Who's That Pokémon? #011 Metapod

#011 Metapod (a.k.a. Trancell)

Bulbapedia Article

Although the Japaense and English names seem very different, both convey the same meaning.  Metapod is metamorphosis plus pod while Trancell is transform plus cell.  It is the cocoon stage of a bug undergoing metamorphosis.  And it can't do much while in this form.

From the Pokédex: Even though it is encased in a sturdy shell, the body inside is tender. It can't withstand a harsh attack. Hardens its shell to protect itself. However, a large impact may cause it to pop out of its shell.

Metapod can only focus on protecting the transforming Caterpie inside, so it has to strengthen its shell with Harden.  We see in Pokémon Stadium that Harden takes on a metallic appearance and sound, probably to show the effect taking place.

Generation I Moveset and Strategy

To use Metapod "effectively," you'll have to evolve it from a Caterpie so that it can keep its previous moves.  Also, it has to evolve at exactly Level 7 so that it can also learn Harden (which only works in the Yellow version).

Tackle - Normal String Shot - Normal Harden - Normal

Generation I Sprites

  

Metapod had a confusing design for a long time.  Because its eyes are visible on both sides, it was hard to tell which direction it was facing.  It is supposed to curve outwards, but the ridge on its back resembles a nose, making it seem as if its back was its front.  So, while I think the Yellow sprite is the best, it is facing the wrong way.  But the eyes on the Red/Green sprite are weird and the Red/Blue sprite is too bendy for a rigid creature.

Generation I Locations

Like Caterpie, Metapod is found in Viridian Forest in all versions.  Then it is also on Route 25 in Red/Green/Blue and Route 24 in Green/Blue.

We also find Metapod around the River of Pokémon Island.  We see Butterfree elsewhere on the island, but this suggests that unseen Caterpie reside in the River then migrate after evolving.

Notable Generation I Metapod

1. Ash/Red's Metapod (Anime, The Electric Tale of Pikachu, and Pokémon Adventures)

As we examined in the episode earlier this week, Ash has to project a lot of his own emotions onto the behavior of Metapod because it lacks facial expressions and speaks in a monotone.  Apparently it is upset at Ash, then heroic, but it's hard to really tell without Ash describing it.

2. Kitty (Pokémon Adventures)

Yellow's Kitty returns, this time doing its marvelous transformation to protect its trainer from a Hyper Beam attack.  It evolves again soon after this moment, but it's funny to see one of the weakest Pokémon go up against the strongest attack.  As before, this is basically the same character as Ash's Metapod.

3. Bug Catcher/Samurai's Metapod (Red/Green/Blue/Yellow, anime, etc.)

Despite most of them only knowing Harden, Bug Catchers love to use Metapod.  For some reason, they don't let them evolve.  Are they expecting to defeat opponents by only using Struggle?

Final Thoughts

As with Caterpie, there isn't much left to be said.  But, Metapods are crucial if you want a Butterfree, so you'll probably find yourself with one at some point.

Metapod's Verdict - Don't Gotta Catch 'Em (Unless You're Planning an Evolution)

EP004 - Challenge of the Samurai

EP004 - Challenge of the Samurai

Challenge of the Samurai Boy!

Original Airdates: April 22, 1997 (JP), September 11, 1998 (EN)

Written by: Hideki Sonoda

Synopsis:

Still travelling through the Viridian Forest, Satoshi attempts to catch a Weedle, but it escapes when a strange trainer who calls himself “Samurai” challenges him to a battle.  In the middle of a Metapod vs. Metapod standstill, a swarm of Beedrill attacks, interrupting the fight.  Satoshi’s Metapod gets kidnapped by a Beedrill and ends up in their nest.

Satoshi and Kasumi spend the night in Samurai’s cabin to stay safe, but Satoshi feels bad for abandoning Metapod.  The next day he rescues Metapod by infiltrating the nest and it evolves into Butterfree.  Butterfree uses Sleep Powder to quell the swarm, allowing our heroes to escape.  Samurai considers the prior battle a victory in Satoshi’s favor and leads them out of the forest.

Who’s That Pokémon?

It's Metapod, because Ash abandons his Metapod (and battles another Metapod).

New Character and Pokémon Breakdown

Ash's Butterfree

Part 2 of the Ash's Butterfree saga focuses on its Metapod stage.  Being an immobile pupa, Metapod cannot battle well or defend itself in trouble.  As a result, Ash is forced to leave it behind, giving the creature severe abandonment issues.  Just because it hasn't reached its full potential, it feels inferior.  Fortunately, it is able to induce an early evolution when he sees its trainer in trouble, much as Pikachu finally came through for Ash against the Spearow.  As a Butterfree, he can finally prove that he's a capable fighter...yet he all but disappears after this episode.

