we might as well check out some fun stuff.

Ker-chunk!

And now we're breaking and entering... without force.

I wonder how many crimes we commit in Rejuv.

What a neat little room.

Even has a pretty little wardrobe.

Come here, you beauty.

There's a bunch of cute stuff in this room, but not important enough to screenshot, really.

I just don't get why they take the time to WRITE EACH OTHER LETTERS when they're in the same laboratory and they clearly communicate for work purposes.

Also, why do they literally write emojis on letters?

...

Although...

That was certainly something.

Anyways, on to the mission at hand.

Isn't that just below a black belt?

Pretty impressive, but unfortunately IT'S FUCKING IRRELEVANT SINCE WE'RE FIGHTING OUR CRITTERS

TRY TO RED BELT MY MAKUHITA YOU IDIOT

(I'm half inclined to try this when I actually have 50,000 pokedollars)

That was a pleasant fate.

I'm as low as a Xen grunt now...

Oh all the sufferings and sacrifices my mother went through to keep me alive.

She will be so proud.

How come you don't get transported to the Pokecenter like me?

Anyways, time to get the fuck out of here.

YARGHHHHHHHHHHH

I really need more for the effort, but whatevs.

You be petty, game.

Or NPC.

Her highest mon has around 5 levels on me, so...

I'll wait till the level cap is 30.

This is quite depressing tbh...

she seems like a sweet girl.

Oh no, not at all!

(What a refreshing change of place from the usual assholes I meet.)

I honestly thought his name was Kiki the first time I played.

A fighting type gym leader who is also a sensei... just seemed about right.

(the swablus are so pretty)

Altaria would be fun to use...

Thank you.

If everyone was as civil as you, we wouldn't have nearly so many complications.

I'm so glad we team up with her in future battles. Her lead is a Hawlucha and it hits like a truck.

There was a tiny bit of sass I detected there, Aelita.

But I'll let it go since you were so nice to me.

SO I have.

STOP.

With the riddles.

But really what's with the self-deprecation in this game

It's either absolute arrogance or absolute self-pity, never the middle ground

You don't really seem to set a good example.

Which is surprising since the majority of the folks here were pretty nice.

Ouch.

Guess there's always an asshole in every town in this game.

Looks like he has some weird kinks as well.

I wonder how many sex tapes he has hidden...

Now this is genuinely sad.

Generally, I don't like the forced sadness Rejuv employs, but there's something about this scene that makes it authentic.

LMAO I love this guy (yes I just called him an asshole a little while ago)

There's something about Keta that just radiates wisdom. Granted he does make some questionable decisions but you can tell that the source of his cynicism is experience. He's calling out Venam and Ren for needlessly dwelling on the past and that is something I firmly believe in. I hate to bring morality into debate here, but regretting and guilting yourself over a decision you made in the past solves nothing. It only builds up negativity and makes you lose your purpose.

Yet at the same time, I don't understand why he fails to take his own advice and just whines away in despair over the past.

(although he does try to fix it)

That's... again, up for debate and depends on context. I won't get into it here.

I would be very happy.

Oh he means Melia

I would expect it to be, especially if it's called "Amethyst"

Maybe it's a portal to the Reborn region

Thanks for the advice, Keta

But you don't need to tell me to explore places. It's practically how I make my paycheck

...

At least in-game

I have not

Or I have forgotten

my memory is quite poor you see

Well better get to that

I wish I could get some Moomoo milk but unfortunately we need a weekday for that.

Ah well

Oh dear god

IT'S A GHOST!!!!

What sort of region is this...

I can imagine.

Really?

He looks super guilty tbh

He hardly seems soulless from my encounter with him.

At least when he was took his hood off

I can the efficiency behind it, but yes it doesn't solve some long term problems

I guess here is where we feign surprise?

*gasps*

Indeederino.

I just want to beat the fuck out of trainers, man.

Where is this plot even going

But at least we got our temporary objective.

You mean rekindle his emotions or something?

This whole thing makes no sense.

Huh.

Now while this interaction tries to explain Keta's character, it doesn't really do a fantastic job of it. For one, if this is truly Keta's emotional self, he'd be a fucking trainwreck, not this calm, composed individual. Especially if it's ALL his emotions channelled into this. It's the logical self in a human being that harnesses and controls the emotions to proceed through life effectively. But somehow his emotional self is the more logical counterpart, which does not make sense again. Logic and emotion are two distinctly different characteristics in decision making. Emotion is what gives you motivation to progress. Logic is how you actually do progress, or at least to a certain extent. The characterization for these two split individuals are off and I would re-write their personalities entirely for this to make some sense.

It's not easy to delve into mysticism without making it seem somewhat unbelievable, so when dealing with things like this, we have to be careful when writing a story.

SHE DEAD

Good riddance

(jk come baaaakk Melia)

...

Ah goddammit I don't have the strength to go through that cave again

LOOPHOLES

if only transport were so easy

I don't think that's how the proverb goes...

What is "incredible" though?

What annoys me is that how forgettable these moments are but these are probably important foreshadowings and references to something that'll happen in the future.

Isn't that a pity

LET'S BATTLE!

Oh yeah gimme that

That's the most classy way of saying let's battle I've ever seen...

but you're on, old man

Well he read my mind.

I think he's the best character yet, even though there is some work to be done with this split personality thing.

You better not go back on your word, old man.

I will not.

For long.

Ayyy

Taelia... Aelita

*shrugs*

This really explains a lot, too...

BUT LOOK

I love me some evos

Me very pleased.

Yes I am.

I have great convincing skills

I don't even need to talk for people to get convinced, yanno

IT'S A GYM BATTLE!

Why would I take it easy on him?!

Everyone senses something's up

Does anyone know the amount of trauma I WENT THROUGH?!

DOES ANYONE EVEN ASK??

Now the first time I played this, I didn't expect to win, so I just wanted to glance at his team to go through his strategy. His Breloom and Hariyama both have access to Smack Down, which anhilated all the flying types I hit. My lack of Intimidate crippled me greatly, and by the time I got to Lucario, I was solorunning with Hariyama. I won the first try with sheer luck and RNG thanks to a bunch of misses and crits from my side, so I decided to redo it with some changes to my team.

I guess now's as good as a time as any to build up a little team.

(I should remember this is Intense Mode)

Now to counter Keta, the strategy I developed was to use my two intimidate mons... Luxio and Arbok. However, neither of them have Intimidate currently, so I'll have to breed some or use another strategy.

Eventually I came to this decision: I still needed Sucker Punch on Arbok to make it as viable as possible, so breeding was a chance I took.

This little guy is the child of Geronimo and Kaa who've been eyeing each other a lot lately. And yes, he does have Intimidate

(Btw, this is a great way to level up any of your underlevelled dark types)

Anyways... the team I'm using for Keta is:

Malorie would one shot this gym if she had Calm Mind...

Anyways...

Now is the time for our showdown.

The initial Intimidate worked, both mons targetting Sammy (after The Rock first suffered a Fake Out rendering his Fake Out useless. Super annoying). I glare with Sammy on the first turn on Breloom, and sweep him off his feet with a Poison Sweep.

Pignite is up next.

Time to get Rudolph in the game...

Look at him taking hits like a champ.

I only realize how powerful Rudolph is when he starts taking hits.

One Bubblebeam takes care of Pignite while the Rock Knocks Off Hariyama's something berry

HOOOOOLY SHIIIIT

I really need to use that to my advantage

And I did.

