Character Sheet: Winona

WINONA

Next up, we have Winona, the Flying-type gym leader of Fortree City. Her gym has a unique revolving door mechanic, and the city you challenge her in was notable for its invisible Kecleon infestation, so I think we can work with that.

Here’s the moveset I came up with:

 

Standard B: Altaria

It will perform Aerial Ace.

 

Side B: Revolving Door

This will let her dodge oncoming attacks by revolving the door around herself and sending them flying behind her.

 

Up B: Fly

Just a given for any Flying-type leader really, at this point.

 

Down B: Kecleon

She will summon a Kecleon that will act as an invisible obstacle on the stage for a short time.

 

Final Smash: Fortree Gym Flight Squad

She will send out an Altaria, Swellow, and Pelipper who will all divebomb the stage.

 

Entrance: Her opening pose and line.

 

Taunts: Up, her Altaria will fly around her while singing. Side, she will test the mechanisms on a revolving door. Down, she’ll use a Devon Scope to reveal a hidden Kecleon.

 

Kirby Hat: Her flight cap and hair.

 

Kart: Based on Altaria.

Special Move: Revolving Door.

 

Spirit Battle: On Sky Pillar (omega form), with her original team.

 

Victory Screen: Taking to the sky on her Altaria.

Losing Screen: Handing over her badge.

 

Color Swaps: Her main outfit, her ORAS outfit, based on Skyla’s outfit, based on Wallace (because of their manga relationship), based on May, based on Altaria, based on Swellow, based on Pelipper.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Tate and Liza prepare for trouble and make it double!

Character Sheet: Norman

NORMAN

Next, we have Norman, the Normal-type gym leader of Petalburg City and the father of the game’s protagonist. His gym is very basic, which may give us some trouble, but considering his familial relations, he is a major player in both the anime and manga, so I think we’ll be fine (Hopefully, I don’t have to use the rather infamous moment in the manga where he straight up beats his son. I . . . think we’ll be fine without it).

 

Standard B: Slaking

It will use Dynamic Punch, delivering a devastating blow.

 

Side B: Retaliate

The TM he gives out in ORAS. Basically, a counter move.

 

Up B: Beautifly Fireworks

I am more than happy to represent a depiction of him as a loving husband and father, rather than a child abuser, so I’ll use his anniversary gift to his wife from the anime as a move, carrying him up into the air with it.

 

Down B: Truant

The infamous ability of his Slaking, he will lay down and rest for a moment, deflecting attacks.

 

Final Smash: Petalburg Gym Masters

He will send out Slaking, Delcatty, and Linoone, which will run around beating characters up.

 

Entrance: His opening pose and line

 

Taunts: Up, he’ll wave and say “Hi, Kiddo!” Side, he will cross his arms and look serious. Down, he will look down with a disgusted look, like in the manga.

 

Kirby Hat: His hair

 

Kart: Based on Vigoroth

Special Move: Truant

 

Spirit Battle: On Mt. Chimney (omega form), with his original team.

 

Victory Screen: For what it’s worth, the scene of him in shadow, standing up above Ruby while lightning flashes behind him, just after the aforementioned infamous scene, would be a pretty baller victory screen for him.

Losing Screen: Handing over his badge.

 

Color Swaps: His original design, his ORAS design, a “day off with the family” outfit, based on Slaking, based on Vigoroth, based on May, based on Brendan, based on Max.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Winona takes to the skies!

Character Sheet: Flannery

FLANNERY

Next, we have Flannery, the Fire-type gym leader of Lavaridge Town. Her gym is based on a steamy bathhouse, or onsen, with geysers that shoot you from floor to floor. We also see her setting up her gym in the anime, so we can pull some from there too.

Here’s the moveset I came up with:

Standard B: Torkoal

It will use ember.

Side B: Smoother

She will use the device from the anime that she uses to smooth out the gym and make it flat.

Up B: Geyser

The geyser that shoot you to the upper floor in the game.

Down B: Submerge

Several of the trainers in her gym wait underwater to surprise the trainer. She’ll do that for a few seconds.

Final Smash: Lavaridge Gym Firestorm

She will send out a Magcargo, Camerupt, and Torkoal, which will set the stage on fire.

Entrance: Her opening line and pose

Taunts: Up, lighting one of the kindler’s sticks and waving it around. Side, posing excitedly for a second. Down, relaxing in a hot spring.

Kirby Hat: Her hair

Kart: Based on Camerupt

Special Move: Geyser

Spirit Battle: On Mt. Chimney (omega form) with her original team.

Victory Screen: Taking up a dynamic pose and boasting of her prowess.

Losing Screen: Handing over her badge.

Color Swaps: Her original look, her ORAS look, a kindler outfit, a ninja outfit, based on Blaziken, based on Magcargo, based on Torkoal, based on Camerupt. Considering her gym and . . . the manga, there’s an argument for a “hot spring” look, but I think that falls into “Mai Shiranui” territory.

Thanks for reading! Next up, May’s dad is gonna beat up your dad!

Character Sheet: Wattson

WATTSON

Next up, we have Wattson, the Electric-type gym leader of Mauville City. He’s also an inventor and the mind behind New Mauville. He always gave me John Hammond from Jurassic Park vibes, personally. Either way, between the games, manga, and anime, we’ve got a bit.

Here’s the moveset I came up with:

 

Standard B: Electrike

It will use Thunder Fang and bite the opponent.

 

Side B: Mauville Coaster

The mine cart from his anime appearance will appear under him and barrel forward, coming to a stop at a robo-Raikou that will explode on impact.

 

Up B: Magnet Rise

Two Magnemites will carry him upward.

