A podcast about Pokémon! Every episode Will and Braden analyze and discuss all the Pokédex entries for a single Pokémon.
We took a much-needed break after the revelations we had with Magnezone and we're back to basics this week with the Bug type Pokemon Scatterbug! What secrets do those funky, little rectangle eyes hold? Follow along with the entries below:X: When under attack from bird Pokémon, it spews a poisonous black powder that causes paralysis on contact.Y: The powder that covers its body regulates its temperature, so it can live in any region or climate.Scarlet: Any poison this Pokémon takes in is converted into a black powder and secreted. That's why Scatterbug can eat poisonous leaves and roots.Violet: This Pokémon scatters poisonous powder to repel enemies. It will eat different plants depending on where it lives.Blurb: Scatterbug resides mostly in forests and wild plains. It uses the fur around its neck to control its body temperature.BTB: A cute little bug with some toxic fashion! It's adaptable and adorable in equal measure.Cover design by Kwesi PhillipsMusic by Junichi Masuda and Go IchinoseLeave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
It's time to get in the zone Magnezone! What if three Magnemite actually combined into a more cohesive evolution design? What grave consequences does this new form portend? Follow along with the entries below:Diamond & Pearl: It evolved from exposure to a special magnetic field. Three units generate magnetism.Platinum: A group tried to use scientific means to make MAGNEZONE evolve, but their efforts ended in failure.HeartGold & SoulSilver: Exposure to a special magnetic field changed MAGNETON's molecular structure, turning it into MAGNEZONE.Black & White 2: Sometimes the magnetism emitted by Magnezone is too strong, making them attract each other so they cannot move.Sun: Three units generate magnetism. There have been many mistaken reports of UFO sightings when Magnezone flies through the night sky.Moon: As it zooms through the sky, this Pokémon seems to be receiving signals of unknown origin, while transmitting signals of unknown purpose.Ultra Sun: It uses radar to monitor its territory. Intruders are quickly disposed of with a hyper beam.Ultra Moon: There are still people who believe that this Pokémon came from outer space. It emanates a powerful magnetic field.Sword: Some say that Magnezone receives signals from space via the antenna on its head and that it's being controlled by some mysterious being.Shield: It's thought that a special magnetic field changed the molecular structure of this Pokémon's body, and that's what caused the Pokémon's evolution.Legends Arceus: I theorize that a special magnetic field influenced this Pokémon, changing its molecular structure and causing it to evolve. It emits strange radio waves toward space from its antenna.Pokemon Sleep: Its screws and magnets spin even while it sleeps. It's said that a sleeping Magnezone emits signals of unknown purpose and receives signals of unknown origin, but researchers are divided on this point.BTB: A key component in the Pokemon takeover conspiracy. Who is it communicating with and why? This one probably needs a siren or some signage too.Cover design by Kwesi PhillipsMusic by Junichi Masuda and Go IchinoseLeave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Magneton is here and somehow far more terrible than we could have imagined! Follow along with the entries below:Red & Blue: Formed by several MAGNEMITEs linked together. They frequently appear when sunspots flare up.Yellow: Generates strange radio signals. It raises the temperature by 3.6F degrees within 3,300 feet.Gold: Three MAGNEMITE are linked by a strong magnetic force. Earaches will occur if you get too close.Silver: The MAGNEMITE are united by a magnetism so powerful, it dries all moisture in its vicinities.Crystal: When many MAGNETON gather together, the resulting magnetic storm disrupts radio waves.Ruby: MAGNETON emits a powerful magnetic force that is fatal to mechanical devices. As a result, large cities sound sirens to warn citizens of large-scale outbreaks of this POKéMON.Sapphire: MAGNETON emits a powerful magnetic force that is fatal to electronics and precision instruments. Because of this, it is said that some towns warn people to keep this POKéMON inside a POKé BALL.FireRed: A linked cluster formed of several MAGNEMITE. It discharges powerful magnetic waves at high voltage.Diamond & Pearl: It is actually three MAGNEMITE linked by magnetism. A group can set off a magnetic storm.Platinum: Many mysteriously appear when more sunspots dot the sun. They stop TV sets from displaying properly.Black & White 2: The stronger electromagnetic waves from the three linked Magnemite are enough to dry out surrounding moisture.Sun: When three Magnemite link together, their brains also become one. They do not become three times more intelligent.Moon: It has about three times the electrical power of Magnemite. For some reason, outbreaks of this Pokémon happen when lots of sunspots appear.Ultra Sun: Delicate equipment can malfunction in areas inhabited by Magneton, which send out mysterious electrical signals.Ultra Moon: When rain clouds form, many Magneton gather in high places to wait for lightning to strike.Sword: This Pokémon is three Magnemite that have linked together. Magneton sends out powerful radio waves to study its surroundings.Shield: This Pokémon is constantly putting out a powerful magnetic force. Most computers go haywire when a Magneton approaches.Legends Arceus: Three Magnemite gathered to evolve into this Pokémon. The source of much vexation on my part, as its powerful magnetism destroys my research equipment.Pokemon Sleep: The three Magnemite are usually linked by a strong magnetic force. They have been spotted sleeping stuck together and drifting apart. Perhaps their magnetism is unstable during sleep.BTB: That's three Magnemite! Their mysterious powers combined present an imminent danger to modern society and surrounding life. Maybe an alien?Cover design by Kwesi PhillipsMusic by Junichi Masuda and Go IchinoseLeave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Magnemite, the littlest orb is here! I hope you're ready for some extremely confident explanations of electromagnetism! Follow along with the entries below:Red & Blue: Uses anti-gravity to stay suspended. Appears without warning and uses THUNDER WAVE and similar moves.Yellow: It is born with the ability to defy gravity. It floats in air on powerful electromagnetic waves.Gold: It is attracted by electromagnetic waves. It may approach trainers if they are using their POKéGEAR.Silver: The units at the sides of its body generate antigravity energy to keep it aloft in the air.Crystal: The electricity emitted by the units on each side of its body cause it to become a strong magnet.Ruby: MAGNEMITE attaches itself to power lines to feed on electricity. If your house has a power outage, check your circuit breakers. You may find a large number of this POKéMON clinging to the breaker box.Sapphire: MAGNEMITE floats in the air by emitting electromagnetic waves from the units at its sides. These waves block gravity. This POKéMON becomes incapable of flight if its internal electrical supply is depleted.FireRed: It moves while constantly hovering. It discharges THUNDER WAVE and so on from the units at its sides.Diamond & Pearl: The units at its sides generate electromagnetic waves that keep it airborne. It feeds on electricity.Platinum: The faster the units at its sides rotate, the greater the magnetic force they generate.Black & White 2: The electromagnetic waves emitted by the units at the sides of its head expel antigravity, which allows it to float.Sun: They gather in places where electricity is available. They can be found clinging to the steel towers used to support power lines.Moon: It sends out electromagnetic waves, which let it float through the air. Touching it while it's eating electricity will give you a full-body shock.Ultra Sun: It's frequently the cause of power outages, which is why some power plants send out electrical signals that it can't stand.Ultra Moon: Perhaps because electrical lines are often buried these days, the number of Magnemite attacks on power plants has increased.Sword: At times, Magnemite runs out of electricity and ends up on the ground. If you give batteries to a grounded Magnemite, it'll start moving again.Shield: It subsists on electricity. As Magnemite flies, it emits electromagnetic waves from the units on each side of its body.Legends Arceus: A bizarre Pokémon with but a single eye embedded in an iron sphere. I suspect this creature levitates due to the magnetism it emits from its arms, which resemble horseshoe-shaped magnets.Pokemon Sleep: The units at its side generate electromagnetic waves that keep it airborne. On rare occasions, perhaps when it sleepily muddles the direction of its waves, it does loops through the air while asleep. BTB: It's a little magnet guy that floats and eats electricity. That might be a problem and we have yet to find a strong solution.Cover design by Kwesi PhillipsMusic by Junichi Masuda and Go IchinoseLeave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Secret agent lizard man! Inteleon is here and ready to overthrow governments! Join us as we can't stop thinking about Andor and learn about all of Inteleon's cool, hidden tricks like knife! Follow along with the entries below:Sword: It has many hidden capabilities, such as fingertips that can shoot water and a membrane on its back that it can use to glide through the air.Shield: Its nictitating membranes let it pick out foes' weak points so it can precisely blast them with water that shoots from its fingertips at Mach 3.Scarlet: It uses special lenses in its eyes to sense things about its opponents—like their body heat—then attacks once it identifies a weak spot.Violet: It may present itself as being well-mannered, but deep down, it still has a lazy side. It will slack off when its Trainer isn't looking.Anime: Inteleon has many capabilities hidden all over its body. It can shoot water from its fingers and glide using a membrane on its back.BTB: Inteleon has a very particular set of skills and "gadgets" that are perhaps put to better use outside of Pokemon battling. Watch out for that knife!Cover design by Kwesi PhillipsMusic by Junichi Masuda and Go IchinoseLeave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