I fucking love this starter.

Unfortunately, Throh is faster than Hariyama

What a perfect world.

Now's as good a time as any.

HA

But seriously, Malorie can't take hits for shit

Malorie goes down here, while Rock cleans up Throh.

While Sammy reduces Hitmontop to virtually nothing.

I'll need another one to take down that Lucario.

Outsmarting the Reborn/Rejuv AIs has become a pastime of mine lately...

I think we win, guys.

Only lost two mons up till now (3 once Bun faints right now)

That's an oddly positive thing to say...

That is dirt cheap tho

(Who is he talking to right now?)

Of course.

We're gonna be at Lvl 25 for a while, guys.

So no Luxray for a while.

Oh good gracious

These people really need to do their jobs better...

While I get some rest as well.

But before I sleep...

Thanks for reading!

Next time, we're gonna head into a waterfall for whatever reason.

January 23, 2019

It's difficult to effectively critique Rejuvenation without citing Reborn as the latter was the inspiration for this game and several others. There is an unconscious expectation level for the player when told "here's a game that is similar to Reborn!", and reflexively Reborn is the yardstick set for rating it. It'll be even more difficult for me to do so as I finished E18 of Reborn very recently (which I wrote a little review about here), but I'll do my best to see it as a stand-alone game.

But first I will say that to some extent, Rejuv is on par with Reborn - even surpassing it in certain aspects. It has stellar graphics, outstanding music and the work done on the animation is sometimes outright gorgeous that I cannot believe that it's a fangame. Yet, somewhere along the line it just fails to deliver the quality and satisfaction we want.

WARNING: Spoilers ahead for V11!

(spoiler tags aren't working for some reason)

I finished the latest release (V11) of Rejuvenation earlier today which was very plot-heavy, involving a lot of the major cast. The sequences which gave you control over Ren and Melia were a great touch, and it was refreshing to walk around with a perfect Greninja OHKOing everything. The lore is more mystic-centric, and a lot of the work put in the game tend towards the visual side. Stories are told extremely well visually, which is something I have to give a lot of credit to the devs for, as there are many fangames that attempt these and fail miserably.

It's when it gets to the actual plot where my views shift.

My first issue is that I feel a lot of the characters are dull and poorly developed. It's widely agreed that the reason for this is because of the sheer number of characters that are brought into the story - which leaves little room for development of said characters. Many characters are assholes for the purpose of being assholes. The player is constantly belittled and made fun of and told that he/she are weak. We whoop that character's ass and it's an excuse of - "Hmph. This isn't my true power. You're laughably weak." The recycle of that formula and application of that to many characters is irksome and provides no benefit positively. And even the ones that are made out to be good people are so stuck-up and self-righteous that it adds another level to the irksomeness.

In addition to this, tragedy in this game is forced into the story just so a plot exists. It's an explanation as to why a certain character has a motivation or behaves in a particular way - but it's often poorly executed. Erin plays the no-nonsense girl who keeps away from people because she was bullied. It's an understandable outcome, but the other kids made fun of her for reasons I just find hard to fully justify as reasons to be made fun of. For one, because her mother died. Now I realize that kids can be immature and insensitive assholes, but it's over-the-top things like these that make the game off-putting. Rejuv attempts to victimize many people who have it somewhat difficult - which I can understand, it's not all their fault - but making the environment the sole reason for the creation of a disaster of a person is something I do not agree with.

Simply put, it is my firm belief that the story needs more polish, several layers of it. And I'm not saying that it's because the devs aren't creative enough to come up with a good story. I'm saying that I feel it's because of a lack of effort on their part towards the story aspect of Rejuv, because most of their effort has gone to the game design rather than the world-building of it. And it's not even necessarily a bad thing, because touching upon these things can really transform this into something amazing.

That being said, I still can't deny that Pokemon Rejuvenation is a game that is very enjoyable despite these glaring faults. It has some genuine gold content to it that make it... urhem... rejuvenating. (I'll walk myself out) And that's why I'll still keep playing, because after all, let's be honest - we're here to assemble mons to beat the shit out of other mons.

_________________________________________________

Two new party members on completion:

January 22, 2019

@Commander it has to be 1 since I don't use mods at all (uninstalled and deleted all mods or anything that can tamper with the game, including RPG Maker).

All the fonts are installed as well.

I'll test out option 1 and see if it works.

January 22, 2019

Just tried this out, the moment I pressed "synopsis" on the main menu the game crashes. Unfortunately I did not check what kind of error it displayed, but if anyone wants to test this, it's right after you're given your starter and battle Cain and Victoria, inside the Grand Hall.

Edit: Just to clarify, the game shows the synopsis completely, but crashes once we've read it through.

January 18, 2019

The Rotom-Wash is still on her team in E18, although only in doubles, if I recollect. And you don't really get a chance to set up much in doubles, do you? Unless you have a baitmon

January 18, 2019

I literally finished E18 5 minutes ago (well probably an hour and five minutes by the time I finish writing this), and I got to say, what a roller coaster of a ride it has been.

Now to critique this game is impossible for me. I would love to write an entire review on it one day, but I'll keep it to when the game is completed. For now I will say this: It's flawed, but that's what makes this game great. It doesn't always have the best visuals, but that's what makes it beautiful at the most unsuspecting times. It's so dynamic that I have trouble keeping up with it.

Whenever I played the original games I always used to double check every trainer, every location, talk twice to some people to see if the dialogue changes and was almost always disappointed as everyone seemed so... static and boring. Reborn solves that problem entirely because people overlap activities at will, walking around, talking in the background (for example, beating the Meteor grunts [or technically, aces] at Agate City causes the other gym leaders to progress through the area as well. If you check Sierra and Florinia, they won't be battling the same grunts once you've defeated some yourself). Going back and forth from area to area, the incorporation of countless puzzles that give you the satisfaction of completion along with a reward that seems well received.

In essence.... the official games spoil you. They give you too much without any effort or strategy. They hail you as a hero for utilization of simple battle tactics revolving around mere type effectiveness. I have to say that despite the increase in quality of the visuals in recent Pokemon games, they have highly diminished in quality with poor storytelling (aside from a couple I needn't mention), forgettable rivals and characters.

Reborn on the other hand, laughs at you at the start. You're a paltry, insignificant outsider who has nothing of value, outside of admittance into the Reborn League. The build up, the transition from this beginner who has to crawl through the slums, walk through lava and numerous other seemingly insurmountable obstacle to the very pinnacle of strength that causes everyone to look upon you with wonder, and hail upon you phrases such as:

Oh Ame, you smooth-talking puzzle-crazed sadist, you have no idea how I blushed when I was referred to as "the golden child" Thank you

The Glass Factory was honestly the best thing that happened to me in this game. I was so overprepared for this and used my best team and it honestly felt like I was leagues ahead of everyone at the end of it. And guess what? I get the corresponding level of praise.

You know the best part of this, aside from the compliments thrown at us? It was REALISTIC. AF. If you notice the third consecutive battle (the one against Radomus and Serra) you'll notice that your Pokemon will have healed up, but the moves have the same PP as from the last battle. Bennett threw Full Restores at you, but doesn't do anything about power points, which reflects in the battle. It's little things like these that make me swoon at the attention to detail on these things, in such a massive game.

...