 

Down B: Energy Barrier

Like those used in his gym.

 

Final Smash: Mauville Gym Thunderbolts

He will let out Manectric, Magneton, and Electrode, which will electrify the entire stage.

 

Entrance: His opening line and pose.

 

Taunts: Up, spreading his arms to show a sign for New Mauville. Side, petting his Robo-Raikou. Down, tinkering with something for a moment.

 

Kirby Hat: His beard

 

Kart: His Robo-Raikou

Special Move: Energy Barrier

 

Spirit Battle: On Battle Frontier (omega form), with his original team.

 

Victory Screen: “Come on back any time,” while belly laughing.

Losing Screen: Handing over his badge.

 

Color Swaps: His original look, his ORAS look, a white suit like Hammond, a Hawaiian shirt like Dennis Nedry from the same, based on Electrike, based on Manectric, based on Magnemite, based on Electrode.

 

Thanks for reading! Next, Flannery erupts onto the scene.

Character Sheet: Brawly

BRAWLY

Next up, we have Brawly, the Fighting-type gym leader of Dewford Town. He is a surfer dude, living on an island, so he feels like he’d be water, and his gym’s main gimmick is the whole thing being dark? Hmm, I think Pokemon was a little confused on their theming with this guy. But hey, it works well for me!

Here’s the moveset I came up with:

 

Standard B: Makuhita

Using Arm Thrust.

 

Side B: Treadmill

One of those blocking the path in ORAS.

 

Up B: Surf’s Up

He will ride a wave upward.

 

Down B: Lights Out

He will flash with darkness and turn invisible for a short period.

 

Final Smash: Dewford Gym Fight Squad

He will let out Hariyama, Medicham, and Blaziken, who will race around the stage, beating people up.

 

Entrance: His opening pose and line

 

Taunts: Up, “surf’s up, dude!” Side, high-fiving his Makuhita. Down, waxing his surfboard.

 

Kirby Hat: His hair and headband

Special Move: Surf’s Up

 

Spirit Battle: On Battle Frontier (omega form), with his original team.

 

Victory Screen: Riding a big wave into the distance.

Losing Screen: Handing over his badge.

 

Color Swaps: His original outfit, his ORAS outfit, shirtless with trunks, based on Makuhita, based on Hariyama, based on Meditite, based on Medicham, based on Blaziken.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Wattson takes charge!

Character Sheet: Roxanne

ROXANNE

Now, we move on to the Hoenn region of Gen III. Roxanne is first, the Rock-type gym leader of Rustboro City, who also acts as a teacher at the nearby Pokemon school. Her gym is pretty basic, but I think we’ve got enough to go on.

Here’s the moveset I came up with:

 

Standard B: Nosepass

Probably performing just Rock Throw.

 

Side B: Quiz Question

Similar to Blaine’s version of this.

 

Up B: Magnet Rise

She will hold onto Nosepass as it rises.

 

Down B: Rock Tomb

Using the TM she gives you.

 

Final Smash: Rustboro Gym Rockstars

She will send out a Nosepass, Aggron, and Relicanth, which will drop giant rocks on the stage.

 

Entrance: Her opening line and pose.

 

Taunts: Up, pointing at something on a chalkboard. Side, opening a book and flipping through it. Down, looking over a fossil.

 

Kirby Hat: Her hair

 

Kart: Based on Nosepass

Special Move: Magnet Rise

 

Spirit Battle: On Battle Frontier (omega form), with her original team.

 

Victory Screen: Handing back an F to their opponent.

Losing Screen: Handing over her badge.

 

Color Swaps: Her original outfit, her ORAS costume, based on Brock, based on Roark, based on Nosepass, based on Aggron, based on Cradily, based on Armaldo.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Brawly hangs ten!

Character Sheet: Clair

CLAIR

Next up, we have Clair, the Dragon-type gym leader of Blackthorn City, and the cousin of Lance. Her gym has an extensive, lava-themed puzzle, which will help us, and after her defeat, she will refuse to give you a badge until you’ve passed a trial in the Dragon’s Den, which may help too. She’s also a companion to Ash for a few anime episodes, so basically, we have a bit to work with.

Here’s what I came up with:

 

Standard B: Dragonair

It will use Dragon’s Breath

 

Side B: Lava Boulder

She will push forward a boulder that will drop after a short distance and splash up some burning lava.

 

Up B: Dragon Rising

She and her Dragonair will fly upward at high speed.

 

Down B: Dragon Fang

She will use it to give herself a temporary stat boost.

 

Final Smash: Blackthorn Gym Dragon Hoard

She will summon Dragonair, Dragonite, and Kingdra, who will unleash draconic rage upon the stage.

 

Entrance: Her opening line and pose.

 

Taunts: Up, she will raise the Dragon Fang to the sky. Side, she will throw back her cape and pose. Down, she will call you a cheater.

 

Kirby Hat: Her hair

 

Kart: Based on Dragonair

Special Move: Dragon Rising

 

Spirit Battle: On Mt. Silver (omega form), with her original team.

 

Victory Screen: She will tell you that you must pass the Dragon’s Den to beat her.

Losing Screen: She will hand over her badge.

 

Color Swaps: Her original design, her HGSS design, an outfit based on Lance, based on Dragonite, based on Gyarados, based on Salamence, based on Garchomp, based on Hydreigon.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Roxanne rocks the school!

Character Sheet: Pryce

PRYCE

Next up, we have Pryce, the Ice-type gym leader from Mahogany Town, and your pretty standard grumpy old man trope. He’s also (spoilers, I guess) the main villain of the Gold Silver Crystal arc of the manga, trying to get ahold of Celebi to resurrect his lost Swinub. It’s a whole thing. His masked persona there might become its own thing. We’ll see.

