Pokemon Chat Report - Friday, September 14, 2000
by Ka-Lok Fung - Scrye Contributing Editor
Log done by Pokemon61 - Associate Member of Team Compendium


Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Hi everybody! Hope you all had a good weekend. D. MT Mike said he had a blast at the Baltimore Mall Tour event. It sound like he had a chance to meet some of you. Big thanks goes out to Kori for the neat personal poke-cards he made for all of us."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Yes, thank you Kori for the card and the book "Wheedle on the Needle"! It's great!!"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Let's start with the announcements."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Unfortunately there is not a discount program set upfor hotels for the East Coast STS. Turns out there are several events going onin the area that weekend and the 5 closest are already booked up. If you plan on going, I would recommend booking early."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Speaking of the East Coast STS, the Mall Tour stops so far have been hitting capacity for the qualifying tournaments. If you plan on going to one, make sure to get there early. There is good prize support as well with te wiiner getting a game boy, the ETCG cartridge, a box of boosters, a jacket, a t-shirt, along with his invitation to the STS."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "If you do not win an invitation in a qualifying event, then as long as you have earned at least 5 badges through the league you can enter. Capacity has been doubled from the West Coast STS but it is still limited. We are working on a pre-registration program for the main tournament that will start 3 weeks before the STS. If you plan on participating in the main tournament and have not won an invitation, then watch our web site and the chat for details."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Also keep in mind that the construction rules for the main tournament will be announced on Oct 9th on both our web site and you willbe able to call us here at customer service for details as well. Make sure to find out what it will be before you go to the event!"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "We have also been receiving lots of email and calls about the various tournament formats that are being tested and considered. The 15 trainer limit is probably the one that you have heard the most about. There seems to be lots of confusion about this and the other formats being testes so Iwanted to give a brief explanation."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "As we have said before, the Pokemon TCG was never intended to be a truly competitive game. It was made to be socially competitive (meaning friendly fun). The tournaments that are held in Japan are few and infrequent with an emphasis on fun for all. Here in North America we play our games a bit differently. Its all about winning in our tournament scene and so we tendto play harder, quicker, and much more cutthroat than the game was designed to be played. With that in mind, it has become obvious that out of the 500+ cards that have been released so far, roughly 20-30 of them are ever used in the must-win tournament scene. This is a sign of a broken game. There have been many discussions about the dominating Archetypes in Pokemon, mainly being Wiggly decks,Haymaker variants, the new Trapper deck, with some other deck types being occasionally played (Raindance, Stall, Sponge, etc.). In the West Coast STS (the first main competitive event we have held) almost 90% of the decks play"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "were almost identical. This is clearly a sign of anout of balance tournament environment."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Since we do own the card game, bannings and restrictions are not really an allowable option. Nor is changing the rules of the game (like only allowing 2 trainers played per turn). That leaves us with constructed tournament formats to try out. We have been playtesting various formats here in the offices and also reading all of the results that you have sent in to us.Whatever format we come up with (if any) might NOT be a final answer in an everchanging and growing competitive environment. Keep in mind that we are lookingat the overall longevity of the game and the competitive scene which is remarkedly different than the Japanese market, which the game was originally designed for. Sort of fitting a square peg in a round hole."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "The reasoning behind these propasals is to promote diversity in the competitive environment. To help players try other sorts of decks and have even a slight chance of competing with these decks. Trainer profusion, BBP's, the relative slow speed of evolution decks, the rapid spreading of any new deck tech through the internet and popular fan sites are all issues we areaware of and are discussing with Creatures for our different market than that of Japan. We are also talking with them about becoming more involved in the creation and playtesting of Pokemon and possibly even helping to design additional cards (like Dark Raichu) that may help to bring balance to a "fun" game that we in North America play so hard with."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Please feel free to keep sending in your opinions and thoughts on the future of Pokemon, we do read them, and listen on the phone. Understand though, that no matter how strongly you may feel about a particular aspect, there will be lots of others who feel the exact opposite :) Such is the spark that a democracy gives us :)"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "I hope you have all heard about the Pikachu Promtional set that is being sold at the Australian Olympics. We have info about it on our web site. Check it out! Don't worry though, the unreleased cards in that set will be coming out in North America (and the rest of the world) in your locallanguage through various promotions like the Pokemon League and movie releases."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Also, we are having our first in-house Pokemon tournament tonight! MT Pat, Dark Master Trainer Mike, and I wille competing with Mike Elliot from R&D, Kiernan Chase from the DCI, and lots of other tough WOTC Pokemon Trainers. It is a 15 trainer limit tournament and we will give you a reportof how we did and what deck types were used next week."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Lastly, I want to recommend that you check out the Team Compendium web site at http://pokegym.thedojo.com/compendium/. They do a great job of collecting our wisdom (and screw ups from the chat) and put it into an easy form for you to research at."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Check them out!"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Now, to the questions."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #1 from CelticMew:
         what happens when a league season ends and a new one begins?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Do you mean 'when a new year starts'? If so, you start over with a new badge book and compete for another 8(or 9) seasons."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #2 from E_Articuno:
         Will there be a prerelease card for Gym: Challenge?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Sorry but we don't know yet."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #3 from gunterl:
         When will victory road supplies ship to stores?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Victory Road stuff should be at stores soon if they aren't there this week."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #5 from Articuno21:
         Does the English Birthday Pikachu have the same attack as the Japanese on? Will it be legal?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "It is the same and it won't ever be tournament legalas you would have to provide ID to prove it was your birthday. Unwieldy in a timed environment."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #7 from soslowpoke:
         How do you get the non holo B-Day Pikachu?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "An english B-day non-holo Pikachu is in the special 9cards Pikachu set being given out at the Olympics."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #8 from PiPiPi:
         Is Ancient mew DCI legal? (also, did MT Mike sing at the TMB?)
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "No it is not. And I only sang to myself there.............."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #6 from JabDaggar:
         What is the DCI penalty on stalling? My opponent was stalling (at the Troy STS) and I was awarded a prize for 20 minutes worth of stalling.
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "To be honest I don't know the official penalty, writean e-mail to [email protected] to find out."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #12 from soslowpoke:
         Will energies be in Gym: Challenge?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Yes."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #10 from Minion_of_Rocket:
         Are there now any plans for more STS's to come, preferably in the states that did not get one this year?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "It will be a big year for Pokemon says Dark Master Trainer Mike :)"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "We are looking into more events."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #13 from Articuno21:
         On a poll at Pojos the question is Do you want Prop15/Prop2T to pass? Many many people (I haven't checked recently, though) do not want it to pass. What do you think of this?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Look at the announcements for our thoughts on this."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Most every emaiol that has been against any changes has not given any other suggestions."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Everyone is allowed their own opinion but the game is broken my friends"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "At least in te competitive environment."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "If you have other ideas, feel free to send them in."
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "It does concern us, but it seems to me that many people react that way just because they fear change and do not want to use their experience to guide them through making and experimenting with new deck types."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Yeah!!!"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "What MT Pat said!!!"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "(what did he say???)"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "hee hee hee"