However, it isn't without faults. I've wanted to throw my brand new laptop across the room because some battles are just startlingly unfair. Now the fact is, I am a bad Pokemon player. And I admit it. But there are times when I have saved before a battle and Rock Slide has caused my Pokemon to flinch 32 times in a row despite my Pokemon using Double Team and having a Lax Incense to reduce accuracy and Rock Slide's lower accuracy - that's a probability of (0.3x0.9)^32 = 6.3626854e-19 (0.0000000000000000006362854) happening in 1. Obviously the fairness compartment of the game has been tweaked somewhat to increase the difficulty - something I dislike a lot. I would prefer if the natural laws or powers that be would resurface so as to make this game enjoyable overall.

Also not a big fan of the field effects. I get it. It's Reborn's thing and it makes sense that certain moves would have varying powers in varying locations. But I would prefer if a gym leader would use strategy to counter the trainer rather than use absurdly overpowered powerups that have to be adjusted to always. The very advanced Pokemon trainer would find counterplays to this, but most of it was the utilization of the same field effects against the opponents or other pokemon that straight up wall or brute force their way through these. (Of course the satisfaction of watching Acrobatics demolish everyone on Samson's team is second to none, but I think I've made my feelings clear)

About the area themselves - I hate the desert. Hate it so much. I dropped the game at E17 for around a year because of this danged thing. I know it's a necessity ('coz what's Pokemon without every type of area?) but gah it was so agonizing. Eventually I lost all hope and had to resort to YouTube for these puzzles.

...

And that's my take on Reborn.

Here is a list of the members I used ingame. I know it's more than the average person would use, but I've always loved being a builder and catching as many interesting Pokemon I like, or haven't used.

There is no single best Pokemon in my team, but if I have to give someone that title, it goes to my ace, Serperior. I took 30+ hours breeding and training her to get the right set of IVs and EVs, plus the HP Fire down sometime around last year; the Contrary + Leaf Storm combo was amazing from the start. I have used her in every gym bar the Ice gym and never ever has she disappointed.

(I should really get some more finishing hits in here as proof of victory)

Noteworthy mentions:

Bronzong - what a champion this fella is. Tanks hits and sets up Light Screen and you got one indestructible motherfucker.

Steelix - I've always been a favor of the glass cannon type , till I met this boi. Got him from the hiker in Peridot ward, and served me faithfully up till now. My first Mega

Krookodile - Do you know how fast and hard this Pokemon hits? I thought he was overrated but I could not be more wrong

Walrein - Nearly always survived a hit from the deadliest of foes. My personal favorite moment is when he tanked a hit from Solaris' Mega Garchomp and anhilated it with a single Blizzard.

Golurk - The champion of champions. Also was one of my tankiest builds, yet still hit like a truck. Was responsible for the win against Charlotte and Titania

Not the finishing hit but he tanked a Swords Dance boosted Shadow Sneak with around half HP to spare, which let him deal the final blow with ease. (Have to mention that Swords Dance is a +3 on this stage)

Megas (used in this run):

1. Steelix - The wins at Glass Factory were sealed thanks to three Pokemon - Serperior, Bronzong and this boi

2. Aerodactyl - Used at Agate vs Solaris final battle

3. Manectric - Used vs. Hardy

I am proud to say that I have used zero mods (not even the weather or TMX mods) and this game is as clean and cheatfree as a... well, you get what I'm trying to say.

Now, to complete the Pokedex, and to finish off any pending sidequests so I can satisfy my inner perfectionist

January 17, 2019

I did it!

Strategy:

1. Starmie - Lead with Bronzong - Light Screen, switch to Serperior, Leaf Storm + Giga Drain - KO

2. Ludicolo - Switch to Jellicent - Toxic, Hex, Recover, Hex, Ultra Potion Bronzong (I hated doing this )

3. Swampert - Switch back to Serperior, barely tanks a Dive and Giga Drain - KO

4. Wishiwashi - switch to Bronzong, Light Screen, switch to Umbreon, Wish + Baton Pass to Serperior - Leaf Storm - KO

5. Kingra - Switch to Manectric (holding an Assault Vest) who tanked a Devastating Drake with 1/2 HP, Thunders the fuck out of that Kingdra (underwater field helped)

6. Lapras - Switch back to Bronzong, Light Screen again who faints and switch back to Serperior - final Leaf Storm and Giga Drain takes it out

Second try, after I made the mistake of trying to take on the Ludicolo with Serperior. Just doesn't happen xD

Now to attempt the doubles version, probably going to be a bigger pain in the ass

Water battles are a pain if your team is not water-based, but the good thing is that electric-attacks get a boost, so... For Amaria, I got to transform it in poison water, which hasn't got that effect, I think.

It was really annoying since all of her mons were both bulky AND fast - every single one of them was capable of outspeeding my fastest Pokemon, Wishiwashi included

January 17, 2019

Did you take into account how the field halves speed of pokémon that are grounded, not water-type, and don't have swift-swim or similar habilities?

Good lord the amount of things I have to consider is giving me a headache...

Thanks.

January 17, 2019

I'm fighting Amaria and this happens:

I've paralyzed her Ludicolo and am fighting with my Serperior, both of which are the same level, 86 and it outspeeds my mon and KOs it. My Serperior is fully EV trained, IV bred and has a Timid Nature to boot. Even with the Swift Swim ability activated, it should by no means be able to outspeed my ace since I've paralyzed it.

Does anybody have an explanation to this?

Doesn't seem to have a scarf either since it's able to switch movesets as well.

January 16, 2019

Hope this helps.

I saved the exact moment after all the passwords were entered and SEC says "congratulations", so you shouldn't miss anything of importance.

Game.rxdata

January 16, 2019

That was honestly the most effective, unexpected sweeps I've ever seen.

My mouth was open the entire battle

Who knew the near useless helping hand could be so useful?

(Did you even need to go through the trouble to train that Sentret?)

January 16, 2019

There's no comparison between the two honestly even after the Gen VII nerf to Talonflame. Talonflame can function well defensively and offensively, has a diverse movepool and one of the best speed stats in-game.

Flareon is notably slower, does not have

the level up learnset that Talonflame enjoys - Ember while evolving? Not a single move above 40 BP other than Flare Blitz? No moves learnt after level 41?!

You'll have to depend on TMs or move tutor moves to make the most of this one.

Also has terrible bulk aside from special defense so it might go down to even resisted hits.

1 hour ago, Tomek said:

I tried using talonflame but he was just useless in my team so I replaced him with crobat, not a single regret. I did not have a single fire type until I got growlithe before 6th gym LOL

The reason for this is because although Talonflame is great, it's not great in-game as it takes time to get as good as it is, get the offensive fire typing that makes it dominant and has terrible stats pre-evolution.

If using it at all, I'd recommend using it after hitting the 40 level barrier

If you want physical fire types I'll recommend one of my favorites: Darmanitan

January 15, 2019

I discovered this thread wayyy too late.

January 14, 2019

I've been compelled to play more of Rejuvenation lately, since I've found this to be especially enjoyable what with all the new additions. The story in general seems a lot more coherent and tangible than it used to be, thanks to certain displays of character motivations.

Before I start with today's episode I'd like to address something (or rather someone's motivations in particular) we came across in the earlier episode that interested me - Karrina. To refresh your memory, or if you are reading this for the first time, here's the screenshot that caught my attention:

- which is something she says immediately after the battle in Jenkel's laboratory.

