Fandom Pain

(Source: Tamon-kun Ima Docchi!?)

Heart-shaped decorations alleviate amorous atmospheres here and there. All things red and pink dominate malls, minimarkets, and even mansions. Confectioneries and bakeries are offering chocolates or brownies designed in similar styles and shades. Timely tunes that retell enchanting encounters or intimate interchanges suddenly feel sweeter than ever. Events and gifts, such as candlelight dinners and bouquets of roses, are must-do and must-buy items. 💝💐

What on earth is happening? Well, it means the world has fully rotated into the one date that people either look forward to or loathe. Maybe even both at the same time! Hahaha. Yes, Valentine's Day is here again! Or as the innocent kids—and perhaps, adult naysayers—would react, "Womp Womp." 😂

It feels like only yesterday that I posted an exposition about this arguably commercialized festivity. Okay, no, who am I kidding? The 2025 tiredness begs to differ! That piece was indeed many moons ago. Time just passed us by so fast, it's still fresh in my mind alone. 🤦🏻‍♂️

The exact thought did occur to me, though. Why should I discuss Valentine's Day again when I can repost that post? But its core theme is love, after all. And love, whether we like it or not, is here, all around us, both in plain sight and through subtle gestures. From the angelic Agape to the evocative Eros, love always invites old stories and new discussions. Seriously, I literally fell asleep rewatching a 30-minute talk show compilation about the day of love last night. 😪😅

So, without further ado, let's do that, too! But this time, and this year specifically, let's talk about a unique kind of passionate love that can easily range from adorable to extreme. It's a shared feeling of appreciation and affection that may be as uplifting as it is intoxicating. 😳😨

To be a FAN!!! 🤟🏻🥰🤩

(Source: Tamon-kun Ima Docchi!?)

L is for the Way You Look

Everyone's a fan of something. As human beings, we have the agency to like someone or something. When that feeling of fascination grows stronger, it transforms into admiration. 👀❣

Over time, such intense fondness may accumulate into devotion, and eventually sheer adoration. Many even go so far as to defy logic and explanations. We've all seen how groups of people are willing to believe or do pretty much anything their worshipped leader/figure claims and orders them to. Isn't that how religions were born? Or how political parties gain traction? 🤷🏻‍♂️

I'm not going to explore that example further, as this (hopefully) will never be the space for that. But being a fan, and not just a casual fan, in many ways is similar to that, eh? It's a community that doesn't mind paying extra or invests more time and energy in a subject/object of interest. 🤔🤯

In older, more sensible, more understanding days, that is. I'll get to that in a few... ⏳

"The fans are like rings that orbit round and round around the stars. They're all just countless particles.

This is how far I should be from him. I can't make the mistake of becoming a meteor and crash into him."

—Utage Kinoshita, Tamon-kun Ima Docchi!? (Episode 1)

The quote I included above came from a surprising new anime that's currently airing, titled Tamon-kun Ima Docchi!? (Tamon-kun's B-Side). It's surprising to me because it was never on my radar. Idols and everything around them are, sorry to say, NOT my thing. I dabbled in it (or perhaps tried to get into it?  😅) when I was a much younger, naive nerd, influenced by peer pressure and all. Even so, looking back, my primary interest was always for their songs, not the whole concept of idols and the daunting devotion towards them. 🎶🤔

Okay, that's a pretty elaborate exposition to say, "I've never been much of a fan," huh? Hahaha. 😅

Anyway, Tamon-kun is a rom-com that leans more into the comedy aspect. That's the reason I ended up watching it. After all, I AM a fan of good comedies. Personally, a fair dose of laughter is always helpful, if not necessary, to lighten up the heavy, dreary, and needy nature of our daily demands. It's the cheesy or sweet embrace we need! 😁👍🏻

Much like my delightful introduction to a certain gourmet anime last year, Tamon-kun most definitely made the most timely entrance. I already wanted to focus on the topic of fans' love since late last year. The anime, however, has given me deeper insight and understanding into how devoted a fan can be. Its theme just clicked so soundly! I guess, like a fated pairing, if it's meant to be, it's JUST meant to be. Would you agree? 🙋🏻‍♂️💞

The manga-turned-anime series centers on Utage Kinoshita, a high school student who works part-time as a housekeeper. Her job has a divine purpose. Utage needs money to support something, or SOMEONE, to be precise. That someone is none other than her Oshikatsu, the titular Tamon Fukuhara, the alluring, sexy, seductive member of the idol unit (or as we in the 90s called it, boyband) F/ACE. More than that, the hardworking girl is a self-proclaimed missionary of the Church of Tamon, vowing to spread the good word of Tamon-kun and attract more followers. 💒🙏🏻

Hilariously, the same job crashed Utage into a mindblowing reality check. Tamon's pretty guy, people-pleasing, publicized persona is, well, merely a persona. A gigantic facade, to put it bluntly. His real personality is the complete opposite. Hence, the title's wording "Which Tamon Am I Seeing Now!?" comes into clearer perspective. As instantly implied by his true nature, Tamon is only the first example in the series. Utage eventually learns there are even more. 👀🤯

Utage's expressive but endearing reactions, actions, and interactions with Tamon's gloomy antics become the fuel for nonstop laughter. Despite the strange and wacky situations, she also portrays the spirit of a sincerely supportive fan. It's clear that Utage, so far, is a depiction of the more positive part of the fandom. 👏🏻👩🏻

(Source: Crunchyroll)