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #15 from Meowth52:
         Why does the kid in the gym heroes commercial get 2 rares?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "That was an optical illusion......."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "yeah thats it...."
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Does he really?? We haven't seen the commercial. That would be bad(if he got two rares)"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #14 from soslowpoke:
         So ARE you guys making vending sets?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Not yet :)"

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #16 from Mr_mystery:
         Any info on what the promo for the P2K movie Home Video release will be?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "We don't know yet."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #17 from soslowpoke:
         do you know what the names of the new G/S towns since you are haveing Season 2 of the league?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Yeah, theres Kukamunga."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "And ummmmm............Tipparari. :)"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "and uhhhhhhhhhhh"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Timbucktoo"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "errrrrrr next question."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #19 from ThaMasta:
         will you have an expansion for the gym leader set.....the elite 4!!
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "No plans to yet"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #22 from soslowpoke:
         What will the vending set be called/how will it be released?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "I'm voting for the Oingo Boingo expansion :)"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #23 from Mr_mystery:
         If cards HAD To be banned, which cards would be banned(From DCI Sanctioned play)?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Hmmm, Oak and Fire energy :)"

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #25 from ThaMasta:
         what would happen if you attach a plus power to a kangaskahn and do fetch can you draw 2 cards?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "No, the Plus Power only adds damage to an attack thatdoes damage."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #24 from soslowpoke:
         Are you making Southern Islands promos?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Us personally?? My crayon box is getting too low........."
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I'm voting Mew OFF THE Island!"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #27 from Mr_mystery:
         Any new info on Prop 15 Besides the Annoucements? When will it take effect, if you already know?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "We don't already know anything.....still testing."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #28 from Brocks_Onix:
         whats a prerelease?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "That is when you get really excited.....over openinga booster."
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Pre=before and release=the cards come out officially."
Master_Trainer_Mike )

