Post by Bombermanx21 on Apr 27, 2015 4:53:01 GMT -5
Me: Welcome to the show pernell. Glad to have you here.
First question of the night, why steel types?
Pernell: To be perfectly honest, I can barely remember.
When we first started ECPL, I was mainly a fan of Water and Psychic types but I seem to recall that I was beat to the punch on selecting those.
As a result, I thought about it a bit and settled on Steel because it was an underappreciated type
and it had a roster that wasn't too inflated. I could have fun without being overwhelmed with choices.
Me:Hmmm, so you've been with the ECPL since the beginning?
How were those first few months?
Pernell: Indeed I have. Been playing Pokemon with Normal and Dark since Red and Blue.
Honestly, they weren't much of anything really. Haha. From what I recall, we started the whole thing because we wanted to be able to
find other ADULTS that played Pokemon.
so, it wasn't so much meant to be a big league as it was meant to be a community of like minds hanging out and playing Pokemon.
Preferably over some beers
Me: So waaaayyy back. Lol
So any crazy stories during that time?
Pernell: Well, back in the day, I wasn't driving so Normal would pick me up from the bus station when I swung down to visit.
Grab pizza, shoot the word, play video games and whatnot. I was constantly getting stomped by Normal at Pokemon as well so I pretty
much made it a personal goal to beat him one day. During the Gold/Silver days, we were waiting at the bus stop for the bus to swing
by in order to take me home and I wanted to get one more battle in before it was time to roll out. I ended up making use of a particular
Starmie that ultimately ended up netting me my first win against him. I truly wasn't even expecting the win so it came as a huge surprised
to me. I made sure to be an embarrassment to both of us by jumping up and screaming about how much of a badass Starmie was and how I was
retiring from Pokemon!
To this day, as a result, Starmie is still one of my all-time favorite Pokemon (hence my choices in the previous question).
Our small group is also how we originally met R.C. I still look back fondly on that day because we went to TRU for Mew event.
R.C. happened to be there and Dark and Normal just randomly said "Hey. Wanna hang out and play some games?!" I was being stupidly
awkward about the whole thing but I'm glad that they did as R.C. has been a cool dude to hang out with from that day onward.
Me: Nice. I recently was at a Pokemon tournament and cried out in joy when my volcorona took down a blastoise using hurricane. Lol
moving on,Did you ever think the ecpl would grow as much as it has? For example 2 years ago when we all (most of us at least) met
at Magfest and did the Pokemon League with the orange scarfs.
Pernell: Waaaaaaaay back when? Not really though I was also cool with that so long as everyone that was in it had fun with each
other while also not being jerks. But once it got tied into social media and MAGFest, it seemed less like a matter of "if" and moreso
a matter of "when." I look forward to doing ECPL (and MAGPL, for that matter) for as long as I am able to do so.
Me: I must say you guys definitely have built something here. For many years im sure a lot of us didn't have places to go
(other then smogon) to do what we do here. For that I must certainly thank u guys. Now normally I would ask what other games
you play, but I've seen your post about the ungodly amount of games you have. So I guess I'll ask how do you find time to play your games?
Pernell: Honestly, I find it either by way of procrastinating or multitasking. Hell, I'm playing Etrian Odyssey: Untold as I answer
your questions!
Oh and also sacrificing sleep. Definitely that. Though I'm getting a bit too old for it. Hasn't stopped me yet though!
Me: I'm playing alpha sapphire and watching ashow. And doing this interview. Lol
Pernell: Multitaskers UNITE!
Me: Sleep sacrifice is the merit of any true gamer.
So what else do u do in your free time?
Pernell: (Btw, I hope that you are putting some Steel folk to use on your Sapphire run!)
Me: I actually have an Aron from wonder trade. I am attempting the wonder lock challenge
Pernell: Honestly, I feel as though I'm rather boring compared to most. My life is mainly spent studying, going to work,
hanging out with friends, chatting with said friends, going for walks, playing video games, and generally trying to enjoy
every day as best I can while putting out a positive face.
Interesting! A buddy of mine recently completed a Wedlocke challenge and Aggron was on his team too!
Me: I honestly don't find that boring. Hell your life is a lot more active then mine. Then again I'm a father and engaged so....lol
Pernell: Hell, in that case you don't NEED anymore actiivities!
those two will keep you plenty busy! ^___^
Me: So what would you say is the most challenging aspect being not only one of the big 3 but also a gym leader?
And actually its gonna bet 3 soon. She's pregnant with my second child. I dont regret my life, just wish
I could go back to doing a podcast.
Pernell: To be honest, I'd say that it is just accepting that just because you are a Gym Leader doesn't mean that
you are supposed to be unbeatable. You want to give people someone that is just as fun to play against as they
would be to grab a beer and hang out. And you want to be both a graceful winner AND loser. Sometimes, when you
make a boneheaded mistake like Protecting on a turn when you aren't the target, resulting in you losing your match,
you feel compelled to get angry at your own mistake. Instead, I tell myself that I'd rather use that energy to congratulate the victor.
Ultimately, Gym Leaders are SUPPOSED to lose. But, you want the trainers to work for that win.
It's a tough spirit to embody in a world where winning is everything, you know?
Me: True. So what all systems do you own?
Pernell: Off the top of my head:
Retron 5, SNES, Genesis, SegaCD, GameBoy, GameBoy Color, GameBoy Advance SP, Nintendo DS Lite,
Nintendo DS XL, Nintendo 3DS XL, New Nintendo 3DS, 360, XBox1, PS2, JPS2, PS3, PS4, N64, Gamecube,
Wii, WiiU, TurboDuo (needs repairs
), Playstation Vita, PSP, NeoGeo Pocket Color
Dreamcast, Saturn
Me: Damn man. Wish I had your resources. Lol
So what do you do for a living?
Pernell: Right now, I'm an E-Records Coordinator for a law firm. Though I'm not too sure how long that will work for.
But I'm already looking towards my next move.
Hmmm is that something you want or something that has to happen?
Pernell: A little bit of column A and a little bit of column B. It was going to happen eventually but crap happens
beyond our control that we simply have to be prepared for.
Me: Preaching to the choir. Remember my sabbatical that then lead to my return then to my resignation?
Smh being an adult sucks some days. Moving on any other hobbies outside of gaming?
