Voltorb is a Pokemon that many considered to be mean, or dangerous. It was a Pokemon you were meant to avoid - lest you were caught by its explosive temper. That was before its more calm counterpart, Hisuian Voltorb, rolled into the series. In its first major appearance outside the video game Pokemon Legends Arceus, this Voltorb debuts in this cute animated short as a lovable and friendly character.

In this short, Voltorb proves itself too eager to partake in a luncheon with its friends and lets its overjoy get the better of it, causing a kerfuffle that a more modern Voltorb would be proud of. Voltorb sets off to right its wrong and seek forgiveness from its friends.

In one word this short is cute. From the animation, to the character designs, to the music, they all mesh to create an adorable feast for the senses that is nothing short of charming. I particularly adore the bell sounds that come up when Voltorb shakes all too gleefully. The colors are vibrant - mostly greens of trees, shrubs, and grass - so that any Pokemon would not be lost or difficult to discern among the background. And such vibrancy is always a welcome part of Pokemon.

There is no dialogue, no narration, no words whatsoever - this story is conveyed all through the actions and emotions of the Pokemon. That is this animation's prevailing aspect. We understand the characters' reactions and motivations, their frustrations and happiness, and we feel glee when the story reaches its climax.

Voltorb's emotions and reactions are conveyed almost exclusively in its eyes. It can't smile, frown, shout, or sigh. But through simple and precise writing, Voltorb conveys its joy, its remorse, and its apology all in clear ways; not just to us the viewer but to its friends as well, and they understand the little scamp just as we do. It's actually a brilliant choice to use Voltorb as a main character like this, especially when contrasted against other Pokemon who all have mouths and brows to furrow. What better opportunity to showcase the lovable side, the friendly side, the sorry side, and the funny side of a ball of sparks than in a short such as this?

And the other Pokemon show their personalities as well. The timid Spheal, the worrisome Buneary, and the gruff Pikachu help create a believable cast of characters that all the more allows Voltorb to present its softer, friendlier, and warmer side.

If ever the studio dwarf decides to create another short like this one, I will be as eager with anticipation and joy as the Voltorb in this animation is. And for a Pokemon that can't smile, it certainly has a way to make me smile all the same.