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #30 from soslowpoke:
         When I play Trash Exchange, does that get shuffled in the deck as well?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "No, I believe you play, do what it says then put it in the discard pile."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #29 from CelticMew:
         can i use the old book for a new season
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Nope, you wil get a brand new one when you sign up for year 2."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #31 from Mr_mystery:
         What will you guys do about the Imakuni? cards in Gym Challenge? I wantto test my singing voice and get a career started!
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "What? My singing sin't good enough?!?!?!"
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I don't think they'll be in Gym Challenge."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #32 from ThaMasta:
         you should make a cool new set called tv charactors or somtin and have things like Toplikas Ditto and Samuris Pinser...what do you think?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "I have no idea what to think.......I am a bit scaredthough."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #33 from PiPiPi:
         Any info on any new sets like Neo and Vending? (release date, etc.)
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I wish we did....nothing good to announce though"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "It will be a big year for 2001 says Dark Master Mike."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #34 from Mr_mystery:
         And while we're at it, how about ___'s Chansey? That gonna be in Challenge, or a Promo, or will it ever see print?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I don't know, I know, it won't be in Challenge that Iknow of."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #35 from Zapdos1:
         Can we use the _______'s Pikachu now in sale in the Pikachu Set in Pokemon League Play?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "No, you won't be able to use it in sancioned play dueto having to prove it's your b-day and such"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #36 from Mr_mystery:
         What decks have you guys been using to Playtest Prop15?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Raindance, Whiskey a go go, Mr Yuk, THread the Weedle, Wiggly, Hay, etc etc"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Lots of others too."
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, "I play a raindance variant using Misty's evolution chain for the attcak."
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Fire decks have been seeing use as well"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Dark Vileplume shows up a lot too. We wil have a full report of our internal tournament next week."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #37 from PiPiPi:
         Do you know what the Year 2 seasons will be based on? ALso, when will it start?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "It starts Jan 6th. Can't talk about specifics yet."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #38 from Meowth52:
         I've seen the list of when the pikachus will be distributed in english and they are quite spread out through next year. Does that mean those will be the only promos distributed during that time?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "No it doesn't"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #39 from PiPiPi:
         What will the Gym Challenge boosters look like?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Probably similar to Gym Heroes but with the new Gym Leaders on them."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #41 from soslowpoke:
         It says you get the non holo B-Day Pikachu at Wizards Pokemon site in America-how wold I get it from there?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "There will be a promotion set up later in November."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #42 from Mr_mystery:
         RE A question a few weeks ago regarding packs of energy: Newbies would buy the packs! Some people always pull the same type of pokemon(including myself)...
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "THat is one of the erasons the PCD's exist, so you can get the energy that you need."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "We will pass that suggestion along again thpough."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #43 from ThaMasta:
         what hp will the evolved form of onix have cos onix already has 90 so it should be massive?...right?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Evolutions don't always go up in HP, look at Sabrina's Haunter."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #44 from Meowth52:
         You say that Pokemon was not meant to be very competitive. How can youmake a game without it being competitive? Isn't that a uh... oxymoron?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Many people play rock, paper, scissors for fun, it'sa game but hardly viable in a tournament environment. Same idea goes (but a bit more complicated)."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #45 from PiPiPi:
         When will invasion be released?j/k Do you ever plan on allowing sideboards in Pokemon?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Oct 3rd. J/K No plans for sideboards in P-mon. Current tournament matches are just one game."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #46 from soslowpoke:
         Are you printing Neo?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Me personally? Nope, low on crayons like I said."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #47 from E_Articuno:
         Did you realize that the Pokemon Puzzle in September 2000's Topdeck issue was impossible?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Yes we did, which is why starting next month MT Pat and MT MIke will be doing them. (a little shameless self-promotion)."
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Have fun finding and pointing out our mistakes."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "If we make a wrong one you can take our donuts."
Master_Trainer_Pat grins evilly.

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #48 from Chrisbo:
         Re last week (part 1 of 2): If Porygon uses Conversion 1 on Ditto, thenif Porygon retreats for someone with no weakness, the status effect remains butis not applied. [more to come, not enough space in my browser for whole thing]
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Yes."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #49 from Chrisbo:
         Re last week (part 2 of 2): Then, if the Active retreats for someone with a weakness, since the status effect is still present on the Converted Ditto, weakness is once more applied. Are both of these correct?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "That's right Chrisbo. You have walked the rice paperwithout leaving a mark"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Isn't Ditto fun?????"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #50 from soslowpoke:
         What issue of NP is Sabrina's Abra coming in?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Not sure, I've heard its the December issue which comes out before December."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #51 from Xayide2:
         On your info site on when the pikachu cards will be released in the US,it said that the non holo B-Day Pikachu will be release Nov 2000, how is that going to happen?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "No, we're just releasing the holo version here."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #52 from Chrisbo:
         Any news on whether Ditto's energies are still "rainbow" if it's Asleep, Confused, etc.?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "The energy attached to Ditto would revert to it's normal type."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #53 from Mr_mystery:
         Is there a drawing contest for the Vending Promos? If so when?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "We are discussing possible contests for later, no specific plans yet."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #54 from Chrisbo:
         How should you play The Rocket's Trap if Omanyte's "Clairvoyance" poweris active (opponent plays with hand face-up)? Does the opponent have to hide the cards in order for them to be chosen "at random" or can I look at which ones to pick?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "We'll double-check on this, but we believe that you would have to randomize the discard."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #55 from Mr_mystery:
         I've asked it time and time again, and now it's time this week: Have you acquired the rights to Neo?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Sorry, nothing we can announce yet."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #56 from Chrisbo:
         If Rhyhorn used Leer, then the opponent uses Fossil Raichu's Gigashock,does the bench damage portion of the attack take place or not? Or what if the opponent uses Hitmonlee's Stretch Kick or some other attack that does not directly affect Rhyhorn?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "No, on the first part, because the P-mon is still attacking Ryhorn which Leer says that you cannot do."
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "We'll find out about Hitmonlee."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #57 from PiPiPi:
         What kind of deck do you think will be most powerful in Prop 15? Also, what other props are you considering besides 2T and 15? (What kind of pizza do you guys get?)
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "With current cards I think Wiggly or Haymaker are still pretty strong. We've come up with a couple of Fire decks that are good as well."
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "When Challenge comes out I think alot more strategiesbecome viable."
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Raindance becomes abit better than it was under unlimited trainers(against Wiggly anyway)"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Like Whisky a go go!!!"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "You can also make a tough deck with Sabrina's Psyduck, Rocket Mewtwo and Alakazam damage swap."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "I always ask for donut pizza but have yet to get one."
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "We usually get a variety of pizza from Round Table orGodfather's...strictly veggie for me."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #58 from Articuno21:
         Will you please explain Oingo Boingo to me? I couldn't find it on Pokegym. I would like to know the joke
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Started a month or so back, someone talked about Oingo Boingo the band and it led inot an "in" joke about broken upcoming Pokemon cards. Just take any card and insert Oingo Boingo and join the fun!!!"