O is for the Only One

FANDOM is the community of fans sharing the same interest, as simple as that. It's an old term coined more than a century ago. The base word is, well, what else? FAN, which itself appeared two to three decades earlier. Upon deeper look, the term originated from two possible words: Fancy and Fanatic. Those words also have their own history, of course. 🤠⚾️

At the time, a "fan" refers to a sports enthusiast. Baseball fancy fanatics, in that era. Nevertheless, as we're now aware, the scope has expanded to encompass nearly any cultural phenomenon, including TV shows, movies, and public figures. The nature is, in a way, polyamory as well, considering someone can be an ultra fan of several fandoms at the same time. 🎥🎻

Oshikatsu, closely compared to the Western idea of Stan Culture, is a subculture of fandom. This particular subculture carries very different connotations depending on who's looking. To outsiders, their dedication may seem like an addiction that triggers unnecessary spending. Still, economists believe it has the potential to revitalize Japan's economy as well. 👨🏻‍💻🧚🏻‍♀️

That describes Utage's character and driving force. As a student, she doesn't really need to worry about food on the table or paying monthly electrical bills. She has parents who are alive and active to handle those responsibilities. Oshikatsu activities, on the other hand, are NOT a cheap choice. It requires significant financial demands on Utage's pocket to show support for her Oshi. There are concerts to attend, merchandise to buy, and all kinds of fans' banners to make! She works hard to make all of that possible. 💇🏻💵   

Admittedly, the negative sentiment that fawning over an oshi is a pointless, negative, unhealthy, and selfish behavior makes sense. But instead of judging others so easily, let's remember that people live differently, and that's fine. A lifestyle or life choice that works for us doesn't necessarily bode well for others. 🤫

Everyone's a fan of something, and if we stop and think about it, each one of us has probably invested some form of contribution to our fandom. Maybe it's literal money, like Utage? Or, it's simply the intangibles, such as time, effort, and attention. Also like Utage. Hahaha. Again, fandom is an overarching term that applies to various aspects or subjects in life. 💫🌐

Later in the story, it was revealed that Utage also had a fundamental reason for joining Tamon's fandom. Without spoiling anything, the idol's presence helped her find her place and purpose. Honestly, that's the part I can relate to so much. As a human being with free will and not an AI chatbot (and somehow baffled that I still need to point that out sometimes), obviously, I have my share of fandom, too. My essays on Super Sentai, Pokémon, and some others are evident enough already. 😅

The one that mirrored Utage's dedication the most, however, was my interest in the Sakura Taisen (Sakura Wars) franchise. Their music, to be even more specific (composed by the all-time greatness Kouhei Tanaka-sensei). I couldn't really claim to be a hardcore fan of the entire franchise. Frankly speaking, the only game I played from start to finish was Sakura Taisen V: Saraba Itoshiki Hito yo when NIS America localized it for the Nintendo Wii. That said, the musical numbers always gave me a purpose, whether big or small, to keep going forward. 😥🕺🏻

And yes, that entire paragraph was in the past tense for a reason. Before SEGA soft-rebooted the franchise in 2019—only to tank it again on June 30, 2021, with the underperforming Sakura Kakumei ~Hana Saku Otome-tachi~ mobile spin-off—, the game series had already entered hiatus in 2008. Even so, stage musicals and smaller-scale festivals and anniversary events continued taking place at irregular intervals until July last year, with Sakura Taisen Budoukan Live 2 ~Teito.Paris.New York~ being the most notable and memorable one, in October 2011. 💃🏻🎤

I specifically mentioned that show because that was the last time the main and key supporting cast members from the first five games held a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime concert to unsurprisingly much fanfare. Now, that glorious ensemble is no longer possible. Several of the voice actors are sadly no longer with us. Truthfully, my focus on the franchise has started to wind down from that point onward, too. Not even the 2019 game managed to fully revive my interest. 🤫💿

(Source: SEGA)

V is Very, Very Extraordinary

Such is the unfortunate, heartbreaking reality of fandom. As with all things human-related, every entertainment entity starts and finishes. It's always a temporal existence. There's an inevitable time limit to how long it can keep going. ⌛️⛔️

Many of us often wish for a show or a movie franchise to continue forever. Or for a favorite idol to keep singing and shining on stage. Alas, that is as rare as a snow leopard. The kids' show Doraemon has been on air since its 1973 premiere. Even after the creator passed away. Neighbours, the famous Australian soap opera, on the other hand? It wrapped again (yes, for the second time) last year, despite staying on screen for 41 seasons. While the legendary actor Dick Van Dyke remains as spry and enthusiastic about working, others like Dame Judy Dench have officially retired from the industry. 🤷🏻‍♂️

On the bright side, the attachment itself, especially supercharged with nostalgia, doesn't really go away. As heartbreaking as it may be not to see our beloved media or characters in the spotlight, technology has made it easy and convenient for us to revisit them. Many older series and movies that were once confined to outdated formats, such as VHS or CDs, have been digitally remastered and are accessible at the palm of our hands. 🤳🏻

Sure, there was a sense of sadness and pain when the object of interest left our lives. But now, that pain feels less aching. Even when they don't technically exist anymore, the all-time classics are still around. They will remain as long as the baton continues being passed on to the next generation. I may not be the avid fan that I was before. But the fact that I can listen to and sing Sakura Taisen songs on different digital music services, 30 years after its game debut, is an extraordinary example. 🤩👍🏻

"Fans are terrifying creatures.