Pernell: I'm not even sure that I HAVE any other hobbies outside of gaming. At least, none as defined. I enjoy cooking,
trying new beers, helping people with their problems (you'd be surprised how this could pretty much be a hobby), nature,
ATTEMPTING to exercise, hanging out with and conversing with my friends, and that is pretty much it.
Someday, who knows, maybe I'll manage to squeeze in something like hanggliding, off-road racing, or alligator wrestling!
And I did attempt skydiving as well. "attempt" being the key word there.
Me: Yeah the idea of jumping out a plane willingly doesn't sit well with me. Let alone being in one. Smh
So do you ever go on gaming binges?
Pernell: These days it seems more and more rare. The last one that I recall engaging in was after I had surgery
a few years ago. I was out of work on recovery and managed to get sucked into Tales of Graces f. I was playing
that game til the sun came up multiple days in a row. Before that, it was probably The Last of Us and Danganronpa 1&2.
Typically, story heavy games will cause me to marathon because I HAVE to know what happens next. The Ace Attorney games
are also notorious for this. Oh, and 999.
Hmm...when I read that back to myself, they don't seem so rare at all!
One that I forgot to mention: Shin Megami Tensei IV got that volume of time out of me too.
Me: Lol skyrim for me. I was unemployed for the month of December the year it came out and craved that game.
So when you do game what do you snack on and drink?
Pernell: Depends on what I'm in the mood for. For example, tonight I have suicide wings from my favorite
wing spot in town. I'll sometimes make nachos for myself. Or I'll go with the usual potato chips or chex
mix. Beverage-wise, I'm good for a solid beer such as Flying Dog Raging Bitch or any number of oddities that
I like to find and try. Beyond that, either soda or unsweetened brewed tea. I'm a huge tea fan.
Me: Sweet tea guy myself. Watching any anime?
Pernell: I used to be WAY into anime back in the day but I fell out of touch with it as the market became
flooded with it. I kept up with the usuals like One Piece and Naruto (Bleach became too ridiculous even for me)
but wasn't finding much more outside of random oddities like Elfen Lied. Recently though, thanks to joining an
anime discussion group that my friend started, I've been back into it.
Recent shows I've watched are: The Devil is a Part Timer, PsychoPass, Parasyte, Ergo Proxy, Sunday Without God,
and we are about to start something called "The Daily Lives of High School Boys" or something. Classics that I'll
always like though are Ranma 1/2 (my all-time favorite), Slayers, New Dominion Tank Police, Trigun, GTO (2nd fav),
El-Hazard, and tons others.
Oh, also insane stuff like FLCL and Excel Saga.
Me: Flcl is one of the greatest animes ever. Hands down.
So have you ever watched sword art online?
Pernell: Yes it is! First time I saw FLCL was at Otakon as a holdover til they found their copy of Battle Royale.
It was the first episode and it was completely un-subtitled. When the episode ended and they put BR on, I booed
and said "give me more whatever the hell we were just watching!" I bought a region-free DVD player because of that show.
I have yet to watch Sword Art Online but I seriously intend to. So much so that I already have the PS Vita game in
anticipation of when I get to the point where the game picks up.
Me: Let me know if you fight the skull reaper. So what would you say is the most challenging game you have ever played?
Dark souls or demon souls doesn't count. Lol
Pernell: Hmm...that...that is a very difficult question. it doesn't help that I also make a habit out of MAKING games
as difficult for myself as I possibly can. Usually through things like hoarding skill points or "1-time use" items.
Also by jacking up the difficulty.
I'd need more time to come to a solid decision but, off the top of my head, I'd probably go with Shin Megami Tensei: Nocturne
or Devil May Cry 3 for that title. Im pretty sure that this answer could change later this week. haha
Also, I'd say that the Alma fight in Ninja Gaiden 1 (the series reboot) needs to get mentioned here. Hell, the first four
levels in that game need to be mentioned!
Actually curious: What would that answer be for you?
Me: Hmmmmm I would say its between monster hunter 4 and the last world on new super Mario bros. Wii. My god, the shit going on
throughout the first level alone.
Pernell: Hmm, reading that makes me want to make more progress in NSMBWii. Actually spent some of this weekend playing Mario
3D World with a buddy. Trying to unlock Champion Road
Me: I need a Wii u.
So if you could pilot any mecha of your choice, what would it be?
Pernell Thrillho Vaughan: Hmm, I honestly have nary a clue. haha. It is sort of funny that, with all of the media I've consumed
that involved mechas, I can't quite come up with one. The easy fallback would be something like an Eva but those things had so
many damn hangups that you'd be practically asking to be beaten in one.
Perhaps I'd go with the final Gear from Xenogears. That thing was pretty damn badass
Me: That or be driven insane.
So if you could have any female (fictional or actual) who would it be and why?
Pernell : Another one that usually ends up being fleeting (thus tough to remember). But I only that Natalie Portman's
character from Garden State always comes to mind for me as a fantastic woman that seems like she'd be a lot of fun to
spend time with. Real people, I was always smitten by the comedienne/actress, Nicole Sullivan. She used to be on MadTV
and I know that she's on a show that airs currently as well. She's so absolutely wacky and she has the craziest eyes. I love 'em.
Me: So psycho women for you. Gotcha. Lol
what would you say is your favorite Pokemon?
Pernell Thrillho Vaughan
LOL! Why they gotta be psycho?
Favorite Pokemon is another tough one. There are just so damn many. Though, over the years I think I've stuck with
Mawile, Starmie, Metagross, Lilligant, Deoxys, Bronzong, Klefki, Genesect, Chinchou, and Trubbish are the ones that
most come to mind. There are simply too many out there that kick absolute ass to ever have a one. If I were to ever
have a picture drawn of me with my sidearm pokes then MegaMawile, Bronzong, and Klefki are going to be the ones by my side.
Me: K. What was your first Pokemon?
Pernell: I'm pretty sure it was Squirtle. I've always been fond of the Water Starters.
Me: Out of all the gym leaders in ecpl, who would you say is your most fevered rival?
Pernell: Normal, no question. Followed second by Dark. Normal and I have the oldest rivalry a
nd he was also the person that got me into Pokemon thanks to Pokemon Green. The guy always keeps
me on my toes. And there's Dark...oh man. What can I say about THAT guy?! "Oh, how did...but I
don't know how that hurt you. It wasn't supposed to, was it?"