Here’s the moveset I came up with:

 

Standard B: Swinub

Probably Icicle Crash

 

Side B: Ice Block

He will push one of the ice blocks from his HGSS gym.

 

Up B: Icy Wind

It is the TM he gives out, and it’s been a lot of my Ice types’ Up B, so . . .

 

Down B: Mask in the Fog

He will create the icy fog around himself that he used in the manga, his masked persona appearing for a second.

 

Final Smash: Mahogany Gym Blizzard

He will summon Piloswine, Sneasel, and Delibird to whip up a snowstorm across the stage.

 

Entrance: His opening pose and line

 

Taunts: Up, he will wave his stick around in annoyance. Side, he will put on his mask for a second. Down, he will sit in a wheelchair and pet his Swinub for a second.

 

Kirby Hat: His hair

 

Kart: Based on a Piloswine

Special Move: Ice Block

 

Spirit Battle: On Mt. Silver (Omega form) with his original team.

 

Victory Screen: Standing over his opponents and holding up a Silver and Rainbow Wing.

Losing Screen: Handing over his badge.

 

Color Swaps: His original outfit, his HGSS outfit, his normal manga appearance, his masked form, based on Swinub, based on Sneasel, based on Delibird, based on Dewgong.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Clair fights like a dragon!

Character Sheet: Jasmine

JASMINE

Next up, we have Jasmine, the Steel-type gym leader of Olivine City. In game, she famously has an extended story arc where she is tending the sick Ampharos in the city’s lighthouse, and won’t leave its side until you receive medicine from Chuck and his wife in Cianwood. From that story, we have a bit to work with.

Here’s the moveset I came up with:

 

Standard B: Steelix

It will perform Iron Tail.

 

Side B: Amphy Flash

Amphy will appear and flash a bright light with its tail.

 

Up B: Magnet Rise

Using her Magnemites.

 

Down B: Secret Potion

This will restore some of her health.

 

Final Smash: Olivine Gym Strikers

She will send out a Steelix, Magneton, and Skarmory, which will slash around the stage at high speed.

 

Entrance: Her opening pose and line

 

Taunts: Up, waving excitedly at the camera. Side, petting Amphy on the head. Down, nodding and thanking the player.

 

Kirby Hat: Her hair

 

Kart: Based on Steelix

Special Move: Amphy Flash

 

Spirit Battle: On Ecruteak Towers (omega form), with her original team and an Ampharos.

 

Victory Screen: Thanking you for the great battle.

Losing Screen: Handing over her badge.

 

Color Swaps: Her original design, her HGSS design, based on Amphy, a steely silver dress, based on Steelix, based on Magnemite, based on Skarmory, based on Palmer.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Pryce’s fighting style is ice cold!

Character Sheet: Chuck

CHUCK

Next up, we have Chuck, the Fighting-type gym leader of Cianwood City. His gym has the most notable changes between games, with GSC having a strength puzzle, and HGSS having him meditating under a waterfall, and you needing to shut it off to battle him. Either way, plenty to work with.

Here’s the moveset I came up with:

 

Standard B: Poliwrath

His Poliwrath will perform Dynamic Punch.

 

Side B: Boulder Throw

One of his single most impressive feats. He will pick up a giant boulder and throw it.

 

Up B: Fly

As it is the one his wife gives you after his defeat, it’s fitting here. What he flies with? That’s the real question.

 

Down B: Waterfall

He will cause a waterfall to drop on top of a nearby opponent’s head.

 

Final Smash: Cianwood Gym Fight Squad

He will let out a Primeape, Poliwhirl, and Hitmontop, who will take out every single fighter on the stage.

 

Entrance: Starting out under a waterfall.

 

Taunts: Up, letting out a big belly laugh. Side, flirting with his wife. Down, squatting and meditating.

 

Kirby Hat: His hair and beard

 

Kart: Based on Poliwhirl

Special Move: Boulder Throw

 

Spirit Battle: On Mt. Silver (omega form), with his original team.

 

Victory Screen: Laughing and telling you to try again.

Losing Screen: Handing over his badge.

 

Color Swaps: His original version, his HGSS version, wearing a tunic, wearing a sailor’s uniform, based on his wife, based on Poliwhirl, based on Primeape, based on Hitmontop.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Jasmine steels herself!

Character Sheet: Morty

MORTY

Next, we have Morty, the Ghost-type gym leader of Ecruteak City, as well as a medium who acts as a guardian for the two ancient towers there. His gym is full of disappearing floors and such, which will give us a bit to work with.

Here’s the moveset I came up with:

 

Standard B: Gastly

Gastly will use Shadow Ball

 

Side B: Invisibility

He will disappear, just like the paths in his gym, allowing him to move unseen for a short time.

 

Up B: Shadow Sneak

His Ghost types will teleport him out of danger.

 

Down B: Future Sight

As he is famously able to peer into the future, we will use that in battle, allowing him to dodge oncoming attacks as if he saw them coming.

 

Final Smash: Ecruteak Gym Spirits

He will let out a Misdreavus, Haunter, and Gengar, which will turn the stage dark and attack players unseen.

 

Entrance: His opening pose and line.

 

Taunts: Up, he will meditate for a minute. Side, he will loosen up and act chill for a moment. Down, he will wave around a candle from his gym.

 

Kirby Hat: His hair and headband.

 

Kart: Based on a Misdreavus

Special Move: Invisibility

 

Spirit Battle: On Ecruteak Towers (omega form), with his original team. Also the floor disappears.

 

Victory Screen: Holding up incense and putting the spirits to rest.