You know we love an angsty, middle-stage evolution! That's right, it's Drizzile! Peak Pokemon design goes hand-in-hand with our peak podcast vibes this week as everything continues to be perfectly normal. Follow along with the entries below:Sword: A clever combatant, this Pokémon battles using water balloons created with moisture secreted from its palms.Shield: Highly intelligent but also very lazy, it keeps enemies out of its territory by laying traps everywhere.Scarlet: It extends its long, slimy tongue at blinding speeds and finishes off its prey with great skill.Violet: Highly intelligent but also very lazy, it defends its home by laying traps.Anime: Drizzile places traps around it so enemies can't sneak up. It's very smart, but doesn't like being forced to do anythingBTB: Highly intelligent AND lazy, Drizzile marches to the beat of its own drummer and just like chill out dude. Let me be.Cover design by Kwesi PhillipsMusic by Junichi Masuda and Go IchinoseLeave us a tip athttps://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Get your tissues ready, this one's a literal tearjerker! That's right, Sobble is here and actually has enough entries for a full length episode! Follow along with the entries below:Sword: When scared, this Pokémon cries. Its tears pack the chemical punch of 100 onions, and attackers won't be able to resist weeping.Shield: When it gets wet, its skin changes color, and this Pokémon becomes invisible as if it were camouflaged.Scarlet: It gets berries to eat by shooting them down with bullets of water it spurts from its mouth. Its aim is perfect.Violet: It's a very cautious Pokémon. When it has no choice but to battle, it hides itself before attacking.Photodex: Sobble is so timid that it bursts into tears at the slightest shock. A chemical in its tears causes other Pokémon nearby to start crying as well.BTB: Sobble cries easily, but primarily as a defense mechanism, so leave your judgments behind and understand the power of 100 onions in the palm of your hand.Cover design by Kwesi PhillipsMusic by Junichi Masuda and Go IchinoseLeave us a tip athttps://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Elgyem has evolved into Beheeyem, and wow! Can we go back to brain squeezing actually? Follow along with the entries below:Black: It can manipulate an opponent's memory. Apparently, it communicates by flashing its three different-colored fingers.White: It uses psychic power to control an opponent's brain and tamper with its memories.Black & White 2: Apparently, it communicates by flashing its three fingers, but those patterns haven't been decoded.Ultra Sun: With its psychic powers, it rewrites its opponents' memories. You, too, may have already had your memories rewritten.Ultra Moon: It has strong psychic powers. Using its fingers that flash three different colors, it controls its opponents and rewrites their memories.Sword: Whenever a Beheeyem visits a farm, a Dubwool mysteriously disappears.Shield: Sometimes found drifting above wheat fields, this Pokémon can control the memories of its opponents.Photodex: Beheeyem and Golurk seemed to be standing guard inside the ruins. Beheeyem looked like it was giving orders by flashing light from its fingertips, but deciphering those patterns could be tough.BTB: A net force for good in the universe, Beheeyem is beloved by all. Just keep looking into it's calming lights to decipher its fascinating language.Cover design by Kwesi PhillipsMusic by Junichi Masuda and Go IchinoseLeave us a tip athttps://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Get ready to unravel the mysteries of a strange Pokemon from outer space this episode as we talk about the Cerebral Pokemon, Elgyem! Listen as Will learns about bogos binted and Braden effortlessly recalls the names of characters from popular TV shows! Follow along with the entries below:Black: It uses its strong psychic power to squeeze its opponent's brain, causing unendurable headaches.White: This Pokémon had never been seen until it appeared from far in the desert 50 years ago.Black & White 2: Rumors of its origin are linked to a UFO crash site in the desert 50 years ago.Ultra Sun: It controls tremendous psychic power. Most reports of alien sightings are actually just people mistaking Elgyem for an alien.Ultra Moon: This Pokémon is shrouded in mystery. It's said to have appeared from a UFO that fell from the sky about 50 years ago.Sword: If this Pokémon stands near a TV, strange scenery will appear on the screen. That scenery is said to be from its home.Shield: This Pokémon was discovered about 50 years ago. Its highly developed brain enables it to exert its psychic powers.BTB: It uses its big ol' brain to squeeze other brains. It's almost certainly an alien. It's a litte mysterious, mainly because of the TV thing.Cover design by Kwesi PhillipsMusic by Junichi Masuda and Go IchinoseLeave us a tip athttps://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Pidgeot is here and we finally got some real entries to chew on, with metrics and everything! Magikarp beware! Follow along with the entries below:Red & Blue: When hunting, it skims the surface of water at high speed to pick off unwary prey such as MAGIKARP.Yellow: This POKéMON flies at Mach 2 speed, seeking prey. Its large talons are feared as wicked weapons.Gold: Its well-developed chest muscles make it strong enough to whip up a gusty windstorm with just a few flaps.Silver: It spreads its beautiful wings wide to frighten its enemies. It can fly at Mach 2 speed.Crystal: Its outstanding vision allows it to spot splashing MAGIKARP, even while flying at 3300 feet.Ruby & Sapphire: This POKéMON has a dazzling plumage of beautifully glossy feathers. Many TRAINERS are captivated by the striking beauty of the feathers on its head, compelling them to choose PIDGEOT as their POKéMON.Diamond Pearl Platinum: By flapping its wings with all its might, PIDGEOT can make a gust of wind capable of bending tall trees.Photodex: When Pidgeot flaps its wings, it can whip up a gust of wind capable of blowing away just about anything. It also has excellent vision and can zero in on leaping Magikarp from a far-off distance.BTB: A great way to establish air supremacy in your neighbourhood, Pidgeot has presumably very beautiful plumage and can blow all sorts of things away.Cover design by Kwesi PhillipsMusic by Junichi Masuda and Go IchinoseLeave us a tip athttps://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Pidgey has evolved into the much heftier Pidgeotto and we've just got to find out if it can do any cool tricks now. Also, find out why Will HATES birds! Follow along with the entries below: Red & Blue: Very protective of its sprawling territorial area, this POKéMON will fiercely peck at any intruder. Yellow: This POKéMON is full of vitality. It constantly flies around its large territory in search of prey. Gold: It has outstanding vision. However high it flies, it is able to distinguish the movements of its prey. Silver: It immobilizes its prey using well-developed claws, then carries the prey more than 60 miles to its nest. Crystal: It slowly flies in a circular pattern, all the while keeping a sharp lookout for prey. Ruby & Sapphire: PIDGEOTTO claims a large area as its own territory. This POKéMON flies around, patrolling its living space. If its territory is violated, it shows no mercy in thoroughly punishing the foe with its sharp claws. Diamond Pearl Platinum: It flies over its wide territory in search of prey, downing it with its highly developed claws. BTB: Pidgeotto will kill you with it's super sharp claw if you violate its vast territory. This is why children can't go in tall grass unaccompanied by protection. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
We're going back to an original this episode! Pidgey! The Dragon Quest Slime of Pokemon. Join us as we attempt to make bird noises and find out exactly how much Pidgey is just a bird. Follow along with the entries below: Red & Blue: A common sight in forests and woods. It flaps its wings at ground level to kick up blinding sand. Yellow: Very docile. If attacked, it will often kick up sand to protect itself rather than fight back. Gold: It usually hides in tall grass. Because it dislikes fighting, it protects itself by kicking up sand. Silver: Common in grassy areas and forests, it is very docile and will chase off enemies by flapping up sand. Crystal: It rapidly flaps its wings in the grass, stirring up a dust cloud that drives insect prey out into the open. Ruby & Sapphire: PIDGEY has an extremely sharp sense of direction. It is capable of unerringly returning home to its nest, however far it may be removed from its familiar surroundings. Diamond Pearl Platinum: It is docile and prefers to avoid conflict. If disturbed, however, it can ferociously strike back. BTB: Pidgey loves sand. Have you ever met a bird that loved sand so much? It will throw it right in your eyes to protect its own. Just leave it be. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
