A 2025 Channel Update: Competing & Content Plans

[@THATSAplusONE]

You will always be my favorite Pokemon youtuber. Love the transparency!

[@Aura_OfTheWay]

I’m going to be completely honest . I’ve been watching James since about .. 2017 consistently. I got tied up in 2021 went to jail and lost everything … came home and had no switch and money to buy one is out the question right now .. but I still click ALL OF JAMES VIDEOS … I haven’t played gen 9 at all but I am able to study, learn and UNDERSTAND the format by watching James . Even now .. I have a desire to get back into VGC and I will but idk when … but I still come to hear James soothing voice. I’m sure we all appreciate how well James articulates himself ( and how he covers every detail to ensure you’re able to grasp understanding no matter where you are intellectually ) .. this shows he cares about his audience. We love you James. You are an AMAZING human being I love you man .

[@EarthSpirit.easyzdota]

What did you allegedly do bro

[@uliseslanderos7732]

I hope you get back up bro, I stopped playing after Reg G because I was really bored by the meta but I'll give it another try this time

[@jameswbaekpkmn]

It's not easy to get back up after hitting a low point but I'm glad to hear you are making a comeback. Keep pushing forward! Thank you for watching and I hope everything goes well where you will be able to play VGC on a console one day

[@PurpleSlays]

Do whatever you think is better for you and you career, we’ll be around and supporting ✌🏽

[@Joeybanananas]

Imma be real, while i appreciate the fact your taking the time to make this, you dont owe us a single thing. Do what you need to do when you need to. You never have to explain a thing to us Your young and life is short. Dont let any game take away from the beauty of living. I hope you havea beautiful 2025 and many great years beyond!

[@inexorableveracity]

your upload schedule has been crazy. Uploading less often, but still somewhat consistently I think makes a ton of sense. Hell, even if not consistently, put on your own oxygen mask before assisting others. I'll be here ready for more vgc content. Also I just went and followed you on twitch so i hopefully can catch the streams if you do them! also, if you tear up I'm gonna tear up. thanks for the year, man! I wish for your happiness.

[@czarnemo5195]

Tremendously enjoyed your reg h videos especially, it’s so great to see you have fun and focus on the joy of the game which is a big part of what got most of us interested in pokémon, burnout is so difficult but we’re glad to hear you’re taking care of yourself!

[@madisonpkennedy]

I’m glad you’re doing what’s best for you and hope 2025 treats you well! I was your round 1 opponent at the LA regional this year and I just want to say thank you. That was my first in-person event ever and I was extremely nervous. Even though the tech end of things was an absolute mess, you were so kind to me and started my day off on a positive note (while still destroying me lol.) I look forward to supporting you and all of your future content this year ☺️ (I also remember you mentioned considering DaVinci back then, so hopefully it works out for you!)

[@jameswbaekpkmn]

I'm sorry LA Regionals was your first Regional with the 3 hour delay but I really enjoyed the conversations our group had while waiting for the chaos to end! Hope 2025 is a great year for you too!

[@madisonpkennedy]

@@jameswbaekpkmn At least I have a slightly interesting story from it haha. Thanks James! ☺

[@Shauny7188]

Really happy to hear you are focusing on you. Wishing you all the best in all your projects and yourself. Also, I had a chance to chat briefly with you at Vancouver. Was a pleasure to finally say thanks to you personally. Thank you for being a great person that myself and my VGC community can look up too.

[@jakethelittlecat]

I wish I could attend some events to meet some of the people I enjoy watching compete. You are one of those people. You dont have to prove anything. Anyone who matters can see you are a great player. You dont have to feel like you need to prove anything to anyone but yourself. Keep working on that physical and mental health! Rooting for you in Pokemon and in life.

[@Tcaudill]

Thanks for this Video James. As someone who hosted tournaments in the community and battled with my own struggles. This video brought a lot of clarity to me. I stepped away from the vgc community because I was struggling with some of those 5 factors and dealt with it all poorly. I look forward to competing again one day as a better me, for me. Thanks for being so transparent and opening yourself up like this. While I love Pokémon, I never felt like every aspect of life was a competition. Until I started interacting with people in the VGC community, and The VGC twitter sphere. Thanks for keeping it objective and honest.