So I think it's fair to say that with this statement, there's little doubt as to whether Karrina has some ulterior motive behind making us attack Jenkel. It's clear that she wanted to delay us in some manner, strongly suggesting something directly related to Melia's disappearance. This little episode of ours results in the delay of the entire rescue/find Melia operation which ultimately leads to the outcome as we see in Amethyst Cave.

Notice how she specifically says that she hopes for the "best outcome". She doesn't say she hopes that Melia is saved by us, but rather the long-term results of it. I'd like to share more of my thoughts on this right now, but I'll hold it when it becomes more relevant and understandable as the story proceeds and reaches those points.

I like this addition here especially, since it feels like our character has more involvement in the story than what meets the eye. Our actions (although our hands are tied and through no will of our own!) result in the rest of the story., which is what gives the story more meaning and value.

And now for the episode at hand:

- - - - - - -

5: More rifts and raffs.

And caves. And happiness. And gloom. And pokemon. stuff

Spoiler

Looks like our monetary problems are stabilizing.

~~If only the same could be said about real life~~

Doesn't look like Route 2 has been tampered with since the update.

Thank God.

I know I said I loved the changes from V10 to V11 and everything, but I just am not ready to deal with layout and structural changes at this point. At least for this one episode.

I don't get why a thief would shout out a warning before stealing your money, but I guess the implication here is that she isn't a thief.

Subtle foreshadowing? I think not. Just a little polish required for these dialogues to make the story more realistic.

Also, I really hate that the game chooses to use our inability to move while cutscenes occur in such a way.

But still, minor hiccups.

I can't believe I've spent 12 hours on this game already.

I should reevaluate my life.

...

That's something I'll have to keep in mind, I guess.

I guess it keeps things interesting if there are points where you'll have to come back to certain places for certain events but it also adds to a lot of clutter. Which is a big problem for OCD players like me.

HIYAH!

I'm so glad I work out.

(I should really stop making that joke)

(but i do work out)

~~hmu ladies~~

(What incredible, well-thought out dialogue)

I guess we figured out how people get high in Aevium

But this happened, which I'm very happy about!

I didn't expect such an early evolution since Bun has fainted a couple times.

I guess that's the move I'll be spamming quite a bit in the upcoming battles...

Looks like Route 2 is almost completely untouched.

The shadow effects are gorgeous, however. Gives you the real feel of the sunlight streaming through the trees...

A lot of the early trainers are really selfish entitled brats

Is it just me or does the majority of Aevium seem to be super aggressive and mean for the purpose of being super aggressive and mean?

Although there are exceptions...

Wow, another unexpected evolution so early!

I guess I'm just a really lovable person

Throwback to Pokemon Emerald where two people would interview you and make you a celebrity on TV

I haven't checked the TV to see of any mention of us while we traverse Aevium, so that should be an interesting side activity to do once we reach civilization

Oh shit yeah

Where are you you thiefff

Yeah, right.

(I swear to god I couldn't find her the first time I played, way back in V9)

Is that what I’m doing when I press the interact button?

I mean, it sounds kinda obvious but I’m just imagining our overworld poking everyone and everything he needs to interact with…

I’ll make that much amount in an hour (of course in this game because I don’t have a job, thanks for reminding me but that’s besides the point) but stealing is WRONG

So she has access to the move “Teleport” as well

Well I guess it's a lot more plausible than that Alpha Metronome bullshit since she has Psychic types...

Anyways, welcome a new addition into our team!

Although I do wish I came up with better nicknames on the fly...

I literally took 10 minutes to come here.

I even took my sweet time catching a female Combee

Ha ha?

Sure..?

What an oddball.

But I love how happy she actually seems to be. Really enjoying being herself, which says a lot more about her character than the hundreds of forgettable emo gloomy NPCs

The one and only, from Pallet Town.

(Yeah that's what I look without the cap)

Venam isn't a lot of things.

All the signs of a dysfunctional stalker are clear...

Do you sleep with the trainers that beat Venam, too?

Ah, well.

I can't help but be so good.

Now you're speaking my language, Nim.

I don't think anything.

I'm positively certain you'll have a field advantage...

Isn't that sweet.

But I'm NOT surprised.

...

I doubt what she did here is even minutely healthy...

Ay, she's actually kinda cute.

I don't remember seeing her mugshot before.

"Apprentice", eh?

Interesting.

Wonder who exactly she is an apprentice to...

Wanna bet that that will turn out to be a major plot point later on?

Considering Crescent has a Gothitelle I would assume she's a Psychic type, since most trainers in Aevium tend to favor monotype teams, it makes perfect sense that Nim is her apprentice.

But that's for another time.

Alright, let's get Marty some experience

Looks like that isn't gonna happen.

I need some more raw power to win this battle.

That's more like it.

PERFECT.

Looks like she has exactly the same team as before...

I do hope she doesn’t have a Mega Evolution on standby…

I don’t really have any dark types equipped to deal with it.

I should have gotten Geronimo with me, or at least evolve him for that matter. A-Raticates are so useful early game…

Looks like these two are a lot more well prepped than Marty…

What a champ my ace is.

But I guess 65 BP is pretty overpowered early game...

HEAVENS YES

THAT MOVE IS 100 BP

Indeed.

I didn't expect to win this battle without some severe casualties, but Rudolph is ridiculously overpowered.

So I missed a screen here, but Espurr Quick Attacked Bun and killed her. Aqua Jet did not affect Espurr, which makes me feel that priority moves don’t affect Psychic Pokemon in a Psychic field? Idk

Anyways...

That I am.

But what's up with that stammer all of a sudden?

And I still don't get why Aqua Jet didn't hit.

Damn straight.

Don't be a Venam

Holy crap, that's a great adjective to use if someone's being petty or obnoxious

Is that so?

Wonder if I can fashion me some good ol’ boosts myself.

Really need to acquire some human skills like “craft” and “steal”

Too many people love Melia in this game for some unknown reason…

…

Well, I best get going to save her important ass.

I hate how condescending these people are.

I AM NEW TO THIS REGION OK

Well, not so much a choice as much as a necessity to get my next badge, but sure.

I'll humor you.

Sounds about right.

I was hoping you'd tell me because I hate forkroads because of the completionist I am.

...

Well, I'll be on my way then.

Good luck with Melia, guys!

Ah fuck.

Of course there are obstacles.

Both those questions say so much about their character.

Venam is a hotheaded ball of toxic sewage, while Ren is curious about the truth and relatively much calmer.

I did say that he seemed like a very gullible guy, however I guess it's one of the game's flaws than the characters.

What a weird thing to say.

I'd assume the intent behind it is hostile because he seems to be threatening us in some way, yet the question is so out of place with the time that I can't feel that hostility.

I just feel like he's a hooded clown.

I really think that that's where Rejuvenation falls short of Reborn. While some moments are really well done, there are some things that just don't seem to have the effect on you that was intended. I think it's a major flaw and should be worked on.

Besides, he's not the first to make empty threats at us.

That is literally the most flawed piece of logic that I've ever heard as to why Melia would go down some arbitrary path.

While it makes sense that Melia is on the run, I thought it was more of a quest for revenge and to get stronger rather than just fleeing in fear. At least I got that vibe.

This hooded man is just spouting crap to sound intelligent and eerie.

Get the fuck out of here.

Alright, here's where my problem is.

