Pokemon Sword and Shield Reveal, My Thoughts!

It's here! It's here! Today is Pokémon Day, everyone! Yup, it's been 23 years since Pokémon Red and Blue arrived in the world!  The Pokémon Company said they would have a very special surprise for the fans of their long-running monster-catching franchise, and boy did they deliver! Pokémon has officially begun its eighth generation! Two new games are coming to the Nintendo Switch this year: Pokémon Sword and Shield!

As a longtime Pokémon fan, I am incredibly excited for these two new games! I recently beat Pokémon Sun, so I feel like there's some cosmic serendipity here. Let's take a look at the reveal trailer!

Wow. This game looks amazing already. I heard the new region in this game, Galar, is based on the United Kingdom. Well, as someone who was born there, I say this. It's about bloody time. I can't wait to see how they Pokémon-ize the country I was born in.

God, that backpack makes me chuckle. It's like the Trainer is carrying a trunk on his back!

I have to say, everything looks spectacular. I know it's not the final game footage, but they could release it looking like this and it would get praised.

And of course, there's Pikachu. Can't have a Pokémon game without Pikachu.

Hey, a Minccino! Tail to the face!

I do recognize quite a few Pokémon here. There's Hoothoot, Grubbin (Who became a part of my regular team early on in Pokémon Sun), Flygon, Wailmer, Tyranitar, and Lucario. I wonder if these are old Pokémon that'll be obtainable in this new game.

Aww, that Munchlax is cute.

Got a nice variety of environments here. And they all look really incredible.

...are those the Pokémon World's version of the Nazca Lines? I thought this at first, but considering that Galar is based on the UK, it's likely some people making bad crop circles for a laugh.

I also like the remix of the Pokémon theme.

And naturally, in a UK-inspired region, you're going to play some soccer. Or Football as they call it.

And now...time to meet the new starters. Always the first new Pokémon introduced.

Meet Scorbunny, the Fire starter. It's cute. I heard it's become quite popular, but there are fears it'll evolve into a Fire/Fighting type. Personally, I think Scorbunny's full evolution will end up being Fire/Ground. Would make sense. It's a rabbit, and rabbits dig. This one's a real go-getter.

Meet Sobble, the Water Starter. It can become invisible in bodies of water, which is awesome. It's a cool Pokémon. I like that it's a bit shy.

Play that funky rock!

And finally, meet Grookey, the Grass starter. It's a grass monkey, and it's adorable. I don't think I can honestly pick which one. I hope there's a way to get all three in-game, because there is no way I am getting a second Switch. No way.

I like the logos. The slash mark across the "Sword" and the font of "Shield" are very nice touches. I'm guessing the wolf's heads are hints of the legendary Pokémon you'll encounter in this game. At least, I'm assuming.

I am hoping that a couple things from Sun and Moon. One is the Exp Share. I hope you get that early, because it was so helpful to me when it came to grinding Pokémon.  Also in those games, some Pokémon were slightly altered, giving them unique variants to Alola. I hope we see that again here. Makes sense some species evolved differently in different places, so seeing some unique Galar variants would be fun.

I am honestly really excited for these games. I cannot wait for them to come out! They can't come soon enough! I hope they put out a demo soon, because I want to try it out!

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Detective Pikachu Trailer #2, My Thoughts

Back in November 2018, I gave my thoughts on the first trailer for Detective Pikachu, the live-action adaptation of the video game of the same name. In my opinion, doing a film based on a Pokémon spinoff is actually a good idea. I mean, let's face it. The main games...you could never fit their story into a full film.

Well, the second trailer for the movie is out! Let's take a look!

Aww, poor Detective Pikachu is sad. He needs a hug. And some ketchup.

Ah, so that's how Detective Pikachu and Tim met. Thankfully he never lost his hat.

Detective Pikachu can totally quit the coffee at any time! He just doesn't want to right now. But he could totally quit. Totally.

I am still amazed about how they managed to make the various Pokémon look...realistic, but at the same time, recognizable. Ludicolo looks like Ludicolo!

What're you doing sleeping on the road, Snorlax? Wake up and get off the road! I also got a chuckle out of the Machamp crossing guard. But he should be wearing a orange safety vest or something. Don't want to get accidentally run over.

Holy cow, was that a remix of the original Pokémon anime theme?! That's incredible!

I still am in awe of how good the Pokémon look in this movie.

Pikachu's got a point, Tim. You need your dad found, he can help with that. He's got the skills, and hopefully the talent.

...I think Detective Pikachu may need to go outside.

I want to go walking with the Bulbasaurs. I think they're going to their special garden to evolve.

Tail to the face!

That poor Psyduck is going to end up traumatized.

Hey, look! Statues of Palkia, Dialga, and Arceus! Awesome!

Looks like this movie won't skimp on the big set pieces.

RABID AIPOM! RABID AIPOM! RUN! RUN FOR YOUR LIFE!

That Charizard looks so AWESOME! THIS IS WHAT I ALWAYS IMAGINED IT LOOKED LIKE IN REAL LIFE!

Wha....Mewtwo?! MEWTWO IS HERE?! HOLY TOLEDO!

 I'm guessing this movie will also incorporates elements of Pokémon: The First Movie. It makes sense, considering the lab scenes in that movie, and Mewtwo is an artificial Pokémon.

Heh heh, Mr. Mime is funny.

I have to admit, my feelings on this film have not changed. I am still excited for this movie. I think it will be a ton of fun. The Pokémon look spectacular, and Ryan Reynolds (despite him still sounding like Deadpool a bit to me) is a good choice to voice Pikachu. Thanks for reading this blog entry! If you liked it, please spread it around! And if you want to give this blog some extra support, please drop a tip in my Digital Tip Jar!

Super Mario Maker 2 Announcement Trailer, My Thoughts

In 2015, Nintendo released the game Super Mario Maker for the Wii U. The game allowed players to create their own levels in the style of various games in the Super Mario game series. It also allowed players to share their creations online and play other people's custom levels. The game started out as a special development tool meant for company usage, but they discovered, "Hey! This could be a great game!"

The game would receive much critical praise, and sell over 4 million copies. The game would get ported to the Nintendo 3DS, and sell another 2.3 million copies. Over 7 million custom levels have been made. I myself love the game, so...this announcement from the latest Nintendo Direct filled me with joy.

Yup, it's getting a sequel! Super Mario Maker 2 is coming to the Nintendo Switch! Let's take a look at the announcement trailer!

Ahhh, that Super Mario World theme always takes me back. It was one of the games  I played the heck out of on the SNES back in the day.

That sucks. I hate Spinies. Seriously. Spinies suck.

But not to worry, this is Mario Maker! We can fix that! We can make it a slope now! Death by sliding!

I think we're going to get some new tools and elements! Awesome! I do hope that we get some stuff from Super Mario Bros. 2, or Super Mario USA if you're in Japan. I know that it's radically different from the other games in the original Mario trilogy, but it had some cool enemies and elements that I'd love to use here. I want to beat up Shy Guys in a Mario 3-style world.

Hey, Super Mario 3D World stuff! Sweet!

I hope we get another trailer discussing the new features in detail. I want to know more about the new features and additions.

Well, I have to say...I can't wait for June! I am so hyped for this game! I loved the original Mario Maker, and I think the sequel is going to be even better! I want this game! I want to create levels NOW! ...I'd better fire up my Wii U...

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Marvel Super Heroes: Secret Wars #2 (June 1984)

Last month, I started a journey through one of Marvel's first big events: Secret Wars. Now this month, we're going to go through the second issue. Last time, we left off with the not-quite-united heroes being ambushed by the gathered villains. So, how will the heroes handle this? Let's find out in Marvel Super Heroes: Secret Wars #2!