[@jordanmeadows4115]

We also love watching you because of your playstyle, commentary and fun videos. Don’t put so much pressure on yourself at competitions, your fans/viewers love your videos and don’t judge you at all

[@davidepaganin9093]

Hi James! David from Italy here. I watched all the video and just wanted to thank you so much for all the content you made this year (I speak about this year beacause I started playing competitive VGC just since last September, even I'd been playing Pokemon since I was 8 - Pokemon Yellow- and now I'm 32). As a newbie, it was so difficult for me to build efficient team in order to play tournaments IRL at the beginning, but thanks to your videos (together with our VGC's frontman Francesco Pardini) I finally was able to fully enjoy playing Pokemon the competitive way and could meet lot of new nice people and communities. I really appreciate the 360° talk, expecially after having been throughout bournout some years ago, and then even higher depression (I was around 28). It's a really difficult topic to talk about, beacause they use not to understand you if they've not been through too. It's not just matter of being tired or bored by things that usually made you happy or entertained. It's kinda washing up your life, making you losing contatc with what really matters to and what you're pursuing in your days and your life in general. If you don't get enaugh rest early, it get so difficult to get back completely healthy (including eating, sleep, physical, social routine along with work and all the activities we need to focus on). Usually, when you finally make it to get to yourself, you start to fix some untouchable priorities to keep yourself in the right mood (not always possibile) and take your time on doing things, keeping some in order to try new things and making sure you're still able to enjoy life. This last thing can be an incredibly difficult task, but even after having been through years of really bad thoghts and related events, I think life is still wonderful and full of things are just awaiting for us to be discovered. To me VGC was on of these (i come from competitive tennis, i stopped whan I was ill and now O became instructor along with my other job - physiotherapist), so, again I'm here just to tell you how much I'm grateful for this video and all the others you made since today. Take your time, I think your community loves you and will always be there to support you. Huge hug, have a very entertaining new year and hope you enjoy everything you decide to do!

[@Bells-hu6rs]

I think everyone can understand to a certain extent some of the difficulties youre going through. Your community loves and supports you and wants to see you succeed and take care of yourself! Do what you need to do feel better first and formost ❤

[@papermirror4197]

James you're an amazing player and content creator- follow the path that feels right to you and make time to keep yourself healthy and happy. hope you have an amazing 2025!

[@dandan4092]

I look forward to seeing more from you, James. I really enjoy your play style; how the game seems to come so easy for you, the predictions. Great stuff.

[@dudeinhat]

Hey James. Just wanted to say I’ve been watching your videos for the past couple years and it is such a comfort zone for me that really helps me calm down and enjoy something that I love, Pokémon VGC. You’re absolutely killing it and I hope you know that your viewers love your content. Wishing you all the best in both the content world and competitively!

[@zashinunes8191]

Please keep doing these types of videos every now and then, I really appreciate them, talking about life and stuff, doesn't really matter how long the video is, you don't need to re-record it, as long as you share timestamps with the subjects in question I think it doesn't really matter how long it is, in fact I felt that the ending it was miss something and you didn't finish what you were going to say but maybe it was just a impression And by the way, a suggestion, since you're not using X as much as before, I think it would be an interesting idea for you to consider creating a Discord, so that we can help you find more interesting teams sharing them there, and also it would be interesting to help your community grow a bit, btw I myself created a team of full Eeveelutions (unfortunately something that is only completely viable or possible in this current format of the Reg H) that I would love for you to take a look at, but unfortunately I couldn't get it to you, so yeah At first when I discovered your channel, I didn't really like you for some reason, but now as I watched more videos, it simply became the opposite and you became my favorite creator And lastly, happy new year! I really hope 2025 be a awesome year for all of us!

[@jameswbaekpkmn]

Amazed you continued to watch after the start! I used to to have a community discord in the past but had a lack of mods and inactivity however might be willing to reexplore depending on how I'm feeling with it and the streams go.

[@Volti666]

Thank you for the Update and open words. Can relate from experience and had my own struggle with burnout. I've stepped out of the competitive scene afterwards and for me it was a good choice. Had a lot of fun, but in the end it wasn't what I wanted nor needed. Making the right decision is hard and often comes with compromises. I respect your way going forward a lot and will be there for the journey

[@mr_apologies]

Watched this entire video. A very thoughtful, well spoken, and heart-felt dialogue. You’re one of the reasons I love vgc and our community! Keep getting after IT, whatever IT may be brotha!

[@Drxxyt]

Loved the content this past year man! Excited for 2025- hoping for some success and good health. Super happy to see you have goals and progress towards those goals. GL on the mac learning

[@jameswbaekpkmn]

Thank you man and excited to see your content this year especially the run and bun vids :]

[@phullmoonv]

James, play pokemon go. walking 50 km a week is a game changer

[@FireFarmer123]

Thank you for the openness. Looking forward to another great year! Edit: Been a Da Vinci Resolve user for several years now and cannot complain. Glad to see you are willing to try something new!

