A Wild Green Appeared: ‘Pokémon Adventures Vol. 2’ Keeps the Madness Coming
Since the revelation that the series took the battle mechanic literally, this series has consistently caught me off guard, but in the best way. Like the first volume, Pokémon Adventures Vol. 2 was both familiar and utterly unhinged. The mirroring of the old Gameboy games stirs up just enough nostalgia to keep you feeling comfortable, and then they hit you with its wild deviations. Absolutely wild. Honestly, it feels like this series has taken the 8 bit nostalgia implanted through years of enjoyment and layered it into something more modern. This is part of the fun, and part of what makes Pokémon so timeless.
Mato’s art continues to walk the tightrope between completely adorable and utterly horrifying. I find so much joy in the round Pokémon designs from the past, peak design if you ask me. But then mid battle I am reminded that we are in a world where moves like Slash do not just cause your Pokémon to faint. They hurt. I have a tendency towards darker themed manga, so this is not unwelcome.
Character wise, this volume gave us a chance to really meet the gym leaders. They were given depth that we usually do not see in the games unless we do multiple play throughs, or spend time on Tumblr. Erika, in particular, was not what I expected at all, and I loved that about this manga. Sabrina remains the cold enigma, her portrayal fairly consistent with that of the games but dialled up in certain ways that worked. And finally Blaine, he is the one I am truly excited about. I cannot wait to learn more about his story in future instalments. I felt so drawn to his arc, and I am truly rooting for him in the next volume.
The dynamic between Red and Blue, tale as old as time, continues to evolve however in more interesting and unique ways. Red has a softness that makes him utterly approachable, while Blue is all sharp lines and focus. Together they strike a balance that is integral to the Pokémon world and lore. It feels natural, necessary even. Then we meet Green, and she shifts everything around. She is chaotic and a true wildcard, which is exactly what we did not know we needed, especially for the dynamic between the protagonist and the nemesis. I am so excited to have met her, and I cannot wait to see what trouble she stirs up next.
I think the best part of reading this series, years after having seen the anime, played the games, and collected the merch, is that it keeps pushing the limits of my expectations. Even when I believe I know what is coming, because I have played the games or whatnot, it brings up a twist that just reinvigorates my interest. It builds a sense of tension that is at times familiar, unexpected and exactly showcases why this beloved franchise has stood as long as it has.
Who was your favourite gym leader growing up? Has it changed as you got older?