The cover, a Mike Zeck piece, is alright. It's Magneto posing with a bunch of heroes' heads around him. Magneto's pose is kind of amusing. I know it's supposed to look menacing, but to me, it looks like he's frustrated that he has to wait in line. "I am MAGNETO! The express lane is for 12 items or less! YOU BROUGHT THIRTEEN!" Also, I think all the heroes are supposed to be looking at him, but I can't help but think the eye lines are kind of...wonky.

"Prisoners of War!"
Writer: Jim Shooter
Penciler: Mike Zeck
Inker: John Beatty
Colorist: Christie Scheele
Letterer: Joe Rosen
Editor: Tom DeFalco
Editor-in-Chief: Jim Shooter

The story begins with the heroes reacting to the villains' attack.

"My GOD! Half off chicken poppers at the supermarket!"

The villains' initial attack manages to kayo Colossus. Captain America orders the heroes to attack the mech blasting them. The heroes are forced on the defensive, thanks to the weaponry they found. Meanwhile, Doctor Doom is flying around a few dozen miles away, his mind going over the events of the previous issue. He manages to find the unconscious Galactus.

He's just pining for the cosmic fjords...

The World-Eater literally rises to his feet and walks off. Doctor Doom tries to talk to the big guy, but he doesn't really care about Doctor Doom. The Latverian tyrant finds his way back to the villains' fortress, deciding to go and do his own thing. You'd think Doom would leap at any chance to kill Reed Richards, but I'm guessing here it's because the Beyonder wants the heroes and villains to fight each other, and Doom's ego can't stand the idea of him being ordered to kill Reed. If he's going to kill Richards, he's going to do it on his own time, dagnabit!

He walks his way through the fortress's defenses, and finds the inert body of Ultron.

"Richards thinks he's so great with his HERBIE?! BAH! Doom'll show HIM!"

He figures, "Hey, Doom can use this", and makes some plans. I imagine he's going to program it to curse out Reed Richards. A lot. Meanwhile, the Hulk is able to take down the mech Bulldozer and Piledriver were using. She-Hulk engages the Enchantress, and the Asgardians' blonde bombshell eats a gamma-powered Mighty Punch. The battle ends with the villains scattering, and the heroes having some prisoners: The Enchantress and three of the Wrecking Crew.

Storm scouts around to find shelter for the heroes. She notes as she flies that the air on this world is thick, but easy for her powers to work with. It's almost like the Beyonder is providing ideal conditions for battle or something. Eventually, their quest for shelter ends in success.

Four bedrooms, four bathrooms, indoor swimming pool, arcade, and Jacuzzi, this place has everything!

We can assume the Beyonder made this. The heroes start to explore the big complex, but Colossus notices Lockheed the Dragon is missing. Mr. Fantastic finds a detention area to put the Wrecking Crew in for now, and a regenerative device to put the Enchantress in. She took a heck of a Mighty Punch from She-Hulk, so there may have been side effects despite her Asgardian physiology (Asgardians are naturally stronger and more durable than humans). Cap gathers the heroes together. He has Iron Man, Thor, and the Human Torch patrol the area around the complex. The other heroes will keep watch, while he goes to find anything resembling a mess hall and quarters in this place.

Meanwhile, another structure is seen hundreds of miles away.

"Frank Lloyd Wright said I was MAD! MAD, I tell you! Well WHO'S MAD NOW, FRANKIE?!"

This is Magneto's private quarters. Makes sense it looks like a giant magnet. Gotta keep true to the brand, after all. He's staring out at the horizon, contemplating the situation. Hours later, Absorbing Man, Wrecker, Doctor Octopus, and Molecule Man are returning to their complex, where Doom is waiting for them. The villains get belligerent (except for Molecule Man of course), and Doom uses Ultron to blast them. Evidently, Doom reprogrammed the ruthless robot to be his personal drone.

Doom acts chummy with Molecule Man, which makes sense. Reece has his issues, but he's the most powerful being in the villains' ranks. It's wise not to anger him. Doc Ock wants to know what Doom is up to, and where Galactus went off to. Doom shows a screen that reveals that Galactus is standing on a mountain 4,000 miles away, doing...who knows what. Doom then assures Ock that his plans will result in victory for the villains, but Ock is not so convinced. The four-armed mad scientist thinks Doom's got bigger ideas in mind than just winning the Beyonder's contest...and whether it will get them all killed before or after he achieves them.

Night falls, and the heroes are slumbering in their complex. However, Magneto is able to sneak in, using his powers to disable the defenses. Meanwhile, She-Hulk and Wasp discuss their issues. They're both feeling a bit of nerves about this whole thing. Magneto flies on, where he finds the power core of the complex.

Elsewhere, Reed Richards and Scott Summers are doing some talking themselves. Scott reveals that he was on his honeymoon [Remember, he had married Madelyne Pryor in Uncanny X-Men #175 (November 1983)], but he's now here in costume. Reed notices that Professor X is in his wheelchair, despite his being able to walk again. He theorizes the Beyonder had been "fixing" things. Cyclops grumbles about how unfair it is that he got dragged into this whole thing. The two talk about their wives, not knowing that Ben Grimm is taking a stroll nearby. The Thing overhears them, and feels morose. Their conversation reminds him of his main squeeze Alicia Masters. Maybe it's for the best that Alicia might never see him again. You see, Ben had been reconsidering their relationship over the events of Thing #2-10 (August 1983-April 1984). It's been a regular problem for poor Ben, feeling his monsterous appearance makes him unworthy of Alicia, despite her having no issue with it.

Magneto futzes around with the power generator. Meanwhile, another pair of heroes are conversing: Spider-Man and the Human Torch. Spidey is worried that the group will never get home, but Johnny isn't too fussed about it. After all, the FF have been in situations like this before, and they always found their way back to Earth. Spidey's Spider-Sense goes nuts, and the Web-Slinger goes to check it out, Johnny going to get some help. Back up arrives, and sees Spidey roll away as a metal-covered tumbleweed. They engage Magneto, but it doesn't go well.

"EAT...THESE THINGS! What ARE these things?!"

Magneto tries to flee, but the Wasp frees herself from the debris and goes after the Master of Magnetism. However, the mad mutant is able to capture Wasp in some more debris. He figures he can use her as a hostage. Ben Grimm, the Thing, tries to go after Magneto himself, but something strange happens.

What did Ben drink last night?!

He changes back into his human form, much to his surprise and delight. In Fantastic Four #245 (August 1982), Reed Richards theorized that Ben may have always been able to change back to human form, but was prevent by a mental block caused by his anxiety over his relationship with Alicia Masters. I always liked this idea, as there's a bit of a tragic irony to it. Monica Rambeau notices none of the X-Men came to help them deal with Magneto. It's pretty odd. Why would the X-Men not help battle Magneto? He's their biggest nemesis. As far as Cap is concerned, they have other problems. And Magneto is nothing compared to them.

We're going to need more snacks. We're going to be here a while...

This issue...was pretty good. We get a bit more character stuff here than the last issue. I liked the scenes with Peter and Johnny and Scott and Reed. Peter and Johnny hanging out makes sense, as the two have been depicted as friends for a long time. Also, the scene with Reed and Scott was great, Scott being a newlywed at the time, and Reed being a married man for a long time. I would have loved to have seen Scott ask Reed for some advice on marriage.

The villains crumbling and plotting makes sense, in a way. Doom's ego would make it difficult for him to collaborate with others. Not to mention Doc Ock and his own ego. They're going to clash.