Losing Screen: Handing over his badge.

 

Color Swaps: His original version, his HGSS outfit, the robe of one of his gym’s sages, the robe of one of his gym’s mediums, based on Eusine, based on Gengar, based on Misdreavus.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Chuck trains for the fight!

Character Sheet: Whitney

WHITNEY

Now, we come to one of the most infamous gym leaders of the entire series. Whitney is the Normal-type gym leader of Goldenrod City, known for her exceptionally difficult battle featuring a Miltank, topped off with a tantrum and refusal to give you a badge if you do manage to beat her.

Here’s the moveset I came up with:

 

Standard B: Miltank

Rollout, obviously.

 

Side B: Attract

She will use the TM she gives you, making all physical attacks fail against her for a short time.

 

Up B: Blue Panel

One of the blue raised panels from her HGSS gym will pop up from under her.

 

Down B: Milk Drink

This will restore some of her health.

 

Final Smash: Goldenrod Gym All-Stars

She will send out Clefable, Wigglytuff, and Miltank. The first two will sing and put everyone to sleep, while Miltank performs Rollout.

 

Entrance: Her starting pose and line.

 

Taunts: Up, she will get excited and dance around. Side, she will offer some Moo Moo Ice Cream. Down, she will throw a tantrum for a moment.

 

Kirby Hat: Her hair

 

Kart: Based on Miltank

Special Move: Milk Drink

 

Spirit Battle: Ecruteak Towers (omega form), with her original team.

 

Victory Screen: Cheering excitedly and sticking out her tongue at you.

Losing Screen: Well, you know.

 

Color Swaps: Her original design, her HGSS design, a farming outfit, based on Miltank, based on Clefairy, based on Furret, based on Aipom, based on DJ Mary.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Morty haunts the battlefield.

Character Sheet: Bugsy

BUGSY

Next, we have Bugsy, the Bug-type gym leader of Azalea Town and a local bug catcher (/archaeologist in the manga). His gym was fairly basic too, just like Falkner’s, but he’s got a bit more to go on.

Here’s the moveset I came up with:

 

Standard B: Scyther

It will perform X-Scissor

 

Side B: Bug Net

He will use the bug-catcher’s net he’s always toting around to snag a player and pull them in.

 

Up B: Spinarak Kart

The Spinarak karts from his HGSS gym will carry him upward on a web.

 

Down B: Cocoon

He will pull out either his Metapod or Kakuna and chuck them at people.

 

Final Smash: Azalea Gym Swarm

He will send out Ledian, Ariados, and Scizor, which will swarm around the stage, attacking everything in sight.

 

Entrance: His opening pose and line

 

Taunts: Up, waving around his net to catch something. Side, holding up his Metapod and tapping on it, listening for movement inside. Down, he will observe an ancient stone from the Ruins of Alph.

 

Kirby Hat: His hair

 

Kart: A Spinarak kart

Special Move: Bug Net

 

Spirit Battle: On Ilex Forest (omega form), with his original team.

 

Victory Screen: He will hold up a jar with a bug inside and say “Gotcha!”

Losing Screen: He will hand over his badge.

 

Color Swaps: His original look, his HGSS look, his archaeologist’s gear from the manga, based on Scyther, based on Metapod, based on Kakuna, based on Ledyba, based on Spinarak.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Whitney rolls out!

Character Sheet: Falkner

FALKNER

Now, let’s move on to the Johto region for our generation II gym leaders. First up, we have Falkner, the Flying-type gym leader of Violet City. Sadly, he may be one of the few we really struggle with on this one, as his gym is fairly basic, and his anime and manga appearances are fairly minimal (though he is a cop in the manga, I might be able to use that). I think I may have to dip into my last resort I’ve been holding on to, which is the HMs beating them allows you to use.

Here’s the moveset I came up with:

 

Standard B: Pidgeotto

His Pidgeotto will use wing attack

 

Side B: Boomerang Ball

Thank you, Manga, for this one. I had to dig through my copy for like an hour.

 

Up B: Fly

If any leader’s going to have this.

 

Down B: Flash

Here’s your HM.

 

Final Smash: Violet Gym Flight Squad

He releases Pidgeot, Noctowl, and Skarmory, and they divebomb the stage.

 

Entrance: His opening pose and line

 

Taunts: Up, a Hoothoot fluttering around him. Side, doing a little twirl. Down, saying you’re under arrest.

 

Kirby Hat: His hair

 

Kart: Based on a Pidgeotto

Special Move: Boomerang Ball

 

Spirit Battle: On Ecruteak Towers (Omega form) with his original team.

 

Victory Screen: Hoping his dad was proud of him.

Losing Screen: Handing over his badge.

 

Color Swaps: His main outfit, his HGSS design, his cop uniform, a Sprout Tower sage outfit, based on Pidgeotto, based on Noctowl, based on Skarmory, based on Xatu.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Bugsy swarms the competition!

Character Sheet: Giovanni

GIOVANNI

Next up, we have Giovanni, the leader of the dastardly Team Rocket and surprise Ground-type gym leader of Viridian City. We can pull from his gym and his Team Rocket affiliation for his moveset, including notable appearances in the anime and the manga.

Here’s the moveset I came up with:

 

Standard B: Rhyhorn

His Rhyhorn will come out and charge at the opponent.

 

Side B: Team Rocket Grunt

He will turn his back on his opponent, a grunt appearing out of thin air to protect him and lashing the opponent with a whip.

 

Up B: Team Rocket Helicopter

He will grab the ladder of a small helicopter that will carry him upward.