We're finally here at the end Swinub's journey with it's final evolution, Mamoswine! Some might argue that it's an unnecessary addition while others counter that it's so big and strong! Follow along with the entries below: Diamond & Pearl: Its impressive tusks are made of ice. The population thinned when it turned warm after the ice age. Platinum: A frozen one was dug up from soil dating back 10,000 years. It woke up to much amazement. HeartGold: A frozen MAMOSWINE was dug from ice dating back 10,000 years. This Pokémon has been around a long, long, long time. SoulSilver: It flourished worldwide during the ice age but its population declined when the masses of ice began to dwindle. Black & White 2: When the temperature rose at the end of the ice age, most Mamoswine disappeared. Sword: This Pokémon can be spotted in wall paintings from as far back as 10,000 years ago. For a while, it was thought to have gone extinct. Shield: It looks strong, and that's exactly what it is. As the weather grows colder, its ice tusks grow longer, thicker, and more impressive. BDSP: Its impressive tusks are made of ice. The ice age is over and the climate has warmed, so this Pokémon's population has thinned. Legends Arceus: This species reached its zenith during the period known as the ice age. I suspect that Hisui's frigid climate is in harmony with Mamoswine's constitution, thus awakening hidden potential. Photodex: The cold of the snowfields has hardened Mamoswine's icy tusks, making them strong enough to withstand even Beartic's claws. Swinub must feel much safer when they're with Mamoswine. BTB: Remember when it got warm? That was bad news for Mamoswine who is partially made of ice somehow. But you can't keep this giant pig elephant down becuase it looks so, so strong. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Beyond the Ball is back and wow I guess it's a new year now so get ready to learn about Piloswine AND our Pokemon of the Year 2024. Can you tell we haven't really talked in a month? Follow along with the entries below: Gold: Because the long hair all over its body obscures its sight, it just keeps charging repeatedly. Silver: If it charges at an enemy, the hairs on its back stand up straight. It is very sensitive to sound. Crystal: Although its legs are short, its rugged hooves prevent it from slipping, even on icy ground. Ruby & Sapphire: PILOSWINE is covered by a thick coat of long hair that enables it to endure the freezing cold. This POKéMON uses its tusks to dig up food that has been buried under ice. Diamond & Pearl: Its shaggy coat makes it unable to see. It checks surroundings with its sensitive nose instead. Platinum: Covered by a shaggy coat, it is strong against the cold. Its tusks of ice thicken when it snows. Black & White 2: With its excellent sense of smell, it's even able to find mushrooms that are buried under frozen ground. Scarlet: Covered by a shaggy coat, it is resistant to the cold. Its tusks of ice thicken when it snows. Violet: Because the long hair all over its body obscures its sight, it just keeps charging repeatedly. Legends Arceus: The long fur of this Pokémon covers its eyes, ears, and even limbs, allowing Piloswine to resist harshly frigid conditions. The Pokémon's white tusks can be used to defeat its enemies. BTB: This magnificent mound of hair can see but has no need as it can simply charge with its powerful tusks which are certainly made of some material that is white. Haven Art Bullseye Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Hey at least we made it to 250! No episode this week. We'll try again next week, but no guarantees throughout December which will be tricky for us. Follow us on Bluesky for updates! Thank you for listening and hope to see you again soon!
It's your finally here! Episode 250 of Beyond the Ball featuring our favorite AND yours, Swinub! The little ice pig that could. This one's got it all! Anime Corner? You know Team Rocket's gonna be up to some real shenanigans this time. Esoteric references? Of course! Complaining about capitalism? Wouldn't be BTB without it! And, of course, Pokedex entries! All of which you can read below: Gold: It rubs its snout on the ground to find and dig up food. It sometimes discovers hot springs. Silver: If it smells something enticing, it dashes headlong off to find the source of the aroma. Crystal: It uses the tip of its nose to dig for food. Its nose is so tough that even frozen ground poses no problem. Ruby & Sapphire: SWINUB roots for food by rubbing its snout against the ground. Its favorite food is a mushroom that grows under the cover of dead grass. This POKéMON occasionally roots out hot springs. Emerald: It roots for food by rubbing its snout against the ground. Its favorite food is a mushroom that grows under dried grass. It occasionally roots out hot springs. Diamond & Pearl: It loves eating mushrooms that grow under dead grass. It also finds hot springs while foraging. Platinum: It has a very sensitive nose. It can locate mushrooms, berries, and even hot springs buried under ice. Black & White 2: Rooting the tip of its snout into the ground, it searches for food. Sometimes it even digs up a hot spring. Legends: Arceus: Swinub excels at sniffing out mushrooms buried beneath grass or snow. Since ancient times, the people of Hisui have often relied upon this skill. New Pokemon Snap: Swinub have an excellent sense of smell, which helps them find things buried in the snow. Whenever they go somewhere dangerous, Mamoswine are sure to go with them. Scarlet: It searches for food by digging into the ground with its snout. Even frozen ground doesn't give it any trouble. Violet: It rubs its snout against the ground, digging through the soil as it searches for food. Sometimes it digs up hot springs. BTB: An epic little pig orblet, living a life of ease eating truffles and soaking up hot springs. A lifestyle to aspire to surely. Thanks again for listening : ) Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Ding ding ding ding, it's bonus time! To celebrate 250 episodes of Beyond the Ball we decided to undertake the perhaps-too-large task of collaboratively ranking every Pokemon that was newly introduced in Pokemon Gold and Silver. Our favorite generation of Pokemon! Join us as we learn more about where we align and differ in our unquestionable Pokemon opinions and play along at home using this great website! Next week will be our actual 250th episode featuring the Pokemon YOU voted for! View our completed ranking here! Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
As we prepare for episode 250 (vote here!) we first must ponder the Weather Pokemon, Castform! It's like four Pokemon in one! Wow! Follow along with the entries below: Ruby: CASTFORM's appearance changes with the weather. This POKéMON gained the ability to use the vast power of nature to protect its tiny body. Sapphire: CASTFORM borrows the power of nature to transform itself into the guises of the sun, rain clouds, and snow clouds. This POKéMON's feelings change with the weather. FireRed & LeafGreen: It has the ability to change its form into the sun, the rain, or a snow cloud, depending on the weather. Emerald: It alters its form depending on the weather. Changes in the climate such as the temperature and humidity appear to affect its cellular structure. Diamond, Pearl & Platinum: Its appearance changes with the weather. Recently, its molecules were found to be just like water. HeartGold & SoulSilver: This Pokémon can change its cells, taking different forms based on the temperature and humidity. Black & White 2: Temperature and weather affect its cellular structure, so this Pokémon changes form according to the weather. Sun: It changes its form depending on the weather. Changes in the temperature or humidity appear to affect its cellular structure. Moon: Its form changes on its own, due to its cells' sensitive reactions to temperature and humidity. Ultra Sun: Although its form changes with the weather, that is apparently the result of a chemical reaction and not the result of its own free will. Ultra Moon: Its form changes depending on the weather. The rougher conditions get, the rougher Castform's disposition! Sunny Form Sun: This is the form Castform takes on the brightest of days. Its skin is unexpectedly hot to the touch, so approach with care. Moon: This is Castform's form when basking in fair weather. Its body is warm and toasty. Ultra Sun: This is the form Castform takes on bright days. In an experiment where Castform was placed in front of a heater, it didn't change to this form. Ultra Moon: Castform changes to this form when it basks in bright sunlight. When you touch its glowing skin, it feels all dried out! Rainy Form Sun: This is the form Castform takes when soaked with rain. When its body is compressed, water will seep out as if from a sponge. Moon: This is Castform's form during a downpour of rain. Its body retains moisture and gets slippery. Ultra Sun: Castform changes to this form when rain hits it. Its body is soft and slightly swollen with water. Ultra Moon: This is Castform's form when pelted by rain. In an experiment where it was placed in a shower, this Pokémon didn't change to this form. Snowy Form Sun: This is the form Castform takes when covered in snow. Its body becomes an ice-like material, with a temperature near 23 degrees Fahrenheit. Moon: This is Castform's form when caught in a hailstorm. Its cold skin is as smooth as ice. Ultra Sun: This is the form Castform takes when hit by hail. In an experiment where it was placed in a freezer, it didn't change to this form. Ultra Moon: This is Castform's form when caught in a hailstorm. Its whole body is chilled, and its skin is partially frozen! BTB: Castform's mood matches the weather in the following ways: Sunny = ecstatic, rainy = wistful, and snowy = demure, mindful. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
We're finally done with the Pikachu family as we cover Alolan Raichu and wow does anyone else suddenly crave pancakes? Vote for who we should cover for episode 250 here! Follow along with the entries below: Sun: It only evolves to this form in the Alola region. According to researchers, its diet is one of the causes of this change. Moon: It uses psychokinesis to control electricity. It hops aboard its own tail, using psychic power to lift the tail and move about while riding it. Ultra Sun: It focuses psychic energy into its tail and rides it like it's surfing. Another name for this Pokémon is “hodad.” Ultra Moon: When you rub its cheeks, a sweet fragrance comes wafting out. However, you'll also get a light shock! Let's Go Pikachu/Eevee: It loves pancakes prepared with a secret Alolan recipe. Some wonder whether that recipe holds the key to this Pokémon's evolution. Sword: It's believed that the weather, climate, and food of the Alola region all play a part in causing Pikachu to evolve into this form of Raichu. Shield: This Pokémon rides on its tail while it uses its psychic powers to levitate. It attacks with star-shaped thunderbolts. Photodex: This Pokémon is a talented surfer, using its psychic power to ride the waves. It's always practicing on the beach, waiting for that perfect wave to roll in. BTB: Raichu's pancake form. An artistic electric user that definitely seems more chill than normal Raichu. Surfing ability may vary. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Foul affliction has fallen upon Beyond the Ball and we were unfortunately unable to record this week! We should hopefully be back by next Monday the 21st. Stay tuned and remember to denounce colonialism today!