I did wish Jennifer and Janet got a bit more time. I felt they didn't get as much as the guys did. Also, the X-Men's absence in the fight against Magneto is bizarre. As I said earlier, Magneto is arguably the X-Men's biggest enemy. I doubt they would sit out any opportunity to stop him if they could. I get what they're going for here, but I feel this could have been done better.

Next time, we're going to return to my favorite era of Avengers, as we look at the first appearance of two young newbies...

Devil Engine Launch Trailer, My Thoughts

They did it. The madmen did it. They failed to learn from Skynet. They built a device meant to protect them, but it went nuts and decided to blow everyone up. So, what should be done? Get on the Andraste and blow the machine up first. But then, maybe naming the machine "Devil Engine" was not the best of ideas.

Yup, Devil Engine! A shoot-em-up from Dangen Entertainment and Protoculture Games! Let's take a look at the Launch Trailer!

This part looks like it could fit in the intro of a 1980s anime.

Soundtrack is pretty cool.

Man, I love the music. Did I say I love the music? Because I love the music?

I get the feeling that this game would fit right in in an arcade. Gotta dump those quarters in.

Those blacked-out areas make me nervous. I can imagine they'd make it harder to dodge enemy shots, and considering that the footage looks like your ship can bring down some heavy fire, maybe it evens out? I have no idea how these games work.

Are those Pokéballs?

WHOA! Is this what it's like when you're on a LSD trip?

I'm guessing the ship can absorb certain shots. Maybe to gather power for a bomb-like attack? Most shoot-em-ups don't have life bars for their ships. Get hit once, you're done. As such, I doubt it's to restore health.

Tank from Hell.

I love the variety of backgrounds.

I don't know why, but I suddenly want to play R-Type. Good thing I got R-Type Dimensions on my Switch. Get that game. It's really good.

That one boss makes me think of the AT-STs walkers from Star Wars.

I do like the visuals.

Well, this game looks rather neat. I do enjoy the occasional shooter every now and then. As I said, I do have R-Type Dimensions on my Switch, and this looks like another good choice for some shoot-em-up fun. I'll look for a demo. Thanks for reading this blog entry! If you enjoyed it, please spread it around! And if you want to give my blog some additional support, please drop a tip in my Digital Tip Jar! See you next time!

Final Fantasy IX Launch Trailer, My Thoughts

In 2000, Square-Enix released the game Final Fantasy IX. The ninth game in their famous Final Fantasy RPG series, it was the third and final game in the series released for the original PlayStation.

Set in a world called Gaia, it told the tale of the bandit named Zidane Tribal, who kidnapped Garnet Til Alexandros XVII. She's the princess of a nation called Alexandria. This event triggers a quest to defeat a great evil responsible for a war between two powerful nations in Gaia. This game returned to the medieval-style setting of the early Final Fantasy games, departing from its two predecessors' futuristic settings. The game was also meant to be a bit of a retrospective of the series, and contains allusions to the previous entries up to that point.

The game sold over 2 and a half million copies upon its original release in Japan, making it the third-highest selling game over there in 2000. It also sold very well in the US, but not as much as VII or VIII. By 2016, it sold over 5 million copies. The game would be highly praised for its graphics, characters, and gameplay. However, it would get some criticism for its music and battle system.

The game would be re-released on other platforms, including mobile phones, Microsoft Windows...and now...the Nintendo Switch. Let's take a look at the launch trailer!

Oh, Garnet puts on the cloak and suddenly she thinks she's a white mage. Yeah, that's the cloak of the white mage.

Heh. I bet at times like that, Zidane often asks himself what he was thinking, kidnapping this crazy princess.

I've never played the original version, so I'm not sure about this, but...do the graphics seem...enhanced? Brighter?

Dance, blue lady! Dance the dance of life!

Is that yellow thing a relative of the Cyberdemon from Doom?

The Black Mage is stoic in appearance, but his mind is all like "AAAAAAAAGH MY EYES! THEY BURRRRRN!"

That horse rider does not look friendly.

Hey, FF has their own Jawas!

That dragon is angry that it got woken up from its nap.

Yeah, those guys are going to regret not having parachutes.

I have to admit something. I was always more of a Dragon Quest fan, but I have played some Final Fantasy in my time. I have VI for the Game Boy Advance, and I also own III for the DS. I am a bit curious about this game, and I have heard it was good. I hope there's a demo, because I would love to try it out.

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Link's Awakening Trailer, My Thoughts

In 1993, Nintendo released The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening for the original Game Boy. It was the fourth game in the Legend of Zelda series, and the first game in the series for a handheld. The game told the tale of Link traveling the island of Koholint after his ship crashed there thanks to a storm. While there, he goes on an epic adventure to wake the island's sleeping guardian, the Wind Fish, with the aid of eight magical musical instruments.

It would be given much critical praise, despite it being criticized for its monochrome graphics and controls. The game would sell over 3 million copies, and it regarded as one of the very best games for the Game Boy. It also was an unusual game as Link didn't fight Ganon, nor was there any Triforce. Princess Zelda was mentioned, but that was really it.

In 1998, the game was given an updated re-release for the Game Boy Color as The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening DX. It included a special color-based dungeon to take advantage of the Game Boy Color's capabilities. This version was praised as well and sold over 2 million copies.

Well, the latest Nintendo Direct has revealed a nice surprise. A third remake is coming, this one for the Nintendo Switch. So, let's take a look!

Ahh, this is taking me back. All it needs is the 8-bit music from the intro. Link's Awakening was one of my favorite games ever for the original Game Boy. I played that game so much as a kid. That and DuckTales. And Pokémon. And Super Mario Land. I loved my Game Boy.

Yeah, getting struck by lightning suuuuuucks.

I was so surprised and overjoyed to see that this is coming.

The art style is adorable! It feels like a natural evolution of the original Game Boy style. I know there's been some backlash over it, but I don't see what the problem is. I think it fits.

Watch out for Bow Wow!

Heh heh, fart noise.

Yeah, those side-scrolling parts with the Goombas blew my mind as a kid. What were Goombas doing here? Did they flee Mario's rampages through the Mushroom Kingdom? Well, it does make sense if you know the game's story. I won't spoil it.

I also enjoy the music in this game.

Coming out this year, huh? Hope I won't have to wait too long.

Well, I am incredibly excited for this remake. I loved this game on the original Game Boy. I never expected this remake, and I am so happy they are doing it. To me, it's one of the best games ever, and I think this version will be awesome! Thanks for reading this blog entry! If you like it, spread it around! And if you want to give this blog some additional support, please drop a tip in my Digital Tip Jar! See you next time!

Text Play: Pokemon Mega Adventure #19

Hello again, everyone! Welcome to entry number 19 of my Text Play of Pokémon Mega Adventure!

Since the last entry, I've been trying to grind up and further adjust my Pokémon team to take on the Bug gym here. I decided to bring in my Pidgeotto (which evolved into Pidgeot), and my Nidoqueen I caught in the Safari Zone. She's a Poison-type, so that may help. Man, I really wish I could have captured that Nidoking I encountered in the Safari Zone. I do have a male Nidoran, but it's at the single digits level-wise, and I don't have a Moon Stone.

You know, maybe I should pay a visit there again and try to capture more Pokémon. And I have no TMs that have any Poison-type attacks. Man, Nidoqueen knowing Toxic would really be helpful right now.

In the Pokémon Center, I learned something interesting. The Gym Leader's name is Luci. That's neat. I hope she's nice. It inspired me to explore the Gym some more. After all, I doubt that Kabuto puzzle was the only one there. This Gym is honestly driving me nuts. I've been trying to adjust my team like crazy in preparation for this whole thing. I looked at all the Pokémon I had captured up to this point.