 

Down B: Transporter Pad

He will lay a transporter pad from his gym and the Team Rocket hideout on the ground, which will send an opponent spinning in whichever direction it is pointing. He can lay down three at a time.

 

Final Smash: Viridian Gym Earthquake

He will let out a Rhydon, Nidoking, and Nidoqueen, which will all tromp around the stage, causing an earthquake. A full on Team Rocket charge of the stage would also work.

 

Entrance: Getting up from behind his desk.

 

Taunts: Up, running his hand through his hair and laughing maniacally. Side, turning into the cartoony version of himself from Meowth’s fantasies. His Persian brushing against his legs.

 

Kirby Hat: His hair

 

Kart: Based on a Rhydon

Special Move: Transporter Pad

 

Spirit Battle: On Saffron City (omega form), with his original team and a group of Team Rocket grunts.

 

Victory Screen: A big red R appearing with him in shadow before it.

Losing Screen: Handing over his badge and declaring himself disgraced.

 

Color Swaps: His gym outfit, his Team Rocket leader outfit, his FRLG outfit, his Team Rainbow Rocket outfit, his orangey outfit from the anime, a standard Team Rocket grunt uniform, the white Team Rocket uniform, and an outfit based on Silver.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Falkner takes to the skies!

Character Sheet: Blaine

BLAINE

Next up, we have Blaine, the Fire-type gym leader of Cinnabar Island, later relocated to the Seafoam Islands in Gen II after the island was wiped out in a volcanic eruption. He is also strongly implied to be one of the scientists who created Mewtwo (he straight up is in the manga). His gym is mostly a series of quiz questions, so we may have to pull quite a bit from the anime, where things are quite different.

Here’s the moveset I came up with:

 

Standard B: Arcanine

Arcanine will perform a Fire Blast.

 

Side B: Quiz Question

A speech bubble with one of his quiz questions will pop up, blocking oncoming attacks from reaching him.

 

Up B: Eruption

Based on both the eruption that happens in-game as well as in his anime appearance. It will go off right under his feet.

 

Down B: Secret Switch

He will throw a switch on the back of one of the statues in the Pokemon Mansion, activating a trapdoor a few inches in front of him.

 

Final Smash: Cinnabar Gym Fire Stars

He will send out Arcanine, Rapidash, and Magmar, and they will set the stage on fire.

 

Entrance: His opening pose and line

 

Taunts: Up, tipping his hat to the player. Side, asking if the opponent wants to solve a riddle. Down, pulling the secret key out of his pocket and putting it back.

 

Kirby Hat: His hat, glasses, and mustache.

 

Kart: Based on Rapidash

Special Move: Quiz Question

 

Spirit Battle: On Mt. Moon (Omega form), with his original team.

 

Victory Screen: Telling the player to study up a bit more.

Losing Screen: Handing over his badge.

 

Color Swaps: His original design, his GSC design, his FRLG design, his HGSS design, his Let’s Go design, his anime design, his anime disguise, and his Team Rocket uniform from the manga.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Giovanni grinds his opposition into the dirt!

Character Sheet: Sabrina

SABRINA

Next, we have Sabrina, the Psychic-type gym leader of Saffron City. In the anime, she has a notable role as a disturbed psychic child character and the villain of a mini-arc. In the manga, she is also a member of Team Rocket. By the time of Gen V, she has become a model and actress, appearing in some of Brycen’s movies. So . . . a lot to work with.

Here’s what we’ve got so far:

 

Standard B: Kadabra

Her Kadabra will probably use confusion.

 

Side B: Telekinesis

She will pick up an opponent and be able to fling them around with her mind, just like in the anime.

 

Up B: Warp Pad

She will teleport using one of the warp pads from her gym.

 

Down B: Dolly Playtime

She will transform an opponent into a doll, just like in the anime. They will turn back after a few seconds.

 

Final Smash: Saffron Gym Masterminds

She will send out Alakazam, Mr. Mime, and Hypno to deal incredible psychic damage to all around her.

 

Entrance: Her opening pose and line

 

Taunts: Up, she will rise into the air while glowing. Side, she will do a modeling pose. Down, she will clutch her dolly from the anime.

 

Kirby Hat: Her hair

 

Kart: Based on Kadabra

Special Move: Dolly Playtime

 

Spirit Battle: On Saffron City (omega form), with her original team.

 

Victory Screen: She will lift all opponents into the air and turn them all into dolls.

Losing Screen: She will hand over her badge.

 

Color Swaps: Her original version, her GSC version, her FRLG version, her HGSS version, her Let’s Go version, her anime version, her Team Rocket outfit, and her costume from Brycen’s movie.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Blaine erupts onto the scene.

Character Sheet: Janine

JANINE

Next up, we have Janine, Koga’s daughter who took up his position as the head of the Fuchsia City gym when he was promoted to Elite Four during the Johto games. She will be mostly an echo of her father.

Here’s the moveset I came up with:

 

Standard B: Spinarak

This will be the big difference, and it will use String Shot.

 

Side B: Invisible Wall

 

Up B: Smoke Cloud

With a Koffing, like her father.

 

Down B: Disguise

Instead of the shroud, she will instead disguise herself as another player, the disguise falling after one hit.

 

Final Smash: Fuchsia City Assassins

She will let out a Crobat, Ariados, and Venomoth, which will fill the stage with poison.

 

Entrance: Her starting pose and line

 

Taunts: All ninja moves, different from her father’s

 

Kirby Hat: Her hair

 

Kart: Based on Ariados

Special Move: Disguise

 

Spirit Battle: On Ilex Forest (omega form), with her original team.

 

Victory Screen: Similar to her father, as well as something about upholding the gym’s honor.

Losing Screen: Handing over her badge.

