I’ve been thinking about the monster-based franchises of my childhood, and how their mascots indicate the nature of their franchises.
Like, Pokemon has Pikachu:
It’s cute, it’s for the whole family, there’s definitely a lot of merchandising opportunities outside the games.
Then we have Digimon’s Agumon:
It’s more detailed. It looks edgier and darker. It’s endearing, but it’s more “cool” than “cute.”
And then there’s Monster Rancher, with… this.
Monster Rancher, I love you, but PUT THAT THING BACK WHERE IT CAME FROM OR SO HELP ME
Don’t forget about other Mons franchises!
Look at me! I can be cute! I can be like Pikachu! LOVE ME GOD DAMMIT!
Bootleg or genuinely innovative hidden gem that deserves more love? You decide!
DARKER AND EDGIER AND REVAMPED FOR THE 90S! BUT WEIRDLY WHIMSICAL AT THE SAME TIME! WHICH IS ALSO WEIRDLY CHARACTERISTIC OF THE 90S COME TO THINK OF IT!
Know what, who gives a fuck? You’re going to play and you’re going to like it and we’re going to make sweet sweet ad revenue.
I’M AN ABOMINATION! And I’m comin’ to your house after schooool.