YES, AARON! YOU KNOW WHAT THE DAMN MOVE DOES! Shut up and battle!
Me: Lol sounds like there's more history with dark then normal.
If you had to be confined to one gaming
system for an entire year, what would it be?
Pernell: In a nutshell, battling against Aaron is a mind game in and of itself. It adds a new dimension to a battle.
These days, it would most likely end up being the Vita. Second place going to the 3DS
Me: If you could have any song play when you entered a room, what would it be and why?
Pernell: That....that's a doozy. I have a "song that best sounds like me" already (it's Spacehead by The Primitives.)
but when I walk into a room? With the way my head works, it would probably be something like SuperBad by James Brown.
But I have a feeling I'm going to stew on that one a bit after this interview
Me: Would you come in with the cape and dancing?
Pernelle: damn straight. We're talkin' full-on strut with finger snapping and finger pointing.
I want to light up the room when I enter it.
Me: Rofl
ok so in the future do you plan on marrying and/or having children?
Pernell: Honestly, I'm not pursuing marriage but if the right woman came along and really wanted marriage
then I would comply. It just feels unnecessary outside of tax filing purposes (and other legalities).
As for children? I'm of the practice of preferring to borrow other people's kids and giving them back.
I love children but the financial responsibility, in addition to time responsibility, that they bring along
with them makes me feel like our already too-crowded world could do without a PV baby. With that said, I'm n
ot TOTALLY against it but, not only would my sig-O want the child but I'd also want to be at a certain position
of financial stability so we'd be as capable as possible with raising our child and giving him/her every possible
thing that they could need. A fulfilling life, as it were
Me: Good answer. That being said,
how would you introduce your child to the world of Pokemon? Would you start them on the original and
have them work their way up or let them dive right into current Gen?
Pernell: Honestly, it depends on what the state of remakes are like by that point. Take, for example,
our current state of Pokemon. I'd probably have my kid play my of LeafGreen to start. Followed by
SoulSilver and then let them go nuts with whatever they want beyond that point. But, if the kid seems
like they need the flashy graphics and quicker gameplay then I'll just throw my arms up and hand the Pokemon X.
To me, that was probably the most accessible Pokemon game we've had and the one most likely to get new people to start playing.
Me: To this day soul silver and white 2 was the most challenging Pokemon games to date. In my opinion at least.
What would you like to happen with the ecpl moving forward into the future?
Pernell: To be honest, if it stayed as it is now then I'd have no complaints. Everyone, for the most part,
is pretty damn solid and I enjoy reading what everyone has to say and seeing them all interact. But growth-wise,
it's a scary thought. After all, the bigger something becomes, the more likely it is to draw unwanted attention
and bad seeds. But, if we could more great people like what we already have and reach the point where we can get
noticed by Nintendo for more press, attention, and swag to give away as prizes and the like then I'd be very pleased.
Imagine if we had enough people in different areas to have regular, in-person, meetups? That would rock!
Me: True. And I see your in for the swag. Lol so you've been to Magfest quite a few times.
Have you entered any tournaments while there?
Pernell: Originally, when I was going, I was running the video game room so I didn't have time
to do any tourney stuff. But after I started going back again for the MAG10 Anniversary Panel,
I ended up getting caught up in the Magical Drop 3 tourneys. Now, if I ever manage to have time,
I make sure to enter myself into that. Beyond that, I have trouble pinpointing a game that I feel
that I'd be good enough at to go at it from a tourney perspective. Though, if they take my suggestion
on head-to-head Mega Man racing (or other platformers) then I'd be locked in for that!
Me: Hmmm that would be awesome. So if you could kill off any fictional character of your choosing,
who would it be, why, and how would you do it?
Pernell: Hahaha, my memory doesn't go back that far to pull a name out of thin air. 'm usually better when someone
mentions a topic that causes me to crack open my mental file folder on the topic. Though, I've just recently
watched Twin Peaks and I'd say that Leo Johnson has been on my Shit List from episode one. I'm not quite sure
about the "how" but so long as someone removed his cancerous ass from the map, then I'd be happy.
Me: Hmmm I've heard of twin peaks. Might have to look into that. Any other shows your currently watching?
Pernell: I'm still on Supernatural. Eventually, I hope to get back into the Flash. Walking Dead is on
seasonal hiatus. And I think I'm gong to start iZombie soon. Beyond that, nope. I rarely do much with
TV since TV + Video Games combined eat up a LOT of limited free time. Not saying that I have no interest
in TV. But, it's like introducing your body to a bad drug. You know that your body would love the hell
out of it but you also know that it isn't what is best for said body so it is best left refrained from.
Me: Well izombie is actually pretty good. I enjoy the flash. And I am a huge supernatural fan! I keep
thinking the creators gonna rum out of ideas. Hell after the apocalypse and Sam going into the pit I
thought that was the end. I'm like where can we go from here? And yet each season they keep it going
and surprisingly fresh. Usually by now a show loses some of its shine and grows stale, but not this one
Pernell: Funny enough, the end of Season 5 was supposed to be the end of the show
That ratings candy was too tasty though so the network pushed for more episodes.
While I don't think that any season has compared to S5, I've loved the show every step of the way.
The meta episodes are the best.
Me: Metatron is such a bitch. And im kinda tied between castiel and dean as my favorite character. Sam pisses me off.
Pernell: Yeah, they've really made Sam rather lame.
My fav characters are Crowley, Dean
hmm, probably Sheriff Mills, and Rufus
Me: Crowley. Lol
In the Pokemon games most of the enemies Pokemon consist of poison or dark types. If you were the
leader of the bad guys, what type would you enforce for them to use?
Pernell: Hmm...probably Psychic Type, honestly
Go the Intellectual Criminal Angle.
All about Mind Games.
Me: Pull a joker. Nice.
If you could have one super power what would it be?
Pernell: This is a tough one, honestly.
Would probably be somewhere between Super Speed and Telekinesis. I could go with a cheap one like
"The Power of Imagination" but I won't do that.
Basically, I try to think of abilities that could have multiple uses.