I do have to give kudos to the game for one thing. It's gotten me to use Pokémon I normally wouldn't. And one of them was Yeaworth, my Grimer. Turns out I had forgotten about him. He was a Poison-type, and had Sludge Bomb...a Poison-Type attack.

Yeah, again, I am an idiot. So I swapped out Nidoqueen for him. Now I gotta grind him up, too. Yay. Luckily, he was already at level 29, so it wasn't so bad.

I decided to take another run in the Safari Zone. Encountered a Nidoking. Again. Failed to catch it. Again. I would not be surprised if it was the same Nidoking I couldn't get last time. I did encounter a Torchic, and its failure to be caught really frustrated me. That Torchic would really have been helpful. I also discovered Seviper, Munchlax, Kricketune, and Snivy. I tend to encounter more Pokémon than I actually catch at the Safari Zone. It's something I hate about the Safari Zone. Also, fun thing. One of the houses in the city has a Greninja cosplayer. Neat.

I needed a break from the grinding, so I decided to visit the Gym and explore it some more. I found another puzzle.

This one is an Omanyte.

It's a bit more difficult than the Kabuto one, but it's not impossible. It's a neat little puzzle, and I still had fun. The Gym also has a seemingly frozen Butterfree and Beedrill in it. They, alongside the other puzzle signs being locked, left me trapped. However, there is a way to move ahead.

See those flowers there? They're hidden switches. They seem to wake up the frozen Beedrill and Butterfree. I managed to capture them. I battled another Trainer, and I found more flowers.

That one is a switch. There are hidden switches in the flowers behind the trainers throughout the Gym. I would eventually unlock another puzzle. This puzzle's picture is a Mew.

Another trainer beat, another hidden switch found. This one is of Ho-Oh. It's the hardest puzzle...which means it took me slightly longer than the others to solve.

You know, the Pokémon depicted in these puzzles are odd choices. The Gym is supposed to be Bug-themed, but none of the Pokémon in the puzzles are Bug-types. They're all either legendaries (Mew and Ho-Oh), or Pokémon that are revived from fossils (Aerodactyl, Kabuto, Omanyte). Oh yeah, one of the puzzles had a picture of an Aerodactyl, too.

I mean, there's quite a few Bug-type Pokémon out there. Why couldn't we have puzzles showing Butterfree? Or Beedrill? Or maybe Dustox? I'm just saying, it would have been appropriate. Well, I can't worry about that now. I finally get to take on the Gym Leader.

Say hello to Luci...I mean Manny. The Gym Leader is a guy named Manny. Yeah, this game has some bad goofups in it. I get the idea the Gym Leader was originally meant to be a girl named Luci, but got changed to Manny, and the dialogue was never updated with this change in mind. His first Pokémon was a Shedinja, but my Pidgeot was easily able to beat it. He next brought out a shiny Heracross.

I can't help but feel that the shiny Heracross being pink was a nod to the anime. I distinctly remember one episode where Ash and the gang encountered some pink Pokémon. They ended up pink because they ate certain berries. Like how flamingoes are pink because they eat a certain shellfish.

His Heracross also had a surprise: it can Mega Evolve. Great. I really should not be surprised at this point. I think every Gym Leader packs a Pokémon that can Mega Evolve in this game. The Mega Heracross was able to wreck Pidgeot, but Butterfree was easily able to take it down with the Sleep Powder/Gust combo. Felt a bit anti-climactic. With that, I got my latest badge: The Bug Badge. I also got TM81: X-Scissor. Manny says he's looking forward to seeing me in the Pokémon League. Does that mean he's also one of the Elite Four here? Isn't that a conflict of interest?

Either way, I'm feeling great. Six badges down, two to go. When I left the Gym and headed back to the Pokémon Center to readjust my team (All that grinding for Yeaworth, and it turned out I didn't need him after all. Ah, well. At least I got him to evolve into Muk and got another Pokedex entry filled in), and I found this.

Evidently, with me winning the Gym, Ash was able to clear out Team Prime, except for Celestial. I'm going to have to fight this guy, huh? It's kind of hilarious and disturbing that he was fighting them the entire time I was grinding and going my way through the Insester Gym. Surpringly, he just taunts Ash and runs away. But there's a bigger problem: Team Prime has Rayquaza. Well, of course they would. I battled that blasted Rayquaza! Ash plans to join Brendan and Looker in infiltrating their Secret Base. Good luck to you, let me know if you need any help. You likely will in the future.

So, with that, time to hit Route 13. I scouted ahead a bit. Ended up battling a couple trainers there, and encountered Bronzor and Elygem. I didn't catch them as I had already done so earlier. And with that, I think that's where we'll end this entry. Join me next time as I travel Route 13! Thank you for reading this blog entry! If you enjoyed it, spread it around! And if you want to give this blog some additional support, please drop a tip in my Digital Tip Jar! See you next time!

Pokémon Obtained:
Muk (evolved from Grimer)

Safari Zone
Roselia
Ninjask
Pansear

Avengers #15 (April 1999)

Hello, everyone! It's the month of February. It's not just the month of Valentine's Day, it's also Black History Month. So, in honor of it, I thought I'd take a look at a comic that showcased a black superhero. Quite a few black superheroes have become a part of the pop culture fabric, like Luke Cage, Storm, the John Stewart Green Lantern, Black Lightning, and Black Panther.

Because I'm such a big fan of obscure characters, I thought this would be a perfect opportunity to show off and talk about a lesser-known black superhero. It also allowed me to again showcase one of my favorite comic runs ever: The Kurt Busiek/George Perez run on Avengers. If you want to know more about my love of this era, read my review of Avengers #1 (February 1998). As such, let's take a look at Avengers #15!

The cover, a George Perez piece, is pretty neat. You got the villainous Lord Templar and Pagan, as well as the heroic Triathlon all standing on the corners of a gold triangle. And in a nice little bit of character stuff (typical of Perez), you have Pagan and Templar trying to fight each other, while Triathlon is freaked out by the whole thing. I like the faces of the Avengers looking shocked in the triangle. It kind of reminds me of the Richard Donner films' take on the Phantom Zone, with Zod, Ursa, and Non trapped inside.

"Three-Fold Path"
Writer: Kurt Busiek
Penciler: George Perez
Inkers: Al Vey, Scott Koblish
Colorist: Tom Smith
Letterers: Richard Starkings, Comicraft, Wes Abbott
Editor: Tom Brevoort
Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras

The story begins with a man speaking at a podium. The place: Calleyville, Texas. It's just outside Houston. I think it's a fictional place. Anyway, a big crowd has gathered to hear the man speak. The man introduces a very special guest.

Yes, it's Triathlon! Triathlon, the man with triple the power of the ordinary man! Three times as fast, three times as strong, three times the stamina, three times the reflexes! Anything you can do, Triathlon can do three times better! You can eat five hot dogs at once? He can eat fifteen! I can write one comic review in a week! He can write three!

Triathlon does a physical course to the awe of the audience. He flips, he jumps through hoops, and he does with style, grace, and that flattop. The man is saying like them, he came to the Triune Understanding to find a purpose, a place in life. And he's here to dedicate the new Triune Understanding World Headquarters and Resource Center. Yeah, in the Busiek run, the Understanding was a cult with connections to an alien race. I would not be surprised if he was inspired by Scientology and other groups like that.

Triathlon addresses the crowd, where he unmasks.