While Ren's logic is sound, I do not understand the motive behind Melia's decision to run randomly into the depths of the cave. She had the rationale to choose Sheridan as a temporarily save haven from Team Xen as opposed to the other places, but was not able to figure out the path because of fear?

I'd understand why she went the wrong path because of not knowing how to navigate the cave or if she hadn't been here before, but the hooded man specifically says that it was fear that drove her to make the wrong turn.

But perhaps.

Caves aren't necessarily the most pleasant place to collect your thoughts.

Moving on.

But you clearly don't.

Well, that's another decision made for us.

So far we haven't done a single damn useful thing other than intimidate the fuck out of them with our mons.

*poke*

If this were real this is where I'd get reported for assault

Yayyy

That's 4 evolutions in the span of 30 minutes.

I'm a beast boyyyyyyyyy

Well, the structure of Amethyst cave is identical to the one in V10 but where did all the Xen grunts go?

I was really looking forward to catch that shadow Vanillite...

It's unfortunate we can't catch them.

I'd much rather have a Joltik than a Blitzle.

Oh, but I must mention I love the blurry effect on the underground part of the cave.

Looks so good and really gives the vibe that it's far away.

The attention to detail is fabulous.

REALLY

I'm shocked that you were able to defeat a mighty team Xen grunt

I doubt the ensuing dialogue is of any major importance since we have the facts down now.

Well, that's what I've set out to do.

Cause damage.

Aww, isn't it adorable when your little buddies stand up for you?

But thanks, Ren, I can handle myself.

WHAT DID I JUST SAY VENAM

If that were the case Team Xen would be done for

For once, I agree with you.

SHOCKING

I have to admit that I was a little surprised at this revelation at first but my poor attention span combined with my utter lack of interest in the plot made me just glaze over the details.

Plus it's too soon in the game to actually develop attachments to a character.

Anyways.

And this time, I actually like the dialogue because it feels real. The atmosphere is charged with tension and I can feel Zetta lose his patience and is actually furious at the moment.

"YOU THINK I'M JOKING?!"

The caps are needed

So there's been little opportunity for me to say this but, here is where Rejuvenation exposes its dark and gritty atmosphere, where we can finally liken it to Reborn. The Torkoal torture scene is where I first experienced that part of Reborn, and now we get a taste of the same in Rejuvenation. It's moments like these when I actually sit back and think for the first time "What would it be like to have Pokemon in real life?" and certainly this aspect of it gives a more realistic feel to it. When wild and out of control, Pokemon are just wild animals trying to survive, dangerous and potentially violent in nature. I have to thank the devs for creating that effect in me, because I don't think I've ever had that with any other video game where I consider real life consequences and implications of incorporating those universes into our world.

...

Again, the ensuing dialogue is not of major importance again because it's Zetta being an insufferable know-it-all again and Venam being heated and bitchy. Zetta provides Melia's bag as "undeniable proof" that she is indeed dead and proceeds to rant that we are the sole cause of this problem.

The hypocrisy of being labeled as a murderer by a criminal organization is just too much for me, so I'm just gonna skip ahead to where we kick his pompous ass.

Oh, and this is in line for us as well:

Which means we'll have another rift to battle.

Big deal.

Not even a question.

Ah, this'll be good.

At least he has a Frogadier, which'll be a lot more useful than Venam's stupid slow af mons.

Of course it has everything it needs.

Marty's not even getting a hit in...

A pity. That Double Kick would have done a number on the Sneasel...

Honestly, that Sneasel is ridiculously fast.

A glass cannon on side and a bulked up status resistant rock on the other...

Rejuv sure knows how to pick 'em.

Rudolph comes in and gets critical hitted, twice by both Sneasel and Minior. I led with Aqua Jet with Frogadier also hitting with a Smack Down, still not able to do significant damage to Minior, thanks to Shields Down.

Should have gone for Bubblebeam instead, but I was uncertain whether Rudolph could outspeed the flying ball of rock

Frogadier hits Sneasel for a powerful boosted Smack Down, but the little shit has a Focus Sash and survives. The two of them double team and take out Frogadier in the same move.

I'm certain that Bun is not going to be outsped

At least not for a little whille...

Ren has actually been a useful partner throughout.

I guess we do have good synergy together.

Fucking Melia getting into my brain again...

For once I am not being targetted. My major complaints in these double battles is that the AI seems to be intent on double-teaming us first despite type disadvantages. This along with the fact that our partner usually has shitty battle strategies makes it a major pain.

Inevitably...

Extremely weak until it evolves.

That wasn't enough to kill Gloom, unfortunately. (It turns out that that little shit was holding on to an Eviolite)

Well, this is pretty much a wrap-up.

I mean... why would we, if beating you is so incredibly easy.

What with so many good Pokemon at your arsenal too.

What a shitty Pokemon trainer lol

But one thing about Zetta is that he acknowledges his shittiness...

And so the black hole-esque features of the rift suck us in.

What I'm trying to figure out here is how it was able to suck in three people this time as opposed to one when we fought the Dimensional Rift Gyarados.

Now it's not to say that it's a major plot point, but in the earlier case the rift absorbed specifically us. Melia tried to prevent us from going in but didn't get sucked in herself. From here we can deduce that Zetta is in complete control of the rift and it has some sort of subservient attitude towards him.

I'd also assume that there's a life force that drives the rift itself (completely separate from the Pokemon consumed by the rift) that is what Zetta can control. The raging monstrosity that is created from the rift remains within a dimension unique to its own.

Of course, that's my theory.

You're welcome to debate it.

Alright, kids, listen up.

Clearly the only competent one among us who has experience dealing with these things is me.

So I suggest you stand back and let me handle this.

Really?

That's what you're interested in?

Where's all the rage from two minutes ago?

YOUR FRIEND WAS MURDERED

I would have thought it wouldn't have affected her since she's a Poison type.

I know it sounds stupid but that's been pretty much the game's logic till now.

Ha ha, it's hilarious when our names are used one after the other.

Okay guys I'm serious again

- he says, with absolute authority over the subject.

He gonna touch it.

I swear being a Pokemon trainer is the weirdest profession.

Randomly walking around and touching things of interest.

Something that is probably not the best option in real life.

Well, let's have a look here.

So there's the reasoning behind the name Materna.

It's a lot better suited to its purpose than "Evo"

Looks like Physical attacks will do much better.

And good lord are these backstories tragic

Doesn't Ren have this choice menu appearing on his screen?

...

Anyways

I don't understand what exactly she's implying.

And the fact that it's scarring makes me even more curious.

Guess it's something about eating us?

That's one fine ass egg.

I can't believe the Galvantula just straight up comes out of the egg.

Also there was no doubt as to who I'd partner up with.

Call it suicide but I don't want Venam fighting with me.

I think they've changed the graphics for the rifts...

Time to pick off these weak Joltiks.

Oh my god Marty why do you give me a heart attack every time you battle.

Really needs some strength to back up his abysmal stats.

Doesn't help that he has a - in Attack when it should be a +

Well that was inevitable. I was hoping to get the switch out on him and gain some experience from the Galvantula.

I can't believe that that thing just hatched out of an egg at Level 29.

But I nitpick.

JESUS CHRIST

I guess this is the only hit Malorie will get in...

The level difference really allows it to outspeed anything on the screen.

Gonna go for some physical damage to target it's lower defense...

And it actually did a fair amount of damage.