Me: Nice. I've asked a few of my guest this question and only a few were able to resist
the power of the dark side. That being said, if you could perform a fatality on one of the
other gym leaders pokes, who would it be and how would it be done?
Pernell: Nah, why perform a Fatality when I could perform a Friendship and steal the Pokemon away?
Though I think that would go between Dark's Umbreon, Normal's Blissey, and Brett's Cradily.
"Hey Guys! Come on over to my gym! We've got marshmallow Peeps and Spaghetti Tuesdays!"
Me: Man Brett has a lot of enemies. Lol
so outside of Pokemon, are there any other games you play"religiously"?
Pernell Thrillho Vaughan: Not really. I sort of just bounce around a lot. Pokemon has major staying
power because people are always playing it whereas other games I got into over the years like Culdcept,
Monster Rancher, and Magical Drop 3 get thrown to the wayside by the public as the next big thing comes along.
Right now though, I've been obsessed with a game called "La Mulana."
Me: What's that about?
Pernell Thrillho Vaughan: It's a platform puzzler sort of like Metroid where you play as an archaeologist
attempting to solve the mystery of the ruin and find your father. The puzzles in the game are hard as all
hell! If you can beat this game without and FAQ or forum discussion then you are the baddest of the bad.
Me: What system? Might have to give it a spin.
So do you watch game of thrones by chance?
Pernell: It is available on Steam, the Wii, and Vita.
Me: Gotta get me a vita.
Pernell Thrillho Vaughan: They are totally good systems. Don't let the Internet randoms fool you.
Then again, make sure to do your homework beforehand to make sure it is a good fit. it is very
different than what I expected it to be (in a good way).
Me: I felt the same way about my psp. I miss it.
Back to the question. Do you watch game of thrones?
Pernell: Nope
I hear good things and I expect to like it as well
but I never got around to starting it. Seeing how people are reacting to the cliffhangers,
it so probably for the best for now. haha
Me: Hmmm well when you do start watching let me know.
Pernell: Most definitely, sir
Me: If the zombie apocalypse happened, what would your first order of business be?
Pernell Thrillho Vaughan: Retrieval of supplies while also avoiding crowds about as much
as humanly possible. Try to round up those closest to me and find a safe spot to lay low and hold over.
Me: Smart. K few more questions and I do believe we can call it a night.
Pernell:k
Me: K. During the VGC's a lot of the teams used consist of the same Pokemon. Example during the year white and black
were released a lot of teams had chandelure and terrakion.
Do you think this causes the originality to be taken out of being competitive?
Pernell: When people use pre-established "winning builds" and samey same Pokemon then I
definitely feel that it takes a lot of the originality out of the game. That's why I
always enjoy looking to the folks that like to break the mold either by way of taking a
samey same Poke but changing up his moveset to something unexpected. Or, even better, a
Pokemon from completely out of left field like the guy from MAG this year that used a
Moody Bibarel that could both Dive and Dig. It seemed so odd to me and I couldn't quite
wrap my head around his intentions (aside from maybe buying himself time for more Moody action)
but I loved it so much that I practically showered him in MagChips.
He also had a rockin' Ludicolo.
Me: I do enjoy originality. Now most people turn to smogon in terms of helping build teams.
Do you think this is a mistake and what is your take on smogon in general?
Pernell: Nah, I don't think it is a mistake at all. If a person is nervous about how to make
a certain Pokemon feasible then the "experts" at Smogon put in the insane amounts of time to
test and play that most players simply don't have available to them. And, once a person is
confident enough in a Pokemon or they've used one enough, then they can get crazy creative and
do more with it. As for my personal opinion on Smogon itself? I'm perfectly fine with them.
However, I do think that their constant need to balance someone else's game ("someone else" being Game Freak)
takes a lot out of the game. However, so long as there is at least SOME aspect of it that doesn't give a crap
what you are using in battles (do they have something like that now?) then I'm all for it.
Me: Really don't know. I shy away from them since the greninja thing.
Pernell: OH most definitely. I don't bother with their competitions at all.
Me: Ok of you could use any legendary you wanted for competitive play, what would it be and why?
Pernell: but I'm alright with reading stuff that's on the site.
But the Greninja ban was just cowardly on their part.
Me: Agreed
Pernell: Probably a toss up between Deoxys, Meloetta, and Kyogre. Kyogre has always been one
of my top bad boys in that area. Deoxys because he's a friggin' alien! Meloetta because I like
how Relic Song (I think that's the name of it) lets her change types mid-battle while also doing
damage to the opponent.
Me: I do believe that is the name of the move. And my little brother uses a kyogre when we
fight so i know he can be a problem
After you get home from work, how long does it take before you put your hands on a game?
Pernell: Varies on the day but lately it takes me til like 9pm before I can pick a game up.
And that's if I don't have class or another engagement that evening.
Me: Ok. What are you currently studying in school?
Pernell: Computer Networking and Information Security.
Haven't the foggiest what I'll do with it. But a degree is a degree.
Me: A degree is always a good thing to have.
If you could give advice to yourself in the past, what would it be?
Pernell: Pocket more money. Don't stress so much over your life plans
not working the way that you want them to. Have more confidence in yourself.
Don't let society's bullshit drag you down along with it. Take more LAN
courses in high school. Various investment options .
Me: Lol have you ever called off work just to stay home and play a game?
Pernell: A looooooooong time ago I'm pretty sure that I took off work for
Pokemon Silver. Also, for Final Fantasy 7.
(I have to get ready to roll out though.)
Me: K last question.
Apartment catches on fire. Your at risk of losing all your precious games.
You can only save one system and one game and one collectible. What are they?
Pernell: Well, system would be the Vita most likely due to the amount of games
stored on it. And since I keep it in a carrying case with a LOT of other games
well...that allows me to cheat the "one game" question. ^_~ If not for the volume
of titles on the Vita then my 3DS would be the system to save...but mainly for the
DS game compatibility. The one game that I'd save on it is probably The World Ends With You.
Collectible? Probably my Garbage Pail Kids Collection. I hold those very near and dear to
my heart and wouldn't want anything to happen to them.
Me: K. Thank you very much. You've been a most gracious guest. I hope I see you at magfest 2017
Pernell: Short of something really shitty happening to me, you can bet that you'll see me there too, sir.
This has been a good bit of fun. Now I want to be interviewed more often!
