Hello again, everyone! I am here with big news! Pokemon This Gym of Mine: Rank Up Edition v0.2.0 will be available to play shortly after this post is live. This demo will play up to Rank 2 and will showcase even more of what Rank Up Edition has up its sleeve.
As mentioned before, new side stories will be made available: Comics 'n Cards and The Daycare will all have stories that run alongside the main story and can be handled at your leisure. They are not necessary to progress the main story, so engage with them as you please!
In addition, a new mode has been added to the game: Gauntlet Mode! This is a bit more difficult challenge for players who feel the main Gym battles are not challenging enough. This mode does not heal you in between challengers. Not only that, ONE loss ends the day automatically. In return, your Notoriety increases and decreases at twice the normal rate, which means more money and a faster growing Reputation. For players who have already started the game, just interact with the sign in front of your Gym to toggle the setting.
Speaking of Gyms, your Gym Trainers now appear in the Break Room and can give you items on an occasion (and the odds of it triggering aren't non-existent this time!). Have a chat with your Gym Trainers and see what they have to say!
New items, moves, and tweaks to existing Pokemon will help bring certain Pokemon into the spotlight. For example, Umbal Cherrim has been completely overhauled! Experiment a little if you need to spice up your team!
Finally, the main attraction of this update is the Even Badderlands! This story will run alongside the main story, unlocking as you progress through the game. Out of all the side stories, this will be the largest of the three, with major bonuses for engaging with it. This includes Pokemon with hidden abilities and even moves they can't normally learn! If you are familiar with my other project, Pokemon Snow Warning, then you will know of the Tyrant Pokemon in that game. They roam around the overworld and are a difficult challenge for unprepared Trainers. The Even Badderlands feature a similar mechanic. Pokemon in the overworld are especially strong, with powerful moves and abilities! Ever wanted to see a Trapinch use Mach Punch? Check the Even Badderlands. In addition, certain Pokemon are unique to the Badderlands or appear earlier than in the original game! In addition, this side story will introduce new characters and flesh out others! For players looking for a fresh experience with This Gym of Mine, please check around the Even Badderlands!
While I am here, I do have a question for all of you. So far, I have been releasing new demos as I have finished each rank. I have seen many people say they would rather wait until the full game releases to play. As such, I wanted to ask if I should continue releasing demos as ranks are finished, or if I should release the game in two batches, one with everything from the original TGOM with a bit extra, and the planned post-game expansion. I want to see what you all have to say before I settle one way or the other.
I hope you all enjoy Rank Up Edition v0.2.0! I hope you all have a nice day!