>>46849951The problem is that it's so close to being prefect. Having retractable fire quills is part of what makes the Cyndaquil family unique and lets them switch between cuddly and intimidating. Pokemon are supposed to be cool but not unapproachable, so having two modes like works really well.
The problem is there there is no logical or even lore reason as to why the Cyndaquil family shouldn't have their flames on for the entire battle. There was literally an entire subplot in the anime of Ash teaching Cyndaquil to have its flame on for the entire battle because that's what it's for. In fact, because they can control the flame there's no reason they shouldn't be able to have them on whenever its feeling excited or alert. The only time when they absolutely shouldn't have the flames should be in Amie when they are being petted or when they are resting.