Move over Pikachu, it's time to get rude and rowdy with your evolved form, Raichu! Join us as we're once again baffled by the phenomenon of electricity and reference even more obscure media! Follow along with the entries below: Red & Blue: Its long tail serves as a ground to protect itself from its own high voltage power. Yellow: When electricity builds up inside its body, it becomes feisty. It also glows in the dark. Gold: When its electricity builds, its muscles are stimulated, and it becomes more aggressive than usual. Silver: If the electric pouches in its cheeks become fully charged, both ears will stand straight up. Crystal: If its electric pouches run empty, it raises its tail to gather electricity from the atmosphere. Ruby: If the electrical sacks become excessively charged, RAICHU plants its tail in the ground and discharges. Scorched patches of ground will be found near this POKéMON's nest. Sapphire: This POKéMON exudes a weak electrical charge from all over its body that makes it take on a slight glow in darkness. RAICHU searches for electricity by planting its tail in the ground. FireRed: Its electric charges can reach even 100,000 volts. Careless contact can cause even an Indian elephant to faint. Emerald: If it stores too much electricity, its behavior turns aggressive. To avoid this, it occasionally discharges excess energy and calms itself down. Diamond: It turns aggressive if it has too much electricity in its body. It discharges power through its tail. Pearl: It can loose 100,000-volt bursts of electricity, instantly downing foes several times its size. Platinum: Its tail discharges electricity into the ground, protecting it from getting shocked. Sun: It unleashes electric shocks that can reach 100,000 volts. When agitated, it can knock out even an Indian elephant. Moon: It becomes aggressive when it has electricity stored up. At such times, even its Trainer has to take care to avoid being attacked. Ultra Sun: As electricity builds up inside its body, it becomes more aggressive. One theory is that the electricity buildup is actually causing stress. Ultra Moon: Because so many Trainers like the way Pikachu looks, you don't see this Pokémon very often. Legends Arceus: It can discharge bursts of electricity exceeding 100,000 volts— a single strike with that amount of power would incapacitate one of the Copperajah of my homeland. BTB: Raichu is constantly moderating a delicate emotional state and can be quite dangerous if ungrounded and so inclined. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
It's finally time to talk about THE Pokemon, Pikachu! Or as we like to call it, the Shawshank Redemption of Pokemon! Follow along with the entries below: Red & Blue: When several of these POKéMON gather, their electricity could build and cause lightning storms. Yellow: It keeps its tail raised to monitor its surroundings. If you yank its tail, it will try to bite you. Gold: This intelligent POKéMON roasts hard BERRIES with electricity to make them tender enough to eat. Silver: It raises its tail to check its surroundings. The tail is sometimes struck by lightning in this pose. Crystal: When it is angered, it immediately discharges the energy stored in the pouches in its cheeks. Ruby: Whenever PIKACHU comes across something new, it blasts it with a jolt of electricity. If you come across a blackened berry, it's evidence that this POKéMON mistook the intensity of its charge. Sapphire: This POKéMON has electricity-storing pouches on its cheeks. These appear to become electrically charged during the night while PIKACHU sleeps. It occasionally discharges electricity when it is dozy after waking up. FireRed: It has small electric sacs on both its cheeks. If threatened, it looses electric charges from the sacs. Emerald: It stores electricity in the electric sacs on its cheeks. When it releases pent-up energy in a burst, the electric power is equal to a lightning bolt. Diamond: It lives in forests with others. It stores electricity in the pouches on its cheeks. Pearl: If it looses crackling power from the electric pouches on its cheeks, it is being wary. Platinum: It occasionally uses an electric shock to recharge a fellow PIKACHU that is in a weakened state. Sun: A plan was recently announced to gather many Pikachu and make an electric power plant. Moon: It's in its nature to store electricity. It feels stressed now and then if it's unable to fully discharge the electricity. Ultra Sun: Its nature is to store up electricity. Forests where nests of Pikachu live are dangerous, since the trees are so often struck by lightning. Ultra Moon: While sleeping, it generates electricity in the sacs in its cheeks. If it's not getting enough sleep, it will be able to use only weak electricity. Let's Go Pikachu/Eevee: This forest-dwelling Pokémon stores electricity in its cheeks, so you'll feel a tingly shock if you touch it. Sword: Pikachu that can generate powerful electricity have cheek sacs that are extra soft and super stretchy. Shield: When Pikachu meet, they'll touch their tails together and exchange electricity through them as a form of greeting. Legends Arceus: Possesses cheek sacs in which it stores electricity. This clever forest-dweller roasts tough berries with an electric shock before consuming them. BTB: The power of the sun in the pouch of their cheeks, Pikachu can summmon dangerous storms despite their very cute appearance. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Just wanted to get an update in the feed for folks who wisely avoid the social media hellscape. We ended up not being able to record last week so our epic Pikachu episode won't be up until next Monday the 23rd. Should be on track for Raichu the 30th after that followed by our normal break, a two-parter, one more break, and then the big 250! Hoping to squeeze a bonus episode in there at some point as well. Thanks for your patience and stay safe out there!