[@apostleoforder]

you do what you gotta do! i hope 2025 holds a lot of growth youve been searching for and that you make great strides on your own terms. take care of yourself!!

[@Boohnaa]

You have fans and we enjoy you no matter the results! I hope you renew your love by rediscovering your passion and a purpose in life. We are here for you! I've also been on a weight lost journey, losing 20 pounds using the calorie deficit method. Just remember it's a journey. I'm just a stranger but you truly are inspiring and a light in people's day

[@jameswbaekpkmn]

That's awesome. Keep up the amazing progress!

[@willscharnagl6909]

I love watching you compete James and I love watching your videos. Do whatever is best for you. Even if you just show up to commentate I always love to see you involved in VGC

[@Potatodork64]

I hope you win Worlds some day, you have wonderful content and are always consistent. I met you briefly at Orlando regionals 2023, and took a picture with you, it was fast and we were wearing those face masks. 😂

[@kashshhds8824]

Hope you get back to top 4 in worlds! And maybe even win it

[@VGCBenji]

Watched this whole video James, I’ve been a fan since 2016 when you uploaded a viewer battle with me 😂 We support you and will always be here! You brought up a lot of thought provoking topics that made me reflect on my own personal life, so thank you. I wish you the best in your health and wellness this year, looking forward to seeing those improvements to the channel you were talking about 😎 Can I just make a recommendation about competition? Consider going to locals more often, locals have been the sole thing that has kept me grounded since I decided to pickup the game again after Portland 2023. I love locals so much that I became a TO and started hosting occasional cups and challenges myself. The local community is so great and new players come every day, it will entirely change the way you view the game. Some of my best memories has been carpooling 2 hours away to Seattle with some of my best friends for a little day trip. Locals is how a scrub like myself was able to compete in worlds among the best last year. There’s some real hidden talent, plus they’re easier to win (maybe not in your area) so you might get the feeling you were talking about of being #1 more often. I’ve taken a lot of pride in helping build up my local scene, we’ve expanded our sever and it’s grown so much since it’s started. Remember to have fun at the end of the day!! You’ve already accomplished so much and will always be one of the GOATS 🐐

[@jameswbaekpkmn]

ORAS og! Thank you for watching. Locals are definitely a possibility but for me, I think I'd prefer going to a major since I'd usually prefer to either focus on the Pokemon part or the hanging out part (usually outside of the event that I would just see people outside of playing). I actually like playing high stakes majors than low to no stakes as it is more interesting to me and makes me play better. It also doesn't help most locals are usually at least 2 hours one way to get anywhere with how spread out it is lol

[@nachocheese999]

Really love how raw and deep you got in this video and the insight on the 5 pillars. I have been struggling with my spiritual pillar and finding what my purpose is. Do you have any advice from your experience on things you have done/explored to help find yours?

[@jameswbaekpkmn]

I think everyone has their own path to finding spirituality but I'd say just experimenting a bunch of things you were always interested in or good at, practicing gratitude & awareness often (even everyday for small things) and continue asking yourself how/what you can help/provide to the people around you that you care the most about. It's ok if your values or goals change overtime (It's also fine to be unsure) but just continue to think about these and reflect once in a while (while also taking actionable steps/accountability) and you'll be fine. I wish you good luck!

[@nachocheese999]

@ super insightful, thank you!

[@TitoVicVGC]

I love your content, and I love you. But do whatever you need to feel well. Still strong, you deserve the best.

[@Jon-LukeVGC]

James - everything you’ve said is totally understandable and I (along probably with many) can empathize. I’m excited to see where you go from here, and even though we’ve only met a couple of times, feel free to call on me if you need anything. Would love to see you continue your success.

[@bonjouritsready]

Hey James, I’ve been watching since ORAS Baek to Baek battles (damn, a decade now if my maths is right?!). Still my favourite series on KZbin! Sucks that results, health and crappy organisation have been disappointing for you recently - burn out is real. Whatever you do, do what you need to to make 2025 a good one. Take care 👍🏻

[@jameswbaekpkmn]

Always crazy to see an og. Thank you for watching throughout the years! I do miss the good old days of 3ds capture💕

[@bonjouritsready]

@@jameswbaekpkmnI’ve got a lot of good memories from that era of competitive mons…there’s even some lingering nostalgia for the big 6 (and variants) - never thought I’d say that 😂

[@bigbigbox]

james, we get it. you owe yourself happiness above whatever you think you owe us. please take care! sending you love ❤

[@UnsounderGnome]

The level of competition at events is sooo crazy. Anyone who has actually played at one knows how tough it is, so no judgement if your results are down.