You did well, Malorie.

Now rest.

It outspeeds Bun too, who is my fastest Pokemon...

This is what I mean by Ren actually being helpful.

Straight up one shotted that Joltik before it could attack by relying on a dark move.

+1 points in my book for him

Anyways, time to avenge our fallen soldier...

I missed a screen here, but Bun faints here.

Inevitably...

Well I guess that battle was slightly more problematic than I expected, thanks to Galvantula's abnormally high speed and its pain in the ass Electroweb which reduced my mons speed considerably. However, Ren was very helpful and knocked out two of the Joltiks for us, even one-shotting one while doing it.

I'm just really strong, Zetta

Get that through your head

...

And Ren is okay too

He honestly has some great Pokemon, though. Rival to be wary of indeed.

Now THERE'S someone who's on the same page as me.

Oh.

It's an interesting name for sure, but...

I wonder how she came up with it.

That Shiny Gothitelle is freaking me out, though.

And it looks like I was right about the rifts earlier.

It's not like I've played this game before to know these facts beforehand, come on

However, I'm gathering from their dialogue that these two don't know each other well enough. It's possible that Crescent may not even know of Team Xen's purpose or motivations for doing what they do.

So Crescent is also a mystery. Our conversation with her back at the lab seemed to point that she had some knowledge of what was going on and was actively trying to prevent us from taking action. Reasons behind it are unknown. It could be either her genuine love and concern for us or her knowledge of the events forthcoming.

Anyways, after a couple of screens with some threats and attempts to frighten Zetta (which actually worked):

The "See you soon" also seems like foreshadowing. It's clear that she doesn't intend to harm him but is waiting to use him at the opportune moment.

My my, Ren.

He has a way with his words, tbh.

I digress again here, but Ren is also a very well-knit and interesting character. For the most part, he seems like a random NPC without a brain cell in his head but there are certain instances where he seems to be quite calm and careful with his actions. It's either that the devs forget some of his rash impulses but mainly paint him as an intelligent, calculating character.

Whether that's deliberate or not, only the devs know.

Hear, hear.

(jk I don't hate Melia unlike most of you ppl)

Well...

define "best"

Btw guys I have to talk to you about someone called Karrina...

...

I just love how everyone in this game thinks they know so much more than everyone else.

It's a clear case of definitive superiority complex from every character and it's getting old. Zetta, Madelis, Crescent, every minuscule Team grunt, the majority of the random trainers on the road.

It's just impossible to develop so many characters at once in a game without giving them enough screentime.

That being... you?

And I don't see the necessity of adding that French bit there.

Showoff.

*Incoming babble of revenge and how we have to get stronger*

Ooh, "skank"

It's very appropriate for her character, I gotta say

How is that the problem though?!

We defeated Zetta, literally beat up everyone in our path, and I can't believe that's the conclusion she's coming to.

Strength is so inconsequential here. Even if I had a level 100 Blaziken the outcome would be the same. It's just that our timing was off.

Again, I don't understand the line of logic here.

What the fuck did Crescent do but annoy us mildly? It's so clear that she's not on Team Xen's side so I don't see how going after her solves anything.

These kids and their baseless aggressiveness...

Venam is just a mess of self-pity and insecurity that she masks by being loud and tomboyish.

But even tomboys have their charm. Venam is just a mess.

It's a little hard to forget this episode, really.

Why even bring that up?

Huh.

Pretty heavy stuff here.

That would be the logical sequence of events, yes.

You've told me that already.

...

I guess now's not the time for sass...

Adios.

So let's leave behind this gloomy atmosphere...

But first.

We take and steal and keep silent.

It's bound to have some significant effect.

...

Anyways.

I caught a Modest natured Natu with great IVs and Magic Bounce. I used Teleport to heal because I couldn't be bothered going through the cave full of Digletts and this is where I ended up...

I didn't save before I used Teleport so I lost the Natu. Pretty fucking sad because Xatu is one of the most useful mons with Magic Bounce and access to U-turn and Roost.

(dev team, please fix such bugs so that we don't miss out on some of these opportunities thx)

I know I probably could ask someone to fix this (or even debug it myself with RPG maker) but eh.

I'll take what I get.

Moving on...

Again, with the uncalled for hostility. (Why can't people in Aevium just chill the fuck out?)

That is the millionth time I've heard that today.

It's hilarious how a random dude is just standing in the midst of it all.

"Nope, I'm just an NPC and can't hear or see shit"

About fucking time.

Time to see the hubbub about this place.

Looks like we're eavesdropping again...

Look how much crime we've gotten ourselves into.

Sounds like this place is ancient.

Like really ancient.

I mean the eldest is walking around with a huge candy cane. (Don't be fooled, it's not a walking stick)

I love how passionate and energetic the youth are.

I feel so old.

People leaving?

I'd love to know the cause of that exactly.

Well said!

But I guess that little motivational speech didn't have the intended benefit.

Is she still speaking out loudly?

And it looks like we can read minds now.

Given that the elder was expecting us, it also points more clearly how deeply rooted we are in this story.

Oh, not at all.

After what we've gone through, I don't think trivial matters like this hardly is a cause for concern.

Although I may have spoken too soon...

...

What a sweet old lady.

If only everyone else in Aevium could follow suit.

Wonder why everyone is so naturally bitter...

Anyways.

The newest addition to my assortment of monsters.

If only I had that Natu life would be perfect...

But life seldom is, isn't it?

...

Anyways, I'm going to wrap it up here with this episode.

The game has kind of subjected me to a gloomy atmosphere (along with a sense of guilt thanks to the Karrina episode) although it's too early in the game for me to actually develop real feelings for the characters.

Let's hope Sheridan has more positive things to offer!

See ya folks!

January 12, 2019

Well played.

I know you're likely to kick yourself for losing but do keep in mind you're playing intense and I'm already astounded that you're attempting a nuzlocke, something that most players won't do. Most of the battles in the game are meant to one shot a lot of the Pokémon used, so you have to come up with really effective strategy beforehand or be really lucky.

I saw your last nuzlocke run and I'm amazed you managed to get as far as Goldenleaf town (I lost it all when fighting Novae for the first time)

Monorun or not, whatever you attempt on the future, I'll be cheering for you!

January 12, 2019

Well, that was certainly something.

Thanks for redoing this. Since I didn't get to see the very beginning of the game in V11, this is an excellent way to get to speed on the early changes. Although the it seemed a little presumptuous to me, I had the same thought as I went along the changes because most of the grievances I had mentioned had been touched on and it seems a lot like Jan was taking feedback from it and applying that extra layer of polish that made the game make more sense. It also looks more clean now and I am certain that in later releases, there will be a lot like to come. That being said, constantly redoing the game in this manner is likely to throw off old players as relevant plot points are missed out. We have to play again or check out playthroughs like yours for these changes to be noted down.

I have to contradict myself again though - I get that from the perspective of the devs, it's only natural that they retouch certain things and improve things we didn't like. They are making an effort so huge thumbs up for that.

Also I don't think anyone really cares that you're using "illegal" mons when they've seen you do all of the major battles already so they know what commander is capable of. (Assuming it's the same commander we're talking about)

As for what you want the audience to see, that's really up to you because you're the entertainer and you're the one in charge of giving us a good show. My suggestion would be to include main story battles + really special battles that you enjoyed.