They're ruthless beasts who engage in bloody quarrels with each other."

—Keito Tachibana, Tamon-kun Ima Docchi!? (Episode 7)

The new, real pain, regrettably speaking, has instead come from a different side of the table: the fandom itself. 😨

No, I can only wish I'm kidding with that! Eras have changed, as they always do. The way fans interact with films, shows, anime, celebrities, and more has also morphed, for better or worse. Understanding and sensibility don't play out as they did before. 😔

Personally, I’m not even sure when this irritating irony started. Calling it ‘new’ already feels outdated. TOXIC FANDOM, a phrase that has gotten very common, disturbingly so, has been prevalent in recent years. Or maybe the better wording should be MUCH LOUDER AND BOLDER? As many have pointed out, social media blurred barriers and boundaries between interests and fandom. It paved the way for anyone in the fandom to express their views in real-time. Disappointingly, that includes bullying, harassing, and sending death threats, not just to other fans with a different point of view, but even to the creators directly. 🤬👹

Stranger Things concluded its story after five seasons on New Year's Day. Immediately after, many fans stormed the internet, crying that they had been betrayed by an ending "too HAPPY" that it didn't meet their expectations. Apparently, it would be more pleasing to them had one or more of the characters died in the final battle. Wait, what? 🙅🏻‍♂️😱

The Marvel Cinematic Universe is currently in an odd state of "dismissal" post the spectacular success of Avengers: Endgame. The amount of ridiculous hatred toward its movies and TV shows echoes across social media as of this writing. Here's an unpopular opinion: NONE of them are as awful or as bad as the discourse complaints, though. It's just a matter of which demographics the title is aimed at. 🙆🏼‍♂️🧏🏽‍♀️ 

Likewise, I can say the same about Nintendo. When the Japanese company announced Nintendo Switch 2, the community's cheers quickly turned into sneers upon the revelation of the much higher price. For years, the fandom rallied Nintendo to keep up with the rest of the gaming industry in terms of technical specs. Yet when they decided to do so, including the inevitable higher, non-family-friendly pricing? To this day, comments shouting, "Nintendo is greedy!" still appear across channels and social media posts. 💰👈🏻

"You are part of the problem" is a direct personal attack that I will never forget that day. To think I was only commenting neutrally that, due to the rising cost of everything, the "console price makes sense." For the first time in my life, I got called a "Bootlicker" too! Woohooo, achievement unlocked! Hahaha 🤣

Similarly, the Pokémon franchise continues to get the short end of the stick. Its newer games are ridiculed and review-bombed by people before they launch. The sentiment that "Game Freak is lazy" has gotten very exhausting and repetitive. It's as if the complainers are parroting the same copy-pasted excuse. Over and over again. 😒🐀

When a hacker stole and leaked terabytes of project data from the company—a massive privacy breach for Japanese companies—a portion of fans cheered and shouted that the punishment should have been worse. The demo of the upcoming Pokémon Pokopia, set for a March 5, 2026, release, has surprised many gaming journalists in a good way. But if one scrolls to the comment sections, the nagging rant over Game-Key Cards is still there. 🙄🤦🏻‍♂️

(Source: Eurogamer)

Here's the thing: I'm a simple guy. A natural nitpicker. If I like something, I support it in the way that I can. Maybe I can save up to buy and enjoy it fully. But if it's too expensive, I cheer for it in silence. If I don't like something, I don't invest my emotions or money in it and shift my focus elsewhere. There's really no point in harassing others who seem to like it, even if we share differing tastes. 🤷🏻‍♂️

But that's not how it works anymore? Does that neutral stance mean I'm not a real fan? How about the so-called fans of modern fandoms who—under the bold excuse of pushing for good change and quality— don't hesitate to attack creators whenever things don't play out the way they have desired? Do they count as the real fans instead? 🤔

"Your duality seems even more intense than mine."

—Tamon Fukuhara, Tamon-kun Ima Docchi!? (Episode 1)

By looking at it through the lens of love, the toxic development starts to feel less surprising. Fandom IS a form of love after all. There is an emotional investment poured slowly but surely into the dedication. Once it reaches a certain level, it may evolve into an obsession. Obsession can have a positive impact as a powerful force that pushes forward. An obsession that's not regulated and balanced carefully, though? Can trigger harmful outcomes or even compulsive behaviors! 😍👿

If a romantic relationship can turn sour and downright abusive, the same applies to fandom. Love can become a dangerous sense of entitlement. When fans develop a specific fan identity, anything that does not meet their idealistic mindset may be perceived as a threat. Their personal investments suddenly mean ownership over the object of interest. God complex much? Or an extraordinary pain in the neck? 🍋👺    

E is Even More Than Anyone

No doubt, being a fan is a different case now. It requires a lot of patience to be in a fandom that has gotten hostile, draining, or fractured. Experts say pain lingers when what we love is gone. But in modern fandom, the pain swells while it's still alive. The noise, the wars, and the endless negativity might make us question why we even bother to stay in it! 😩🤦🏻‍♂️

Fortunately, people are indeed aware of the rise of toxic fandom. It could very well sit among the reasons for the increasing push to limit social media access for kids in various countries. Many psychologists and writers have also emphasized the importance of walking away from social media. It serves as a form of activism in its own way. ❌📵