He talks about his origins. His name was Delroy Garrett, Jr. He was an Olympic sprinter. He was fast, real fast. Fast enough to win medals. But his desire to win got the better of him, and he used steroids. He got caught, and stripped of his medals. It's something he's not very proud of. It put him in a low point...until he found the Triune Understanding. They helped him understand himself, and unlock his superhuman potential. Yeah, that's not quite what they did, but more on that later.

Garrett Jr. claims the Understanding can do for the crowd what they did for him, help reach their potential. He then introduces the man who founded the Triune Understanding, Mr. Jonathan Tremont.

Got a thing for triangles, the Understanding does. Heck, look at the man himself. Tremont. Tri. Three. Yeah, the number three is a regular theme with this bunch. Elsewhere, Avenger members Iron Man, Justice, and Wonder Man are scanning around for energy traces, but they have found nothing. Neither have the Scarlet Witch, the Vision, or Thor. Wanda finds herself thinking back to a conversation she had with Steve Rogers, aka Captain America. Yup, we're starting a big ol' flashback...

The group has been having some troubles since their reformation. Mainly, the new group has never really gelled as a unit, which has caused some problems. Wanda thinks one of the big problems is a failure of leadership. Cap's attention has been divided since he had to deal with some Skrull infiltrators in Captain America #5-7 (May-July 1998). As such, he hasn't really been able to adjust since then. Cap agrees, but Wanda has a plan. Cap will continue as the leader in the field. Wanda herself will take on the role of "morale officer", helping the new team work together. And she's got some ideas...

In the morning, Wanda announces that the weekly meetings will each have a different chairman, as a way to get everyone more involved. As such, Firestar gets to be chairman this time. The microwave-making mutant recaps some of the recent events of the Avengers. I like the idea of the rotating chairman. I wish other Avengers runs after this one embraced the concept.

A villain named Lord Templar has been spotted in Washington DC, Paris, and Beijing since he clashed with Earth's Mightiest and the New Warriors in Avengers #13 (February 1999). He claims that he's on a crusade for world peace in partnership with Earth's governments. They all deny this. Then there's Pagan, who the Avengers fought in Times Square in the previous issue, and they've been trying to get a line on Apocalypse since they fought Moses Magnum in Avengers #9 (October 1998). Not to mention Graviton is on the loose, but hasn't been seen since the Thunderbolts fought him in Wyoming. Also, the Wrecking Crew were broken out from jail.

In some other new business, the Avengers want to reinstate the recently-resurrected Wonder Man back to being an active Avengers member, but he declines for personal reasons. Firestar then announces that the Avengers will continue their team training, but also having various combinations of two Avengers train together so members who don't regularly work together can get a chance to, like herself and Vision, and Justice and Thor. Iron Man arrives, saying he found a way to track Lord Templar based on analyzing energy residue left behind after he appears.

With that, the flashback ends. The Avengers find some of the energy residue, and are able to track it...

Right to the back door of the Triune Understanding's temple. The very same temple Triathlon was dedicating. Curious...

Captain America, ever the gracious sort, tries to ask to come inside. After all, a very dangerous supervillain could be hiding in there. The woman is very nervous, saying she can't let the Avengers inside. Very suspicious. Triathlon takes over and asks what's up. While he converses with Cap, Justice notices some very highly-armed guards. Rather unusual for a pop-psychology movement. Tremont watches the exchange, but he's not worried. It will be taken care of.

And what does he mean by that? Well, a bit of ground shaking, a bit of earth quaking, and...

Yup, Pagan's back. And he's in the mood to do what he does best: Break Stuff. Triathlon races into action. After all, as far as he's concerned, Pagan is on Triune turf, so he's his problem. He proves to be very helpful.

Okay, maybe not. The Avengers fly into battle, Justice using his telekinetic powers to protect the crowd. Vision, Scarlet Witch, and Firestar engage the powerful being, but Pagan is too powerful. The scene shifts to Muscatine, Iowa. The newly-liberated Wrecking Crew are robbing a bank.

The cops arrive, and the Wrecker is eager for a fight. He hasn't had one since he tussled with Iron Man and Namor the Sub-Mariner in Marvel Team-Up #11 (July 1998). Before he can get his desired brawl however, he and the rest of the Crew vanish. Back in Texas, Pagan is wrecking the Avengers like they're a old building due for demolition. However, one Avenger is still standing, and wants himself a piece of the chaos-being.

Thor manages to get in some good hits, which even impresses Triathlon. However, Pagan is able to take down the God of Thunder. It's like they're fighting the Hulk. No matter how hard you hit him, he'll always win. However, the Avengers get an unlikely savior.

Yeah, things just got worse. Lord Templar has just shown up. The Avengers prepare to take them both on, but Triathlon stops them, saying that Templar's the only one that had any effect on Pagan.

The crowd agrees with this. Pagan throws a piece of sidewalk, but Templar sends out some avatars based on strength. They break the rubble, and restrain Pagan. Templar then hurls the monster out into deep space.

Thor is infuriated. The Scarlet Witch notices something odd. When the Avengers and New Warriors battled Templar in Avengers #13 (March 1999), Thor had Templar on the defensive. Thor had trouble fighting Pagan. If Thor was able to kick Templar's butt, but not do so well against Pagan...how was Templar able to overpower Pagan? Did he get a power boost of some kind? This wasn't bad writing, this was deliberate.

Justice and Firestar notice that the Avengers end up looking like fools whenever he shows up. Later on, Jonathan Tremont speaks in front of the building on a podium. He takes the opportunity to subtly smear Earth's Mightiest Heroes, making it look like the Avengers were trying to cover up their failure to stop Pagan by wanting to search the Triune's new building. Still later, after all the hubbub, Tremont is meditating when he gets a guest, and a revelation is made.

Yup. It seems Templar is some sort of being that can merge with Jonathan. Templar has been sowing distrust in traditional authority, so people would trust the Triune Understanding. His smearing the Avengers is part of this plan. But what's his ultimate goal? That'll be later in the story.

But he's not the end of the Avengers' problems. In Old Tappan, New Jersey, an old villain is back in action. Turns out old Henry "Hank" Pym has made some kind of scientific breakthrough, and this villain finds it useful? Who is it?

Ultron is back, and he's in the mood for some genocide.

This comic is awesome, although I think it's better read as a part of a trade than on its own. I like the concept of the Triune Understanding. Heck, I'm surprised that more weird cults like this haven't popped up in the Marvel Universe. I mean, a character like Exodus would be perfect for such a thing. Triathlon's origin is kind of tragic in a way, an Olympian who let his desire to win consume him. It also helps show how people like Tremont can manipulate people like Delroy Garrett Jr, people who were lost and looking for somewhere to belong. His loyalty to the Understanding is...well, understandable considering all of that.

I also love the subtle hints of the Triune Understanding being more sinister than it appears. And the revelation of the relation between Lord Templar and Tremont was quite a twist, but it does make a lot of sense. Tremont is a cult leader, and the cult leaders like their followers nice and loyal. Using Templar to sow confusion is just a way of brainwashing the sheep. And of course, Perez turns in some fantastic art. You know me, I love to gush over his art.

So, whatever happened to Triathlon? Well, later in Busiek's Avengers run, it was revealed that his powers were not his own superhuman potential unlocked, but were stolen from a superhero active in the 1950s called the 3-D Man. He would later join Captain America's side during the Civil War. In the aftermath of that, he would fully take up the mantle of 3-D Man. He appeared during the Secret Invasion battling Skrulls. He's made cameos here and there since during various events, but never really fully stepped back into the spotlight.

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Frozen 2 Teaser, My Thoughts.

In 2013, Walt Disney Animation Studios released the film Frozen. Based on Hans Christian Andersen's tale "The Snow Queen", it was the 53rd film in the Disney Animated Canon. It told the tale of a princess who's troubles controlling her cryokinetic powers caused het to trap her kingdom in eternal winter.