Samurai

We meet our first “Character of the Day,” which is a character that only appears in one episode and never comes back, despite promises to return.  Samurai is a memorable COD because he introduces the concept of legal Pokémon battles (not just random Team Rocket attacks).  He is based on the Bug Catchers of Viridian Forest who are the first Trainers in the games (besides the rival).  Usually the problem with COD’s is that they are only there to showcase the Pokémon of the Day making those episodes seem rather meaningless.  Samurai does introduce a new Pokémon (Pinsir) but his Pokémon are not the focus of the episode.  The main plot revolves around the wild Beedrill and Satoshi’s Metapod.  Samurai is a source of chaos unto himself and he is there to put Satoshi’s skills to the test.

Samurai's Pinsir and Metapod

Somehow, the Samurai managed to get a Pinsir this early in his journey (maybe its his starter).  But despite its vast strength, it is still able to be taken out by a Metapod.  Kind of lame (but cool, at the same time).  The Metapod vs. Metapod Hardening battle, however, is a funny concept, but useless to the point of being a little contrived.  What were the Trainers expecting to happen?  Satoshi’s Metapod at least knew Tackle, so the battle could have gone somewhere.  But there was no point in prolonging the standstill.

Weedle, Kakuna, and Beedrill

Ash nearly catches a Weedle, but Samurai disrupts his concentration and the Weedle manages to escape (and possible alert the nest of Beedrill).  We later see more Weedle at the Beedrill nest, eating Team Rocket's...cardboard vehicle?  The Kakuna and Beedrill, like the Spearow, are just forces of nature, bent on destroying anything that disrupts their rest and privacy.  With all of these dangerous Beedrill around, its a wonder anyone makes it through Viridian Forest alive.

Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squritle

In static flashback shots, we see that starter Pokémon that Oak handed out too the other three trainers from Pallet, each one battling with the Samurai.  At this moment, though, we still don't know which one Gary started with, so don't spoil it please!

Japanese vs. American Versions:

- Most jokes are rewritten to moderate effect, but the oddest one is Ash dressed as a cow saying “Cowterpie?” because in the original “Mushi (bug)” is similar to “Ushi (cow).”

Overall Review: A-

            

The humor from the previous episode continues here, as Satoshi and co. find themselves in sillier situations (like the intense little boy who demands to fight with honor).  Team Rocket is used nicely in that they are purely comic relief and they do not overstay their welcome.  By insisting on completing their motto which results in waking the Beedrill, they present a funny variation on the now recurring motto gag.

Once the drama kicks in, things begin to get a little uneven.  The abandoning Metapod plot comes a little out of nowhere.  Satoshi is so upset with himself, but, he really had no other choice.  He would have gotten himself killed had he tried to save Metapod earlier.  He acts as if he was a horrible person who made many mistakes, but it really was just the one.  And, despite what Samurai would have him believe, Weedle getting away was totally Samurai’s fault.  Satoshi needn't be so hard on himself.  But he grows.

My favorite aspect of this episode is the attention to detail given to the various Pokémon, treating them like actual animals rather than completely fantastical creatures.  The sights of Kakuna and Metapod evolving are quite stunning as they actually break out of their hard shells as opposed to glowing and transforming.  I wish later episodes had kept this dynamic.

This is a very well-balanced episode and it shows a level of quality and attention to detail of both the characters and the world around them.  It's a solid and funny episode that moves along quickly and develops Satoshi’s character in a positive way.

Route 2 and Viridian Forest

Bulbapedia Article for Route 2

Bulbapedia Article for Viridian Forest

Viridian Forest Theme

At this point, we only have access to the western half of Route 2.  Outside of a few patches of grass (with redundant Pokémon), there is nothing of interest on the actual route itself.  But once you pass through the building, we encounter the first "dungeon" of the game: Viridian Forest.

Viridian Forest is big, long, filled with poisonous Pokémon and trainers who automatically battle you.  If you aren't prepared, you could fall here.  Make sure to pick up items you find laying on the ground and be sure to add to your collection.  This is probably the closest part of the game to Tajiri's initial idea of Pokémon, searching in the woods for bugs.

 Caterpie - Lv. 3-6 - Red/Green/Blue/Yellow 

While you can first catch them on Route 2 in Green/Blue, you'll be seeing these guys everywhere in Viridian Forest.  You can also find their evolved form, Metapod, but it will only know Harden, making it difficult to battle with.  It's better to evolve it from a Caterpie so it can continue to fight with Tackle.  If you want a Butterfree, go right ahead and catch a Caterpie.  Butterfree will be useful once it learns Confusion, as it can take care of Pewter Gym and Mt. Moon.  But save for a battle against Erika later, Butterfree won't be cutting it as a long-term teammate.  He's a must catch in Yellow though, as he learns all of his moves earlier and helps with the trickier sections.