Truly, I agree that's a great gesture and action. Although it's not easy to pull off, the thought of not having to wade through a pool of toxic fandom already gives me peace of mind. And really, we should be in charge of our emotional safety. Let the toxic be toxic while we persevere in positivity, far away. Right? Hahaha! 🤟🏻😝

Moreover, the reality remains that a fandom began as a united community. A group that shared a similar love for someone or something. In many ways, that's still happening. There are many good apples despite some rotten bunches. 🍎😇

When a political move prompted The Walt Disney Company to dismiss director James Gunn, positive fan support allowed him to return and direct Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Most recently, actress Maya Imamori was unceremoniously fired from No. 1 Sentai Gozyuger. The fandom voiced its disapproval about the unfair treatment. Yet, there was no boycotting the show or its producers. The show continued to air, despite being in an awkward state, and the fandom watched to the end. Both examples are proof that fandom can raise a healthy voice. 😮👏🏻

(Source: Still Watching Netflix)

Watching Tamon-kun provides a similar reassurance. Utage has indeed reprimanded Tamon a few times when his negativity gets a little too dark and almost gets the best of him. No matter how I see it, though, her reasoning is always to support and infuse positivity back into him. There's no hostility, and not once does she think she's above him! That's a display of genuine tough love that reminds Tamon how much he means more to her than he thinks. If anything, the show keeps reminding me that people who think like Utage are still plenty, and that not all hope is lost. 😌🧡

Therefore, before this Valentine's Day ends, let's ask ourselves a simple, honest question: 

Do I want to be in a toxic relationship?

If the answer is NO, then let's start by not being the toxic one in the relationship. Loving something doesn't need to be a bittersweet affair. Beyond the drama and disappointments, it can still be a world we once called home. All we need to do is focus on the good and not the bad. 😏🤍

It works as effectively in fandom. Not everything will work out the way we want to. Instead of reacting negatively, staying calm and composed is always an option. And, maybe, after a second, third, or fourth look, we might even notice more to say, "It's a fantastic time to be a fan!" 🤩🎉

"There are going to be some fans who drift away. 

And there'll be some fans who won't."

—Ouri Sakaguchi, Tamon-kun Ima Docchi!? (Episode 6)

(Source: Tamon-kun Ima Docchi!?)

 

From Me to You: They're Always Number One

And just like that, the final episode of No. 1 Sentai Gozyuger has wrapped, concluding the 50-year-plus broadcast run of the Super Sentai franchise. 👋🏻😌

For now, at least... 🤷🏻‍♂️

But we'll still be getting one more offering in the upcoming annual V-Cinema Versus movie. No. 1 Sentai Gozyuger vs. Boonboomger will have a limited theatrical release on March 20, 2026, with home video versions arriving on July 29, 2026. So, Super Sentai has not completely closed its chapter just yet! ✋🏻😌

 

(Source: Toei Video)

(Source: Bruna Bastos)

In the meantime, here are some creative fan tributes to keep us company:

(Warning! They contain SPOILERS and, in a way, can be pretty emotional.)

(Source: Tokusan Viet Nam)

(Source: Hawkilles)

(Source: Ultra Rider MV)

(Source: BliBli via LittleAniGoGo)

(Source: Fiction Verse Indo)

From Me to You: May Our Paths Cross Again Someday

“You see, sometimes friends have to go away, but a part of them stays behind with you."

—Satoshi/Ash Ketchum, Pokémon: Jirachi—Wish Maker

(Source: Pokémon Masters EX)

👋🏻😌

(Source: Pokémon Masters EX)

Fare Thee Well, My Masters & Multicolored Heroes

October 31, 2025, might be Halloween for many. It's a day when people dress up in crafty, colorful costumes from the corners of their fandoms. The ones that represent mastery and heroism in ways known only to the wearer. Parties and nightmare-themed events are available, held, and organized to be a celebratory experience that only happens once a year. ☠️👻

But for me, the nightmare didn't require any fake haunted houses. They landed on the comfort of my home. First came news from my brother that shocked me to the core, concerning an almost lifelong part of our lives. The next day, before the sun even peeked on the cloudy horizon, an eerie comment haunted me with dazed confusion, only to become a confirmation a few hours later. It shattered my reality, prompting me to retreat into a suspension of disbelief. "How could this even happen?" I lamented. 😫😭

Okay, yes, I admit that sounds cheesy and exaggerated. Isn't that a common reaction on social media nowadays, though? To resort to a hyperbolic response mode, as if one's rights and feelings are being attacked, assaulted, or violated by a cruel party without warning? 👺🙄

Hahaha, wait, that paragraph felt outlandish too, eh? Unnecessary social criticism aside, no, my reaction was far tamer than that description. My mouth did let out an instant yelp of "You're kidding, right?" And although my emotions weren't as vividly intense as described, I was indeed taken aback by both pieces of news. 😟

What news? Let's rewind to what they are, starting with the latter. Because it will be the first to chronologically transpire. And very soon. ⏱️⏳

(Source: Pokémon Masters)

"Our paths they did cross."