 

Color Swaps: Her original version, her HGSS version, based on Koga, based on Aya, styles based on other famous ninjas.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Sabrina unleashes her full psychic potential.

Character Sheet: Koga

KOGA

Next up, we have Koga, the Poison-type Fuchsia City gym leader for Gen I and its remakes, as well as an Elite Four member in Gen II and its remakes. His gym is notable for its invisible walls and tricks to obfuscate the leader’s location. Janine will be his echo.

Here’s the moveset I came up with:

 

Standard B: Venomoth

It will streak forward at high speed, dropping Poison Powder from its wings.

 

Side B: Invisible Wall

 

Up B: Smoke Cloud

He will drop a Koffing at his feet, disappearing into the resulting smoke and appearing up higher.

 

Down B: Shroud

He will raise a shroud matching the wall behind him, making himself invisible and intangible for a moment.

 

Final Smash: Fuchsia City Assassins

He will let out a Venomoth, Muk, and Weezing, all of which will fill the stage with poison.

 

Entrance: His opening pose and line.

 

Taunts: Oops, all ninja poses.

 

Kirby Hat: His hair and scarf

 

Kart: Based on Venomoth

Special Move: Smoke Cloud

 

Spirit Battle: On Safari Zone (omega form), with his original team.

 

Victory Screen: Taking up and pose and saying you have been defeated.

Losing Screen: Handing over his badge.

 

Color Swaps: His original version, GSC version, FRLG version, HGSS version, Let’s Go version, based on Janine, based on Aya, his manga Team Rocket uniform.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Janine joins in her father’s stead.

Character Sheet: Erika

ERIKA

Next up, we have Erika, the Grass-type Celadon City gym leader, who runs her gym as a greenhouse full of female trainers, almost always with a creepy old man outside looking through the window. In the anime, she also makes and sells perfume.

Here’s the moveset I came up with:

 

Standard B: Vileplume

It will let off a blast of Poison Powder right in the opponent’s face.

 

Side B: Perfume

She will spray a cloud of perfume from the anime in the air and put anyone who walks through it to sleep.

 

Up B: Vine Whip

She’ll pull out her Tangela and hold onto it as it pulls her up.

 

Down B: Hedge

She will spawn one of the hedges from her gym to block her opponent’s path.

 

Final Smash: Celadon Gym Flowers

She will send out Vileplume, Victreebel, and Tangela to spawn a full hedge maze right out of the stage.

 

Entrance: Her opening pose and line

 

Taunts: Up, admiring a flowered arch. Side, smelling a bottle of perfume. Down, yawning and sitting to go to sleep.

 

Kirby Hat: Her hair and headband

 

Kart: Based on Vileplume

Special Move: Perfume

 

Spirit Battle: On Safari Zone (omega form), with her original team.

 

Victory Screen: Yawning and suggesting you try again some other time.

Losing Screen: Handing over her badge.

 

Color Swaps: Her original look, GSC look, FRLG look, HGSS look, Let’s Go look, a Lass outfit, a Beauty outfit, and Ash’s dress from the anime.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Koga appears in a puff of smog!

Character Sheet: Lt. Surge

LT. SURGE

Next up, we have Lt. Surge, the Electric-type gym leader of Vermilion City, and an ex-soldier from some war that took place sometime prior to the games’ events (a point of lots of fan speculation). This one definitely has a notable gym trial, which is good, because his anime appearance was just kinda him being big and menacing. He is part of Team Rocket in the manga though.

Here’s the moveset I came up with:

 

Standard B: Raichu

Raichu will be using Thunder Punch, naturally.

 

Side B: Energy Barrier

Based on his puzzle from most of his gym setups, he will project an energy barrier in front of him as a shield.

 

Up B: Voltorb Grenade

He will drop a Voltorb at his feet to explode, throwing him up into the air and doing damage to those around him.

 

Down B: Garbage Can Switch

He will place a garbage can in the way of an attack. In most instances, the opponent will be shocked, but there is a one-in-five chance of it doing nothing.

 

Final Smash: Vermilion Gym Thunderstorm

He will send out a Raichu, Electabuzz, and Electrode, which will unleash powerful Electric attacks around the stage.

 

Entrance: His starting pose and line.

 

Taunts: Up, tossing a Voltorb in the air and catching it. Side, posing with a splash screen that reads “The Lightning American!” Down, he will crouch with a Poke Ball out, as if still in the military.

 

Kirby Hat: his hair and shades

 

Kart: Based on a Raichu

Special Move: Energy Barrier

 

Spirit Battle: On S.S. Anne (omega form), with his original team.

 

Victory Screen: Proclaiming the Vermilion gym undefeated.

Losing Screen: Handing over his badge.

 

Color Swaps: His original look, his GSC look, his FRLG look, his HGSS look, his Let’s Go look, his anime appearance, his Team Rocket uniform, and a beach outfit (he’s earned some shore leave).

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Erika blooms in battle!

Character Sheet: Misty

MISTY

Next up, we have Misty, the Water-type Cerulean City gym leader as well as one of Ash’s companions for the first two generations of the anime. Her gym challenges have a little bit more to them, so we won’t have to rely on the anime nearly as much as for Brock, but we still may need a little.

Here’s the moveset I came up with:

 

Standard B: Staryu

Staryu will use Swift for this attack.

 

Side B: Life Preserver

She will toss out a life preserver as seen in her gym and use it to pull opponents closer.

 

Up B: Mermaid Tail

Across the anime, manga, cards, and otherwise, depicting Misty with a mermaid tail seems to just be a canon event, so we might as well use it. She’ll leap upward as if out of water and flip over to dive again.