 Weedle - Lv. 3-5 - Red/Green/Blue 

Weedle is most common in Red, appearing on Route 2 in addition to the Forest, and it doesn't appear at all in Yellow (another reason why you should pick up a Caterpie there).  Like with Metapod, Kakunas also appear in the Forest.  Despite having the great Twineedle attack upon evolution, Beedrill can't really handle anything aside from Erika (maybe it can get a quick hit in on Sabrina, but it won't last long due to its part-Poison typing).  Again, you can catch both bugs, or choose your favorite, but Caterpie probably would be the stronger decision of the two.

 Pikachu - Lv. 3-5 - Red/Green/Blue 

While rare, Pikachu can be found in the Viridian Forest for non-Yellow players.  While he doesn't learn as many level-up moves as his Yellow counterpart, he can do quite well with the library of TMs.  Plus, this Pikachu can evolve into Raichu, making him much stronger in the long run!  Ultimately, you'll probably keep Raichu on your team all the way to the end (helping you through Seafoam Islands and against Lorelei), which can't be said for the starter Pikachu.  It provides some great balance to your team early on, so it's worth sticking around in the Forest in order to find one.

In addition to some new Pokémon, we also get to meet our first average trainers!  They come in multiple varieties and each class has an identical sprite, making them similar to Nurse Joys, Officer Jennys, or Pokémon themselves!  As a result, you'll have similar tactics for battling each type.

Boy Encounter Theme

Girl Encounter Theme

Trainer Battle Theme

Trainer Victory Theme

 Bug Catcher 

This is our first encounter with a common trainer.  Bug Catchers basically carry stronger versions of the wild bugs found in the Forest.  In Red/Green/Blue, you'll find their collective teams consist of one Caterpie, one Kakuna, and four Weedles, with the final Lv. 9 Weedle being the strongest opponent in the Forest.  Yellow Bug Catchers have a different arsenal, to reflect the lack of Weedles.  They instead have three Metapods and five Caterpies, with a Lv. 10 Caterpie now being the final challenge.  Although there is an additional Catcher added (possibly as a reference to the Samurai character from the anime) the challenge is lowered as Caterpies and Metapods go down a lot easier than Weedles (save for the additional Catcher's Metapod that actually knows Tackle).

 Lass 

Yellow players get another additional trainer in the Forest.  Lasses usually appear slightly later in the game and carry common Pokémon.  This Lass has both a male and female Nidoran and for a while, I struggled to understand this addition.  Unlike most of the changes in Yellow, this is not a reference to the anime.  But I realized that since Nidorans are crucial for Yellow players to defeat Brock, it serves as a hint to new players who may have missed out on the early Nidoran to retrace their steps and catch one.

Once you're through the Forest, your next stop is Pewter City.  We'll return to the hidden goodies on Route 2 once we have traveled across the map and received the necessary items.

Other Thoughts

- Replacing the Weedles, Kakunas, and Pikachu, Yellow players get more Pidgeys and a Lv. 9 Pidgeotto available for capture.  This is to mimic the anime, where Ash caught his Pidgeotto in Viridian Forest (although there were also Weedle and Kakuna there too).  As I said before with Pidgey, you're better off sticking with Spearow, although Pidgeotto is a stronger option than both, stat-wise.  It will still take a while to be useful, but at least you don't have to wait for the first evolution.

- Although it doesn't effect this stage of the game, much later we'll see evidence in other canons of Viridian Forest stretching all the way over to Celadon territory.  If you look at the map, you'll see that it's nothing but uninhabited forest between the two.  I would have liked for a pathway to open up connecting the two later in the game, possibly revealing a new part of the forest that had stronger Pokémon (as seen in the various manga and anime).  In Hey You, Pikachu, this area is revealed to be home to quite a few different types, including a Togepi!  But I'm getting ahead of myself.

EP003 - Ash Catches a Pokémon

EP003 - Ash Catches a Pokémon

I Caught a Pokémon!

Original Airdates: April 15, 1997 (JP), September 10, 1998 (EN)

Written by: Atsuhiro Tomioka

Synopsis:

Satoshi succeeds in capturing Caterpie, much to Kasumi’s dismay.  Despite her protests at Satoshi keeping the bug out of its ball, she continues to follow him through the Viridian Forest.  That night, Caterpie tells Pikachu of his dreams of becoming a Butterfree.  The next day, Satoshi foolishly tries to fight a Pidgeotto with Caterpie, who is at a type disadvantage.