Thanks for taking the time with me.
Me: No problem. Till next time
First question of the night, why steel types?
Pernell: To be perfectly honest, I can barely remember.
When we first started ECPL, I was mainly a fan of Water and Psychic types but I seem to recall that I was beat to the punch on selecting those.
As a result, I thought about it a bit and settled on Steel because it was an underappreciated type
and it had a roster that wasn't too inflated. I could have fun without being overwhelmed with choices.
Me:Hmmm, so you've been with the ECPL since the beginning?
How were those first few months?
Pernell: Indeed I have. Been playing Pokemon with Normal and Dark since Red and Blue.
Honestly, they weren't much of anything really. Haha. From what I recall, we started the whole thing because we wanted to be able to
find other ADULTS that played Pokemon.
so, it wasn't so much meant to be a big league as it was meant to be a community of like minds hanging out and playing Pokemon.
Preferably over some beers
Me: So waaaayyy back. Lol
So any crazy stories during that time?
Pernell: Well, back in the day, I wasn't driving so Normal would pick me up from the bus station when I swung down to visit.
Grab pizza, shoot the word, play video games and whatnot. I was constantly getting stomped by Normal at Pokemon as well so I pretty
much made it a personal goal to beat him one day. During the Gold/Silver days, we were waiting at the bus stop for the bus to swing
by in order to take me home and I wanted to get one more battle in before it was time to roll out. I ended up making use of a particular
Starmie that ultimately ended up netting me my first win against him. I truly wasn't even expecting the win so it came as a huge surprised
to me. I made sure to be an embarrassment to both of us by jumping up and screaming about how much of a badass Starmie was and how I was
retiring from Pokemon!
To this day, as a result, Starmie is still one of my all-time favorite Pokemon (hence my choices in the previous question).
Our small group is also how we originally met R.C. I still look back fondly on that day because we went to TRU for Mew event.
R.C. happened to be there and Dark and Normal just randomly said "Hey. Wanna hang out and play some games?!" I was being stupidly
awkward about the whole thing but I'm glad that they did as R.C. has been a cool dude to hang out with from that day onward.
Me: Nice. I recently was at a Pokemon tournament and cried out in joy when my volcorona took down a blastoise using hurricane. Lol
moving on,Did you ever think the ecpl would grow as much as it has? For example 2 years ago when we all (most of us at least) met
at Magfest and did the Pokemon League with the orange scarfs.
Pernell: Waaaaaaaay back when? Not really though I was also cool with that so long as everyone that was in it had fun with each
other while also not being jerks. But once it got tied into social media and MAGFest, it seemed less like a matter of "if" and moreso
a matter of "when." I look forward to doing ECPL (and MAGPL, for that matter) for as long as I am able to do so.
Me: I must say you guys definitely have built something here. For many years im sure a lot of us didn't have places to go
(other then smogon) to do what we do here. For that I must certainly thank u guys. Now normally I would ask what other games
you play, but I've seen your post about the ungodly amount of games you have. So I guess I'll ask how do you find time to play your games?
Pernell: Honestly, I find it either by way of procrastinating or multitasking. Hell, I'm playing Etrian Odyssey: Untold as I answer
your questions!
Oh and also sacrificing sleep. Definitely that. Though I'm getting a bit too old for it. Hasn't stopped me yet though!
Me: I'm playing alpha sapphire and watching ashow. And doing this interview. Lol
Pernell: Multitaskers UNITE!
Me: Sleep sacrifice is the merit of any true gamer.
So what else do u do in your free time?
Pernell: (Btw, I hope that you are putting some Steel folk to use on your Sapphire run!)
Me: I actually have an Aron from wonder trade. I am attempting the wonder lock challenge
Pernell: Honestly, I feel as though I'm rather boring compared to most. My life is mainly spent studying, going to work,
hanging out with friends, chatting with said friends, going for walks, playing video games, and generally trying to enjoy
every day as best I can while putting out a positive face.
Interesting! A buddy of mine recently completed a Wedlocke challenge and Aggron was on his team too!
Me: I honestly don't find that boring. Hell your life is a lot more active then mine. Then again I'm a father and engaged so....lol
Pernell: Hell, in that case you don't NEED anymore actiivities!
those two will keep you plenty busy! ^___^
Me: So what would you say is the most challenging aspect being not only one of the big 3 but also a gym leader?
And actually its gonna bet 3 soon. She's pregnant with my second child. I dont regret my life, just wish
I could go back to doing a podcast.
Pernell: To be honest, I'd say that it is just accepting that just because you are a Gym Leader doesn't mean that
you are supposed to be unbeatable. You want to give people someone that is just as fun to play against as they
would be to grab a beer and hang out. And you want to be both a graceful winner AND loser. Sometimes, when you
make a boneheaded mistake like Protecting on a turn when you aren't the target, resulting in you losing your match,
you feel compelled to get angry at your own mistake. Instead, I tell myself that I'd rather use that energy to congratulate the victor.
Ultimately, Gym Leaders are SUPPOSED to lose. But, you want the trainers to work for that win.
It's a tough spirit to embody in a world where winning is everything, you know?
Me: True. So what all systems do you own?
Pernell: Off the top of my head:
Retron 5, SNES, Genesis, SegaCD, GameBoy, GameBoy Color, GameBoy Advance SP, Nintendo DS Lite,
Nintendo DS XL, Nintendo 3DS XL, New Nintendo 3DS, 360, XBox1, PS2, JPS2, PS3, PS4, N64, Gamecube,
Wii, WiiU, TurboDuo (needs repairs
), Playstation Vita, PSP, NeoGeo Pocket ColorDreamcast, Saturn
Me: Damn man. Wish I had your resources. Lol
So what do you do for a living?
Pernell: Right now, I'm an E-Records Coordinator for a law firm. Though I'm not too sure how long that will work for.
But I'm already looking towards my next move.
Hmmm is that something you want or something that has to happen?
Pernell: A little bit of column A and a little bit of column B. It was going to happen eventually but crap happens
beyond our control that we simply have to be prepared for.
Me: Preaching to the choir. Remember my sabbatical that then lead to my return then to my resignation?
Smh being an adult sucks some days. Moving on any other hobbies outside of gaming?