It's time to talk about THE iconic Pokemon, Pikachu starting, of course, with Pichu! One of the original babies! Even as a baby, this tiny mouse still has a zillion entries so get ready! Follow along with the entries below: Gold: It is not yet skilled at storing electricity. It may send out a jolt if amused or startled. Silver: Despite its small size, it can zap even adult humans. However, if it does so, it also surprises itself. Crystal: It is unskilled at storing electric power. Any kind of shock causes it to discharge energy spontaneously. Ruby: PICHU charges itself with electricity more easily on days with thunderclouds or when the air is very dry. You can hear the crackling of static electricity coming off this POKéMON. Sapphire: When PICHU plays with others, it may short out electricity with another PICHU, creating a shower of sparks. In that event, this POKéMON will begin crying, startled by the flash of sparks. Emerald: It is still inept at retaining electricity. When it is startled, it discharges power accidentally. It gets better at holding power as it grows older. Diamond: The electric pouches on its cheeks are still small. They cannot store much electricity yet. Pearl: It plays with others by touching tails and setting off sparks. This appears to be a test of courage. Platinum: The electric sacs in its cheeks are small. If even a little electricity leaks, it becomes shocked. Sun: It is not yet skilled at controlling electricity. If you take your eyes off it, it may shock itself. Moon: Despite this Pokémon's cute appearance, those who want to live with one should prepare to be on the receiving end of its electric jolts. Ultra Sun: It still can't use electricity well. When it's surprised or excited, it discharges electricity unintentionally. Ultra Moon: It has electric sacs in its cheeks. When they're fully charged, Pichu plays very energetically. Legends Arceus: Pichu stores electricity in the sacs on its cheeks but discharges it inadvertently when agitated or excited. Being yet immature, the Pokémon's handling of electricity is rather inept. BTB: This baby can't do electricty very good just yet. It may be cute, but it's basically a livewire and you WILL get zapped. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Get ready metal heads, it's time to talk about Skarmory! How metal is it? How fast it go? What is flight? Bird meat? Follow along with the entries below: Gold: Its sturdy wings look heavy, but they are actually hollow and light, allowing it to fly freely in the sky. Silver: After nesting in bramble bushes, the wings of its chicks grow hard from scratches by thorns. Crystal: The feathers that it sheds are very sharp. It is said that people once used the feathers as swords. Ruby: SKARMORY is entirely encased in hard, protective armor. This POKéMON flies at close to 190 mph. It slashes foes with its wings that possess swordlike cutting edges. Sapphire: SKARMORY's steel wings become tattered and bashed in from repeated battles. Once a year, the battered wings grow back completely, restoring the cutting edges to their pristine state. Emerald: A POKéMON that has a body and wings of steel. People in the past used feathers fallen from SKARMORY to make swords and knives. Diamond, Pearl, Platinum: Despite being clad entirely in iron-hard armor, it flies at speeds over 180 mph. Black & White 2: Its heavy-looking iron body is actually thin and light, so it can fly at speeds over 180 mph. Sun: Its feathers, which fall off as it grows, are thin and sharp. In times long past, warriors used them as swords. Moon: Its metal body is sturdy, but it does rust rather easily. So on rainy days, this Pokémon prefers to stay put in its nest. Ultra Sun: The wing feathers it sheds can be processed and made into knives whose sharpness is recognized by the finest chefs. Ultra Moon: Its body is draped in steel armor. It looks heavy, but it can fly at speeds of up to 185 miles an hour! Sword: The pointed feathers of these Pokémon are sharper than swords. Skarmory and Corviknight fight viciously over territory. Shield: People fashion swords from Skarmory's shed feathers, so this Pokémon is a popular element in heraldic designs. BDSP: Skarmory is clad entirely in ironhard armor. It flies at speeds over 180 mph. Photodex: Skarmory flew with such acrobatic skill over the snowfields. Its steel body is hard and sturdy, but because of its hollow bones, it's actually very lightweight. BTB: The sword of the skies, constantly hurling blades down to earth. There's definitely bird meat in there somewhere. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Our little Smoliv is all grown up and turned into a tree. Join us as we talk about its final form, Arboliva! And the LAAT Gunship from Star Wars Episode II Attack of the Clones! Follow along with the entries below: Scarlet: This calm Pokémon is very compassionate. It will share its delicious, nutrient-rich oil with weakened Pokémon. Violet: This Pokémon drives back enemies by launching its rich, aromatic oil at them with enough force to smash a boulder. Professor Friede: It may be scary if it gets angry, but normally, it's a very kind and gentle Pokemon. It's devoted to caring for its friends. Those arms nurture both its fruits and its friends. BTB: It blasts olive oil just like an LAAT gunship from Star Wars Episode 2 Attack of the Clones starring Natalie Portman, Hayden Christensen, Ewan McGregor, Samuel Jackson, and Temuera Morrison. A bit of a diva. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Middle-stage teen Pokemon, let's gooo! That's right, we've gone from Smoliv to Dolliv and oh my gosh its cry actually sounds bearable. Follow along with the entries below: Scarlet: Dolliv shares its tasty, fresh-scented oil with others. This species has coexisted with humans since times long gone. Violet: It basks in the sun to its heart's content until the fruits on its head ripen. After that, Dolliv departs from human settlements and goes on a journey. Anime: It produces oil with a fresh scent. When it gets enough sunlight and the fruit on its head ripens, it leaves human settlements and goes on a journey. Professor Friede: Dolliv's oil is fresh and tasty. Sharing that oil has long made it a valued companion to people and other Pokemon alike. BTB: Dolliv has chilled with humans for thousands of years, but you gotta let them go on their mysterious pilgrimages and you can't ask any questions. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
This episode we're digging into why Smoliv is so anxious and exactly where all that olive oil is coming from. Also that one thing happened while we were recording lol. Follow along with the entries below: Scarlet: It protects itself from enemies by emitting oil from the fruit on its head. This oil is bitter and astringent enough to make someone flinch. Violet: This Pokémon converts nutrients into oil, which it stores in the fruit on its head. It can easily go a whole week without eating or drinking. Anime: Smoliv, the Olive Pokémon. A Grass and Normal type. Smoliv converts nutrients to oil and stores it in the fruit on its head. It can easily go a week without eating or drinking anything. BTB: Has anyone asked Smoliv if it's okay? The oil tastes bad, but dang it's still real cute and probably needs help. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
The big dino, Aurorus is here now that Amaura has evolved! How cold is it? Hard to say, but we're definitely gonna try Googling it! Follow along with the entries below: X: The diamond-shaped crystals on its body expel air as cold as -240 degrees Fahrenheit, surrounding its enemies and encasing them in ice. Y: Using its diamond-shaped crystals, it can instantly create a wall of ice to block an opponent's attack. Ultra Sun: An Aurorus was found frozen solid within a glacier, just as it appeared long ago, which became quite a big event in the news. Ultra Moon: This usually quiet and kindly Pokémon has a surface temperature of around –240 degrees Fahrenheit. Sword: Aurorus was restored from a fossil. It's said that when this Pokémon howls, auroras appear in the night sky. Shield: When gripped by rage, Aurorus will emanate freezing air, covering everything around it in ice. BTB: It's life is probably no longer in danger now that it has evolved to easily temperature control its environment. Your life may be in danger though if you're not careful. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Looking to beat the summer heat? Cool off with this iced dino that maybe shouldn't exist! That's right, we Jurassic Park'd Amaura so we could read all of its Pokedex entries. Non-Amaura topics include: Ice Age, The Land Before Time, product placement, and more! Follow along with the entries below: X: This ancient Pokémon was restored from part of its body that had been frozen in ice for over 100 million years. Y: This calm Pokémon lived in a cold land where there were no violent predators like Tyrantrum. Ultra Sun: It lived in cold areas in ancient times. It's said that when Amaura whinnies, auroras appear in the night sky. Ultra Moon: Amaura was restored successfully, but it's not expected to live long because of the heat of the current environment. Sword: This Pokémon was successfully restored from a fossil. In the past, it lived with others of its kind in cold lands where there were fewer predators. Shield: Amaura is an ancient Pokémon that has gone extinct. Specimens of this species can sometimes be found frozen in ice. BTB: It's magical aurora-summoning whinnie is very cool, but maybe not worth condemnig this extinct pokemon to die again soon, alone. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
