Hello lords and ladies.
Welcome back to Cartoon Hangout, your place for all things cartoon.
Coming off of the two-part premiere of Slugterra, you'd think that the next episode would revolve
around something smaller, plot-wise.
Well, in a way "The Trade" does, this time featuring the new Shane Gang looking to expand
their arsenal, which is a smart move considering they're up against Blakk.
But they end up embroiled in some truly shady trading going on between a merchant and Blakk,
leading them to sneak into his headquarters to rescue, not only Eli's slug Joules, but
the other slugs being turned into Ghouls.
Not something you'd expect to see them get into by episode 3, right?
The usual idea is to start off strong, establish the general plot for the season as well as
the villain, then dive headfirst into a series of one-off episodes that are interspersed
with episodes devoted to the season's story.
And we'll get those episodes, but it's nice to follow up almost immediately with the main
baddies.
It helps that this happens so soon because it reinforces the idea that Blakk is not to
be messed with, as one can see by how lucky the gang was to escape with their lives.
And I believe, though can't confirm, that this is one of many times Eli's connection
to his slugs, something inherently weird to other slingers, will get he and his friends
into some kind of trouble.
As great as the other characters are, it's strange how only Eli ever truly stopped to
consider the feelings of his slugs.
In a way, he's the Ash Ketchum of Slugterra.
Which is really apt because in my episode 1 review I ended up comparing this show to
Pokemon.
I think such a plot point is important to foster because of the controversial idea of
shooting living creatures at high-speeds from a gun-like blaster.
I don't have a big problem with it, but maybe some parents would.
So a character who values his 'ammo' as living creatures first and weapons second, is a good
start at maybe easing concerns.
Of course it didn't stop parents from hating on Pokemon, but what are ya gonna do?
A great new character introduced this episode is a villain with probably the goofiest name
while still being cool and that is Diablos El Nacho.
I haven't a clue what that even means, but you have to admit he's got a silly name.
Closest I could come up with is Devil of Nacho.
And the only nacho I know are the chips and cheese, so...yeah.
Moving past that he really is one of my favorite characters in Slugterra.
The character just exudes toughness.
I mean, do you want to know how tough he is?
Tough enough to freaking DODGE slugs and then punch a Rammstone.
The dude couldn't get any cooler if he tried.
At this point in the story we don't really know more about him, but just from my vague
memories I do believe he has a decently great backstory.
We'll just have to wait and see, but for now I am excited he was introduced.
He'll provide a great nemesis for the Shane gang outside of Blakk and his random cronies.
I really enjoyed where this episode went and not much felt forced or out of place.
It was a smart story decision to make a move against Blakk if just to let us really know
that he won't be easy to fight.
It gives a real incentive for our heroes to get stronger, which is all you can ask of
an action cartoon.
What did you think of this episode?
I hope you're watching this series alongside me and if you aren't, why not?
Let me know in the comments below.
Oh, and question of the day: what is your favorite Slug introduced thus far?
Thanks for watching and take care.