Pernell: I'm not even sure that I HAVE any other hobbies outside of gaming. At least, none as defined. I enjoy cooking,
trying new beers, helping people with their problems (you'd be surprised how this could pretty much be a hobby), nature,
ATTEMPTING to exercise, hanging out with and conversing with my friends, and that is pretty much it.
Someday, who knows, maybe I'll manage to squeeze in something like hanggliding, off-road racing, or alligator wrestling!
And I did attempt skydiving as well. "attempt" being the key word there.
Me: Yeah the idea of jumping out a plane willingly doesn't sit well with me. Let alone being in one. Smh
So do you ever go on gaming binges?
Pernell: These days it seems more and more rare. The last one that I recall engaging in was after I had surgery
a few years ago. I was out of work on recovery and managed to get sucked into Tales of Graces f. I was playing
that game til the sun came up multiple days in a row. Before that, it was probably The Last of Us and Danganronpa 1&2.
Typically, story heavy games will cause me to marathon because I HAVE to know what happens next. The Ace Attorney games
are also notorious for this. Oh, and 999.
Hmm...when I read that back to myself, they don't seem so rare at all!
One that I forgot to mention: Shin Megami Tensei IV got that volume of time out of me too.
Me: Lol skyrim for me. I was unemployed for the month of December the year it came out and craved that game.
So when you do game what do you snack on and drink?
Pernell: Depends on what I'm in the mood for. For example, tonight I have suicide wings from my favorite
wing spot in town. I'll sometimes make nachos for myself. Or I'll go with the usual potato chips or chex
mix. Beverage-wise, I'm good for a solid beer such as Flying Dog Raging Bitch or any number of oddities that
I like to find and try. Beyond that, either soda or unsweetened brewed tea. I'm a huge tea fan.
Me: Sweet tea guy myself. Watching any anime?
Pernell: I used to be WAY into anime back in the day but I fell out of touch with it as the market became
flooded with it. I kept up with the usuals like One Piece and Naruto (Bleach became too ridiculous even for me)
but wasn't finding much more outside of random oddities like Elfen Lied. Recently though, thanks to joining an
anime discussion group that my friend started, I've been back into it.
Recent shows I've watched are: The Devil is a Part Timer, PsychoPass, Parasyte, Ergo Proxy, Sunday Without God,
and we are about to start something called "The Daily Lives of High School Boys" or something. Classics that I'll
always like though are Ranma 1/2 (my all-time favorite), Slayers, New Dominion Tank Police, Trigun, GTO (2nd fav),
El-Hazard, and tons others.
Oh, also insane stuff like FLCL and Excel Saga.
Me: Flcl is one of the greatest animes ever. Hands down.
So have you ever watched sword art online?
Pernell: Yes it is! First time I saw FLCL was at Otakon as a holdover til they found their copy of Battle Royale.
It was the first episode and it was completely un-subtitled. When the episode ended and they put BR on, I booed
and said "give me more whatever the hell we were just watching!" I bought a region-free DVD player because of that show.
I have yet to watch Sword Art Online but I seriously intend to. So much so that I already have the PS Vita game in
anticipation of when I get to the point where the game picks up.
Me: Let me know if you fight the skull reaper. So what would you say is the most challenging game you have ever played?
Dark souls or demon souls doesn't count. Lol
Pernell: Hmm...that...that is a very difficult question. it doesn't help that I also make a habit out of MAKING games
as difficult for myself as I possibly can. Usually through things like hoarding skill points or "1-time use" items.
Also by jacking up the difficulty.
I'd need more time to come to a solid decision but, off the top of my head, I'd probably go with Shin Megami Tensei: Nocturne
or Devil May Cry 3 for that title. Im pretty sure that this answer could change later this week. haha
Also, I'd say that the Alma fight in Ninja Gaiden 1 (the series reboot) needs to get mentioned here. Hell, the first four
levels in that game need to be mentioned!
Actually curious: What would that answer be for you?
Me: Hmmmmm I would say its between monster hunter 4 and the last world on new super Mario bros. Wii. My god, the shit going on
throughout the first level alone.
Pernell: Hmm, reading that makes me want to make more progress in NSMBWii. Actually spent some of this weekend playing Mario
3D World with a buddy. Trying to unlock Champion Road
Me: I need a Wii u.
So if you could pilot any mecha of your choice, what would it be?
Pernell Thrillho Vaughan: Hmm, I honestly have nary a clue. haha. It is sort of funny that, with all of the media I've consumed
that involved mechas, I can't quite come up with one. The easy fallback would be something like an Eva but those things had so
many damn hangups that you'd be practically asking to be beaten in one.
Perhaps I'd go with the final Gear from Xenogears. That thing was pretty damn badass
Me: That or be driven insane.
So if you could have any female (fictional or actual) who would it be and why?
Pernell : Another one that usually ends up being fleeting (thus tough to remember). But I only that Natalie Portman's
character from Garden State always comes to mind for me as a fantastic woman that seems like she'd be a lot of fun to
spend time with. Real people, I was always smitten by the comedienne/actress, Nicole Sullivan. She used to be on MadTV
and I know that she's on a show that airs currently as well. She's so absolutely wacky and she has the craziest eyes. I love 'em.
Me: So psycho women for you. Gotcha. Lol
what would you say is your favorite Pokemon?
Pernell Thrillho Vaughan
LOL! Why they gotta be psycho?
Favorite Pokemon is another tough one. There are just so damn many. Though, over the years I think I've stuck with
Mawile, Starmie, Metagross, Lilligant, Deoxys, Bronzong, Klefki, Genesect, Chinchou, and Trubbish are the ones that
most come to mind. There are simply too many out there that kick absolute ass to ever have a one. If I were to ever
have a picture drawn of me with my sidearm pokes then MegaMawile, Bronzong, and Klefki are going to be the ones by my side.
Me: K. What was your first Pokemon?
Pernell: I'm pretty sure it was Squirtle. I've always been fond of the Water Starters.
Me: Out of all the gym leaders in ecpl, who would you say is your most fevered rival?
Pernell: Normal, no question. Followed second by Dark. Normal and I have the oldest rivalry a
nd he was also the person that got me into Pokemon thanks to Pokemon Green. The guy always keeps
me on my toes. And there's Dark...oh man. What can I say about THAT guy?! "Oh, how did...but I
don't know how that hurt you. It wasn't supposed to, was it?"
