This league was charming, it was in a league of its own. You can’t really compare it to past leagues in the series because the Alola League’s appeal is in its widespread focus and integrity toward the cast versus just a bunch of Satoshi v. (Rival) showdowns. The league offered an array of focus toward a colorful cast. Guzma, Mao, Suiren, Gladion, Hau, Lillie, Kaki, Mamane and Kojirou all got sweet and heartfelt moments through this league’s aim toward showcasing Alola’s place in the world of Pokemon. It fulfilled and showcased Kukui’s desires and wishes well enough.
Thus far my favorite moments are Kaki acknowledging Gladion as his “rival,” Mamane growing more confident battling, Lillie showcasing her battle growth to her brother and Suiren acknowledging though Guzma’s methods were cruel that he didn’t do anything wrong? She acknowledged him as a stronger trainer and that was really a good and mature loss for her even if Ashirene got beaten badly. This league wasn’t lacking in Pokemon focus as Amajo, Mukuroh, Gusokumusha, Hidoide, Pikachu, Bakugames, Meltan, all received solid character moments so far.
I only ask Nyaheat settle the score with Gaogaen at this point plus Satoshi has to debut Dynamic Full Flame, right? I’m hoping the cat gets the ultimate character moment of the league for the Pokemon but Pikachu tripping and defeating Gosukumusha’s diamond and armor then the samurai bug overriding its natural cowardice in Emergency Exit for its trainer’s sake might be hard to top. If Nyaheat does finish off Gaogaen I wonder how that’ll happen. Obviously Revenge will do a lot of good plus Flame Charge’s speed was enough to even with Darkiest Lariat and leave singe last time they fought so who knows?