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #61 from PiPiPi:
         Instead of Imakuni's Doduo, will you make it Mike's Doduo?j/k Why did you make holos and nonholos in all those earlier sets?(nonholo and holo mr. mime)
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "No, though Mike tried.."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "That was MY suggestion anyway :)"
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "The holos/non-holos thing was because the sets were so small on their own."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #59 from Zapdos1:
         MTM: Are excited about the new Weedle coming to town (Koga's Weedle)
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Yeah Baby!! (thumps chest) Sending out my love to Weedle fans out there!"

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #63 from Light_Psychic:
         Tell me some stuff about year 2 of the Pokemon League
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Well, it comes after year 1........"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "and before Year 3."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "and 4"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "and 5"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "and 6"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "and 7"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "and 8"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "and 17"
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "We've told you most of what we know already. It starts January 2001."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "and 24 too!"
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I do no that it won't have the same cool badges that the first year had. :("

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #62 from Mr_mystery:
         If my opponent played Tickle Machine and I drew Imposter Oak's Revenge,can I discard one card from my face down cards to play it?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Nope."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #64 from Mr_mystery:
         Did you guys play against Imakuni at the TMB? If so, did you win or lose? What did he play? I want to Metagame!
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "I played against him and beat him twice. He was a lot of fun to play though as he made silly faces and yelled out his attacks."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "I do remember him playing Weedle against me of all things too!"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "But in the end, my crazed North America must win at all costs attitude beat out his peaceful warrior way of playing."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #66 from PiPiPi:
         Why did you make the 9-card pikachu set ONLY available in australia? That makes it really hard for everybody else to get them...
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Nintendo 'asked' us to do that for the Olympics as a special deal. We will be releasing all of them in the US in english at a later date"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #67 from Mr_mystery:
         Time for a What if Question: What if a guy plays Misty's Duel, you don't know how to play RPS, and your fingers are broken so you can't flip. What do you do?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "How are you holding the cards then? With your feet? If so, flip a feet coin then."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #68 from Mr_mystery:
         What is the main intention of Prop15? To weaken Hay and Wiggly and Trap, or to even the playing field, or all of those?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "To encourage diversity in the tournament scene...to prevent the game from getting stale."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #70 from Articuno21:
         What if you do have your I.D. with and it is your Birthday. Can you usebirthday Pikachu then?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Not in league or sanctioned events, sorry. A geame with your friend, its up to the two of you."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #69 from IKendall:
         will the other promo pikachus be playable when they're released in English?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "We think so."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #71 from garolo:
         Other than flying to Sydney in the next 2 weeks, is there a way to obtain the 9 card Pikachu set?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Nope."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #72 from Mr_mystery:
         Any new plans for an America-got-it-first card(IE, Dark Raichu)
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Not yet."
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Nothing we know of, though MT Mike keeps coming up with new card ideas."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #73 from Mr_mystery:
         There is a Weakness / Resistance design change for Neo and Neo 2. The change is, instead of 3 rows, there is a spiral shape with weakness on the left and resistance on the right. Will this change be on the Neo cards when we get them(If we do?)
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "We don't really know for sure, though I hope so. It looks cool."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #75 from Pkmn61:
         if i have a myst. fossil on the bench and a promo eevee activate, then evolve the myst fossil into aerodactyl, does promo eevee's power still work?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Yes it does, playing the Aerodactyl triggered the Chain Reaction AND Prehistoric Power would not prevent you using an effect that pulls a card from the deck anyway. It only prevents you from playing Evolutions from your hand."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #76 from Pkmn61:
         Would a plus power attached to a raticate increase hyperfang's attack damage?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Yes it would."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #77 from Mr_mystery:
         Who made the Pokemon puzzlers for the TopDeck before you two came in?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Various people"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "But we will do better!!! (shamel;ess self promotion). :)"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #78 from NicknNeo:
         Any news on the Happy Birthday Pikachu Card out in English?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Its all on our web site what we know so far."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #79 from IKendall:
         Here in the UK we feel a bit hard done to - that's 3 promos so far thatarent being released here - all the NP ones! Will they come out some other way?(Please say yes!)
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Yes, we have no idea if those will be released in another way."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #80 from Mr_mystery:
         Why do you blame TR for the misprints? Why not just admit you made 'em?Or are you... Chicken? Bawk Bawk Bawk Bawk Bawk Bawk Bawwwkk!
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "You do realize that this game was originally amde for kids right? What sounds more fun to a kid, a balding print manager messed up? Or Team Rocket did it??"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "And I have to say, you do a great chicken :)"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Colonel Snaders would be proud of you."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Sanders."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #82 from Haymakermaker:
         If Venomoth changes its type to Water, can Blastoise use Rain Dance on it?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Yes."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #83 from megabestia1:
         SUPPOSE THIS, I HAVE A JIGGLYPUFF, AND YOU HAVE A CHANSEY, IT'S MY TURNAND I LULLABY YOU, AND YOU BECOME ASLEEP, DO YOU HAVE TO FLIP A COIN AT THE BEGINNING OF YOUR TURN OR AT THE END OF YOUR TURN TO SEE IF YOU BECOME AWAKE.
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "He would flip at the end of your tun (turns the capsdown) and the end of his turn and so on until he is awake."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #84 from IKendall:
         if Tickling macgine is played, then Imp Oak, does the opponent draw 7 cards, without shuffling there "out of play" hand back?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Yes, they do. My precious Haymaker just lost to thatblasted trick!"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Darn!! We were going to use that trick on you at the Mall Tours too!"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #85 from Articuno21:
         Hypothetically speaking, if there is a Drawing contest for Vending willthe Drawings be chosen at random? That would really stink because we would havePathetic drawings from all the little kids that send in thier pictures.
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Whichever one Herby the Wonder R&D hamster nibbles on would win......"