YES, AARON! YOU KNOW WHAT THE DAMN MOVE DOES! Shut up and battle!
Me: Lol sounds like there's more history with dark then normal.
If you had to be confined to one gaming
system for an entire year, what would it be?
Pernell: In a nutshell, battling against Aaron is a mind game in and of itself. It adds a new dimension to a battle.
These days, it would most likely end up being the Vita. Second place going to the 3DS
Me: If you could have any song play when you entered a room, what would it be and why?
Pernell: That....that's a doozy. I have a "song that best sounds like me" already (it's Spacehead by The Primitives.)
but when I walk into a room? With the way my head works, it would probably be something like SuperBad by James Brown.
But I have a feeling I'm going to stew on that one a bit after this interview
Me: Would you come in with the cape and dancing?
Pernelle: damn straight. We're talkin' full-on strut with finger snapping and finger pointing.
I want to light up the room when I enter it.
Me: Rofl
ok so in the future do you plan on marrying and/or having children?
Pernell: Honestly, I'm not pursuing marriage but if the right woman came along and really wanted marriage
then I would comply. It just feels unnecessary outside of tax filing purposes (and other legalities).
As for children? I'm of the practice of preferring to borrow other people's kids and giving them back.
I love children but the financial responsibility, in addition to time responsibility, that they bring along
with them makes me feel like our already too-crowded world could do without a PV baby. With that said, I'm n
ot TOTALLY against it but, not only would my sig-O want the child but I'd also want to be at a certain position
of financial stability so we'd be as capable as possible with raising our child and giving him/her every possible
thing that they could need. A fulfilling life, as it were
Me: Good answer. That being said,
how would you introduce your child to the world of Pokemon? Would you start them on the original and
have them work their way up or let them dive right into current Gen?
Pernell: Honestly, it depends on what the state of remakes are like by that point. Take, for example,
our current state of Pokemon. I'd probably have my kid play my of LeafGreen to start. Followed by
SoulSilver and then let them go nuts with whatever they want beyond that point. But, if the kid seems
like they need the flashy graphics and quicker gameplay then I'll just throw my arms up and hand the Pokemon X.
To me, that was probably the most accessible Pokemon game we've had and the one most likely to get new people to start playing.
Me: To this day soul silver and white 2 was the most challenging Pokemon games to date. In my opinion at least.
What would you like to happen with the ecpl moving forward into the future?
Pernell: To be honest, if it stayed as it is now then I'd have no complaints. Everyone, for the most part,
is pretty damn solid and I enjoy reading what everyone has to say and seeing them all interact. But growth-wise,
it's a scary thought. After all, the bigger something becomes, the more likely it is to draw unwanted attention
and bad seeds. But, if we could more great people like what we already have and reach the point where we can get
noticed by Nintendo for more press, attention, and swag to give away as prizes and the like then I'd be very pleased.
Imagine if we had enough people in different areas to have regular, in-person, meetups? That would rock!
Me: True. And I see your in for the swag. Lol so you've been to Magfest quite a few times.
Have you entered any tournaments while there?
Pernell: Originally, when I was going, I was running the video game room so I didn't have time
to do any tourney stuff. But after I started going back again for the MAG10 Anniversary Panel,
I ended up getting caught up in the Magical Drop 3 tourneys. Now, if I ever manage to have time,
I make sure to enter myself into that. Beyond that, I have trouble pinpointing a game that I feel
that I'd be good enough at to go at it from a tourney perspective. Though, if they take my suggestion
on head-to-head Mega Man racing (or other platformers) then I'd be locked in for that!
Me: Hmmm that would be awesome. So if you could kill off any fictional character of your choosing,
who would it be, why, and how would you do it?
Pernell: Hahaha, my memory doesn't go back that far to pull a name out of thin air. 'm usually better when someone
mentions a topic that causes me to crack open my mental file folder on the topic. Though, I've just recently
watched Twin Peaks and I'd say that Leo Johnson has been on my Shit List from episode one. I'm not quite sure
about the "how" but so long as someone removed his cancerous ass from the map, then I'd be happy.
Me: Hmmm I've heard of twin peaks. Might have to look into that. Any other shows your currently watching?
Pernell: I'm still on Supernatural. Eventually, I hope to get back into the Flash. Walking Dead is on
seasonal hiatus. And I think I'm gong to start iZombie soon. Beyond that, nope. I rarely do much with
TV since TV + Video Games combined eat up a LOT of limited free time. Not saying that I have no interest
in TV. But, it's like introducing your body to a bad drug. You know that your body would love the hell
out of it but you also know that it isn't what is best for said body so it is best left refrained from.
Me: Well izombie is actually pretty good. I enjoy the flash. And I am a huge supernatural fan! I keep
thinking the creators gonna rum out of ideas. Hell after the apocalypse and Sam going into the pit I
thought that was the end. I'm like where can we go from here? And yet each season they keep it going
and surprisingly fresh. Usually by now a show loses some of its shine and grows stale, but not this one
Pernell: Funny enough, the end of Season 5 was supposed to be the end of the show
That ratings candy was too tasty though so the network pushed for more episodes.
While I don't think that any season has compared to S5, I've loved the show every step of the way.
The meta episodes are the best.
Me: Metatron is such a bitch. And im kinda tied between castiel and dean as my favorite character. Sam pisses me off.
Pernell: Yeah, they've really made Sam rather lame.
My fav characters are Crowley, Dean
hmm, probably Sheriff Mills, and Rufus
Me: Crowley. Lol
In the Pokemon games most of the enemies Pokemon consist of poison or dark types. If you were the
leader of the bad guys, what type would you enforce for them to use?
Pernell: Hmm...probably Psychic Type, honestly
Go the Intellectual Criminal Angle.
All about Mind Games.
Me: Pull a joker. Nice.
If you could have one super power what would it be?
Pernell: This is a tough one, honestly.
Would probably be somewhere between Super Speed and Telekinesis. I could go with a cheap one like
"The Power of Imagination" but I won't do that.
Basically, I try to think of abilities that could have multiple uses.
Me: Nice. I've asked a few of my guest this question and only a few were able to resist
the power of the dark side. That being said, if you could perform a fatality on one of the
other gym leaders pokes, who would it be and how would it be done?
