----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Pokemon Chat Report - Thursday, September 07, 2000 by Ka-Lok Fung - Scrye Contributing Editor ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Hello everybody, I'm back from a relaxing weekend of live music. Sorry I missed out last week." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Once again MT Mike will be joining us shortly, he's finishing up some announcements for today." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #2 from ThaMasta: can you use a gambler if you get that in your first hand when you have no basic pokemon cards?? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "If you mean start without a basic in play, then no." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "You must have at least one basic P-mon in your opening hand." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #4 from gunterl: My pokemon league has already started victory road, but they don't havethe cards or new badge books yet. When will they get them ??? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I would imagine that they'd be getting those soon. Idon't send them out so I'm not certain on a date exactly." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #5 from Articuno21: Can we please ask questions about Gym2? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Sorry, no. We've told you more than we should already." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Meaning me leaking info about what cards are in there. Though I figure if you're savvy enough to know what cards are in the Gym setsyou'll figure out what is in Challenge." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #7 from Marril2000: Did you meet Imakuni at TMB? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I wasn't able to go, though DMTMike and MT Mike did get to meet _and_ play Imakuni." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #9 from EEVEE2001: Any new news on promos, Neo, or Prop15? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Nothing new on that front but I think MT Mike has some tidbits for you...MIke?" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Hi gang, let's start with the announcements." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "First, as some of you may have heard, the East CoastSTS Main Tournament's Constructed Format rules will be announced on Oct 9th. We do not know what these rules will be, if they will even be different from the West Coast STS rules at all, so please do not ask about them, as we will not have any info on it until Oct 9th. At that point, they will be posted on our web site and you will be able to call Customer Service and get the full explanation of it." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Secondly, after talking with R&D I want to pass along some rulings changes and clarifications." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "If you have a promo Eeevee in play and you or the opponent evolve Grimer into Muk, then the promo Eevee's Chain Reaction Pokemon power would be triggered by the evolution of Muk and would still occur even though Muk's Toxic Gas states to ignore all other Pokemon Powers. Of course, any evolutions done after this case would NOT trigger the Chain Reaction due to the ToxicGas Pokemon power." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "If you use Porygon's Coversion attack on a Ditto, the effect takes place. If te Ditto Transforms into another Pokemon, the Conversion effect is still on it. This is because the use of a Pokemon Power does NOT end an attacke effect. If the Ditto were to Transform into a Pokemon that did NOT have a Weakness then it would still not have a Weakness as the Conversion effect states : If the Defending Pokemon has a Weakness, you may change it to a typeof your choice other than Colorless. This does mean that if that Ditto were tolater Transform to a Pokemon that DID have a Weakness, the Conversion effect would still be on the Ditto and would effect the resultant Weakness. Conversion, as all attack effects would be removed if Ditto was Benched or left play." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Some clarification on how attack results are calculated. Follow the chart in the rulebook under How Do YOu Figure OUt the Damage. Ignore the rules in What Order Do You Do Your Attack (specifically f). When your Pokemon attacks go through the normal steps through h, IF enough damage is putonto the opposing Pokemon to Knock it out then that Pokemon is considered Knocked Out. DO NOT ACTUALLY REMOVE THE CARD, TAKE A PRIZE CARD, OR MOVE UP A REPLACEMENT UNTIL ALL ATTACK EFFECTS ARE DONE. What this means is that if the placingof the damage on the Pokemon TRIGGERS a return attack (like Dark Gyarados's Final Beam or Rocket Hitmonchan's Crosscounter attack) then you jump back up into the order and resolve this NEW attack BEFORE you do step I) Now that damage has been done,if the attack does anything else besides damage, do all of that. This explains how an attack that paralyzes does NOT prevent Dark Gyarados's Final Beam effect if the Dark Gyarados is Knocked Out. Only AFTER all damage" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "and attack effects are resolved do you actually remove the Knocked Out Pokemon, draw a prize card, and replace it. Keep in mind though, that as soon as a Pokemon takes damage equal to its current HP it is considered Knocked Out regardless of what other attack effects occur after damage." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Lastly, what you have heard is true about the promo Jigglypuff #7. It is being earned on the East Coast Mall Tour. Our apologies for telling you otherwise. We only learned of this ourselves recently." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Phew!!!" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "I know, lots of stuff ta read." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Back to the questions (I beat Imakuni by the way)." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #10 from Mr_mystery: Will there be a Prerelease for Gym: Challenge?, or is it still in Discussion? If so, when? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Unfortunately, we didn't have time to put together a pre-release event for Gym Challenge." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #11 from soslowpoke: Will there be a new symbol for Gym Challenge? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Should be, don't know what it is yet." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #14 from Marril2000: Any info on year 2 of the PKMN League? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Starts Jan 6th, runs 8 seasons, lots of cool promos coming up for it." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #15 from Mr_mystery: Recently it was ruled that Ditto's transform was triggered. So could you Goop Gas and it be the same as the Defender after Transform? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "No," Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #17 from gunterl: when will tcg league season 2 start? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "You mean year 2? That starts January 6th 2001" Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #20 from Scrye_Fung: So what's so special about that announcement by DMTM regarding that Special October 7 regarding the East Coast STS? What's WotC cooking up? Some more Weeedles? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "It just means that all othet info on the STS will be released before that date and the tournament construction rules (whatever theyend up being) will be released on that date." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #22 from Mr_mystery: Any new plans for Promos? Moreover, will the Jigglypuff CD Promo be handed out at the East Coast Tour? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Yes, we did find out that the video for P-mon 2k willhave a promo in it,but we don't know what they're planning yet. The Jiggly will be given out at the East Coast mall Tour as MT Mike mentioned." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #23 from soslowpoke: What's the prerelease card for Challenge? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "We don't know of one yet." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #24 from Mr_mystery: Any info on East Coast Tour Deck Restrictions, bannings, or the 2 Props(15 and 2T)? Or still in playtesting? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Still testing...." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #26 from Gengar612: Does crosscounter apply weakness and resistance? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Yes." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #27 from soslowpoke: Are you guys making Vending? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "No but I frequently use vending machines :)" Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #28 from Mr_mystery: Any info to divulge on the deck contents of the Gym: Challenge Koga & Sabrina theme decks? If, so what holos will be in them? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I can't tell what's in them, I've been hushed under threat of losing my pastry privledges." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #29 from Mr_mystery: You said you don't use the Starry Foil pattern because the world's supply has run out. Where do you get it? Why did it run out? And where do you get the Cosmo foil pattern for the Foil Cards? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Sorry but that is production information and beisedswe don;t know." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Imported from lower Venus" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "rings of the 7th planet" Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #30 from ThaMasta: when will england get gym leader 1 officially?? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Sorry, they don't tell us the international release dates." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #31 from ElRavager: If I play Tickling Machine, and get the heads, and then I play ImpostorOak, are the cards that are set aside shuffled back into the deck? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Nope." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #33 from Minion_of_Rocket: If a Vending Set is released by Wizards, and there is a drawing contest, will the pictures be chosen for the Pokemon that originaly had people win the Japanese drawing contest, or will more of the pictures be changed? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "It was prematurely announced in Top Deck. THere are no official release dates for the set if we end up doing it at all. As for the possible drawing contest, that will depend on whether the Vending set ever comesout or not. No details beyond that, sorry." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #34 from EEVEE2001: when considering the format for the East Coast STS, are you looking at the pokegym post on that? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "We do read those posts, but we also do alot of testing here and talk with other playtest groups." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #35 from Minion_of_Rocket: Who has been doing the official testing fior prop 15 and/or prop T2? Ipersonaly don't think Prop 15 or Prop T2 will be any better than the way thingsare done now, and want to make sure things are being taken very seriously. Master_Trainer_Mike says, "It is being tested in house by game development professionals. Of course it is being taken seriously....sheesh." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #36 from GMC2000: are they going to make the 15 trainer rule official? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Dunno" Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #37 from Seraph_84: Any news on the American version of Vending? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Nothing to report yet." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #38 from Vaporeonice: I know you will ignore this question but...Why did you change the picture on Sabrina's Gengar?Is it because of the graveyard? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Consider your question ignored." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #41 from Minion_of_Rocket: Will there be any security increases for the Pokemon League in year 2?ż... Lots of promo cards are stolen from many different Leagues and I find this a very concerning, value degrading issue. The Promos, which could fetch an ok trade, now are practicaly worthless in any trading enviornment due to people stealing them, and it isn't just at my League either... Master_Trainer_Mike says, "What would you suggest, fingerprinting???" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Of course we are doing the best we can with the league, keep in mind there are over 4000 league locations in North America alone. We are looking into how we can improve security and availability." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #42 from EEVEE2001: Can you tell us what the most likely candidates are for the East Coast STS format are? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "No, that's confidental" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "I'm hoping for an all Weedle Competition." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Limit the weedles" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "HEY!!!" Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #43 from Seraph_84: Will the promo #15 Cool Porygon recieved from the Pokemon League be individually wrapped like the the Pokemon Stadium bundle one? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I don't know, does that make it special" Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #44 from Mew365: is the east coast mall tour coming to miami,fl Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Yup!" Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #45 from Jolteozap: In the regular Pokemon league,do we have to follow the Prop 15 Trainer rule or ignore it? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Guys, there are NO rule changes in the card game. Just some proposed possible tournament construction formats. No effect on the league." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #46 from Minion_of_Rocket: Can you please give a reason as to why many of the South Eastern statesdid not recieve a STS Qualifier? Furthermore, will there be any other forms ofthe STS, such as a "Gulf Coast" STS? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I think it had alot mall availability and space considerations. I don't know of any other STS being planned." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #47 from EEVEE2001: What is the formula for DCI ratings? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Dunno." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #48 from EEVEE2001: How are tournament formats tested? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Lots of hours of research and game play." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Pizza and beer" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "And donuts." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #52 from CrystalMew: Why did you make it so only 2 Rocket Pokemon will be in Challenge? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "We just translate the already made cards my friends. They must not like Rocket." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "It's a conspiracy!!" Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #53 from GMC2000: whats vending? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "A process invented by Joseph P Vending, he invented the first coin operated chewing tobacco vending machine." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Very poipular in the south." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "hee hee hee" Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #54 from Minion_of_Rocket: Do Wizards representatives ever search for the opinions of existing players on the internet, or are all desiscions made Wizard's officials opinions? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Magic 8 ball." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Yes, and we also consult some of our local stores that hold the leagues as well as the players there." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #56 from Mew365: when is the mall tour coming to miami? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "My bad, its actually Ft Lauderdale, FL the weekend of Oct 28-29." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #58 from Celtic_Pika: can u use 1 league book at toysrus ,wizo store and kb toys ??? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Yes." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #59 from FireBlAsToIsE: if ditto transformed into blastoise, would it be able to raindance any energy on any pokemon? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "No, only water energy onto water pokemon." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #60 from PiPiPi: What are the Pokemon League Year 2 seasons based on? The 8 badges like Year 1, or something else? Also, do you know what the book will look like, if there is one? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "We don't know yet, though I'm voting for Snow White and the seven Dwarves theme." Master_Trainer_Pat grins evilly. Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #61 from GMC2000: is there anyplace on your website where I can look up tourny info? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Sure check out http://events.wizards.com/dcitournament/Default.asp?game=PK" Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #62 from FireBlAsToIsE: Do you apply pokemon powers before status effects? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Check under 'How do you figure damage' in the P-mon rules." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Existing status effects are applied first, then Pokemon powers, then damage is assigned, then lastly new status effects from the attack are applied (basically)." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #63 from EEVEE2001: where can I find out the dci rating formula? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Its not public knowledge." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #66 from FireBlAsToIsE: if i attached plus power to Brock's Golbat and did spiral dive would itdo 20 to each of my opponents pokémon? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Plus Power will only do 10 extra to the _defending_ P-mon" Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #67 from Seraph_84: What has happened of Space Weedle? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Its here with us safe and sound. It will appear at the East Coast STS." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Lots of ages play." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Me, I'm only 4." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #73 from EEVEE2001: Why aren't there any plans to have, say, a midwest STS? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Are there malls there?" Master_Trainer_Pat says, "J/K" Master_Trainer_Pat says, "We don't know why nothing's been planned for that." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #74 from Pikabruce: If Ditto is opposite Rocket's Moltres, and Ditto is knocked out, does Ditto return to your hand? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Yes it does." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #75 from Seraph_84: Do you have to earn the TM's in the Pokemon League, or can you just skip over them to the next season when it starts? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "No, those are sort of like extra credit." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #76 from Minion_of_Rocket: Why are the 2 Gym sets being released so close together? I am having to fork out a lot of cash and very fast... It is getting to be a problem... Master_Trainer_Mike says, "No one is ever happy. If we space them out further,people say its too slow." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Wanted to get them out for the holiday season too." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #77 from Zapdos1: My Local League been saying for months that they are going to get the refill of badges and badge books in October , This in any way posibily be true? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Dunno." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Sorry." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #78 from PiPiPi: I have already earned my rainbow badge but my league is out. When will they get them? (A fax was already sent) Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Sorry guys, we are here to primarli answer game questions. We are not in the loop as far as logistics go." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #79 from Mew365: whatll happen when you guys catch up to the japanese with the cards sets will you make the sets forthe japanese or will we be seeing more base sets Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Hopefully , we'll just keep pace better with them." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Duuno." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #81 from PiPiPi: Does Wizards have Neo signing rights yet? If so, do you have a release date? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Nothing to say about Neo yet." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #82 from Minion_of_Rocket: If Dark Weezing was to have a Dark Energy attached to it, and you used the attack "Mass Explosion", would thirty damage be done to all Weezings, Dark Weezings, and Koffings instead of the initial 20 damage? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Dark Energy is not out yet, no rulings available sorry." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #83 from Zapdos1: Any possible Future for a "Statue of Weedle"? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "YEAH!!!" Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #85 from Pikabruce: Misty says nothing about being attached or pertaining to the active Pokemon. So is this OK? Play Misty, discard 2 cards. Discard Misty. Play Prof. Oak. Play Misty's Horsea, make active, attach energy. Tackle for 30 (10 + 20). Master_Trainer_Pat says, "That's possible." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #87 from Pikabruce: If Team Rocket's Meowth attacks, does the attack cease when it has enough damage to knock itself out, or does the attack continue until all coin tossesare completed? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "You must flip all of the coins." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #88 from ThaMasta: why do japanise's get holos in every pack and us 1 in3???? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "It is an entirely different market. Not a strong collectible secondary market there as we have here. Lots of other variables as well." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #89 from GMC2000: how many steel or dark energys will you be able to have in a deck when neo comes out? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "We can't rule on that yet, sorry." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Don't let MT Mike start singing again..." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Where are your ?'s" Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I will be attending the Chicago Mall Tour event on the weekend of the 23rd. It will be held in West Dundee at the Spring Hill Mall.So if you think you've got the chops to beat me, show up and throw down." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Hmmm, what shall I sing for you this week.............." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #90 from PiPiPi: How tall is the Space Weedle? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "About 7 1/2 feet tall." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #91 from GMC2000: has hasbro had an influence on you guys? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Outside of us trading some cards for some cool Star Wars toys, no." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #92 from Meowth52: On Ditto it says "Ditto is not a copy of any other Pokemon while it is Asleep, Confused, or Paralyzed." So does this mean Ditto's energies are still "rainbow" if its Asleep, ect.? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Good question!! I will check with R&D. It sounds like they would NOT as the Copy effect is in the same sentence as the energy effect. BUT I will get a definite answer for you." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Amazing how many questions come in when I think of singing........" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "However, tey are still being checked by our fine WizO staff so I don't have any questions yet...." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "OH I WISH I WERE AN OSCAR MEYER WEINER!!!" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "THAT IS WHAT I"D TRULY LIKE TO BE_E_E" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "FOR IF I WERE AN OSCAR MEYER WEINER" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "EVERYONE WOULD BE IN LOVE WITH ME!!!!!" Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #97 from PiPiPi: Answer this if you can... How many people are on the R&D Team? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "It varies....." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "12 or so right now." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #98 from Meowth52: Any R&D updates lately? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Announced them at the start, will announce them again. They do get us good pizza for the playtesting nights." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #99 from Articuno21: Why do you have to keep flipping coins on dark charizards attack even though Fatal damage has been delt to the defending pokemon? I thought When you had a KO with fossil Geodude you stopped flipping. Master_Trainer_Pat says, "You'll still have to discard equal to the number of heads. You have to complete the entire attack." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #100 from Minion_of_Rocket: Why haven't some of the Promos from the Pikachu's Greatest hits cd not been released yet? I noticed that the Arcanine, Telekenis Mewtwo (I forgot its level...), Cool Porygon, and Computer Error have been released here, and the Super Energy Retrieval will probably be released in Neo as it was in Japan, but whyhas the Snorlax promo not been released? I figure that the Mew will be released with Vending if the Vending set is released, but the Snorlax has no set symbol... Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Promo cards are negotiated with all of the varying license holders. It is not a clear cut process and it is ongoing." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #102 from PiPiPi: Do you have plans for a Base Set 3? If so, what will it include? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "It is in very early discussion only." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #103 from Jigglypuff001: Is neo coming out in the US? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "We hope so but we don't know yet." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #104 from GMC2000: what day will the prealease tourny be on? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "What prerelease, there is not one for Challenge." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #105 from Zapdos1: Do you know What official site is for the Meadowlands Exposition Center? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Sorry I do not, I will try and find out for next week if there is one." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #108 from JoshmanWing: Does Brock's Rhydon's "Bench Guard" Power provide protection from Pokemon powers, like Gengar's Curse and Dark Golbat's Sneak Attack? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "It would work for Dark Golbat as its deos do damage. The Gengar Curse though, only moves 1 damage counter and is NOT considered damaging the Rhydon so it would not prevent thtat." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #109 from ThaMasta: when an attack does damage to the # of energies attached is there a limit? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Do you mean an attack that varies the amount of damage due to the amount of attached energy? Some of them state a limit, some do not." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #111 from stevepw: What pokemon remove energy from other pokemon (defending) with a no removal gym stadium card? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Mistys Poliwhirl has an attack that can possibly remove energy from the defending Pokemon, there are several others that do so as well.," Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #112 from Celtic_Pika: why do u hav to pay $5 for league book at wizo when it free at toysrus Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Every store sets their own prices." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #114 from PiPiPi: Will Wizards ever make any completely original cards with no Japanese base? (Tell MT Mike he should put out a CD of his vocal talent) Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Thank you!!! Great suggestion!!" Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #115 from Celtic_Pika: wat does R&D stand for Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Research and Development." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #116 from GMC2000: when you play test do you use original decks as whell as archeatypes? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Yup." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #117 from ThaMasta: would a bad condition or fake card be accepted in a tournament??(not that i do!) Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Fakes no way. Bad condition would depoend on the card. It must be legible and not marked so if in a sleeve and you cannot tell it from another from te back, it would be ok." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #118 from Pikabruce: In a previous chat you said that if a player fails to draw a prize, both players should get a warning. How is that different than if a player fails toput out his/her prizes? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Its not. It all falls under folowing the game rules." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #101 from JoshmanWing: What is considered a fair and legal coin flip? i.e. is there a minimum height the coin must reach and how are flips that do not fully rotate handled? Assume this is in the STS for rulings and penalties. Master_Trainer_Pat says, "The coin must land on the table with no obstructions,as far as revolutions, it must be suitably random. It would be handled on a case by case basis by the tournament judge if necessary." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #120 from GMC2000: if you do make base set 3 do you think some original cards would be added? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Sorry way too early for Base Set 3 info." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #122 from Scrye_Fung: So MTP .. who's your favorite Pokemon? Mankey or Scyther ... TC is currently confused .. oh btw .. did we forget to mention that we need your bio? MTM's stated that's he's restrcting those donuts until you give us it! :) Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Yeah!! No donuts!!!!" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Dark Master Trainer Mike brought some in today, all maple bars unfortunately.........." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "sheessh" Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Scyther's always been a favorite(since July 99, anyway) and you did mention that...I'm just a good procrastinator." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I got a donut this morning....oh 'scuse me...Maple Bar. _Not a donut." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #123 from PiPiPi: Are kids allowed to be Pokemon League Gym Leaders? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Gym Leaders are actually employees of the srotes running the league. Kids can certainly beomce assistant coaches though." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #124 from Meowth52: What is the "Mr. Yuk" deck? What are its contents? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "DMT Mike says no more maple bars if we tell." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Which of course makes me want to tell you after all......................." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Mr. Yuk was one of first _in house_ designs" Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Built by MT Galen." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #125 from Pikabruce: For the Queen Mary STS there was a special room rate for participants.Any special room rates set up for the East Coast STS? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Sorry but we don't know. I will ask. I have heard that hotels are very full in the area due to some NBA event, if you plan on going I would reserve early." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #127 from Minion_of_Rocket: what was teh outcome of an opponent being hit by a Tickling Machine, then your opponent draws a card which is Professor Oak and decides to use it? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Your opponent can use the Oak and the cards set asideby Tickling Mach. will not be discarded." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #128 from Articuno21: In response to that earlier question, does that mean that there will eventually be a Base Set 3? Possibly sooner then we expect? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "There may eventually be. It is being considered as a format to help with sealed tournament play." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #130 from Electabuzz_13: are you planning to print any pokemon coins in plastic instead of paper, like they do in japan? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "We just released a cool metal Pokemon coin in the Thunderstorm gift box." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #132 from Snorlax566: I'm going to the qualifier in Towson, any tips? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Win??" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Watch out for Wiggly!!" Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Playtest against the popular deck types: Hay, Wiggly and Raindance" Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #133 from PiPiPi: Do you think you will ever make a major change to the rules of Pokemon?(Like changing the deck size or limiting the hand size) Master_Trainer_Mike says, "While it is always possible it is unlikely as it is not our game." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #134 from Snorlax566: What if someone is cheating, but they claim to "not know that rule" when the judges are questioned? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "It's the responsibility of the players to be aware ofall the rules." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #135 from Minion_of_Rocket: How do printing errors on cards happens, and whose fault are they? Examples:(R) Grimer, Dark Vileplume nonholos, Dark Arbok, Ponyta's Lenght, etc, etc... Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Hmmm, print over 1/2 billion cards a month, over 90 pieces of info per card, we are only human, you figure it out." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "We are at 99.7% accuracy with out cards, better thanthe quality of your hot dogs you eat." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #136 from Haymakermaker: Is the Cool Porygon you give away in VR Season the same number as the Pokémon Stadium bundle pack? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Yes, one and the same." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #137 from Turonik: Can you turn off dark vileplumes abilaty so you can play trainers? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Only by devolving it or an attack effect that ends its Power." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #138 from Haymakermaker: Who's the tourney director of the High Point STS Qualifier Tourney? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Sorry dunno." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #139 from Haymakermaker: What are all the zones in the STS Qualifier Tourneys? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "don't know that either" Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #140 from EEVEE2001: When determining first turn by highest number on a die roll, if I use a20-sided die and my opponent uses two 10-sided dice, is that legal since the probability is different (more likely to get numbers toward the middle)? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "You should both use the same randomizer." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "The different play zones are listed on our website...I wasn't sure what you were asking for a sec." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #142 from stevepw: Can you ask your opponent to reflip if you don't feel like the way theyflip is correct? i.e. I had a kid that the coin would alway land the same way it faced when he was flipping it. Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Not as long as it was a legal flip...if there's a question call over a judge." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #143 from Minion_of_Rocket: Do Wizards official trea and consider Pokemon as a fad craze or as any other TCG, because I am hearing too many people refer to the Pokemon TCG as a fad rather than any other TCG which sickens me... Master_Trainer_Mike says, "We treat it as a TCG and work towards its long and healthy life." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #145 from Kyra_Tierney: I was at a league with my bro and his friend. except the dude there didnt allow me to join the Tcg League wazzap with that? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "They might have been full, they might have had an agelimit, etc." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #146 from Mr_mystery: What are the contents of the Thunderstorm deck in the new Gift Box? What is the holo, if you know? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Fossil Zapdos. Not a strong deck but a cool metal coin, deck bag, CD_ROM verosion @ with a deck builder and collection software, etc. Cool gift box." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #148 from GMC2000: what days and times do you hold this chat? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Thursdays 3-5pm Pacific Standard time." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #149 from Electabuzz_13: you say pokemon isn't your game (question #133), but at the same time your trying to change it with the props. Don't you think thats a bit hypocritical of you? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "No, we do not get to make game changing rules BUT the entire orgazined play of Pokemon, Magic, and most every other popular TCG was started by us, is ran by us, and we are its caretakers." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #150 from Electabuzz_13: what date does victory road start? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "And taht we take very seriously." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "It will vary slightly between locations...should be now or very soon." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #152 from ppiikkaacchhuu: Master_Trainer_Mike how much damage does Ancient Mew do? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Its attack does 40." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #153 from Brocktrainer13: I'm a 13 year old and i am what's called an "assistant" gym leader at my league. There are eight of us. We stamp books and get the priveledges of employs, and also give out promo cards. Is this allowed? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Yes, that's ok." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Great job!!" Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #154 from Kyra_Tierney: i was looking at a list and pictures of "all" of the Gym set 1 cards, However, i did not see Erika's Jigglypuff, wazzup with that? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Where did you see this list? We do not have this onour web site yet." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Psst...It's in Challenge.." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #155 from JoshmanWing: In the STS, do you have to use the same coin or die the whole game thatyou started with? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Normally yes, unless it malfunctions somehow." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #156 from ppiikkaacchhuu: why is there edition d on butterfree Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Check it out w/ a magnifying glass...it's just a speck of dust that was on the films." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #158 from PoKoTCG: What is the Holofoil you get in Thunderstorm theme deck? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Fossil Raichu" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "whoops....Fossil Zapdos!!!" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "my bad...." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #159 from Haymakermaker: How do you become an assistant Gym Leader? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "If your Gym Leader askes for volunteers...you say: Yes!" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "WEEDLE WEEDLE WEEDLE YOUR NAME I LIKE TO SAY!" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "WEEDLE WEEDLE WEEDLE YOUR CARD I SHALL ALWAYS PLAY!!!!!" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "anymore questions????" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "hmmmm??????" Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #162 from Scrye_Fung: MTP Victory Road starts Sept. 16 according to a WotC's Store's Monthly Newsletter Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Correct, that is true for most locations." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #163 from ppiikkaacchhuu: what is the best pokemon for a deck Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Hmmm, depends on what type of deck you are making." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Weedle?" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Scyther?" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Rocket Hitmonchan?" Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Erika's Dratini is pretty popular around here lately." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Misty's Poliwag is pretty tough." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "so is Misty's Poliwag" Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #165 from Minion_of_Rocket: There is no clarification on teh Sabrina's ESP card that says anything about reapplying status effects, etc. For example, if you used Sabrina's Venomoth's Healing Powder, would you count all 6 coin flips as healing or just the second three? Also, if you were to use an attack from a Sabrina's Pokemon such as Sabrina's Gengar, would you flip all four coins and if two are heads out of all of those four flips, would you shuffle your opponents pokemon back into their deck? Even further, if you were to use Sabrina's Venonat's attack that makes youropponent's def. Pokemon lose an energy, if you flipped heads originaly, then flipped again for Sabrina's ESP and got 2 heads, would you discard 2 of your opponents energy, or would you only count the reflip? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Easy. IF you choose to reflip the coins, you take all of the new results instead of the old. You must make this choice to either keep the original effects OR reflip for new ones. They do NOT carry over." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #167 from Kyra_Tierney: why isn't the card "Your Chansey" allowed in tournament and League play? And Birthday Pikachu too!!?? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Because they are not out in English at this time." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #169 from stevepw: What is the next Promo card that you can talk about? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "None so far, but watch for some announcements next week (hint hint)." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #170 from Minion_of_Rocket: Which Weedle do you like best? The Base, Base 2, Vending, or Neo 2 Master_Trainer_Mike says, "The dreaded Promo Oingo Boingo Weedle." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #171 from JoshmanWing: If a person fails to remember to flip a coin at the end of the turn forsleep, do they flip when it is remembered or must they wait for the next end ofthe turn? And what are the penalties of such, say at STS? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "As long as the other player has not done anything yet (drawn his card, etc) then you can rewind and reflip. Otherwsie, if the otherplayer allows yopu to make the forgotten flip amnd nothing has happened yet based on your stateit can be done. Otherwise, you lose trhe flip." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Call a judge in if it is important." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "It is both players' responsibilities to remember thisstuff." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #173 from Pokesensei: Will one of the MT`s be going to the King of Prussia qualifier?(Hey,youdidn`t answer my other question!#106) Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Nada." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #175 from Chrisbo: Is the Victory Road season only going to be the standard six weeks long? And if so, what will happen after that until Year 2? Will stores be allowed to continue the League during that time? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Victort Road will be 6 weeks. After it ends there will be a break for the holiday. All leagues stop. Then there will be the year two restart on January 6th, 2001." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #176 from FireBlAsToIsE: are you guys going to make _____'s Chansey? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I don't think so." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #177 from Haymakermaker: What's Oingo Boingo Weedle's attacks? Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #178 from Articuno21: Will you please explain What the Oingo Boingo Weedle is? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Check out the Oingo Boingo discussion on the Pokegym, they have the exclusive info on this." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "hee hee he" Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #179 from lugia_2001: any news on english vending cards or southern islands yet? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Nothing worth announcing just yet." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #180 from FireBlAsToIsE: would Imakuni's doduo be playable if you make it Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Sorery no plans on Imakuni cards hewre yet." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #181 from garolo: What happens if I do Blaine's Quiz 1 but there is no length stated on the card for the pokemon in question? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "You will have to be able to prove and provide the answer. If that card is misisng the length (misprint) you had better have anotherone nearby for proof." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #182 from Zapdos1: What was the first place prize for the TMB, Did you trade any promos away like Jigglypuff? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "He got a gold medal all olthers got a silver medal.We did do some trading yes :)" Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #183 from Zapdos1: Can PhotoCopies of the real card be used for Translation? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "No, it must be an actual card." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #186 from JoshmanWing: In question 171, you seem to say skip the coin flip, but if it's important than that rule can be reconsidered. Can you clarify any? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "The actual rule is to NOT forget to do anything required by the game. Beyond that, it comes down to the poarticular circumstances." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Can't give you a catch all answer there." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "darn, do I have to sing some more????" Master_Trainer_Pat says, "My current deck under the 15 trainer card limit: 3 Hitmochan, 2 Rocket's Hitmochan, 3 Scyther, 3 Jigglypuff, 1 promo Jigglypuff, 2 Wigglytuff, 3 Erika's Dratini, 1 Aerodactyl. Trainers:3 Oak, 2 Mysterious Fossil,2 Gust o Wind, 2 Scoop Up, 1 Item Finder, 2 Comp. Search, 1 Lass, 2 Rocket's Trap. 4 DCE, 3 Full Heal Energy, 20 Fighting Energy." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "How about bad jokes instead?" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Course he losses to my deck all the time :)" Master_Trainer_Pat says, "How about decklists?" Master_Trainer_Pat says, "D'oh!" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "I'm trying a Raindance variant using Misty's Poliwagevolution chain and promo Articuno's. Went 3 and 2 with it last night." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I _only_ lost to MT Mike's Raindance because I had toOak away my Aerodactyl" Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Next time Chachi!" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Course I know to Gust up your Fossil when I see it coming too." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "We've also seen strong Dark Vileplume decks compete as well." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "And the typical haymaker/wiggly boring seen it before decks too." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Fire decks have made good showings, too." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "DMT Mike played a Fire Deck that scorched the Dark Vileplume." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "It's only boring if you lose to it!" Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #190 from lugia_2001: could i ask you guys about english card misprints: if so i have a fossil magmar with a mistake and a base2 cubone with a mistake. pleease answer Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Misprints unfortunately happen. If you are asking about secondary market value, check Top Deck or Inquets mags. Or check at a local card shop." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #193 from Scrye_Fung: In Gym: Challenge .. will there be a new revision of the rule book? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "No, it is being planned for the next release." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "So this sandwich walks into a bar and asks for a drink, the bartender looks over and says, "Sorry but we don't serve food here."" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "WAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHA!!!" Master_Trainer_Pat says, "sigh" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "unfortunately most of my jokes are too adult for this room........" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "sigh" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "so, back to singing if we don't get anymore questions :)" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Or we could always just end it early this week if need be. Any other questions gang?" Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Let's play some Frisbee while we wait..." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #194 from stevepw: Any new hints in the new Top Deck? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "What type of hints?" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "They do have some deck articles, etc." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Comes with a Rocket Booster and an MLB promo card." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "A Rocket Long Pack to be exact, if you care." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #197 from FeralShade: when will the victory road "season" commence? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Sept 16th in most locations." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #198 from Scrye_Fung: Does CustServ use TC's Rules Compendium? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "We don't as we have our own (that I make actually) BUT it is a GREAT resource for te public. Check them out at http://pokegym.thedojo.com/compendium/" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "They do good work there." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I make use of it on Monday's following a long weekend" Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #201 from zackarino: can slowpoke evolve into sabrina's slowbro Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Nope, just Slowbro or Dark Slobro" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "or the Oingo Boingo Slowbro........" Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #203 from Zapdos1: When will a STS Page be availble *about* Master_Trainer_Mike says, "There is info on the STS up now, more dtailed info will be posted as it gets worked out this next week or so." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #205 from EEVEE2001: Is Wizards thinking of sponsoring Apprentice? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "No, not that we know of." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #206 from WizO_Arkana: If I wanted to learn how to play Pokemon, where is the best place to start? Are there books or is it all cards? Is there a specific deck I should get? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "The Pokemon Play-It CD-Rom is a great resource. I give it to my friends to use all the time. Get the Thunderstorm giftbox to get the latest version." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Also, there's two extra decks on that you can access by typing 'fire' at the title screen." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #207 from Haymakermaker: What do you mean, Rocket Long Pack? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "A Long Pack is a booster pack that has a hole cut inthe longer top of the wrapper so it can hang on a peg hook in a retail store." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #208 from lugia_2001: in a picture, i saw a team rocket booster pack with ekans on it, whats that about? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I don't know, I've never seen any Rocket packs with Ekans on it." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #209 from stevepw: What decks are effective against Wigglytuff and Haymaker decks? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Trapper, Stall" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Raindance if its gets going fast enough." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Dark Vileplume with lots of Dark Glooms to confuse with." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Any deck that is fast enough." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Try using lots of attack status effects." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #211 from JoshmanWing: If using foreign language cards, do you need an English copy for each card you use? Say if I use four Japanese Item Finders, do I need four English Item Finders or just one? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Just one would be fine." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #212 from GalaxySoul: What is the least amout of trainers you can have in a deck? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "-7" Master_Trainer_Pat says, "zero" Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #214 from Snorlax566: what are the prizes at the ECSTS qualifiers? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Hasn't been posted yet, lots of cards I've heard though." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #216 from Scrye_Fung: MTM .. so you in your opinion's who's compendium is better TC's or MTM's Compendium? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Mine is better for customer service uses, yours is better for the public to find our accumulated wisdom." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "hee hee hee" Master_Trainer_Pat says, "or lack of suai wisdom" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "DOH!" Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #217 from zackarino: are you having the card drawing contests for vending cards yet, soon Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Sorry but no. Top Deck wrote that article long ago and te schedule has since changed. It is still possible in the futrure but not at this time." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #218 from Zapdos1: I heard you can make your own decks in the new Play it now cd , will there be a way to get update the card list when new sets will be released? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "It's possible, but we have not heard." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #219 from FeralShade: Will year 1 of the League ever see Gym Challenge cards? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Nope." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #221 from Haymakermaker: Can we get PreRelease Clefables for playing against an MT at a qualifier tourney? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Sorry but we don;'t have anymore of those." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "We have some though they don't have the pre-release stamp." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Just lots of Clefables." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "We will have other promos with us though." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #222 from Scrye_Fung: What's the schedule for Pokemon TCG in 2001? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Don't know yet, still being negotiated." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #223 from Scrye_Fung: Sandshrew's Sand Attack - "If tails, this attack does nothing.". Does this mean that the other Pokemon cannot attack at all? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "No, it just means that the attack will do nothing." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "He still attempts the attack and then flipos. On heads it works, on tails it fails." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #224 from pokemaster1000: is there a way to buy thunderstorm in stores Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Our stores, Premier stores GameKeeper stores or our online store." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #225 from garolo: I know a 5 year old that plays but has trouble flipping and shuffling without help. Can he participate in the STS qualifier? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Unfortunately in any tournament, a player has to be able to play the game alone without any assistance. If they cannot, they cannotparticipate in a sanctioned event. He can certainly play in the league though." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I would recommend that he not play in the tournament,he'd have much more fun just participating in other STS stuff." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #227 from FeralShade: I heard a rumor that WOTC will soon add eratta limiting the maximum number of trainers in a deck to 15. Is there any truth to it? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Not true. We are testing possible constrcuted tournament formats though and that is one being tested." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #226 from Snorlax566: If we play against the MTs, what cards might we get? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Usually a promo of some kind." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #229 from Scrye_Fung: Who's the superior Pokemn Players? MTP or MTM or DMTM or MT Galen? or Robert Gutschera or Mile Elliot or or or ... Master_Trainer_Mike says, "In Hawaii I had the ebst record out of DMT Mike, Mike Elliot and myself but it was very close." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Here, it varies week to week, we all play pretty well and it depends on what deck types we are palying." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Course we all have to help our boss DMT Mike look better than he really is :)" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "hee hee he" Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I'll be diplomatic...We're all sharp players and we take turns being the king of the P-mon hill. Of course, I take alot of turns at the top." Master_Trainer_Pat grins evilly. Master_Trainer_Mike says, "MT Galen and MT Z do a great job designing new deckstoo." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "MT Pat's time on the top is just long enough to get booted off......." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "D'oh!" Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #230 from EEVEE2001: Can you give us any idea of how much you guys have to pay for each set and how much revenue each one generates after a while? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Sorry we can't. We are a publicly held company and financial information is classified." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #231 from stevepw: I'm still fuzzy on Victory Road. How do you win what card? Any details...web site info? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "If you have earned all 8 badges, you can get a Victory Road book. If not you keep working on your badges." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "You get 2 points for a win and 1 for a loss in the Victory Road book. Every 10 points can earn you a Promo Psyduck." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "You must win 5 games in a row (without amny losses in between) and then you can earna promo Cool Porygon (#15)." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #232 from Scrye_Fung: for #223 - therefore Swift still has to check for Sand-attack's effect,correct? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Yes" Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #233 from lugia_2001: why do u make the PRERELEASE cards so plentiful? why cant you make themrare becuase i hate it that certain holos are considered stupid or worthless because of the PRERELEASE sign. could u make them a little more rare? (no offense to all you guys) Master_Trainer_Mike says, "We want everyone to have a chnace to get one. We donot make these cards to make them valuable on the secondary market, sorry." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #234 from FeralShade: will there be any new cards in Gym Challenge? (Like when they includedDark Pikachu in Team Rocket at the last minute) Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Dark Pikachu????" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "No." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #235 from lugia_2001: do you think that you could make a new rarity? like between common and uncommon or something like that? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Probably not." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "What would we call it?" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Slightly uncommon?" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Weird?" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Mostly common?" Master_Trainer_Pat says, "marginally more common than rare." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Occasionally Uncommon?" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "hee hee hee" Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #236 from Scrye_Fung: Does WotC wish they had more rights with Pokemon TCG? For example, to create independent cards or to have more input on the design process? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Of course we do. But we gladly work with Creatures and the other companies with THEIR product." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #237 from Chrisbo: Who is MT Z? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "He's the most mysterious member of the MT Crew and a very crafty opponent as well." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #238 from garolo: what % of your work week do you spend playing tcgs? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "35.85%." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "He designed the infamous Burnt Toast deck. Ask him about it." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #241 from lugia_2001: could i submit a new kind of deck to the TCG, like haymaker, Potpurri, etc..??? I have a great deck that people should know about. Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Sure, send in new ideas to Top Deck or to us at Custserv. We will give you the credit if we've never seen it before." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #245 from garolo: why will there not be a prerelease tourny for Challenge? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Due to the business of the holiday season, we were not able to get the materials needed together in time. We will do better on future releases." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Too little time to put one together, sorry." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #246 from FeralShade: in victory road, what if you win 10 or 15 in a row...i've done it, so i'm a little curious. Master_Trainer_Mike says, "You can keep winning Porygons." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #247 from pokemaster1000: what is the latest card set on the cd rom in thunderstorm Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Rocket." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #248 from Scrye_Fung: Regarding question #233, why is Prerelease Clefable so hard to get then? Master_Trainer_Pat says, "It was one of the first to be given out. Alot of players were not on the P-mon bandwagon at that time." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Let me give the announcements again (instead of singing)." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "First, as some of you may have heard, the East CoastSTS Main Tournament's Constructed Format rules will be announced on Oct 9th. We do not know what these rules will be, if they will even be different from the West Coast STS rules at all, so please do not ask about them, as we will not have any info on it until Oct 9th. At that point, they will be posted on our web site and you will be able to call Customer Service and get the full explanation of it." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Secondly, after talking with R&D I want to pass along some rulings changes and clarifications." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "If you have a promo Eeevee in play and you or the opponent evolve Grimer into Muk, then the promo Eevee's Chain Reaction Pokemon power would be triggered by the evolution of Muk and would still occur even though Muk's Toxic Gas states to ignore all other Pokemon Powers. Of course, any evolutions done after this case would NOT trigger the Chain Reaction due to the ToxicGas Pokemon power." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "If you use Porygon's Coversion attack on a Ditto, the effect takes place. If te Ditto Transforms into another Pokemon, the Conversion effect is still on it. This is because the use of a Pokemon Power does NOT end an attacke effect. If the Ditto were to Transform into a Pokemon that did NOT have a Weakness then it would still not have a Weakness as the Conversion effect states : If the Defending Pokemon has a Weakness, you may change it to a typeof your choice other than Colorless. This does mean that if that Ditto were tolater Transform to a Pokemon that DID have a Weakness, the Conversion effect would still be on the Ditto and would effect the resultant Weakness. Conversion, as all attack effects would be removed if Ditto was Benched or left play." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Some clarification on how attack results are calculated. Follow the chart in the rulebook under How Do YOu Figure OUt the Damage. Ignore the rules in What Order Do You Do Your Attack (specifically f). When your Pokemon attacks go through the normal steps through h, IF enough damage is putonto the opposing Pokemon to Knock it out then that Pokemon is considered Knocked Out. DO NOT ACTUALLY REMOVE THE CARD, TAKE A PRIZE CARD, OR MOVE UP A REPLACEMENT UNTIL ALL ATTACK EFFECTS ARE DONE. What this means is that if the placingof the damage on the Pokemon TRIGGERS a return attack (like Dark Gyarados's Final Beam or Rocket Hitmonchan's Crosscounter attack) then you jump back up into the order and resolve this NEW attack BEFORE you do step I) Now that damage has been done,if the attack does anything else besides damage, do all of that. This explains how an attack that paralyzes does NOT prevent Dark Gyarados's Final Beam effect if the Dark Gyarados is Knocked Out. Only AFTER all damage" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "and attack effects are resolved do you actually remove the Knocked Out Pokemon, draw a prize card, and replace it. Keep in mind though, that as soon as a Pokemon takes damage equal to its current HP it is considered Knocked Out regardless of what other attack effects occur after damage." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Lastly, what you have heard is true about the promo Jigglypuff #7. It is being earned on the East Coast Mall Tour. Our apologies for telling you otherwise. We only learned of this ourselves recently." Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #251 from lugia_2001: why dont you make a promo weedle? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Well I keep on SUGGESTING IT!!!!!!!!!!" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Obviously I am powerless.........................................." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Mike's been lobbying for one for some time." Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #252 from EEVEE2001: What holiday season are you talking about in #245??? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Why that would be the Arbor Day holiday season." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "The upcoming holiday season." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "We all care about the plight of the trees." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "We all get 2 weeks for Arbor day..." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "J/K" Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #253 from pokemaster1000: is there a way to get the latest set for the cd rom? Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Hug a tree." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "we don't know yet ." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Trees are your friend." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Where would we be without our friends the trees?" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Help preserve nature, pickle a squirrel today." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "oops.........." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "hmmmmm hm,mmmm hmmmmm" Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Well looks like no more questions are coming throughso thank you all for coming." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Look for MT Pat in Chicago at the Mall Tour." Master_Trainer_Pat says, "That's it for this week's rap session, talk to you all next time." Master_Trainer_Mike says, "DMT Mike will be in Baltimore this weekend at the Mall Tour, stop by and challenge him!"