Pokémon Concierge: A Fresh Take on Pokémon Series

Pokémon Concierge continues to be a soothing and adorable slice of life that explores the Pokémon world from a different lens. These episodes send Haru on delightful adventures with more Pokémon and new characters!

Two years later, the stop-motion series Pokémon Concierge returns with four new episodes ranging between 17 and 22 minutes. This series is a collaboration between The Pokémon Company and Dwarf Studios. The latest episodes release on September 4th on Netflix.

STORY

Pokémon Concierge Part 2 Review (Netflix) — Courtesy of Netflix

Haru and her Pokémon Psyduck are back at the ‘Pokémon Resort’ for brand new adventures. And this means more fan-favourite Pokémon are making their debut in the series, including Sealeo, Arcanine, and Luxray. Each episode tells a self-contained storyline while also expanding on what came before. The series continues to be the breath of fresh air the franchise needed. Exploring this beloved world from a different perspective allows the series to try new things. And the idea of a slice of life with an adult lead works perfectly.

Now that Haru has found her place within the team of the ‘Pokémon Resort,’ these episodes put her to the test. Challenges arise, and she can discover what she can accomplish as the concierge. New characters are also introduced, like Dan and Kent, who is Haru’s ex. This character was mentioned in the first episodes, and now we get to meet him. Both characters are compelling additions to the story. For adult fans who grew up with Pokémon, it’s sweet to watch grown-up characters like us living in the Pokémon world. It speaks to us. Many people have faced similar situations to Haru’s. It adds a fun twist to the slice-of-life genre by incorporating Pokémon.

Pokémon Concierge is a series that explores themes for adults with a lighthearted tone, making it just as entertaining for kids. It’s a soothing series that anyone can appreciate. One can only hope that Netflix will order more episodes, as there’s so much to love about this series, and the potential to continue the story is wide open.

VISUALS & SOUNDTRACK

Two years is a long wait for only four additional episodes, but this is stop-motion we are talking about. It takes a lot of time to make. So it is understandable we had to wait this long for so little. But, it is so worth it. It’s simply a joy to watch. Fluffy Pokémon on a resort island in stop-motion, it’s just so adorable. I can’t get enough of this. Plus, more Pokémon are joining the series. Arcanine is majestic like this! Just like the first four episodes, keep your eyes peeled because there are plenty of Pokémon to spot in the background.

Moreover, these new episodes have a new theme song. This time, it’s ‘Onomatope Island’ by Tatsuro Yamashita. I do prefer Mariya Takeuchi’s ‘Have A Good Time Here.’ It felt more like a song you would listen to when going on a vacation. Nevertheless, this new song is good too; it has a feel-good vibe.

VERDICT

Pokémon Concierge remains a soothing and adorable slice of life that explores the Pokémon world from a unique perspective. This is exactly what the franchise needs. These episodes send Haru on delightful adventures with more Pokémon and new characters! The stop-motion animation is simply delightful; it’s an absolute joy to watch.