I have been using my Fool's Errands section to write about my experience in re-experiencing two Pokémon mobile games so far. Out of the slew of titles I am still playing, however, there's one I've never considered for this exploratory experiment (or pointless project, to some people hahaha 😅). The video featured above probably already spoiled any mystery. It is none other than Pokémon Masters EX. PokéMas, for short, in its country of origin. 🙋🏻‍♂️

Why haven't I tried replaying the game from scratch? The idea alone felt daunting and logistically challenging. The app doesn't allow switching accounts easily like Pokémon GO. While Pokémon Café ReMix shares the same limitation, at least it's available to install on Nintendo Switch, which naturally works as a separate medium from my main gameplay on my phone. Besides, Café ReMix's data size is somewhat small. PokéMas warrants a far bigger space—hence, the need for a separate phone—to pull off. 🤷🏻‍♂️📱

In all fairness, I somewhat regret not looking for a workaround to make it happen. After all, in just two days from now, PokéMas will bow out, making its grand curtain call. In my country, that is. Emphasis on that, so please don't freak out if you've been playing it, too. 🖐🏻😲

As long as your country hasn't received the END OF SERVICE announcement, you're safe to keep playing. Good for you! Please keep playing and supporting it! After all, there's always a risk of it happening elsewhere, too. My country isn't even the first, and it's just joining other countries that already prohibited access to the app (some from day one). 😔🤷🏻‍♂️

(Note: You can probably pinpoint which country I'm residing in from that info alone. Not that I mind, as it's not a scandalous secret anyway. 😜)

The brainchild of Ken Sugimori, the renowned designer who has created numerous characters and Pokémon species in the franchise, PokéMas shifts the focus onto the colorful cast of protagonists, Gym leaders, Champions, and even antagonists by bringing them all to one island. Canonical question notwithstanding (it's practically a multiversal meet-and-greet), that's the primary, and personally, thrilling appeal compared to the catch & collect-oriented Pokémon GO. 😊🙌🏻

Hey, at some point, I proudly declared PokéMas to be the best Pokémon mobile spin-off. Come to think of it, it's still kind of IS? I mean, where else can we see characters from different regions cross paths, interact, and form an unexpected bond? 🤔🌐

For example, the Team Galactic leader, the big baddie Cyrus from Sinnoh. He could exchange tech intellect with Sophocles, a nerdy boy from Alola who has zero interest in creating a perfect universe. How about Johto's resident Ghost guy, Morty, setting up an after-school occult club with Galar's Dark protege Marnie among the students? And don't forget the sweet, found friendship between Paldea-native Arven and Unova-based N, which, mind you, didn't happen so smoothly just because they had similar parental problems. 🤭💛

PokéMas has given these existing characters, along with future ones, the space to thrive and grow beyond the confines of their base games. In those games, their participation pretty much ends once the ending credits roll in, and maybe even earlier in the gameplay. Here, Kalos' renowned Sycamore could reunite (and arguably speaking, mend the bridge) with his former friend turned misanthropic eco-terrorist Lysandre. Steven and Wallace might have hinted there's something more between them beyond passing the baton of the Hoenn Champion title. Meanwhile, Red, Blue, and Leaf proved their battle bond by forming a formidable Kanto Legends trio together! 🥇🥈🥉

(Source: Pokémon Masters)

It's like literal fanfics coming to life! 🤩🥺

With that said, it would be a blatant lie if I claimed that my interest in PokéMas has stayed high. Following a mindful memory analysis, I realized that my enthusiasm started its downward trend around the game's 4th anniversary. At the time, I somehow encountered a difficulty in updating the app, and the customer support, who was usually very reliable, couldn't even assist me. Guess what? It's mindblowing what almost two weeks of absence can do in altering one's attachment to an app. 🤯👍🏻

Another major ongoing issue for me was the pattern of putting the spotlight on the same character repeatedly. Red and Cynthia, the Sinnoh fearsome Champion, are iconic fan favorites, yes. Even so, giving them various new alternate Sync Pair combinations with new Pokémon did NOT work for or impress me. The biggest offender, however, was the introduction of the obviously monetization-aimed Arc Suits (which, again, debuted with Cynthia's other new alt). 🙄🤦🏻‍♂️

Last year, PokéMas added the Terastal gimmick from Pokémon Scarlet/Violet. I enjoyed the Terastalization in my Paldean adventure. So, I assumed that would renew my interest in the app. Sad to say, it has been the complete opposite. Maybe because, once again, the app chose to assign the gimmick to the same faces. I have zero knowledge behind the scenes. However, I wonder if DeNA, the developer, had already shifted focus to Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket, which has since become a global hit, arguably more than PokéMas. 🃏💎

To prevent this from rambling into a more detailed rant, allow me to move forward with the other goodbye. Besides, the second one has a more profound impact. 🙁

"And so it goes, on and on."

My first official entry in this (new) blog explored the wonders of nostalgia that, in many ways, served as the start of facing a long-buried grief. The piece centered around a long-running entertainment franchise that has been, in many ways, influential on my growing up journey. It was already on TV before I was born, and has remained on air when this post goes up. Those multicolored heroes have come a long way, huh? 🤔🌈

That's why the irony hit somewhat hard. My brother's startling news a few months ago was, "SUPER SENTAI IS ENDING!" The initial reaction was a giggling, "You're kidding, right?" Even though I'm fully aware the opposite party isn't one for joking. Seeing his firm confirmation, the line turned into a higher tone, "YOU'RE KIDDING, RIGHT?" riddled with a wave of disbelief. 😮‍💨

I mean, I'm pretty sure ANY Super Sentai, or even Power Rangers, fans would react similarly. TOEI is currently airing No. 1 Sentai Gozyuger as the 50th anniversary season. They've been doing this for that long. Why would they suddenly stop a staple show that's been a part of generations of children's Sunday mornings? Have they gone mad? 😱👿