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #86 from Haymakermaker:
         If Porygon used Conversion on Aerodactyl to change its weakness to fighting, then confuses it, will Aerodactyl to damage to itself when its attack fails?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "end result, Aero-D does 10 to himself."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "weakness first, then resistance."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #87 from NicknNeo:
         When will the STS (Super Trainer Showdown)come to Illinois,Iowa,Centralregion,etc?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "States that start with vowels scare me........."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "There are plans for future events but nothing solid yet."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #88 from megabestia1:
         I RECENTLY GOT A COUPLE OF SHADOWLESS CARDS, WITH THE FONT OF A DIFFERENT SIZE THAN THE NORMALS, I WANTED TO KNOW IF THEY'RE FAKE OR WHAT
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "We can hear you fine... The shadowless cards sound like an older print run, if they pass the light test they're probably the real McCoy."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #89 from Mr_mystery:
         What are the decklists of the Fire Decks that appear to do well under Prop15?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "We will have more specifics next week but a deck centered around Blaines Magmar does really well."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Try Blaines Arcanine and Moltres for support."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Blaines Moltres too."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #90 from Dark_Gyarados:
         Is there gonna be any other way to get the _______birthday pikachu? besides going to Australia?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Yeah, we will have a web promotion in November and it will be available to be earned in Season 1 of Year 2 of the Pokemon League."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #91 from Mr_mystery:
         If it does pass, do you know if Prop15 will be in effect during the East Coast STS?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Oct. 9th"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #92 from Mr_mystery:
         What has the Metagame been like in the STS?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Still rather stagnat with Wiggly and Hay but Trapperand Dark Vileplume are starting to appear."
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Tickling Machine decks have started to show up as well"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #94 from Xayide2:
         What in the world is Whiskey a go go?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Whiskey as in fire-water and go go as in energy removal. Use lots of Pokemon that remove energy from the defending Pokemon in theirattack and support it with ER and SERs. Tough deck."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #96 from PoKoTCG:
         the deck you enter the tour tournament with do you have to use that deck the whole time during the tournament
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "You have to use the same deck at one tournament, you can change decks between tournaments."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #97 from IKendall:
         if Dark Gyarados uses final beam and knocks out another D Gyarados, whodoes the second Gyarados use Final beam on?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "The first Dark Gyarados, all attack effects and results are finished BEFORE you actually remove and replace Knocked out Pokemon."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #98 from PoKoTCG:
         can you use Gym Heroes in the tour tournament
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Uh-huh."
Master_Trainer_Pat nods solemnly.

