Dot And Penny! Secret Mission - Pokémon Horizons Episode 120 Review - Two Introverts' Museum Heist

I wonder what made the writers decide to give Pokémon Horizons three episodes back-to-back riddled with evolutions, but I’m not complaining! It’s no secret that I enjoy Dot-focused episodes and this latest episode is probably one of the better ones. I love it when Dot goes on her solo adventures, whether it be by herself or with another person—I think this is the first time she’s with someone. The fact that the frilly dress was Penny’s idea was also very funny.

The heist that Dot and Penny go on was quite daring. I’m surprised the Exceed Museum receptionist didn’t realize that the two girls who came during near closing hours hadn’t left. I think this is actually the first time Dot has been in a bind. During the battle with the Explorers, Chalce purposely lured Dot away to separate her from Indy and Rubella so that Penny would be at a disadvantage with her Sylveon and Jolteon against the other Explorers' Poison-types. I have to say though, Indy and Rubella are total frauds if they lost to a Fairy-type when they had the advantage and a Strong Sphere boost. Like, of the major Paldean trainers, Penny is technically the weakest due to her team being Eeveelutions, and if you seriously lost to Penny of all people, you should pack your bags and leave—which is what these two should be doing! Heck, Chalce’s Xatu is more of a threat than these two, and this is the first episode that it’s been used for battle!

Gimmighoul was used cleverly in this episode. There were many hints that it was going to evolve, as Dot kept talking about the amount of coins it needs, and what will happen when it gets its 1000th coin. Why I say it’s used cleverly is because Gimmighoul showed off its usual running gag, as well as some of the characterization it had back in Episode 109, and it all meshed well together. In order to avoid being captured by the subordinates, Gimmighoul used its powers to make them find its coins. The characterization it had in Episode 109, where it is at a disadvantage in some situations due to the heavy box, and how it would get itself into trouble, was showcased here. Gimmighouls coins spilled out in the beginning. and it got captured by Chalce to lure Dot away from Penny. Fortunately, Gimmighoul decides to prove its worth by taking in an attack meant for Quaxwell and Tinkaton, and its efforts were rewarded with an evolution. Ghouldengo’s evolution was fun! I feel like it became super chill now that it can be of use to Dot and her team without being a burden anymore. I honestly loved the escape sequence where they escape, rescue Penny, and then bust out of the museum with Make It Rain. The scene of them flying past the moon reminded me of that one scene in the movie E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. I can’t wait to see what its capable of in a real battle later on!

I wonder how long it’ll take for Quaxwell to evolve. I’m guessing the writers want to have some time with Skeldirge before Quaquaval arrives. It does feel a little weird that the Pokémon that has been on Dot’s team the shortest evolved before the one that has been with her the longest though. Let me know your thoughts on this episode!