What was first blowing across the globe (from Asia to Europe and beyond) as a rowdy rumor soon burst like a balloon as an official statement. That it wasn't made up, and it was more or less REAL. Hollywood has been flaunting the phrase "Superhero Fatigue" for years. So, is that actually happening to Japan's entertainment industry? Not quite. ✋🏻😅

Although not explicitly confirmed, Kyodo News Agency and The Sankei Shimbun noted that the recent Super Sentai seasons, such as Bakuage Sentai Boonboomger and Gozyuger, have not been selling much. And by selling, that means toys and action figures. Despite the action scenes, compelling characters, and storylines in some titles, the most prominent aspect of the franchise is, no doubt, the live events and merchandise. The sales from those consumer-based practices fund the production costs, thus allowing the franchise to continue running. 🤖💰

(Source: Wotafa)

Regrettably, the country's declining birthrate only means a gradual decrease in viewership numbers. Consequently, that spells less overall profit. Many no longer buy Super Sentai merchandise for their kids. Though, let's be real: who still does that anyway? With the rising cost of daily necessities, healthcare, and education, only super-loaded parents can even afford to buy those expensive action figures. Moreover, the customer market has already switched to adults in general, no longer serving the younger demographics. Why else would The Pokémon Company and LEGO market their recently unveiled collaboration for older enthusiasts? 💵🙆🏼‍♂️

Shinichiro Shirakura, a senior executive at TOEI, has since explained (via Asahi Shimbun) their creative reason. It's a massive Marvel Cinematic Universe-inspired decision, it turns out. A franchise that goes on and on needs to reinvent itself to avoid being run-of-the-mill. The fascinating thing was that he didn't confirm the financial difficulties explored above. Or the fact that the Super Sentai franchise has come to a definitive END. Shirakura called it a HIATUS. 🛌🏼⛔️

Admittedly, I could smell corporate sweet-talk right away, considering the explanation came a month later. Then again, Shirakura wasn't kidding either. In the same week, TOEI revealed the replacement show, which will be called PROJECT R.E.D. 🧧🏮

Cut to the present day, the official trailer and cast names for the project's first title, Super Space Sheriff Gavan Infinity, have been released. A week ago, on January 18, to be precise. BandaiJP channel has even released a video showcasing the (what else?) toys and merchandise. The new show, which will take over the Super Sentai timeslot, is set to start airing on February 15, 2026. 📅👀  

(Source: TOEI Tokusatsu World Official) 

"Your voice will still remember our melody."

In the end, an exaggerated response is not really necessary, eh? 😛🙅🏻‍♂️

PokéMas may soon become an empty, inaccessible husk in my country. Still, assuming DeNA doesn't wipe out our regional save data from their servers like a super villain, I can always continue playing when I visit or, who knows, move permanently to another country. 🛫📲 

While Super Sentai is officially gone two weeks from now, the sci-fi replacement will introduce a team of three, not five, heroes. Kamen Rider Zeztz has already introduced two Riders with different color schemes, with three more debuting starting next week. Eventually, TOEI will merge Gavan Infinity and Zeztz to follow their Hollywood entertainment-inspired goal. Speaking of which, Disney has taken the baton and is currently developing a new Power Rangers series from scratch. Therefore, if we stop and think about it clearly, Super Sentai isn't really closing for good. Its multicolored spirit continues, albeit with a new name and title. 📕📽

My lingering qualm, if anything, is how I'm bidding farewell to PokéMas and Super Sentai with such an underwhelming emotion. I've never sensed the urge to try PokéMas's new Pasio Towers mode. The Pasio Academy feature, though fascinating at first, is yet another attempt to reuse the same characters again, this time in school-related attire. Apart from several episodes (Yuichi Nakamura's Gaia was a terrific guest star), Gozyuger has always felt like a chore to watch due to its unclear direction and lackluster quality (for my subjective standards, that is). Plus, there's that unsavory cast shake-up happening close to the finish line. Had the Super Sentai franchise concluded with the neatly written and passionately produced Kaizoku Sentai Go-kaiger, I'd probably be crying nonstop. But with Gozyuger? I'm not even sure what to say. Truly, this waning interest of mine has robbed me of the joy of enjoying both their final run. 🙄🤦🏻‍♂️

Nevertheless, do I feel sad about not being able to see more characters appearing in PokéMas or welcome more colorful themes in future Sentai teams? In a way, yes. Do I also feel I've wasted time, energy, and attention on something that in the end ends so abruptly? Yes, I do, and annoyed by it, I suppose. But do I regret playing each battle stage or watching the weekly episodes? That's a big N to the O. So, perhaps the best word to describe it is bittersweet? 🤔😅

Even if those were times that I could never rewind or take back, they weren't nothing or pointless either. One might only accompanied me for the past six-plus years, and the other was all my life. Yet, there was fun, joy, laughter, occasional tears, and genuine excitement just the same. Despite the ups and downs, I enjoyed and appreciated each moment. 🤩😢

PokéMas' delightful personalized musical arrangement will always remain an earworm in my earphones. I'll gladly listen and anticipate new melodies, even if I cannot experience the stories in person. I've grown up with Super Sentai as my heroes, my friends, my family, for every phase of my mortal voyage. Even if a Sunday without it will feel weird, there are five decades of library to rewatch and revisit. Heck, I can still sing the melodies of Dai Sentai Google V opening intro or dance to Zyuden Sentai Kyoryuger's catchy ending anytime my heart desires. 🎤🕺   

Really, that's just the thing about life, right? 