The film received much critical praise and box office success, becoming the highest-grossing film of 2013, and the highest-grossing animated film of all time. It also won numerous awards, including two Academy Awards (Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song), a Golden Globe for Best Animated Film, BAFTAs, and even Grammy Awards.

Naturally, a film like this would warrant itself a sequel. It did get a sequel short in the form of Frozen Fever in 2015, but now it'll get a full-length animated sequel. Let's take a look at the teaser for Frozen 2, coming in November!

Huh. This setting is very Westeros.

Elsa hates the ocean. Don't ask, she just hates the ocean.

Anna and Kristoff keep telling her that's not how surfing works, but Elsa never listens.

I keep expecting a SHIELD submarine to pop up, Nick Fury on it, and telling Elsa he's putting together a new Avengers team. Because it's going to happen after Avengers: Endgame. Mark my words. We will see a new Avengers team after that movie.

Careful, Anna. One of those crystals could be the Crystalline Entity. Yeah, I'm a Trekkie.

Kristoff's taken up reindeer raising, I see. Good for him.

Hey, new character!

I just had a bit of a theory. Based on this footage, we can assume they're going to a world that is in endless fall, like Arendelle was trapped in winter. What if Elsa's ice powers come from her being the embodiment of a season? Arendelle was the winter world, now we're going to the fall world. What if this new character is for autumn what Elsa is for winter?

Anna's been getting some sword lessons.

Well, this seems interesting. I like the idea of doing some worldbuilding and enhancing the lore of Frozen's world. I think this movie will be fun! I really got to go watch the first one sometime.

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Happy Valentine's Day!

Happy Valentine's Day, everyone!

This day is a day to celebrate romance. It's celebrated all over the world, but it's not considered a public holiday anywhere. So, for those who have a significant other, enjoy this day. And for those who do not, just know this: You are loved, too.

Dragon Quest XI S Launch Trailer, My Thoughts

Dragon Quest. Since 1986, the series has had eleven games and numerous spinoffs. The first Dragon Quest game is the game that is credited for pioneering the console RPG. The series is massively popular in its native Japan, but it has gained a growing fanbase in North America in recent years. Yours truly is a big fan of the series. I own a bunch of the games.

As such, I was excited for Dragon Quest XI to come to the US (Dragon Quest X, which is an MMORPG, is still Japan-exclusive). DQXI already was out for the PS4, but I didn't have one at the time, plus the 3DS version never came to the West. I would eventually get a Nintendo Switch, and to my joy, it was coming to that, too. Well, the latest Nintendo Direct showed the launch trailer for it. Let's take a look!

You're riding along, and then you get chased by jerks on horseback. Don't you just hate that?

Yup. A lot of RPGs owe plenty to Dragon Quest.

Ooh, shiny orb...

Oh man, Gooper Blooper from Super Mario Sunshine wandered into this game. Yank off his tentacles!

Dragon riding!

That tree reminds me of Dragon Quest IX. That's the one where you play as a fallen angel. Fun, but VERY grind-heavy game.

Headless Horseman got some friends.

This is your player character as a baby.

Magic hero needs his magic sword.

Erdrea looks beautiful!

The roaming monsters remind me of Dragon Quest VIII.

Slimes being able to fuse together is nothing strange. Akira Toriyama, the creator of Dragon Ball, designs characters and monsters for this game series.

Hmmm, the enhancement grid here makes me think this is an evolved version of the system in DQVIII.

Yup, getting components to make stuff. Just like DQVIII.

Horse races are new.

Oh, that feature is so neat. I wonder if you get random encounters in the 16-bit mode.

I had heard criticism for this game's music on the PS4. Sounds to me like for this port, they listened and remade it.

I don't personally understand why this game has the option to hear the original Japanese audio. It's just me. I'm sure some will like it.

I love that theme.

Always have a healslime at your back. They're helpful when they're on your side.

And it wouldn't be a Dragon Quest game without a girl in the Playboy Bunny suit.

Hey old man, knock off the perving! We got a world to save here!

Oh man, battling a bunch of giant dragons...this is going to huuuuuurt...

Ooh, side stories focusing on each of the cast? I love this! This is a fantastic opportunity for some character growth and worldbuilding. Not to mention if parties are customizable, you can figure out which ones you like to have in your party.

I have to admit, I am INSANELY excited for this game. I've been a big Dragon Quest fan for years, and seeing this fills me with so much joy. I can't wait for the fall!

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AWAY: Journey to the Unexpected Launch Trailer, My Thoughts

The game I'm going to talk about today is one of the newest arrivals to the Nintendo Switch, after releasing on Steam, PS4, and the Xbox One. It was described as a 'feel-good first-person shooter'. That game? Away: Journey to the Unexpected. Let's take a look at the launch trailer!

The Japanese construction worker bunnies just dun goofed. Nice work, guys.

...what is on that kid's head? Is that a hat? Is that his hair? It is nice to see that he's up to save his village from whatever those dumb bunnies just unleashed.

So far, I'm liking the look of the game. Makes a nice contrast to say, Doom. And the music is great, too.

Marching into adventure with a stick. This kid is brave, crazy, a dope, or a combination of all three. Considering the anime influence in this game, that's pretty likely he is.

So, one of the main mechanics of the game is befriending monsters and using them to fight. That's pretty neat. Reminds me of Dragon Quest VII.

I like the popsicle.

What was that?! A fruit grenade? Does it spew out acid juice?

Looks like you can make an...interesting array of allies. I like the cowboy robot. I've been playing a bit of Wild Guns Reloaded lately.

This looks like a ton of fun. It feels like Doom, only...happier and lighter, if that makes any sense.

The view does come off at times as though I'm looking at the game from the inside of a VR headset.

Well, this game looks really cool! I like the idea of befriending and recruiting allies to help you save the world. The power of friendship, and all that. I do also like the general look of the game. I hope that your character gets special bonuses for recruiting certain combinations of characters. Would make a great incentive to figure out what works for you. I wonder if there's a demo. More games need to have those.

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Aladdin Trailer, My Thoughts

As I have said in the past, Disney has been on a bit of a kick for remaking some of their animated films as live-action flicks. I have talked about the Lion King and Dumbo remake trailers, but now, another one is coming: Aladdin.

That's right, Aladdin. Released in 1992, it's the 31st film in the Disney Animated Canon. Based on the Arabic folktale, it was the first animated film to make half a billion dollars at the box office. It also was the highest-grossing film of 1992, and received much critical acclaim. It also won two Academy Awards (Best Original Score and Best Original Song), and was nominated for two more. It also is the only Disney film to ever get a Grammy for Song of the Year. The voice cast included Scott Weinger as the title character, Linda Larkin as Princess Jasmine, and most notably, the late Robin Williams as Genie.

Aladdin was a beloved film, getting a couple direct-to-DVD sequels, an animated series spin-off, and even a Broadway play. So, let's take a look at this little franchise's newest offering's trailer, helmed by Guy Ritchie!

That's a big ol' sand dune.

Arabian nighhhhhhhts, like Arabian dayyyyys...

Oh neat, Iago! I hope they got Gilbert Gottfried to reprise the role.

Whoa. The Cave of Wonders looks awesome.

Don't you just hate it when your giant sand lion decides to close its mouth while you're in it?

Careful, Aladdin. You might get quite the surprise. That's Mena Massoud as the title character right there. Cool fact: He was born in Egypt. I hope he does a good job.

Well, this teaser looked pretty neat. I know people tend to get rather...upset about these live-action remakes, but I look at it like this. If this film does turn out to be bad, it won't hurt the original. The original will still exist, and it will still be great. I do hope this film turns out to be good, though.

