Pokemon Concierge Part 2

The series is still cute as expected, though I'd say it's a half step down from part 1.

I think this part does a good job with Haru for the most part, showcasing her growth from part 1. That growth is particularly prominent as it gets into the back half where she showcases some confidence and problem solving that feels uniquely her. All of that is nice to see, even if it does feel like the bit of imposter syndrome on showcase in episode 3 is a bit too much in the face of a lot of positive reinforcement. The appearance of Kent, her old ... flame, in the final episode provides the most straightforward aspects of her emotional development and how well she's fit into this role, even if those feel like they're pretty obvious by this point. He brings an Arcanine with him, though, so I'm happy to have him.

Apart from here, though, there's not a lot to praise in the character department. Tyler's uncle shows up in episode 2 and sticks around, and we do get some good characterization from him in his bond with Sealeo, but then he literally tries to abandon him on the island without telling anyone. Maybe if it really felt like he couldn't take care of Sealeo (he has a boat to take him out on, but he worries about not having enough space in his apartment?), but no, he just expects the staff on the island to care for his Pokémon because it's too big. It's framed as kind-hearted, but it just comes of as a lazy and kind of cruel out, since Sealeo is so attached to him. He redeems himself a bit after that, but everyone moves on pretty quickly. Wish a bit of Tyler's frustration with his uncle would have played into it more from there.

Alisa and Watanabe are very much in their supporting roles here. Neither do much in this part. And beyond the issue with his uncle, Tyler's in a similar boat.

Still, I really enjoyed the first and last episode of this season, mainly for their focus on Haru. It's just a shame that episode 3 is a mixed bag and episode 2 is just frustrating. That holds me back from giving it a full recommendation, even if I do still enjoy the animation and creativity on display in this little slice of the Pokémon world.