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #99 from Xayide2:
         Is yr 2 league going to include orange island badges?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Dunno."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #100 from Hyeok:
         i only have 2 badges... i heard that ou needed 5 to enter the east coast STS. what makes me more mad is that the STS actually takes place in my town! and there isnt a single place with in the 30 mintes driving distance to goto for the qualifier's even
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "They'll be a TON of other side events going on there,you just need 5 badges to get into the main event."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #101 from Xayide2:
         Anyone contacted the news stations yet to show what's going on at Pokemon Park 2000 during the Olympics....if the promo 9 card pikachu is a Olympic promotion?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "This is Nintendo's baby, they are in charge of PR for it."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #102 from Hyeok:
         in the 9 card world pikachu card sets, there are few cards that hasnt been made in america and will be made for the pokemon league year 2 such as the flying pikachu card. But, there is an english card in the set, 'birthday pikachu'. in the 'english la
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Yes, but you won't be able to use it over here at tournaments"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #103 from Articuno21:
         Was there a set that was the hardest to gets the rights to? If so, which set was it?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Ummmm, we are still working on Neo....."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #104 from JabDaggar:
         Let's say i have an omanyte on my bench, using Clairvoyance. I play TheRocket's Trap. I flip heads. How do I determine what three cards to shuffle back into my opponents' deck? Do I get to choose without him flipping them over, orwhat?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Turn the cards upside down and randomize them(shuffle) then chose three at random."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #105 from Articuno21:
         Will the name of the English Birthday Pika be "Birthday Pikachu"? What exactly is the card's name?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Not sure what the official name will be yet. Pat saus ___ Pikachu."
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "The card reads ______'s Pikachu."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #108 from pikachu89:
         Has Toys R Us renewed their contract for the Pokemon League?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Yup."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #109 from Hyeok:
         sorry, question #102 was cut off i think. ill get right to the point: can you explain further how you would get the birthday pikachu(BP) card on the website and explain if the BP card from the 9 card pikachu set and one from the league will be differe
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "The web promotion isn't set up yet so no info available. The birthday Pikachu in the set is non-holo and has a special holo- pika tail stamp on it. Our card over here will be holo and not have that stamp."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #111 from pikachu89:
         Do you have a date when Pokemon 2000 will come out on video? If yes, what is the date?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "No, the movie is Warner Bros. department"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #112 from Zapdos1:
         Is Prop15 one of the concidered formats of the STS?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Yup, as well as several others."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #113 from Haymakermaker:
         What kind of web promotion will you do?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Dunno yet."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #114 from pikachu89:
         What month of Nintendo Power Magazine will Promo 19, Sabrina's Abra, come in? It said Aug. 2000, but that was Promo 17, Dark Persian.
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "We believe it will be in the Dec issue, which should be out sometime in Oct. Confused yet?"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #115 from JabDaggar:
         is it October 7th yet? ;) you know what I mean. and when is the Oingo Boingo expansion coming out? =/
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "(looks at calender)....Nope!"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "ITS A DEAD MANS PARTY!!!!"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "WHO COULD ASK FOR MORE??"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "(sorry just had to sing)......"
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Chrisbo, in answer to your earlier question re: Hitmonlee being stopped by Ryhorn's Leer. Leer would stop Hitmonlee from attacking."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #116 from pikachu89:
         Do you have info on the new Pokemon League for 2001? What will it be called, what will the badges be, etc.? We already know what some of the promo cards will be.
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Nothing else sorry."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #117 from pikachu89:
         Will there be a prerelease card for Gym Challenge? If yes, what will it be and how may you get one?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "We don't know, Mike and I have been unable to turn upany info on it."
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "That's rare."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #118 from megabestia1:
         concerning question 83 why he have to flip at the end of my turn, (if Iwas the one who lullabies him) he wouldn't have any turn asllep then and the rule says after the end of the turn, point is that it doesn't specify whos turn!
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "You made him Asleep during your attack.. Asleep creatures get to flip at the end of each player's turn. After your attack, your turn is over and he gets to flip."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #119 from garolo:
         Will you be posting the results and decklists from tonights WOTC tourny?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "We'll give a report next week"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #120 from Mr_mystery:
         How did you guys get selected as MTs?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "I was the loudest puppy in the box and I dragged MT Pat along. :)"
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "woof"

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #121 from Delta00:
         If you have a Japenese Rockets Sneak Attack and a magazine with a copy of it on the pages (Enlglish) can you have the magazine instead of the english car
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "No,"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "what like a ford taurus?"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "(english car)"
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "No a Jaguar"
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Aston Martin"
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Rover"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Oh British!!! Like bread pudding and blood suasage."
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Ya know"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "And Austin Powers baby!!"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #123 from PoKoTCG:
         so you can't use Gym heroes in the tour tournament
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Yes you can!"

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #124 from fav_cat:
         What is the retail price of the 9 card olympic pika promo set?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I think it's just under 10 wallabies"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #125 from megabestia1:
         I was playing with this guy and he rearanged the order of the cards in his deck prior to shuffle it, would this be allowed in a turnament?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Yes but you would have the right to shuffle it yourself or cut it as well if you were uncomfortable with his shufflingmethod."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #126 from pikachu89:
         Will current Toys R Us Pokemon Leagues receive items to run the VictoryRoad Season?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Yes."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "It is up to each store whether they wil run it or not, there has beena rumnor that we stopped it, that is not true."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #129 from garolo:
         What's the one card that gives R&D the most headaches?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "DITTO!!!!!"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "plain and simple"
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "clone"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Vesuvian Doppleganger...."
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "one one and the same"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #130 from Articuno21:
         Could you please consider naming Birthday Pikachu, "Birthday Surprise Pikachu"? This would be very popular with little kids and you might make more money
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "How about Happy Happy Joy Joy Pikachu instead??"

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #133 from Hyeok:
         Does WotC plans to release a new starter set for the Neo sets? and justa suggestion: you should start a new promo set for the neo promos. has this been considered?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Mayyybe"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #134 from Xayide2:
         Is Gym Challenge's release date Oct. 7th?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Maaaybe"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #135 from Hyeok:
         Does WotC print the korean version of Pokemon TCG? if not, do you know who does?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Those are fakes, sorry."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #136 from Hi_Jynx:
         Can Dark Charmeleon use Fireball if all he has attached to him is a DCEand a Buzzapped Electrode?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "This would work if you called the buzzaped electrodeto count as at least 1 fire energy when you knocked it out. If not, then you couldn't."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #137 from E_Articuno:
         In the question about TR trap and clarivoyance, In Magic Terms, the Trapper will still take cards from random despite from its card seeing, and won't be "random" be "random", instead of it being like the player just choosing three cards to get into his/her deck?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "This isn't Magic........"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #138 from Hyeok:
         does wotc ever plans to slow down the speed that you are releasing new sets at? lots of times, we dont have enough time to collect the entire set.
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Other folks complain that we take too long, just no pleasing everyone all the time."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "We are working towards synergy with the Japanese market."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #139 from Delta00:
         when does victory road start?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "VR should start this weekend in most locations"

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #141 from Hyeok:
         does wotc ever plans to release its own expansion completely american?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "No."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "not yet anyway"