"We met, we laughed, we held on fast, and then we said goodbye." 

Change is an inevitable part of the cycle. Good things don't last forever. There's a time limit for everything we encounter. But when one door closes, another opens to offer a new, unknown pathway that could lead to more good things. 🚪🛣️🤍

More importantly, let's not forget that the fond memories we've had or shared with them will silently but softly stay inside us. Over time, they may return to greet us with a familiar warmth. Maybe in a new form, maybe as a different shape, but they feel as if a long-lost friend. 💞⌛️

With that, I wrap this piece and whisper this melody:

Farewell, Pokémon Masters EX and Super Sentai. 

Thank you for the years and decades of memories. 

Until the day we cross paths again, 

"Come circle round and grow deep in our hearts. 

As long as we remember." 🙏🏻🎵

(Source: Emiko Shiratori)

Fondue for the Squishy Souls

A cold, chaotic, cumbersome storm is brewing beyond the trembling trellis. Now and then, the tightly shut windows shake, reminding anyone indoors that only the daring daredevils wander the windy outdoors. 🌧

Yet such a worry seems illusory in this small space. Instead, an unusual warmth slowly spreads through the room. Along with that, a waft of savory but familiar aroma begins to build up. Milky but mild, creamy but caramel-ish, it's as inviting as a nutty Netherlands' nudge. 🌬😋

The source? A dimly-lit square dining table that's placed ergonomically against the kitchen's wall. Stationed at its center is a precisely shaped pot, heated by an electric stove. Inside, a thick, light yellow sauce made from a mix of mature, young, and a touch of aged Gouda has started boiling. Cuts of bread, colorful vegetables, and choices of meat products on the side tray complement the curious concoction. 🧀🥖

It doesn't take a genius to piece two and two together. A Fondue Party is afoot! 🥘🍴

Soon enough, three people sit around the table. A young woman, her little sister, and their mother, who are all looking giddy. The lady of the house has the first honor. She picks up a long fork to spear a piece of bread and dip it into the melted cheese. Her grinning nod upon taking the hot bite gets the feast going! 👩‍👧‍👦

Excited, the little girl pokes a cauliflower and uses it to stir the pot. The action triggers a small eruption on the pot, causing her to squeal in surprise. Everybody laughs, adding even more warmth to the mood. Never once do the echoes of thunder or flashes of lightning bother the three. All they know is they're having fun, enjoying a moment of togetherness, so simple, yet savory. 💞💛

Source: primadonna-cheese.com

A Caquelon of Coulds

Doesn't that sound delightful? It seemed like a genuine pleasure, right? Then again, that could also come off as somewhat unrealistic to some people. "That's not how a Fondue Party works," they might argue. 😒

Well, for that argument, my response is: "Guilty of all charges!" Hahaha. 😁

The story might've felt a little too poetic because it WAS, indeed, fiction. A scene that swirled around in my head that whisked a fragment of idealized imagination into typed sentences! After all, I've always been curious about a fondue party. However, as embarrassing or even heartbreaking as it is to admit, I've never even had one! 😅🤷🏻‍♂️

Not the authentic Swiss experience with wine and fancy cheese, at least. I recall vaguely having a smaller-scaled spear-and-dip chocolate dessert at a hotel's breakfast buffet. Or was it an all-you-can-eat restaurant? Hmmmm. Did that count as a fondue, though? Most probably not. 😂🙄

Wait, but a hot pot, or as they call it, fondue chinoise, counts? For real?! 🤯

Considering the possibility of heading to Switzerland to get a proper cheese or chocolate fondue is slim to none (my studies of teleportation haven't produced any result, mind you), there's one feasible option. I could make one myself! There are various easy-to-follow recipes online. Even Switzerland Tourism has already posted a handy guide for it, which they assured, "That's not a crime!" 😛

(Source: Switzerland Tourism)

Better yet, I think that'll make a cool resolution this year! Hahaha... ✌😆

Now, hold it right there! Why go with something so pointless or petty as a resolution, moreover, a New Year's resolution, of all things? This feels like a bucket list level. Shouldn't one aim for something bigger or better in life? 🤔

Fair point! In that case, how about getting a bigger pot for the fondue! That way, the process can welcome more participants to taste together. Or perhaps getting two smaller pots would be the better option? I mean, I'm not a big fan of cheese myself, so I can only eat so much in a day. Having a chocolate fondue to balance it out can be exciting and wise. Besides, it'll add a variety of flavors. 😋🍫

Yes, no "jokes aside" remark this time around! I wasn't kidding with what I just wrote. That's simply the bigger and better part I could think of for a fondue goal. 😂

Not saying I don't have any other goals for the year, of course. There are some others. Regardless, a goal doesn't always need to keep increasing in scale or size. What matters here is the end result: Will it bring happiness? 😌🙏🏻

Source: guide.michelin.com

A Stove of Subjectives

Happiness has always been a curious case. Many have tried to define it objectively. Standards that utilize different perspectives are established to measure the World Happiness Index. Groups or foundations have their own perspective. The Happiness Academy, for example, proposes a framework of 12 (yes, that many!) Pillars that help people explore what leads them to a fulfilling life. 😮

But that's the thing. Happiness refers to one's well-being. And I will never get tired of reiterating that everyone is unique and different. No matter how "normal" some claim to be! 🤔

(The word "normal" is likely meant to mean "average" by the way, but that's an essay for another day.)