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Final Crisis: Legion of Three Worlds #1 (October 2008)

In the late 2000s, DC's far-future-set superhero team, the Legion of Super-Heroes, had seemed to be undergoing a bit of a renaissance. This is mainly thanks to writer Geoff Johns. The Lightning Saga, a crossover between the Justice League and Justice Society's own books, restored a version of the original Silver/Bronze Age Legion to DC's post-Infinite Crisis canon. This would lead up to the Superman and the Legion of Super-Heroes storyline in Action Comics, which was penned by Johns. I looked at the first issue of that storyline here. I highly recommend that storyline, it is really good.

In 2008, DC released the event storyline Final Crisis. Penned by Grant Morrison and drawn by J.G. Jones, Marco Rudy, Doug Mahnke, and Carlos Pacheco, it told the tale of "the day evil won", with Darkseid plotting the overthrow of all reality. And naturally, a big event like this would have lots of tie-ins. And one of them focused on the Legion. Well, Legions.

There had been three main incarnations of the Legion over the past five decades. The original, the 1994 version introduced post-Zero Hour, and a second rebooted version introduced in 2004. This tie-in would be the first time these versions of the Legion ever teamed up. I remember being hyped about this tie-in about the time. In fact, it was the only tie-in mini I remember being hyped for. Hard to believe it's over ten years old already.

But...what kind of threat would need three versions of the Legion of Super-Heroes to combat it? Well, a super-powerful fallen hero might count as that. One we've met before on this blog...before their fall from grace.

So with that out of the way, let's take a look at Final Crisis: Legion of Three Worlds #1!

The cover is awesome! A George Perez and Dave McCaig piece, it focuses on Lightning Lad. We got the original version of the character forming a corona of electricity, with his 1994 and 2004 Legion counterparts within it.

"Legion of 3 Worlds: Book One"
Writer: Geoff Johns
Penciler: George Perez
Inker: Scott Koblish
Colorist: Hi-Fi Design
Letterer: Nick J. Napolitano
Editors: Eddie Berganza, Adam Schlagman
Executive Editor: Dan DiDio

The story begins with the old Legion foe known as the Time Trapper, standing in his domain. He's staring out at the void that is the End of Time. He notices some cockroaches crawling around and compares their ability to survive anything to the Legion. He tried to make them forget Superman. He tried to attack the very thing that made the Legion what it was, but it seemed fate would not let them forget.

The Trapper then uses his powers to summon a figure. He grabs the figure and sends them careening backwards through time.

The time: 3008 AD, 5:13 AM. The place: Smallville, Kansas. A farming couple watch the news, learning of the arrest of Earth-Man after the events of the Superman and the Legion of Super-Heroes storyline. The male farmer's dialogue reveals they're the same farmers that murdered the alien baby that landed in their field in Action Comics #858 (December 2007).

An explosion erupts in their corn field. The male farmer, named Jun, angrily grabs his gun. He screams that anther alien has come to his yard as he heads towards the source of the explosion. He shoots at something, but it has no effect. And it's not hard to see why.

It appears to be Superboy. Or more accurately, Superboy-Prime. You may know of him from my Crisis on Infinite Earths reviews. Basically, he grew bitter that he lost his world and that a new Superboy seemingly "took" his place. He fell into evil, and had some misadventures before ending up here thanks to the Time Trapper. He expresses his displeasure with being shot at by giving the farmers a taste of his heat vision, insisting he's Superman. He discovers that he's in Smallville, which doesn't impress him. The rogue Superboy explores the area and realizes he's in the future. He then notices the Superman Museum, and goes exploring.

I just have to say, I LOVE this spread. So many nods to Superman's mythos and history here. The golden statue in the center is in homage of the cover of Action Comics #1 (June 1938), for example. This also hints that quite a few elements of Superman's Silver and Bronze Age mythos have been restored to canon. For example, look at the flat images on the left. There's Kal-L (the Earth-Two Superman, whom you should know from my Crisis on Infinite Earths reviews), Kal Kent (The Superman of DC One Million), The Superman of the Kingdom Come Elseworlds story (Fun Fact, this Superman joined the mainstream JSA for a while), and Harvey Dent (The Superman of the Tangent Universe). This makes sense, as 52 showed that the Multiverse had returned, and as such, a Superman Museum would touch on alternate versions of him.

Also, look at Lex Luthor. He's not portrayed as a businessman like in the John Byrne reboot post-Crisis, but as a prisoner. Luthor wearing a prison uniform was a regular thing in Silver Age stories. And among on the images on the right side? Kristen Wells, aka Superwoman. Not the revamped version that appeared in the Third Kryptonian storyline, but the original Bronze Age version. Fun fact, that version first appeared in a novel. Yup, Miracle Monday. I want to read that book.

Superboy-Prime is in disbelief. Why would anyone dedicate an entire museum to what he considers a false Superman? He's met by a holographic tour guide in the form of Jimmy Olsen in his Silver Age appearance, bowtie and all. He points out an exhibit dedicated to Jimmy Olsen's various Silver Age misadventures.

Again, much like the images of the Kristen Wells Superwoman and the Silver Age-style Luthor, this hints that Infinite Crisis restored some aspects of the Silver Age mythos back to continuity. The holographic Jimmy Olsen continues leading Prime on the journey, despite the alternate Superman's growing annoyance with it. They go to an exhibit dedicated to the Legion, but Superboy grumbled he liked their old costumes better. Makes sense, as he grew up reading DC books of the early 1980s. Superboy is more interested in another exhibit. He flies off to the exhibit dedicated to Superman's villains.

He wants to know where he is. He sees Bizarro, Brainiac, Luthor, the Kryptonite Man, even the version of General Zod, Ursa, and Non from the Last Son storyline that was co-written by Richard Donner. Yes, the very same guy who directed the classic 1978 Superman movie. But where is he? Where is Superboy-Prime? After all, he killed the Conner Kent Superboy, he rampaged throughout the universe, crushed a ton of Green Lanterns. He must be highly honored as Superman's greatest for, right? Well, with the aid of some telescopic and X-Ray vision, he finds his own statue...in a closet.

The holographic Jimmy Olsen explains that Superboy-Prime is looked at in the future as...a bit of a joke. A loser. A whining crybaby who always went on about how everything was better on his Earth. Holo-Olsen recounts the Flashes and the Conner Kent/Kon-El Superboy beating him up during Infinite Crisis and Sodam Yat wiping the floor with him during the Sinestro Corps War. Yeah, during that story, Prime had made a Guardian of the Universe explode, and the energies released sent Superboy-Prime into the restored Multiverse, but as far as the heroes knew at the time, he disappeared. This ENRAGES Prime, who screams that it's all a lie.

The Kryptonian throws a fit, destroying the villain exhibit. He spots a statue of the Conner Kent Superboy with the Teen Titans. This only makes Prime angrier, screaming he killed Conner. The police arrive. Prime rants to them about how he killed the "fake" Superboy a thousand years earlier, and yet he's forgotten and seen as a joke despite it.

He then gives the cops some freeze breath and shatters them. He then destroys the Legion display, vowing to burn down everything Superman has ever inspired. The holographic Olsen, misunderstanding the crazed Kryptonian, thinks Prime wants to see the exhibit on the Legion of Super-Villains.

In Metropolis, the United Planets Council is having a meeting. The subject? The Legion of Super-Heroes. They believe the galaxy has no use for them, that they're an old-hat failure. The alien worlds view Earth as a planet plagued by xenophobia, but the President of Earth points out that humans on other worlds are getting attacked, too. The President suggests that maybe it's best if Earth leaves the UP.

