>>35533558I feel like Primarina not only keeps all of Popplio's themes but gives them a twist, expanding upon them like an evolution should.
The theme of bubbles, which is Popplio's theme with the most emphasis behind it, isn't lost at all: water balloons become the line's main weapon in battle, playing an important role in both exclusive moves Primarina has AND being one of the most important part of its design. The strings that contain Primarina's ponytail are in fact not just there for aesthetic purposes: they are explosive bubbles that Primarina controls with its singing/dancing/performing and explode upon touch. Of course the entertainer theme plays a huge role in all this, too, and now the themes of bubbles and performing are perfectly intertwined. Keep in mind, Primarina STILL makes the exact same bubbles Popplio used to make, and it even does this in battle to tease and make fun of its opponents.
In the end, it's still an entertainer that likes to play with bubbles, only it has evolved as an entertainer throughout its life and can now use bubbles for many different purposes.
I understand that people couldn't expect to get this when they first saw Popplio, but I feel like it was for all the right reasons. It's such a really unique yet faithful take on evolution, and one that made the entire line so much more enjoyable and connected for me, while also keeping them all different and memorable.
The femininity is something that you either love or hate, and sadly there's not much I can say to change your mind. I think it's perfect for a playful line like this one while also being a nice change compared to the other starters. I wouldn't want it any other way, but that's subjective.
I do feel like the anatomy is kept really consistent throughout the line, though. An evolution closer to a real sea lion would make Primarina stray away from Popplio more, not less. Hope this helps you appreciate the line a little bit more!