Pernell: Nah, why perform a Fatality when I could perform a Friendship and steal the Pokemon away?
Though I think that would go between Dark's Umbreon, Normal's Blissey, and Brett's Cradily.
"Hey Guys! Come on over to my gym! We've got marshmallow Peeps and Spaghetti Tuesdays!"
Me: Man Brett has a lot of enemies. Lol
so outside of Pokemon, are there any other games you play"religiously"?
Pernell Thrillho Vaughan: Not really. I sort of just bounce around a lot. Pokemon has major staying
power because people are always playing it whereas other games I got into over the years like Culdcept,
Monster Rancher, and Magical Drop 3 get thrown to the wayside by the public as the next big thing comes along.
Right now though, I've been obsessed with a game called "La Mulana."
Me: What's that about?
Pernell Thrillho Vaughan: It's a platform puzzler sort of like Metroid where you play as an archaeologist
attempting to solve the mystery of the ruin and find your father. The puzzles in the game are hard as all
hell! If you can beat this game without and FAQ or forum discussion then you are the baddest of the bad.
Me: What system? Might have to give it a spin.
So do you watch game of thrones by chance?
Pernell: It is available on Steam, the Wii, and Vita.
Me: Gotta get me a vita.
Pernell Thrillho Vaughan: They are totally good systems. Don't let the Internet randoms fool you.
Then again, make sure to do your homework beforehand to make sure it is a good fit. it is very
different than what I expected it to be (in a good way).
Me: I felt the same way about my psp. I miss it.
Back to the question. Do you watch game of thrones?
Pernell: Nope
I hear good things and I expect to like it as well
but I never got around to starting it. Seeing how people are reacting to the cliffhangers,
it so probably for the best for now. haha
Me: Hmmm well when you do start watching let me know.
Pernell: Most definitely, sir
Me: If the zombie apocalypse happened, what would your first order of business be?
Pernell Thrillho Vaughan: Retrieval of supplies while also avoiding crowds about as much
as humanly possible. Try to round up those closest to me and find a safe spot to lay low and hold over.
Me: Smart. K few more questions and I do believe we can call it a night.
Pernell:k
Me: K. During the VGC's a lot of the teams used consist of the same Pokemon. Example during the year white and black
were released a lot of teams had chandelure and terrakion.
Do you think this causes the originality to be taken out of being competitive?
Pernell: When people use pre-established "winning builds" and samey same Pokemon then I
definitely feel that it takes a lot of the originality out of the game. That's why I
always enjoy looking to the folks that like to break the mold either by way of taking a
samey same Poke but changing up his moveset to something unexpected. Or, even better, a
Pokemon from completely out of left field like the guy from MAG this year that used a
Moody Bibarel that could both Dive and Dig. It seemed so odd to me and I couldn't quite
wrap my head around his intentions (aside from maybe buying himself time for more Moody action)
but I loved it so much that I practically showered him in MagChips.
He also had a rockin' Ludicolo.
Me: I do enjoy originality. Now most people turn to smogon in terms of helping build teams.
Do you think this is a mistake and what is your take on smogon in general?
Pernell: Nah, I don't think it is a mistake at all. If a person is nervous about how to make
a certain Pokemon feasible then the "experts" at Smogon put in the insane amounts of time to
test and play that most players simply don't have available to them. And, once a person is
confident enough in a Pokemon or they've used one enough, then they can get crazy creative and
do more with it. As for my personal opinion on Smogon itself? I'm perfectly fine with them.
However, I do think that their constant need to balance someone else's game ("someone else" being Game Freak)
takes a lot out of the game. However, so long as there is at least SOME aspect of it that doesn't give a crap
what you are using in battles (do they have something like that now?) then I'm all for it.
Me: Really don't know. I shy away from them since the greninja thing.
Pernell: OH most definitely. I don't bother with their competitions at all.
Me: Ok of you could use any legendary you wanted for competitive play, what would it be and why?
Pernell: but I'm alright with reading stuff that's on the site.
But the Greninja ban was just cowardly on their part.
Me: Agreed
Pernell: Probably a toss up between Deoxys, Meloetta, and Kyogre. Kyogre has always been one
of my top bad boys in that area. Deoxys because he's a friggin' alien! Meloetta because I like
how Relic Song (I think that's the name of it) lets her change types mid-battle while also doing
damage to the opponent.
Me: I do believe that is the name of the move. And my little brother uses a kyogre when we
fight so i know he can be a problem
After you get home from work, how long does it take before you put your hands on a game?
Pernell: Varies on the day but lately it takes me til like 9pm before I can pick a game up.
And that's if I don't have class or another engagement that evening.
Me: Ok. What are you currently studying in school?
Pernell: Computer Networking and Information Security.
Haven't the foggiest what I'll do with it. But a degree is a degree.
Me: A degree is always a good thing to have.
If you could give advice to yourself in the past, what would it be?
Pernell: Pocket more money. Don't stress so much over your life plans
not working the way that you want them to. Have more confidence in yourself.
Don't let society's bullshit drag you down along with it. Take more LAN
courses in high school. Various investment options .
Me: Lol have you ever called off work just to stay home and play a game?
Pernell: A looooooooong time ago I'm pretty sure that I took off work for
Pokemon Silver. Also, for Final Fantasy 7.
(I have to get ready to roll out though.)
Me: K last question.
Apartment catches on fire. Your at risk of losing all your precious games.
You can only save one system and one game and one collectible. What are they?
Pernell: Well, system would be the Vita most likely due to the amount of games
stored on it. And since I keep it in a carrying case with a LOT of other games
well...that allows me to cheat the "one game" question. ^_~ If not for the volume
of titles on the Vita then my 3DS would be the system to save...but mainly for the
DS game compatibility. The one game that I'd save on it is probably The World Ends With You.
Collectible? Probably my Garbage Pail Kids Collection. I hold those very near and dear to
my heart and wouldn't want anything to happen to them.
Me: K. Thank you very much. You've been a most gracious guest. I hope I see you at magfest 2017
Pernell: Short of something really shitty happening to me, you can bet that you'll see me there too, sir.
This has been a good bit of fun. Now I want to be interviewed more often!
Thanks for taking the time with me.
Me: No problem. Till next time