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #142 from porygon_maniac17:
         Will you include _______'s Chansey in Gym Heroes? Promo?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Nope."
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "No, possible proma??"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #145 from Articuno21:
         If you didn't put the Graveyard on Sabrina's Gengar, why did you put blood on the Rocket's Training Gym? I think blood would be more fightening than a graveyard
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Guys, art changes happen for so many reasons. Cultural differences, requests from the licensor, or sometimes our cards just come out darker. We do NOT have the answers to art change questions. Please stop asking them."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #143 from PoKoTCG:
         how many people can be in the tour tounament (I'm going to Tri County Mall Sat. SO EXCITED!!!!)
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Roughly 200 per gae group per day I think."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Good luck!"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "While I am waiting for questions (I won't sing). I am building my 15 trainer deck for tonight. To be different (not necessarily towin) I am building an energy recursion lightning/psychic deck using WB Pikachu,WB Mewtwo, and Surge's Pikachu as the main Pokemon. Any suggestions from you all as to what else would work?"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #147 from porygon_maniac17:
         Will there be a pre-release event for Gym Challenge?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Nope."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #149 from WizO_Arkana:
         Last week you told me if you typed 'fire' onto something it would give you two extra decks. What was that dealing with? Sorry for the bad memory. :-(
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "That is the Pokemon Play it CD- Rom, type Fire on the main screen to unlock 2 decks (that was in Version 1 not sure if it is the same in Version 2 or not)."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #150 from lugia_2001:
         Could you make Imakuni's Doduo a promo?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Maaybe."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #151 from Mr_mystery:
         Why do you not include Imakuni Doduo and ____ Chansey in Challenge? Youcould get a contract with Scotty Bros. Records if you get lucky!
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Not our decsions."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #152 from Hyeok:
         Referring back to question #135, if korean cards are fake, how come it is in the 9 card pikachu set?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Is there a Korean card? We thought you were referring to the multiple Korean fakes we have seen on the market."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #153 from porygon_maniac17:
         Do you know what holo's are in Gym Challenge Pre-Con decks?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Not yet."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #154 from PoKoTCG:
         will you release Imankuni? trainer in US cause Imankuni is my FAV.
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "We have no idea on Imakuni stuff yet gang."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #155 from Mr_mystery:
         What is an InSaNiTy deck?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "An insanity deck used to be a Haymaker with Electabuzz in it."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #157 from porygon_maniac17:
         Any plans to release any vending cards in a set or Promo's. You did with movie Promo Pikachu.
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "No plans yet. Accept for the Vending Pikachu in the9 card Pikachu set."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #158 from Mr_mystery:
         If you played a Pokemon Breeder on a Pokemon, is it healed of Poison/Confusion, etc.?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Yup."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #160 from Xayide2:
         Any Christmas pokemon promo's besides Sabrina's Gengar in NP Dec. issue?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Sabrina's Abra you mean."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #161 from Hyeok:
         do you need wizards permission to have a league not sanctioned by DCI?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "No"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "No, just can't call it an official League."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #162 from Chrisbo:
         How long does it normally take to get a reply from [email protected]. I've been waiting a week and have not received a reply yet.
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "I got yourlast email Chrisbo about the prop 15 idea. That is why I wrote the opening annouincements on it. My apologies if you were expecting a personal reply on that one."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #166 from Chrisbo:
         For MTMike's deck: Fossil Gastly's Energy Conversion is good. Also, splash in a Mew just for fun.
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Thank you :)"

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #168 from porygon_maniac17:
         Have you read the Pokemon comics yet?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "nope"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #165 from Zapdos_6669:
         Surges Electabuzz' would also work, as would fossil gastly... kinda
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Thanks again :)"

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #171 from ShiningDarkness:
         What are the rares in the Gym Challenge Decks?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I haven't had a chance to peek at them yet, you'll bethe first to know if I find out"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #172 from Delta00:
         you should use Mr. Mime, Electrode, and Lt. Surges Electabuzz in your deck MTM
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Interesting, not sure I would use Mr. Mime as I'm not looking to stall. And Electrode??"
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I tried Lt. Surges Electabuzz myself, I found it abittoo slow."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #164 from porygon_maniac17:
         Will props15 or 2T effect the East-Coast STS?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "We will announce the format for the main tournament on Oct 9th."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #175 from Tyais:
         Oh, and I hear you are offering a reward to beat Dark MT Mike's Energy Denial deck? A Control deck using Dark Machoke does OK against it since most of his Pokemon have high retreat.
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "He laughs at your feeble threats......"
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "hee hee hee"

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #176 from Rainbow_Trainer:
         I know this was probably asked... but I got here late... Is there goingto be a pre-release tourney for Challenge..??
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "No, not this tiome"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #177 from porygon_maniac17:
         Can you revive a Cleafairy Doll?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Nope, its a Trainer card when in your discard pile, not a Pokemon."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #178 from Hyeok:
         you said that there were tons of other events at the east coast STS that you dont need any badges for. what are they?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Check out the STS info on this website. There are lots of different 'zones' with different activities."
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "As I recall, people who played in the side events at the West Coast STS had a better time in some respects than the folks tied to a tourney schedule."
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I especially recommend that for the very young(under 10)"