 

Down B: Her Bike

She will pull out her roasted bike from the anime and throw it at people.

 

Final Smash: Cerulean Gym Water Spectacular

She will send out a Starmie, Gyarados, and Golduck to perform a water ballet while using powerful water moves.

 

Entrance: Her opening pose and quote.

 

Taunts: Up, performing a synchronized swimming maneuver. Side, trying to act flirty like she did with Ash a couple of times. Down, her Psyduck will pop out and she’ll hang her head.

 

Kirby Hat: Her hair with the side ponytail.

 

Kart: Based on a Gyarados

Special Move: Mermaid Tail

 

Spirit Battle: On S.S. Anne (omega form), with Staryu and Starmie.

 

Victory Screen: Proclaiming the Cerulean gym victorious

Losing Screen: Handing over her badge.

 

Color Swaps: Her RBG version, her original anime look, her GSC look, her FRLG look, her yellow jumpsuit from the anime, her HGSS look, her Let’s Go look, her Alolan anime look.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Lt. Surge makes a shocking entrance!

Character Sheet: Brock

BROCK

For the next . . . while, we’ll be going over the gym leaders of the Pokemon series, using their gym challenges and general themes to help us build a moveset, something I realized was a perfectly reasonable possibility to do with them. A few have very basic gym challenges, but thankfully, the anime helps fill in some for them. The Trial Captains will also be included, as their trials functionally act as gym challenges. The only ones who won’t be included at the moments are the rivals who become gym leaders, as the rivals are a bit more complicated, and I’m not quite ready to parse them all out yet.

Brock is a Rock-type specialist and the very first gym leader of the Kanto region, making him the very first gym leader ever faced by a Pokemon player. As such, his gym is extremely basic and has mostly remained so in every iteration, basically just having a bunch of scattered boulders in the path to get to him and little more. As such, we’ll probably have to rely on the anime to fill in for him more than anyone else. Thankfully, he is one of the most prolifically featured in said anime.

Here’s the moveset I came up with:

 

Standard B: Geodude

This slot will be reserved on all Gym Leaders for an attack from one of their most notable Pokemon. As such, Brock’s Geodude is the obvious one here, and will fly forward, striking opponents with a rocky punch.

 

Side B: Lovestruck!

Brock will immediately latch onto an opponent and start proclaiming his love. Will last longer with female characters.

 

Up B: Onix Surge

Onix will burst up from the ground beneath him, carrying him upward.

 

Down B: Drying Pan

He will hold up his frying pan and use it as a shield to protect himself.

 

Final Smash: Pewter Gym Rockstars

He will send out a Golem, Onix, and Aerodactyl to perform an ultimate Rock-type attack.

 

Entrance: His starting pose and line.

 

Taunts: Up, doing a little twirl with hearts in his eyes. Side, crossing his arms over his chest like his original pose. Down, kneeling and examining a Pokemon.

 

Kirby Hat: His hair and eyes.

 

Kart: Based on an Onix

Special Move: Drying Pan

 

Spirit Battle: On Mt. Moon (omega form), with Geodude and Onix.

 

Victory Screen: Proclaiming rock types victorious.

Losing Screen: Handing over his badge.

 

Color Swaps: His Red and Blue version, his original anime version, his Gold and Silver version, his Advanced anime look, his FRLG look, his Diamond & Pearl anime look, his Let’s Go look, a wedding look from his fantasies.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Misty makes a splash!

Character Sheet: Ben/Summer

BEN/SUMMER

Starting now, we'll be going back through our main protagonists of the Pokemon series and re-evaluating them based on the distinct differences that make their games unique from each other. Our characters will be:

1. Red/Leaf

2. Ethan/Kris/Lyra

3. May/Brendan

4. Dawn/Lucas

5. Hilbert/Hilda

6. Nate/Rosa

7. Serena/Calem

8. Elio/Selene

9. Gloria/Victor

10. Florian/Juliana

11. Solana/Lunick

12. Kellyn/Kate

13. Ben/Summer

Likewise, Ben and Summer, the protagonists of Guardian Signs, will also have their moveset mostly focused on their distinct game mechanics. Also, the main Pokemon each of these Rangers have with them should be the main companions, like Plusle and Minun for Lunick and Solana, so the little rocker Pichu will be heavily featured for these two.

Here's the moveset I came up with:

 

Standard B: Capture Styler

 

Side B: Ride Pokemon

Specifically one of the Legendary Beasts charging around with you on it.

 

Up B: Fly

You can linger up there for a bit, like in the game.

 

Down B: Ranger Signs

You can draw a sign that summons a Pokemon to perform an attack.

 

Final Smash: The Rainbow Grail

You use it to summon Ho-Oh, which blasts through the stage like it does through the Sky Fortress.

 

Entrance: Flying in on their Staraptors

 

Taunts: Up, tossing the capture styler in the air. Side, drawing a few signs in the air. Down, Pichu rocking out on its guitar.

 

Kirby Hat: Ben’s hair and goggles

 

Kart: Raikou

Special Move: Ranger Signs

 

Spirit Battle: On Big Booker Bridge

 

Victory Screen: Celebrating with their Pokemon

Losing Screen: "You whited out!"

 

Color Swaps: Ben, Summer, based on Rand, based on Nema, based on Tanvir, based on Kira, and Pokemon Pincher uniforms.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, we’ll now cover our gym leaders. First up, Brock rocks the house!