With Pikachu’s help, Pidgoetto is captured.  Suddenly, Team Rocket appears to steal Pikachu.  Their Ekans and Koffing manage to take out Pidgeotto, and Pikachu is blinded by Koffing’s Sludge, so Caterpie is the last resort.  It subdues the villains with String Shot and promptly evolves into a Metapod.  Satoshi happily continues trekking through the forest, hoping to catch more Pokémon.

Who’s That Pokémon?

It's Caterpie, because Ash catches a Caterpie and it goes through a whole character arc.

New Character and Pokémon Breakdown

Ash's Caterpie/Metapod

Caterpie technically appeared in the previous episode, but this is basically the real introduction of the character, whose story is told in three parts.  Part 1 focuses on Caterpie, who quickly bonds with Ash and manages to explain to the audience (without subtitles) that he dreams of evolving into a Butterfree and being strong and loved.  It's a simple dream, but we definitely feel all of the emotions he runs through as he meets with failure and triumph in both his battles and relationsip with the bug-hating Misty.  His victory results in a speedy evolution, which will play out in the next episode.

Ash's Pidgeotto

Pidgeotto kind of gets the short end of the stick in this episode, basically existing to give Caterpie a foe to play off of and to supply Ash with a bird (which he will always have on his team).  As such, very little of Pidgeotto’s personality is created.  He is more a creature of necessity rather than drama, even in future episodes (until the end of the Indigo League).  It's interesting to note which Pokémon get the "animal" treatment and which get the "human" treatment.

A Random Beedrill at the End

Follow that Beedrill to the next episode!

Setting

Viridian Forest

We saw it briefly during the preview at the end of the previous episode, but we get a fuller view of the Viridian Forest here.  It is large enough to serve as the setting for two consecutive episodes (a feat that is rarely seen during the Indigo League season), but it is just a standard, unremarkable forest.  It seems to have a fairly linear path, unlike the forest of the games which is curvy and has multiple forks in the road.  Still, it doesn't need to be anything fancy.  Virtually half of the series is our heroes travelling through the woods, which helps it feel like an actual journey.

Japanese vs. American Versions:

- Satoshi reads the title in the first person, while Misty reads the title in English

- Satoshi compares his newly captured Caterpie to being in Heaven and while Kasumi says she’s in Hell.  Misty however just calls Ash a worm for liking a worm.

- Kasumi slaps Satoshi after his poorly executed fight with Pidgeotto that put Caterpie in great danger.

- Ash tells Caterpie use Counter (an attack Caterpie doesn’t know), which is a mistranslation of Satoshi saying, “Fight back!”

- The Japanese Pokédex says all Caterpie evolve quickly, while the American one implies that Ash’s Caterpie is unique in its fast transformation

ANOTHER BLAM!

Overall Review: A-

The tone of this episode is definitely more comedic than the first two.  Jokes and dialogue moves a lot quicker, and there is a lot of slapstick and visual humor as well.  Team Rocket is closer to the personas we are familiar with, due to the influx of comedy.  Pikachu is also “cuter” in this episode, acting very babyish.  Once again, this episode focuses on explaining an aspect of the games, namely catching Pokémon.  Unlike the previous episode, the necessary information is weaved in with the story of the episode so it doesn’t feel as slow.

This episode focuses on two relationships, that of Satoshi and Kasumi and that of Satoshi and Caterpie.  Kasumi’s purpose for travel is a little bit mysterious at this point.  Satoshi calls her out on following him and she dismisses him.  At times it seems as if the writer didn't know what to do with Kasumi's presence.  Like, why doesn’t she help in the battle against Team Rocket?  Had Satoshi not crossed paths with her, where would she be going?  We later learn she, like Satoshi, wants to be a great Trainer.  But she doesn’t participate in battles or have a plan mapped out for herself.  Was Viridian Forest going to be part of her quest?  She seems to hate it in there.

The character arc of Caterpie, who does not get much focus after evolving, is a nicer set piece.  I would like to have seen this bond between Satoshi and Caterpie/Metapod/Butterfree develop more over the season, as his initial celebration of catching Caterpie is very endearing.  I also like that the scene in which Caterpie and Pikachu have a conversation was left in, despite no understandable dialogue occurring.  It was just like a little silent, emotional piece that did not feel forced or tacky (like some later Pokémon-only conversations do).

Finally, Team Rocket’s appearance is a little strange in that they do not seem to have a big plan (as they normally do).  Perhaps it is because this is only their second meeting and they have yet to realize how stubborn Satoshi and his crew can be.  But since their true characteristics appear in this episode, I allow them their screentime.  I especially like Meowth a lot better than his introduction, which was very grating.

All of these elements add up to a more consistent tone and a good idea of what the rest of the series will be like.