When I first watched the episode, I was kinda disappointed that Alder wasn't quite the same as in the games. I can understand why some people really don't like him. But, the more I reflect on it, the more I like Alder. I think it's interesting how he's so different from what you'd expect from a champion. He's so casual about it, doesn't boast, and knows that enjoying life is more important than maintaining your power. That's cool. And I do think he has an interesting lesson up his sleeve: it's not smart to think that, once you accomplish your goals, life will just be "And I lived happily ever after." You really do have to consider what you're going to do once you achieve your goals, what you'll strive for then, and how you'll try to enjoy the journey.
Wow, kinda a tangent. Back to the episode. My main beef with it was the fact that Bouffalant wouldn't do ANYTHING unless commanded,
not even dodge. I mean, come on, can't that at least be a given? Also, I know complaining about realism in a show like this is a little... odd... but Alder was able to flip a 573.2 lb Pokemon? Really? I think it would've been more realistic if Bouffalant did the flipping: and that would've given Bouffalant and Alder a chance to show how they work well together. Not to mention I thought the whole Gigalith-was-only-attacking-because-it-was-hurt thing was predictable. But these aren't huge complaints by any means.
Also, someone commented that Trip seems like the Cheren of the anime: I agree completely. And someone said something about him acting Brock-ish. Yeah, my first thought was, "Is he Brock's long lost grandfather?"
Anyway, it was an enjoyable episode.