It only felt right to talk about Ho-Oh after covering Lugia but do these two big, ol' bird have anything in common? Does the Rainbow Pokemon really sport enough colors to hold that title? Is Will going to Hell for eating a cool fish?? When will Braden watch another good Pokemon movie??? Follow along with the entries below: Gold: Legends claim this POKéMON flies the world's skies continuously on its magnificent seven-colored wings. Silver: A legend says that its body glows in seven colors. A rainbow is said to form behind it when it flies. Crystal: It will reveal itself before a pure-hearted trainer by shining its bright rainbow-colored wings. Ruby & Sapphire: HO-OH's feathers glow in seven colors depending on the angle at which they are struck by light. These feathers are said to bring happiness to the bearers. This POKéMON is said to live at the foot of a rainbow. Diamond, Pearl & Platinum: Its feathers are in seven colors. It is said that anyone seeing it is promised eternal happiness. Photodex: People say that if you find a feather from one of Ho-Oh's seven-colored wings, you'll be promised eternal happiness. Ho-Oh looked so beautiful, sparkling and shining with each flap of its wings. BTB: This big, gay bird is your ticket to heaven! Just give people the feathers, Ho-OH! Watch us play Lethal Company with Morgan Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Hey it's legendary Pokemon time! Wow! Lugia! If your wings have big ol' hands on the end are they just arms? Follow along with the entries below: Gold: It is said that it quietly spends its time deep at the bottom of the sea because its powers are too strong. Silver: It is said to be the guardian of the seas. It is rumored to have been seen on the night of a storm. Crystal: It has an incredible ability to calm raging storms. It is said that LUGIA appears when storms start. Ruby & Sapphire: LUGIA's wings pack devastating power - a light fluttering of its wings can blow apart regular houses. As a result, this POKéMON chooses to live out of sight deep under the sea. Diamond, Pearl & Platinum: It sleeps in a deep-sea trench. If it flaps its wings, it is said to cause a 40-day storm. Photodex: Lugia is said to be the guardian of the seas. Its power is so overwhelming that it usually stays in its home at the bottom of the sea, where it quietly sleeps. BTB: It's mighty considerate of Lugia to live at the bottom of the ocean so that its godlike power over storms doesn't consume the Earth. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Noibat has evolved and become the night in the form of the terrifying Noivern! Hope you brought fruit! Also hope you enjoyed the 2003 hit film Daredevil! Follow along with the entries below: X: They fly around on moonless nights and attack careless prey. Nothing can beat them in a battle in the dark. Y: The ultrasonic waves it emits from its ears can reduce a large boulder to pebbles. It swoops out of the dark to attack. Ultra Sun: Although it has a violent disposition, if you give it a nice ripe fruit that it loves, Noivern will suddenly become tame. Ultra Moon: This hot-blooded Pokémon attacks anything it sees with ultrasonic waves that can crush boulders. Sword: Aggressive and cruel, this Pokémon will ruthlessly torment enemies that are helpless in the dark. Shield: Flying through the darkness, it weakens enemies with ultrasonic waves that could crush stone. Its fangs finish the fight. Scarlet: Ultrasonic waves emitted by a Noivern can pulverize a large boulder. This Pokémon has a cruel disposition. Violet: In the dark, even Hydreigon are terrified of this Pokémon. But in the light, Noivern is the one that avoids battle. Photodex: Noivern was flying around the ruins, searching everywhere for Salandit. The ultrasonic waves it emits from its ears are powerful enough to destroy boulders. BTB: It is the night. Not above torturing its prey to death, be advivsed to carry fruit in the dark at all times to appease it. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Cute bat alert! It's Noibat time which means it's time for us to desperately attempt to understand anything about the the science of sound! How incredible is its control over sound waves? You tell us! Follow along with the entries below: X: They live in pitch-black caves. Their enormous ears can emit ultrasonic waves of 200,000 hertz. Y: Even a robust wrestler will become dizzy and unable to stand when exposed to its 200,000-hertz ultrasonic waves. Ultra Sun: Fruits are its favorite foods. This gourmet carefully picks out just the ripe ones using its sonar. Ultra Moon: It flies around in search of fruit to eat. It uses ultrasonic waves to detect which fruits are ripe. Sword: After nightfall, they emerge from the caves they nest in during the day. Using their ultrasonic waves, they go on the hunt for ripened fruit. Shield: No wavelength of sound is beyond Noibat's ability to produce. The ultrasonic waves it generates can overcome much larger Pokémon. Scarlet: This Pokémon emits ultrasonic waves from its large ears to search for fruit to eat. It mistakes Applin for its food. Violet: Noibat can change the frequency of its sound waves at will, and it generates ultrasonic waves of up to 200,000 hertz. Photodex: Noibat's ears emit ultrasonic waves that help it perceive its surroundings and fly safely in total darkness. You might also see it using those same waves on fruit to check if it's ripe. BTB: A happy little fruit-finder with the best pitch control in the known universe. It prefers fruit but it may not be averse to eating an Applin. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Due to lack of entries, we're pulling a double-header this episode as we talk about the Tentacool-adjacent Pokemon, Toedscool and Toedscruel! Get ready to meet your new jellyfish overlords and follow along with the entries below: Toedscool: Scarlet: Toedscool lives in muggy forests. The flaps that fall from its body are chewy and very delicious. Violet: Though it looks like Tentacool, Toedscool is a completely different species. Its legs may be thin, but it can run at a speed of 30 mph. BTB: It drops delicious flap treats while it zooms by at 30 mph, perhaps tempting predators while it escapes them. Toedscruel: Scarlet: These Pokémon gather into groups and form colonies deep within forests. They absolutely hate it when strangers approach. Violet: It coils its 10 tentacles around prey and sucks out their nutrients, causing the prey pain. The folds along the rim of its head are a popular delicacy. BTB: Toedscruel plots among its kind deep in the woods and will painfully suck out your nutrients if you interrupt their nefarious conspiracies. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Hello, we're back after a brief, unplanned break and it's time to find out how many tentacles Tentacruel has! Follow along with the entries below: Red & Blue: The tentacles are normally kept short. On hunts, they are extended to ensnare and immobilize prey. Yellow: Its 80 tentacles can stretch and contract freely. They wrap around prey and weaken it with poison. Gold: Its 80 tentacles absorb water and stretch almost endlessly to CONSTRICT its prey and enemies. Silver: In battle, it extends all 80 of its tentacles to entrap its opponent inside a poisonous net. Crystal: When its 80 feelers absorb water, it stretches to become like a net to entangle its prey. Ruby: TENTACRUEL has large red orbs on its head. The orbs glow before lashing the vicinity with a harsh ultrasonic blast. This POKéMON's outburst creates rough waves around it. Sapphire: TENTACRUEL has tentacles that can be freely elongated and shortened at will. It ensnares prey with its tentacles and weakens the prey by dosing it with a harsh toxin. It can catch up to 80 prey at the same time. FireRed: It has 80 tentacles that move about freely. They can sting, causing poisoning and sharp, stabbing pain. Emerald: It lives in complex rock formations on the ocean floor and traps prey using its 80 tentacles. Its red orbs glow when it grows excited or agitated. Diamond: With 80 tentacles for ensnaring victims, it prevents escape until the prey is weakened by poison. Pearl: It alerts others to danger by stridently flashing the red orbs on its head. Platinum: It extends its 80 tentacles to form an encircling poisonous net that is difficult to escape. Sun: Normally, it has 80 poisonous tentacles. The longer one has been alive, the fewer tentacles it will have. Moon: Although these Pokémon are rare, when a large outbreak of them occurs, all fish Pokémon disappear from the surrounding sea. Ultra Sun: It fires off ultrasonic waves from its red orbs to weaken its prey, and then it wraps them up in its 80 tentacles. Ultra Moon: It communicates with others of its kind by lighting up the red orbs on its head. When the orbs are blinking, it's a warning sign. Sword: When the red orbs on Tentacruel's head glow brightly, watch out. The Pokémon is about to fire off a burst of ultrasonic waves. Shield: Its 80 tentacles can stretch and shrink freely. Tentacruel ensnares prey in a net of spread-out tentacles, delivering venomous stings to its catch. Legends Arceus: It has 80 tentacles, each with a venomous tip. These tentacles are also extendible, lengthening when Tentacruel attempts to catch prey. Use caution. Photodex: Tentacruel use ultrasonic waves to investigate their surroundings and emit light from their heads to signal danger. They seemed to react to the NEO-ONE's scans—maybe they felt familiar to them! BTB: The ocean's ultimate gamer, it can wipe out all competition with it's vast repertoire of weakening tools. Use caution! Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Our exploration of Pokemon at the beach continues as we cover the Zubat of the sea, Tentacool! Get ready for beams! Follow along with the entries below: Red & Blue: Drifts in shallow seas. Anglers who hook them by accident are often punished by its stinging acid. Yellow: It can sometimes be found all dry and shriveled up on a beach. Toss it back into the sea to revive it. Gold: When the tide goes out, dehydrated TENTACOOL remains can be found washed up on the shore. Silver: It drifts aimlessly in waves. Very difficult to see in water, it may not be noticed until it stings. Crystal: As it floats along on the waves, it uses its toxic feelers to stab anything it touches. Ruby: TENTACOOL's body is largely composed of water. If it is removed from the sea, it dries up like parchment. If this POKéMON happens to become dehydrated, put it back into the sea. Sapphire: TENTACOOL absorbs sunlight and refracts it using water inside its body to convert it into beam energy. This POKéMON shoots beams from its crystal-like eyes. FireRed: Its eyes are as transparent as crystals. From them, it shoots mysterious beams of light. Emerald: Its body is almost entirely composed of water. It ensnares its foe with its two long tentacles, then stabs with the poison stingers at their tips. Diamond: Its body is virtually composed of water. It shoots strange beams from its crystal-like eyes. Pearl: It drifts in sea currents. Countless fishermen are hurt by its poison stingers. Platinum: Because its body is almost entirely composed of water, it shrivels up if it is washed ashore. Sun: They can be found lying dehydrated on beaches, but they are often still alive. When soaked in water, they will revive. Moon: It drifts in shallow seas, such as the areas near beaches. If you get bitten or stabbed by its toxic tentacles, rush to the hospital. Ultra Sun: It drifts through the sea searching for prey. Its poisonous tentacles break off sometimes, but after a while, they grow back. Ultra Moon: Its body is 99% water. The remaining 1% contains the organ that makes its poison. Sword: Tentacool is not a particularly strong swimmer. It drifts across the surface of shallow seas as it searches for prey. Shield: This Pokémon is mostly made of water. A Tentacool out in the ocean is very hard to spot, because its body blends in with the sea. Legends Arceus: They fire beams from the glassy, magenta orbs that resemble eyes atop their heads, and they drift in shallow seas. During low tide, they can sometimes be found on beaches, desiccated. BTB: Utilizing powerful beam energy and poisonous stings, this drifter Pokemon is a real menace to anything that crosses its path. Sports a questionable amount of eyes. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Sandygast was really just the warm up as things go off the rails almost immediately with its evolved form Palossand AKA the Beach Nightmare! Follow along with the entries below: Sun: Possessed people controlled by this Pokémon transformed its sand mound into a castle. As it evolved, its power to curse grew ever stronger. Moon: Buried beneath the castle are masses of dried-up bones from those whose vitality it has drained. Ultra Sun: Each of its grains of sand has its own will. Palossand eats small Pokémon and siphons away their vital essence while they're still alive. Ultra Moon: Once it has whipped up a sandstorm to halt its opponents in their tracks, this terrifying Pokémon snatches away their vitality. Sword: Palossand is known as the Beach Nightmare. It pulls its prey down into the sand by controlling the sand itself, and then it sucks out their souls. Shield: This Pokémon lives on beaches, but it hates water. Palossand can't maintain its castle-like shape if it gets drenched by a heavy rain. Scarlet: The terrifying Palossand drags smaller Pokémon into its sandy body. Once its victims are trapped, it drains them of their vitality whenever it pleases. Violet: From the hollows in its arms, it fires the bones of its victims, which are all dried up after being drained of their vitality. BTB: The bone cannon is ready. Sucking souls and draining vitality, the Beach Nigthmare seems to delight in terrorizing its victims. "Pikachu being sucked into a sort of quicksand whirlpool collapsing Palossand with big ol' X's for eyes implying death." Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Shucks, it sure seems like the grudge-holding spirits of the deceased in the Pokemon world will inhabit just about anything! This time they've gotten hold of a heap of sand resulting in this episode's focus, Sandygast! Follow along with the entries below: Sun: Born from a sand mound playfully built by a child, this Pokémon embodies the grudges of the departed. Moon: It takes control of anyone who puts a hand in its mouth. And so it adds to the accumulation of its sand-mound body. Ultra Sun: It likes the shovel on its head, so Sandygast will get serious and fight any children who come to take it back. Ultra Moon: If you build sand mounds when you're playing, destroy them before you go home, or they may get possessed and become Sandygast. Sword: Grudges of the dead have possessed a mound of sand and become a Pokémon. Sandygast is fond of the shovel on its head. Shield: Sandygast mainly inhabits beaches. It takes control of anyone who puts their hand into its mouth, forcing them to make its body bigger. Scarlet: If it loses its shovel, it will stick something else—like a branch—in its head to make do until it finds another shovel. Violet: It flings sand into the eyes of its prey and tries to close in on them while they're blinded, but since Sandygast is so slow, the prey tends to escape. Photodex: They say that a mound of sand became possessed by the grudges of the departed, giving birth to Sandygast. Think twice about going near any cute-looking shovels you see sticking out of the sand. BTB: Experiments are ongoing looking for ways to cultivate strong and vibrant Sandygast. Studies suggest an excess of negative vibes and playfulness could yield high-quality results. New Pokemon Snap pic Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
We're talking about Cyrogonal this time so get ready to learn about snowflakes! And math! This one's kinda scary actually?? Follow along with the entries below: Black: When its body temperature goes up, it turns into steam and vanishes. When its temperature lowers, it returns to ice. White: They are born in snow clouds. They use chains made of ice crystals to capture prey. Black & White 2: They are composed of ice crystals. They capture prey with chains of ice, freezing the prey at -148° F. Sword: With its icy chains, Cryogonal freezes those it encounters. It then takes its victims away to somewhere unknown. Shield: When the weather gets hot, these Pokémon turn into water vapor. Cryogonal are almost never seen during summer. Scarlet: Cryogonal appear during cold seasons. It is said that people and Pokémon who die on snowy mountains are reborn into these Pokémon. Violet: Cryogonal uses its chains of ice to constrict its opponents and then flash-freezes them where they stand. BTB: Cyrogonal forms around a piece of departed soul, like a snowflake forms around a particle of dust. They're doing secret awful things to their flash frozen victims. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Hey folks, we're postponing this week's episode in solidarity with the current week-long strike for Palestine. Thanks for your patience and please do whatever you can to show your support for a free Palestine. https://www.protectpalestine.org/protests https://gazaesims.com/ https://wck.org/ https://act.uscpr.org/a/callforgaza https://act.uscpr.org/a/stop-funding-israels-massacres https://bdsmovement.net/ https://decolonizepalestine.com/ https://publishersforpalestine.org/2024/01/10/16-free-zines-and-more-free-reads-for-a-free-palestine/
Shroodle has evolved and suddenly has so much more going on as the Toxic Monkey Pokemon Grafaiai! Plus, we watch the type of Pokemon video that we've always wanted! Follow along with the entries below: Website: Grafaiai is a moody Pokémon with a fastidious disposition. It doesn't form packs, preferring to roam alone. It's constantly caught up in territorial struggles with other Pokémon. Scarlet: The color of the poisonous saliva depends on what the Pokémon eats. Grafaiai covers its fingers in its saliva and draws patterns on trees in forests. Violet: Each Grafaiai paints its own individual pattern, and it will paint that same pattern over and over again throughout its life. BTB: This cool loner monkey can actually use its art to stay fed. Please do not touch the display. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
We've got a fresh one this week as we discuss the Toxic Mouse Pokemon Shroodle! There's only two entries but you don't even need to worry because that just gives us more time to recount Braden's first escape room attempt, espouse our hot takes on Goldfinger, and read up on shrews. Follow along with the entries below: Scarlet: Though usually a mellow Pokémon, it will sink its sharp, poison-soaked front teeth into any that anger it, causing paralysis in the object of its ire. Violet: To keep enemies away from its territory, it paints markings around its nest using a poisonous liquid that has an acrid odor. BTB: This stinky, little super shrew just likes to chill. Let it vibe or face the consquences. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Espurr has evolved into Meowstic and has acquired new Psychic capabilities! And gender! Follow along with the entries below: X: When in danger, it raises its ears and releases enough psychic power to grind a 10-ton truck into dust. Y: The eyeball patterns on the interior of its ears emit psychic energy. It keeps the patterns tightly covered because that power is too immense. Sword (Male): Revealing the eyelike patterns on the insides of its ears will unleash its psychic powers. It normally keeps the patterns hidden, however. Shield (Male): The defensive instinct of the males is strong. It's when they're protecting themselves or their partners that they unleash their full power. Sword (Female): Females are a bit more selfish and aggressive than males. If they don't get what they want, they will torment you with their psychic abilities. Shield (Female): If it doesn't hold back when it unleashes its psychic power, it can tear apart a tanker. Its unfriendliness is part of its charm. Serena's Pokedex: When faced with trouble, Meowstic will raise its ears and create enough psychic power to demolish a ten-ton truck. Its appearance varies, depending on gender. Goh's Rotom Phone: The male Meowstic has defensive talents, and when protecting itself or its partner, can produce power of the highest level. BTB: Meowstic has really learned to focus its psychic powers more effectively, but can still grind some trucks to nothing under pressure. Oak's Psychic torment Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