January 9, 2019

Well, that was quite the interesting read. First of all, hurray Intense Mode! And hurray Aqualad/Karin! (I actually used Aqualad as a nickname for my Swampert on an earlier run from way back on Emerald) ~~Although my Rudolph is better~~

That being said, it's heartening to see someone play the same game with the same starter with the same level of difficulty, since it gives you a set intitial point with the possibilities of branching out to form unique teams with varying sets and abilities. It makes sense to me that you'd want to start over since the game is so different now - I just updated to V11 in my latest episode of my intense run (n-no, I'm not advertising) and I'm already overwhelmed with the amount of differences. I have to admit that a lot of the changes are good, as you say but there are some things that I would have personally not preferred, but oh well, that's life for ya.

Some of the new character designs are really well polished, and it seems like the overall graphic design has been retouched to make the game all the more fresh and pretty to look at.

About the theory you have concerning Madame X, I have to say that it just feels to me that it's too unsubstantiated to be true, thought I'm not denying the possibility at all in a game like this. I can see the reasoning behind it, since the process of dying/half dying can be the motive for her warped sense of reality, or her apparent accumulated wisdom. It explains to us a good deal that she has lived through the process which is why she permits certain events to happen and acts with deliberate effect on others.

I'm glad you brought up the bedtime story again, because it just led me to a new train of thought. Seeing that the opening sequence deals with the bedtime story for a good amount of screens, I can't ignore the implications it may have on the story. It's just too big a thing to just overlook.

The connection between Mosely and Melia through the Zorua and Pangoro story make me consider the idea of all of them being the same person => Melia = Maria = Madame X = Mosely. Melia attempts to become a normal type gym leader at first, but circumstances force her otherwise. Those circumstances are instrumented by Madame X through Team Xen for some purpose. Madame X does not want her proceeeding down the same path as her previous life - Maria, again for some purpose (probably because it may end up in her becoming the leader of team Xen? Idk). Mosely is an abandoned child traveling with just her Pangoro. It could be that a dynamic split due to the interceptor's actions (or the tampering of the space-time continuum yada yada) caused one individual to split into two - Mosley and Melia. The initial friendship between the Zorua and Pangoro and the ensuing enmity could be a reference to the singularity of the two, i.e. "The two were inseparable" later which resulted into two discrete beings.

This brings in my point - who are we in this game? Why are we the interceptor, capable of traveling through time? Is it a gag reference to our ability to reset the game playing as many times as possible? It is through us that Venam was able to sneak into the mansion, because of our vague broken power to transverse timelines.

Of course these are just theories out of the air and of course there are several problems with them, but the links between some of the plot points are too strong for me to think otherwise.

I look forward to your journey through Aevium.

January 9, 2019

That was a longer break than expected, thanks to real life responsibilities and pitiful attempts at adulting *shudders*

Now for the part of my life that I actively enjoy.

Oh yes, btw, game updated to V11, so there will be a lot of new content for me, especially since I haven't played any of the post-V10 yet in my original playthrough nor have I started a new game since the new release. So a new game in its entirety is in the waiting! Without further ado, let's get this episode started!

- - - - - - -

4: A New, Old City

Spoiler

...

and who dis?

I'm either terribly unobservant or there are two many damn characters in this game to keep track of.

(Not that I'm complaining, it's an upward learning curve)

Dafuq?

Did my sprite change?

Where's my OG emo SS sprite at?

Can't deny he looks kinda cool, but the changing designs are throwing me off...

Eh.

Minor setbacks.

...

I recall someone else being present when I left the gym in earlier versions...

The one and only.

Word gets out fast I see.

So everyone in Aevium who wants to smash rocks is a member of your crew?

Well, well, this was an interesting turn of events.

It's been two minutes and there are so many changes already.

That would be the regular chain of events, yes.

On your way now.

Ah.

The catch.

...

I love how everyone just assumes we know these places.

Well, what's an adventure without a little mystery in it, eh?

First of all...

Yayyyyyy

(It wasn't easy getting that sprint on screenshot)

Who wouldn't?

...

That's weird, I'm unable to pick it up

I feel like there's a bug. (Did anyone try out this in V11?)

Oh well.

Let's go get ourselves a substitute snake.

Never enough Disney for me

Also:

Another one for the Birdbox memes.

I've heard of how useful this one turns out to be later on, so adding more to my arsenal right away.

They're in the city now?!

Holy hell are they getting bold.

And my god is the changed music good

The battles are pretty substandard though, despite the increase in Pokemon.

Looks like there are quite a few of them here...

Lots of opportunities to level up the newbies before heading to meet Karrina

Gonna get this one on our side as well.

For those of you who have followed my Grass Monotype in Reborn (link in original post), you'll know how useful this guy is.

This whole place has changed entirely

Very much so.

Now that's a solid Pokemon, but unfortunately I've used Nidoqueen on too many runs that I'd rather not anymore, so SKIP

Speaking of change, however

I gotta say I love the new Help Center design, a lot more than the previous ones - simple and neat.

Looks pretty much the same on the inside though.

Anyways.

Thank you very much.

I have to remember to complete the final quest though - the Adriann/Novae trainer to be battled.

I'm quite not ready for it yet though

Let's go read some books now.

Indeed it is.

Oh?

Let's see what this section has to offer then.

All kinds of "research" going on here I see

Ah, that's useful.

But no.

who dis?

A lot. I just left my job recently and I could really use the extra money to work for my Master's degree-

oh you mean Pokemon work.

You'd better!

Of course the first one you want isn't available here...

You gotta have patience, lady.

Btw, this was Zumi so say hello, guys.

On to the actual story now...

What's this now?

Oh?

Well, fuck you, man.

I can't believe "Pay him" is an option. Seems like sheer intimidation tactics.

Yup. Pretty much sheer intimidation tactics.

They are, actually. I'm just an exception

What a pleasant thug.

Handles losing like a champ.

There are a lot more bridges across Gearen than V10...

And way more trainers too.

Let's see what Gearen lab looks like now.

Wooden tiling now, eh.

Super classy.

Who the hell is Shana?

(if she's another dev I'm sorry)

Can't say no to a possible reward.

Spit it out, lady!

Oh?

A fangame within a fangame?

Rejuv is turning into the ultimate troll game with so much fourth-wall breaking

Ha.

Noobs.

jk

That is so useful.

So I'm a beta-tester now?

Sweet. Count me in.

Well I'm here right now so let's try this out, Shana.

Context is what I live for, Shana

Wait that doesn't make any sense.

Nevertheless.

So it's the Johto region I see.

Cinder for me. I love that flaming hamster of adorableness.

Oh we get a fastforward too? Neat.

Sounds like the exact same line from the original.

Let's roll!

Well that was quick, even with the added field modifications.

Thanks, I guess.

If I'm wasting time getting virtual badges in a virtual game while forgoing virtual badges in a virtual game is it actually wasted time?

Too k0mPlIK8??

Oh cool, I guess I get to battle all 8 gym leaders?

Or 16 for that matter...

I wonder what my reward will be...

Anyways.

Ah, Oceana Pier.

What new things await me here?

Say yes to open up a hilarious set of circumstances.

Spoiler alert... it leads to a game over.

(I still got some Pina Colada tho, and for some reason, my character can talk? shout even apparently)

Anyways.

I do not.

It's so good that I've used it on every run of Rejuv that I simply can't have it again.

Interesting...