Therefore, while the idea can be viewed objectively, it has always been subjective. No, it will always be that way. Heck, the studies about it itself are called Subjective Well-Being. What one considers "happy" may not mean the same for others. Even if they are, the degree or level of happiness alone would always differ. 🙅🏻‍♂️🤷🏻‍♂️

I know someone who has a great career, a good circle of friends, and a stable financial buffer that allows access to holidays in festive places. In the eyes of many, that's already an embarrassment of riches that invokes happiness. I've joked and teased that there must have been much joy in their life. Still, startlingly so, the person in question has openly admitted that happiness has remained a giant question mark in their life. 😞

On the opposite scenario, I've had the honor of meeting a household helper who was far from luxurious. Yet, there was always this uplifting energy of sheer joy, especially when our casual chit-chat touched upon how their kids had been doing. At one point, the helper asked me to lend out some money for urgent personal needs. Not only was the loan returned on time as promised, but it came with a delicious homemade hometown treat (which would sell almost as much as the money!). Plus one priceless bonus: a SMILE! A genuine "thank you for being there for me" smile that melted my soul. The helper was beyond happy, and it showed without saying. 😆

As another example, some time before the year-end holiday, The School of Life published this intriguing piece. It was funny and eye-opening altogether. Does it really require a vacation to fancy resort hotels to realize someone is unhappy? The problem is, I can see that happening, frankly. Often, people are too busy chasing big things that, once they accomplish them, they're left wondering, "That's it?" 😐

Much like the records of romance or the fables of friendship, happiness has been romanticized as a grand finale. "And they live happily ever after" is a tale as old as time. Thus, people have been unconsciously trained that "the bigger, the better" automatically means happier. 😱

Except that's not always the case, huh? Or, that's NEVER really the case. ✋🏻😶 

Each of us is the protagonist of our individual stories. However, like all enduring epochs, not all are heroes with earth-saving powers and responsibilities. Many are only superstars in their slumber's abode. In daylight, they're living an average life like that next-door neighbor who always fancies bread for breakfast or that gleeful girl on the city bus who reads every street sign like her steadfast mission. The people with nothing extraordinary about them, but with authenticity in their emotions! 🚶‍♂️🏃‍♀️😊

The squishy souls, as I'd like to call them. ☺️

Oh, that's not an insult or derogatory calling, of course! Squishy may sound awful, especially in certain fields (such as politics, which isn't my thing). The squishies aren't the tough nuts that require healthy teeth to crack. Sturdy achievers with a sage-like aptitude? Nope! Business moguls with high-tech, deep-financed dwellings? Far from those. 😅

Even so, in their vulnerable, emotionally soft and tender selves, they could openly feel without even trying. It doesn't require a hike to Mount Everest or purchasing a limited launch Porsche to make them smile. They are easily moved by small moments of warmth and sincerity. And they don't even pretend to be someone they're not, unlike those who are trying too hard on social media. They feel content just being themselves, even when life isn't being kind enough. 🙆🏻‍♀️🧡🙆🏻‍♂️

Source: cookidoo.international

A Fork of Feelings

It's okay to pursue happiness as the be-all end-all. But what if it's not even that hard to find? Chasing bigger and better things in life is admirable and inspiring. But if there's no joy in the journey, what's the point? 🤷🏻‍♂️

(Source: BBC Global)

A Japanese cultural concept, Ichigo Ichie ("One Meeting, One Chance"), invites people to live in the moment. To treasure each experience and every encounter as once in a lifetime. Logically speaking, it's astoundingly accurate. The precise time we spend doing something and the space we share with someone else will never, not once, repeat twice. Even if the situation and interaction create more rounds, the components would be unique in themselves. 💁🏻🙋🏻‍♀️

The fundamental core is appreciation or gratitude. And well, would you look at that, it's the first of the Five Pillars of true lifelong happiness! It doesn't mean that every small thing happening in life will be positive. But with the same logic, the bad and unpleasant ones also don't stay in place. A minute later, that sad feeling already becomes a fleeting past. That's when it can be valued as a lesson learned. 😫😌

That may be, just maybe, why many squishy souls have found happiness without even trying. Despite the challenges of their daily routine, there are times they can smile or let out a good laugh. Because they make the most of every moment, they value every voice, the vivid or vain, knowing it doesn't happen twice. To find pleasure in the journey, not just in the finish line. And when every meal is savored, and each step is strolled, the imperfection creates harmony and blooms into happiness within. 🙆🏻‍♂️🙆🏻

And that's why it's good enough to be squishy souls. In their simple, subjective selves, even a warm fondue shared with loved ones sounds nice! 💛🎵

Moreover, there's a soothing sentimentality in dipping food items into a gooey goop, chomp-worthy cheese. Really, everyone could use a little cheesiness in their checkered life, if you ask me. To just let things that are rough and tough be wrapped with a savory sensation. Or in the case of chocolate fondue, with a sweet sheet that stimulates smiles. 😋😄

It doesn't mean they're burying reality under a facade or a cover-up. Consider seeing it as an optimistic approach. A quiet one that subtly owns the situation but also acts as a proclamation: 

"Life may be bland or tasteless. And there will be hard stuff on the table. But I choose to embrace and enjoy it with a bit of cheese or something sweet. Because by doing so, it might feel a little more enjoyable, if not elated. That there's jolly joy in just living." 😌✨

 

Source: commons.wikimedia.org