Character Sheet: Kellyn/Kate

KELLYN/KATE

Starting now, we'll be going back through our main protagonists of the Pokemon series and re-evaluating them based on the distinct differences that make their games unique from each other. Our characters will be:

1. Red/Leaf

2. Ethan/Kris/Lyra

3. May/Brendan

4. Dawn/Lucas

5. Hilbert/Hilda

6. Nate/Rosa

7. Serena/Calem

8. Elio/Selene

9. Gloria/Victor

10. Florian/Juliana

11. Solana/Lunick

12. Kellyn/Kate

13. Ben/Summer

Next, we have Kellyn and Kate, students of the Ranger Academy, and the protagonists of Shadows of Almia. Their moveset should be fairly similar to Lunick and Solana’s, just updated with the newer stuff that came with the game.

Here's the moveset I came up with:

 

Standard B: Capture Styler

This, if nothing else, should stay the same.

 

Side B: Pokemon Partner

Mostly randomly picks from the 17 partners available, and they perform a basic assist attack.

 

Up B: Staraptor

Of course.

 

Down B: Capture Power-Up

You can use the cards from the original game to boost your attack.

 

Final Smash: Luminous Crystal

 

Entrance: Flying in on Staraptor

 

Taunts: Up, doing a school spirit pose. Side, playing with their Pokemon. Down, spinning their top for a moment. Secret taunt: Getting tech support from Rhythmi.

 

Kirby Hat: Kellyn’s hair

 

Kart: A riding Partner Pokemon

Special Move: Partner Pokemon

 

Spirit Battle: On Ranger Academy

 

Victory Screen: Celebrating with their Pokemon

Losing Screen: "You whited out!"

 

Color Swaps: Kellyn, Kate, based on Keith, based on Rhythmi, Altru Inc. uniforms, Team Dim Sun uniforms.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Ben and Summer become guardians!

Character Sheet: Solana/Lunick

SOLANA/LUNICK

Starting now, we'll be going back through our main protagonists of the Pokemon series and re-evaluating them based on the distinct differences that make their games unique from each other. Our characters will be:

1. Red/Leaf

2. Ethan/Kris/Lyra

3. May/Brendan

4. Dawn/Lucas

5. Hilbert/Hilda

6. Nate/Rosa

7. Serena/Calem

8. Elio/Selene

9. Gloria/Victor

10. Florian/Juliana

11. Solana/Lunick

12. Kellyn/Kate

13. Ben/Summer

The Ranger games do have enough distinction between their three games, that I think they should be reconsidered here too. Solana and Lunick’s moveset will probably remain the most the same, seeing as the original character sheet came after that first game specifically. I think Solana’s anime appearance may factor in a little too.

Here's the moveset I came up with:

 

Standard B: Ranger Styler

 

Side B: Partner Pokemon

Plusle and Minun specifically for them.

 

Up B: Gust

It is the closest field move to Fly for this one, so . . .

 

Down B: Poke Assist

 

Final Smash: Super Styler

 

Entrance: No fast travel options in the first game, so maybe stepping off the boat?

 

Taunts: Up, raising the styler to the sky in victory. Side, playing with Plusle and Minun. Down, drawing in the air like they’re on Disney Channel.

 

Kirby Hat: Solana’s hair

 

Kart: Riding on a captured Pokemon

Special Move: Capture Styler

 

Spirit Battle: On Fiore Temple

 

Victory Screen: Celebrating with their Pokemon

Losing Screen: "You whited out!"

 

Color Swaps: Solana, Lunick, based on Aria, based on Joel, based on Elita, based on Chris, and Go-Rock uniforms for both.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Kellyn and Kate fight the shadows!

Character Sheet: Florian/Juliana

FLORIAN/JULIANA

Starting now, we'll be going back through our main protagonists of the Pokemon series and re-evaluating them based on the distinct differences that make their games unique from each other. Our characters will be:

1. Red/Leaf

2. Ethan/Kris/Lyra

3. May/Brendan

4. Dawn/Lucas

5. Hilbert/Hilda

6. Nate/Rosa

7. Serena/Calem

8. Elio/Selene

9. Gloria/Victor

10. Florian/Juliana

11. Solana/Lunick

12. Kellyn/Kate

13. Ben/Summer

Next, we have Florian and Juliana, students of the Naranja or Uva academy, and the protagonists of Scarlet and Violet. Since this was the mainline series’s first real foray into 3D after Legends: Arceus, this one will definitely have a lot to pull from the games and DLC packs.

Here's the moveset I came up with:

 

Standard B: Auto Battle

You can send out either Sprigatito, Fuecoco, or Quaxly and they will wander the stage, attacking other opponents for you. You can call them back with Standard B at any time.

 

Side B: Sprinting Build

The character will hop on the back of Koraidon/Miraidon and charge across the stage.

 

Up B: Gliding Build

Koraidon/Miraidon will launch into the air and glide back down.

 

Down B: Sandwich

You can eat a sandwich to restore health points.

 

Final Smash: Paradox Legends

Both Koraidon and Miraidon will appear, return to their standard stances, and unleash a powerful blast. (or team attack with Meowscarada, Skeledirge, and Quaquaval, of course).

 

Entrance: Squawkabilly Taxi

 

Taunts: Up, posing while holding up a Poke Ball. Side, doing the chicken dance. Down, scarfing down a sandwich.

 

Kirby Hat: Florian’s hat

 

Kart: Koraidon or Miraidon

Special Move: Auto Battle

 

Spirit Battle: On Naranja/Uva Academy

 

Victory Screen: Celebrating with their Pokemon

Losing Screen: "You whited out!"

 

Color Swaps: Florian’s base look, Juliana’s base look, Florian based on Turo, Juliana based on Sada, Team Star looks for both, Kitakami looks for both.

 

Thanks for reading! Next up, Solana and Lunick wrangle their opponents!