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #180 from Rainbow_Trainer:
         With the release of the special Pikachu cards in Sydney... Will they beavailable on the Wizards Website..?? Anywhere else via the internet..??
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "nO."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #181 from Mr_mystery:
         MP Mewtwo can beat Dark Mike's Energy Denial easily...
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "well, I don't know. I played against it last night and while I would have won under tourney time limits..."
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "He beat me in the end by running me out of energy completely."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #182 from lugia_2001:
         In a pic I saw on your site, I saw a TR booster pack with an Ekans on it, what's that all about?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I don't know."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #185 from RoyalCharizard:
         Mysterious Fossil says to play it as a basic Pok�mon, so can you use itas your starting active pok�mon is you have no basics in your hand, or do you just call a mulligan?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "You call a mulligan because when Mysterious Fossil isin your hand, it's just a Trainer card."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #186 from ShiningDarkness:
         Is it true that promo Jigglypuff was given away at East Coast STS qualifiers? why not at west coast ones?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Yes, Mike and I are slightly upset that they decided to do that. Obviously, because it wasn't given out at the West coast qualifiers. (sigh) What can ya do."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #188 from Hyeok:
         where is the STS website?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "www.wizards.com/Pokemon"

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #189 from Hi_Jynx:
         Is there a web site or somewhere I can go to see various deck configurations such as haymaker and blastoise?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Pokegym or Pojo"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #190 from Tyais:
         Laugh at me??? Tell him Im going to have those Sea World guys at his front door again! But honestly, Prop15 decks that work nicely as well are ones focused on Erika's Gloom/Vileplume, Fame (using Aerodactly, Erika's Dratini and some BBPs for support), and Occult Powers/Turbo Snorlax which uses Snorlax as the active Pokemon and Dark Gloom/Drowzee (from Rocket) on the bench with their powers.

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #191 from porygon_maniac17:
         After Fossil there was a 6 month wait for Rocket. Will this trend continue from Challenge to Neo?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Depends on licensing issues but we hope that that doesn't happen again."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #192 from Zapdos_6669:
         When does the pickahu binder go on sale, and how much does it retail for?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "The 9 card set should be available at the Sydney Olypics right now"

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #193 from porygon_maniac17:
         Will there be rare cards in Challenge like Misty's Tentacool, Misty's Goldeen, Brock's Zubat which are in most scenarios worse to their common counterparts?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Dunno."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #194 from lugia_2001:
         What is the next english jumbo card?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "No info yet."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #195 from pikachu89:
         Who has information on the cost of the Pokemon World Collection?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "It is up to the retailers that are selling it in Australia."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #196 from porygon_maniac17:
         Why were Misty's Goldeen, Brock's Zubat, etc. rares in Heroes?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Because they were ONLY available in limited hard to get pcds."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #198 from ShiningDarkness:
         Does Sabrina's ESP let you apply affects and damage again?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "No, if you choose to reflip you must take the secondresults instead of the first one."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #200 from FireBlAsToIsE:
         if something like mewtwo that was weak against it's own type and it wasconfused, if youflipped tails for confusion woul fit do 40 to it sekf because of it's weakness?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Yes."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #201 from PoKimon86:
         How many cards will be in Gym Heroes Challenge?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "132"

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #202 from porygon_maniac17:
         Have you heard of the Mulli-Magmar(Blaine's Magmar) deck? If so, have you tried it?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "What is it exactly?"
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "No, can't say that we have."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #204 from Rainbow_Trainer:
         Who do we contact to find out more about Pokemon Park in Sydney..??
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "You don't. It is an Australian product only."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "YOu would have to go there, that's all we knbow."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #205 from pikachu89:
         Who is selling the PIkachu World Collecition in Australia? Nintendo orWotC?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Nintendo of Australia is."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #206 from Hyeok:
         Does WotC believe that having extremely rare promos such as giving out an exclusive card to a winnner of a tournament etc... is wrong? Japanese promo cards do this...
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Yup. Drives up a ridiculous secondary mareket."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Blech...."

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #207 from lugia_2001:
         Are there going to be energy cards in Challenge?DCE?
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "Just basic"

Master_Trainer_Pat presents the speaker with question #208 from PoKimon86:
         Would a deck of 4 Blaine's Magmar, 4 Chansey, 4 Maintenance, 4 NGR, and44 Fire Energy be a good idea?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Don't like Maintanance. Oak away the cards and thenNGR them if nbeed be."
Master_Trainer_Pat says, "I don't like Maintenance myself, though I know why you're using it in this deck."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "You might mulligan alot too with such a small numberof Pokemon."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #209 from Imakuni007:
         Have you planned for Neo yet?
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Still working on geting the rights."

Master_Trainer_Mike presents the speaker with question #210 from Tyais:
         Its not called Mulli-Magmar... more commonly called Lava Burst. Dark MTMike knows about it. Uses Blaine's Magmar using the Lava Burst attack. Deck should have 38+ fire energy... you can deal 100 each turn for awhile.
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Yup, we've played against it and we've helped him tune it."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "We are true tuners."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Ok gang, we have to get ready for tonights tournament so we will be logging off a few minutes early. Thank you for coming and we will see you next week and have the results for you from our tournament. MT Pat will be in Chicago on the 23rd-24th. I will be at the Boston Stop in October."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "Thanks you all for coming."
Master_Trainer_Mike says, "See you next week :)"