Might catch a Rockruff later just to see what this is about

Also overabused in earlier games...

I'm running out of Pokemon to use, honestly

Anyways,

TO THE ACTUAL STORY

The placement of the factory in an exclusive location as opposed to it being randomly placed in the city makes it obvious that this part of the story has some greater purpose than we thought...

Sounds like just normal laughter to me.

But if you say so... Well, let's get ready to knock some heads in!

Thank you, Captain Obvio.

A random factory in the middle of nowhere.

I love how in this game people just walk in guns blazing into any random shady place assuming it has minimal security.

Of course this region is going to shit if all the good guys are clueless about everything.

And of course they can see us, but not us them.

This Jenkel fellow obviously has a lot more to his backstory than what met the eye

... is that ...?

I'm positive it is now.

Anyways.

OUR target Pokemon?

You mean we're trying to save it, right?

So we had a Dimensional Rift Gyarados at first, and now a Musharna.

Who wants to bet it's some warped freak as of now?

I wonder what it could be other than a Dimensional Rift, though...

And who wants to bet that we'll be doing all of the leg work?

And of course there's a way for me to do all the work!

(I want to point out that I'm not grumbling because of the challenge, simply because I love challenges, but it's hilarious to see how we're somehow made to be the ONLY one capable of performing the most daunting tasks/pokemon-battling. And yet somehow end up with no credit despite that)

Typical villain trashtalk etcetera etcetera

Well, he looks exactly like his overworld sprite.

What demons does he possess?

Ooh, double battle.

Fancy.

I don't think these two are quite capable of handling themselves yet. And considering the field, I bet one of the Munnas is equipped with a Thundershock or so.

So time for a double switch.

Well, it turned out my predictions were right.

Hit 'em with a Charge Beam, Balls!

The field effect is nice + it helps that Munna is incredibly slow.

Jenkel next sends out the struggling Musharna.

Oh, this will be a blast.

And it turns out that it has Misty Surge as well. There goes my plan to involve status effects.

Gets better and better turn by turn.

Anyways, Munna is faster and finishes Balls off with a Psybeam.

And I guess that Mist Ball was aimed for Balls, boding well for us.

Come on out Flutter! Hit 'em with the Silvery Wind!

And that happened. I feel like I should have targetted Munna first?

Oh well.

And thus is the end of a long and illustrious career.

Would have helped so much if I played this at night and involved him...

But I guess it all worked out.

♪ We're beautiful, like diamonds in the sky ♩

Well hello, Scooby Doo.

I gotta say, I actually like Jenkel, a lot more than most of the other bland characters. He really intrigues me.

OH GOD THE LIGHT

Well, I was.

Oh lord not already.

"Oh no I was actually saving this Pokemon by performing unsolicited and unsupervised experiments on it and it worked out great"

Besides that point, what was the whole point of this operation if there was no harm?

I still like this guy tho. Seems like a troll character but still intriguing for some reason...

YOU on the other hand...

Why can't people in this world ever have a civil conversation and form conclusion before just jumping right into it?

Well can't blame them.

~~Look at America~~

Ha.

Yes, the stereotypes are to blame.

You hear the term Mad Scientist and I already picture Black Mirror in my head.

So it all worked out well?

I wish Kaa and Malorie got some more experience tho...

Ok now I REALLY like this guy

List of people Red likes so far:

Mother (for saving our life)
Tesla (also saving our life, wish she could have saved Mother as well but can't deny her helpfulness. Also saved us considerable money by buying a ticket for us)
Nurse Joy (for making life livable)
Eli and Sharon (+ points for animating Sharon's frustrated forehead smack)
Jenkel (intriguing, whacky and genuinely funny. Seems to be hiding something but that's what makes him all the more intriguing)

List of people Red is iffy about:

Crescent (she says she wants to make Red smile, but that's about it for her concern. Doesn't seem to care for our mother or any other individual at all)
Ren (was pretty helpful in the sewers, healing up our mons but that's about it. Is just a good-natured blockhead who does whatever asked)
Melia (poster-child for goodness kinda throws me off, but genuinely seems to have good intentions)
Jenner (seems to care for Melia, but does a lot of questionable things and does not care about involving anyone or putting anyone else in danger. Respect for the fact that he trusted us with Melia but still does not completely justify putting a novice trainer in danger)
Karrina (just met her, but is just clueless and does whatever she thinks is right with literally zero thought)

List of people Red has a hate boner for:

Venam (fuck that bitch)
Zetta (fuck that bitch)

God that's a lot of characters already. I don't even think I covered them all.

I think I'll have to add you in the hate-boner list, Karrina.

Why are you taking me with you?

It's chips and drinks!

An issue I took care of, though.

I feel like you keep forgetting on purpose.

Oh?

Looks like she had a motive for coming here.

Something more to Karrina's story than what meets the eye, clearly...

Gotta keep an eye on this one.

Thanks, I guess.

Now I can blow things up.

All missions "tickle my fancy"

But I really feel like I'm going to be used to further some rather personal objectives of hers...

Anyways.

Looks like we can finally go to Route 2.

I guess this is where the "dream" concept comes from?

But I guess purification is out of the question now...

MEGA PUNCH

...

Yes I totally did that myself

Holy hell.

So close yet so far...

Be mine, beast!

Time to get some Pixar into the mix...

That is a really good level at this stage.

One last thing to grab before we get out of here...

I am not.

Wow her own mother finds it difficult to love her.

...

I like her.

Now now, let's not be so loose with that term quite yet

I'm surprised how she has any at all, really.

I REALLY like her.

I wonder how all the mom figures in this game are so lovable while the teenage ones are so edge and angst-filled.

I guess it's human nature? *shrugs*

How about "pettiness"?

Thanks, I'll take advantage of your hospitality, ma'am.

What to steal, what to steal

Ah there we go.

A lot better than the crummy Poison Sting.

Anyways...

Hopefully good results this time.

Come on Marty!

Decimate that shit!

...

Well that was painfully underwhelming.

(it had an Oran Berry, though)

At least Rudolph cleans up well.

It's so relieving that Kaa isn't completely useless anymore...

A barrage of attacks followed here. Bun proved to be stronger than Rockruff even with the Oran Berry buff, however, Novae switched out to Sandygast. In response I switched out to Flutter predicting a Ground move...

I got to say Tinted Lens is one of the most useful abilities early on.

I completely fudged up here.

Looks like it's gonna be a while before Malorie evolves...

Rudolph proves his worth here again. I got to say Brionne's stats are through the roof. While every other mon is oneshotted (even the ones that aren't supposed to be Glass Cannons), Rudolph is able to tank 4-5 hits and still remain in the yellow.

Well, now that that's over this, we can collect our reward:

Aren't those IVs lovely.

I don't know if I'll use her tho...

I'm getting a lot of female Pokemon lately...

Welp, looks like it's getting dark.

I really meant to get to Route 2 in this episode, but the new version turned out to be a lot more detailed than the former ones. There also turned out to be a lot more content since the upgrade to V11, so I took a lot of time exploring the (renovated) city. All in all, quite a lot of new things that were added in and for the most part, I found it to be thoroughly enjoyable despite a few things I would have preferred to be left out.

Also, we got ourselves a bunch of new Pokemon this time,

Hopefully we cover the entirety of Route 2 + Amethyst Cave in the next episode, and make it to Sheridan!

Thank you for reading!

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January 8, 2019

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