The Legion's founders (Cosmic Boy, Saturn Girl, and Lightning Lad) try to convince the council the Legion is not a failure, that they still do have value, especially now. Superman brought out the best in them, and they can bring out the best in others. When one of the Council members suggests that it's time for the Legion to grow up, Lightning Lad angrily screams that the Legion grew up saving the galaxy constantly, risking everything in the process.

Speaking of Lightning Lad, his twin sister Lightning Lass, alongside Shadow Lass and Phantom Girl, are in the Phantom Zone. They're looking for someone, and they find their target...getting his butt handed to him.

Shadow Lass is able to send the Kryptonian prisoners packing, allowing Phantom Girl to retrieve Mon-El.

The Legionnaires are able to get Mon-El out of the Phantom Zone. General Zod nearly manages to escape too, but Lightning Lass blasts the generator, destroying it and keeping the rogue Kryptonian trapped. This angers Brainiac 5 as he could have just shut it off. Mon-El is delirious from lead poisoning (He's a Daxamite. They're allergic to lead), rambling about his being sent into the Zone by Earth-Man. Brainiac 5 fixes that by giving him his anti-lead serum. Lightning Lass says they should get Sun Boy to help power Mon-El back up to fighting shape. After all, he could do it faster than the Sun can, but Brainiac 5 reminds her that he's in no condition to help anyone.

After the events of Superman and Legion of Super-Heroes, Dirk Morgna is dealing with some issues. Polar Boy tries to counsel him. He talks about his loss of his arm. Dirk reminds him that to Polar Boy, being a Legionnaire is his big dream. The pinnacle of his life. Dirk feels the Legion's time is over...and he himself is burnt out.

Back in Metropolis, there's more arguing about the Legion with the Council. Myg, the second Karate Kid, recalls his brief time with the Legion, pointing out the bile between Shrinking Violet and Chameleon Girl. The tension is high, and it seems like a fight will break out. But someone comes along to seemingly defuse it all.

R.J. Brande. The mega-gazillionaire who helped found and fund the Legion is back. And he wants to explain why the universe still needs them. To Lightning Lad, Saturn Girl, and Cosmic Boy's amazement, the Council agree to hear him out. Money equals power, indeed.

On the prison world known as Takron-Galtos, Superboy-Prime is on the rampage. He tears apart their defenses like they're tissue paper. What is he after? He's after the Legion of Super-Villains...well, three of them in particular: Lightning Lord, Cosmic King, and Saturn Queen. When he liberates them, they reveal something interesting: That much like Superman was an inspiration to the Legion of Super-Heroes, Superboy-Prime was a sort of inspiration to the Legion of Super-Villains. And they hope he'd lead them to final victory over their heroic counterparts. The three want to build a new Legion of Super-Villains. It's membership: Every prisoner in Takron-Galtos.

Back in Metropolis, Brande gives a speech. He talk about how the Legion were able to overcome their differences and work together. The universe has had it rough these last few months, but the UP can't let that fracture them. The Legion can teach and inspire, like they did for Superman. Satrun Girl taught him to always seek truth. Cosmic Boy taught him to embrace all cultures as his own and to help anyone who needs it. And Lightning Lad taught Superman to always fight for justice, even if it means breaking a rule or two. That is what the Legion can remind the UP to do.

Brande's speech appears to be working. Everyone is calming down, but Saturn Girl senses a mind that she didn't pick up earlier, like it was hidden. Until now.

Brande's old business rival, Leland McCauley, pumps Brande full of bullets, but gets blasted with lightning by Lightning Lad. Cosmic Boy is horrified as his magnetic powers couldn't stop the bullets. But that wasn't his fault, they weren't made of metal. Nor was his gun. Dr. Gym'll grabs his med-kit and tries to save the industrialist. However, it's in vain. His final thoughts are telling Imra that he wants the Legion to not give up. And with that, Brande dies. Dr. Gymll notices that his blood is turning green. No, Brande is not a Vulcan, he's a Durlan. That's a long story, but he's also the father of Legionnaire member Chameleon Boy.

McCauley starts ranting and raving about him being the greatest human industrialist ever. An enraged Lightning Lad threatens to fry the crazed businessman, but the Science Police demand the Legion hand over their flight rings because they want to question the Legion and McCauley. Cosmic Boy has had enough. He can endure hours of being berated, but he's not going to hand over his ring. He shows this by giving the SP officers a taste of his magnetic powers. Saturn Girl tries to read McCauley's mind to find out who sent him, but he ages into dust before their eyes. The Time Trapper watches this silently, implying he was behind it.

Chaos is erupting around the galaxy, and the Legion is still scattered. Back at the Legion clubhouse, most of the reunited Legion hold a small private funeral for their benefactor.

The Legion argue over what to do next, but a new problem pops up. And they're going to need some help. This is a job for Superman. They call in the Man of Steel from the 21st century, and show him what's up.

Takron-Galtos is wrecked. The prisoners are freed, 20,000 are dead, and that flaming "S" symbol is still burning. Smallville has also been destroyed. Phantom Girl shows footage of Superboy-Prime taking his armor off his statue. This is something the Legion do not need right now. Brainiac 5 says that to take care of this Super-Problem, they're going to need some help.

They'll need the back up...of the Legions. Two other versions from parallel worlds. Superman hints they've met before. Mon-El barely remembers it. Superman notes that Superboy-Prime is full of rage, and he will never stop killing and destroying...unless something drastic is done. Lightning Lad thinks Superman wants to kill him, but Polar Boy angrily shoots that suggestion down. Superman doubts killing him is even possible anymore. Does make sense. This is a pre-Crisis Kryptonian we're talking about here. Superboy-Prime has the power of a god.

Phantom Girl asks what the Man of Steel is suggesting. Superman says simply that they have to reach out to the angry teenager, and remind him of the hero that he once was. The hero that helped save the universe during Crisis on Infinite Earths. The story ends with Superman saying they need to redeem Superboy-Prime.

This comic is awesome. Legion of Three Worlds was the only Final Crisis tie-in I was genuinely hyped for, and when I got this comic, I was far from disappointed. This first issue is such a great start for the miniseries. I get the feeling Geoff and George were just having a blast making this. We really get the idea that right now, the classic Legion is undergoing its darkest hour. Their benefactor is dead, the United Planets are fracturing, the Legion of Super-Villains are back and led by a twisted version of Superman, and the heroes are scattered. No wonder they need Superman right now. It's a great setup that has plenty of nods to Superman's history, and raises some interesting questions about it post-Infinite Crisis.

The story hints that Superboy-Prime was a sort of inspiration for the Legion of Super-Villains. Some may see that as rather fanfic-like. I get why, but I can see why Johns would go that direction. It makes a bizarre form of sense. The Legion of Super-Heroes were inspired by the DCU's greatest superheroes, why wouldn't their villainous counterparts be inspired by a twisted psycho version of said hero? Also, Superman's statement about Prime at the end made my jaw drop when I first read it. It left me wondering "How are the heroes going to pull that off? I doubt even an act of God will help there!"

As a tie-in to Final Crisis, it doesn't really contribute much to the overall story of that event. It's really best read as a standalone story, in my opinion.

If you ever find this story, pick it up. I highly recommend it. The ending is a bit wonky in certain places in my opinion, but it's still really good. Thanks for reading this blog entry! If you liked it, spread it around! And if you want to give this blog some extra support, please feel free to drop a tip in my Digital Tip Jar! Next time, it's February, and it's Black History Month. So, lets return to my favorite era of the Avengers, as they get a brand new member...