There's a weird cat outside and it keeps exploding with Psychic energy! That's right, we're talking about Espurr this time! Apologies for the bad Braden audio. Also: spoiler warning for Frozen! Follow along with entries below: X: The organ that emits its intense psychic power is sheltered by its ears to keep power from leaking out. Y: It has enough psychic energy to blast everything within 300 feet of itself, but it has no control over its power. Sword: Though Espurr's expression never changes, behind that blank stare is an intense struggle to contain its devastating psychic power. Shield: There's enough psychic power in Espurr to send a wrestler flying, but because this power can't be controlled, Espurr finds it troublesome. Photodex: If you happened upon a floating boulder in the forest, that was likely the work of Espurr training to get better control over their psychic powers! Ash's Pokedex: Espurr's Psychic energy can travel hundreds of feet, blasting everything around it. BTB: Espurr is trying its very best to NOT just start blasting™, but keep your distance lest it decide to Let it Go™. Just like Mob Psycho™. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Shelmet has evolved into Accelgor and is ready to shell out... punishment? Poison? Hard to say, but we can say that listening to this episode is a surefire way to find out more. We also belatedly reveal our Pokemon of the Year for 2023! Follow along with the entries below: Black: When its body dries out, it weakens. So, to prevent dehydration, it wraps itself in many layers of thin membrane. White: Having removed its heavy shell, it becomes very light and can fight with ninja-like movements. Black & White 2: When its body dries out, it weakens. So it wraps a membrane around itself for protection while it spits poison. Sword: It moves with blinding speed and lobs poison at foes. Featuring Accelgor as a main character is a surefire way to make a movie or comic popular. Shield: Discarding its shell made it nimble. To keep itself from dehydrating, it wraps its body in bands of membrane. Ash's Pokedex: Accelgor is much more agile once it evolves and loses its shell, allowing it to move like a ninja when battling. BTB: The loss of its shell greatly improved its skin-care routine, and made it a super-famous ninja. Spits poison! Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Pucker up, 2024! Beyond the Ball is back and we're ready to be perplexed yet again as we talk about Karrablast's natural enemy Shelmet! Follow along with the entries below: Black: When attacked, it defends itself by closing the lid of its shell. It can spit a sticky, poisonous liquid. White: It evolves when bathed in an electric-like energy along with Karrablast. The reason is still unknown. Black & White 2: When it and Karrablast are together, and both receive electrical stimulation, they both evolve. Sword: When attacked, it tightly shuts the lid of its shell. This reaction fails to protect it from Karrablast, however, because they can still get into the shell. Shield: It has a strange physiology that responds to electricity. When together with Karrablast, Shelmet evolves for some reason. Ash's Pokedex: Shelmet can spit a sticky poisonous acid when attacking, and it can defend itself by closing its shell. BTB: Litte poison-spittin' helmet guy. The helmet does not protect this little punching bag for Karrablast. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
With its dark deed completed, Karrablast has evolved into its final stage, Escavalier! This one's got lances for arms and we, uh, don't love it? Follow along with the entries below: Black: They fly around at high speed, striking with their pointed spears. Even when in trouble, they face opponents bravely. White: These Pokémon evolve by wearing the shell covering of a Shelmet. The steel armor protects their whole body. Black & White 2: Wearing the shell covering they stole from Shelmet, they defend themselves and attack with two lances. Sword: They use shells they've stolen from Shelmet to arm and protect themselves. They're very popular Pokémon in the Galar region. Shield: It charges its enemies, lances at the ready. An image of one of its duels is captured in a famous painting of Escavalier clashing with Sirfetch'd. Ash's Pokedex: Escavalier, the Cavalry Pokémon and the evolved form of Karrablast. Escavalier's body is protected by steel armor. BTB: The mysteriously levitating bug knight may look noble but is actually a thief and a scoundrel. Goofy helmet. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
It's blasting! It's clamping! That's right, it's Karrablast! Hold on. I'm hearing that it perhaps does not blast OR clamp? Let's get to the bottom of this. Follow along with the entries below: Black: These mysterious Pokémon evolve when they receive electrical stimulation while they are in the same place as Shelmet. White: When they feel threatened, they spit an acidic liquid to drive attackers away. This Pokémon targets Shelmet. Black & White 2: For some reason they evolve when they receive electrical energy while they are attacking Shelmet. Sword: Its strange physiology reacts to electrical energy in interesting ways. The presence of a Shelmet will cause this Pokémon to evolve. Shield: It spits a liquid from its mouth to melt through Shelmet's shell. Karrablast doesn't eat the shell— it eats only the contents. Ash's Pokedex: Karrablast live in forests and fields, and often hide in trees or grass when threatened. They can also defend themselves by spitting acid. BTB: There are rumours of Karrablast's mighty clamping capabilites, but it mostly gets by with just the acid. Evolves weird. https://blastoids.bandcamp.com/album/since-forever https://youtu.be/f7KSfjv4Oq0?si=BHjbhWXkc-2M571J Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
We're on to the biggest gator of the Totodile line and perhaps the most underwhelming. Feraligatr is big, mean and pretty fast I guess? Follow along with the entries below: Gold: When it bites with its massive and powerful jaws, it shakes its head and savagely tears its victim up. Silver: It is hard for it to support its own weight out of water, so it gets down on all fours. But it moves fast. Crystal: Although it has a massive body, its powerful hind legs enable it to move quickly, even on the ground. Ruby & Sapphire: FERALIGATR intimidates its foes by opening its huge mouth. In battle, it will kick the ground hard with its thick and powerful hind legs to charge at the foe at an incredible speed. Diamond, Pearl & Platinum: It usually moves slowly, but it goes at blinding speed when it attacks and bites prey. Dark Feraligatr card: Its powerful muscles allow it to move at a speed that belies its bulk. Sleep Style Dex: Feraligatr, too, is known to sleep by resting one brain hemisphere at a time. Be warned-it always keeps a vigilant eye on its surroundings and will rush at enemies as soon as it senses their presence. Photodex: Feraligatr has a heavy body, but when it kicks off the ground with its powerful hind legs, it's incredibly fast! It surprised us by jumping out of the water at Mightywide River. BTB: The big gatr. So fast. So sharp. So strong. So powerful. So don't mess with it! A messy eater. Soulful eyes. Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
Totodile had the jaw strength and now Croconaw is here to provide the tooth power! Apologies for Braden's bad audio on this one! Follow along with the entries below: Gold: If it loses a fang, a new one grows back in its place. There are always 48 fangs lining its mouth. Silver: It opens its huge jaws wide when attacking. If it loses any fangs while biting, they grow back in. Crystal: The tips of its fangs are slanted backward. Once those fangs clamp down, the prey has no hope of escape. Ruby & Sapphire: Once CROCONAW has clamped its jaws on its foe, it will absolutely not let go. Because the tips of its fangs are forked back like barbed fishhooks, they become impossible to remove when they have sunk in. Diamond, Pearl & Platinum: Once it bites down, it won't let go until it loses its fangs. New fangs quickly grow into place. Dark Croconaw card: It has 49 teeth in its mouth that are constantly replacing themselves. Pull one out, and a new one grows in. Sleep Style Dex: It's known to rest one brain hemisphere at a time, with the eye on the opposite side closed. Perhaps this method of sleeping with alternating halves of its brain is a defense against enemy attacks. BTB: An endless supply of vicious teeth line this primal rapscallion's big ol' mouth. Croconaw bites are forever. One-eyed sleep Croconaw Cover design by Kwesi Phillips Music by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose Leave us a tip at https://ko-fi.com/beyondtheball
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