[@Miguelon611]

We want to see you in the top again mister💪 let's go for it, unfortunately this year we have not orlando 😢, im from miami and its easier ffor me to go, last year i went and i did meet you, was a nice moment, you, wolf, paul, was my first refional and was nice to have a memory with you all, this year im planning to go new orleans, hope to see you again 🫡

[@anaranjadaaa]

Hi James! I just wanted to say that I unfortunately had a rough end to 2024, but watching your videos has been a huge help for me. I always enjoy your commentary and your play style and I learn a lot! Thank you so much for all you do 💜

[@jameswbaekpkmn]

Thank you for watching and I hope 2025 goes better for you!

[@thesheldonj03]

I enjoy your videos everytime you upload been watching since sun and moon series big fan here 🎉

[@nedyaranni]

Always take care of yourself, I will always enjoy your videos it ends my day and helps me relax. Thank you so much

[@anonymousalligator7994]

Looking forward to some more great videos this year 🙂

[@dudeinhat]

Also, really enjoy the candid content talking about your career and mindset going into creating/competing. Would love to see more and hope you keep doing what makes you happy

[@Tauindi]

Man you're the coolest. Thanks for the hours and hours and hours of entertainment so far, and all the best for 2025

[@fejit3135]

just keep doeing what feels right to you. I will cheer for you if you compete and i will watch the video if you upload i think we all truely appriciate you. Your awsome no matter what!

[@ShakaWakala]

Stay healthy, and thanks for all the entertainment! I'm excited for this coming year from you! Always a pleasure to watch your vids! Thanks James!

[@kratosmana8646]

You are the goat James hope its a fantastic year

[@louislikethis]

Can’t wait to see James win a tournament with just his C-game. Have a great year James we appreciate you

[@briansloan1713]

You’re the man James! Looking forward to seeing the videos you create this year and beyond

[@EssentiallyLogical]

Love all the content on the channel so far, looking forward to all the new video formats!

[@tomwolfe7782]

James for me is somewhere between the UFC's Dustin Poirer, Stephen "Wonderboy" Thompson, or some such: a fan favorite for many who, despite never becoming champion, are in discussions as one of the best to never hold the belt. Even without attaining the ultimate credential, Thompson has a KZbin where his videos help teach everyday martial artists some top level tech they can use in their own sparring, just as James' channel can help the everyday Pokémon player improve in their own matches. James doesn't need to be champion for me to know that, given I am a 2500-5000 Master Ball player, he would probably whip my team and have knowledge to impart to me. I can recognize the value of what he has to offer even if it doesn't come wrapped in gold. Stay mentally and physically well, James. Being happy in life is all your truest fans want for you!

[@joshualynch9351]

Huge huge fan of The Courage to be Disliked. I’m not a huge self-help guy, this that book made a huge impact for me. Great video; no matter what, you’ll always excel at whatever you aim for.

[@jameswbaekpkmn]

One of the best books I've read and my favorite read of 2024

[@theguywhodoes_stuff]

thank you james :)

[@Zonks666]

Thanks for the TLDR tag. Legend

[@jonathashenrique1355]

Hi james i am a big fan from Brazil i like so much your videos i wish a happy new year and all the best for you 😊

[@lucasanderson1516]

You do you! We will be here!

[@somebody4094]

happy new year James, retroactively

[@DAFFITIVGC]

I hope i see you in real live to give you a hug

[@Cheezyman3]

❤

[@RainbowXplosionn]

What if you recorded the gameplay and commented over it after the fact. Would that help? I'd still watch to get the full breakdown of what you're thinking during the battles.

[@jameswbaekpkmn]

I think post commentary battles are a different niche. I think a lot of viewers like the live thought process and reactions I have to certain plays or surprises I encounter during a battle which would be lost in post-commentary. I'd still do analysis videos but don't think it would be a main form.

[@RainbowXplosionn]

@jameswbaekpkmn Whatever you end up doing I'll be there to watch. Just make sure to take care of yourself my friend.

[@Metaplasticizer]

I love your Kaguya-sama: Love is War reference

[@jameswbaekpkmn]

Easily Top 5 Manga & Anime Series

[@coffeysr72]

I don’t have Twitter anymore, what happened in 2023?

[@2397robe]

Bro fell off and thinks he’s on his c game