"The Lost Treasure of Griffonstone" Review

The MLP staff keep building on element from early on in the show. I say, Nicely done...
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[@McBehrer]

> Rainbow forgets all of her grudges > element of loyalty Makes sense to me.

[@ShadowColtbrony]

McBehrer well you have to look at it this way the element of loyalty doesn't make Rainbow Rainbow, there have been countless episodes where she's gone against her element, .

[@CustardCream515]

Shadow Colt thats the same all of the characters x their elements and their characters have always been separate, such as when AJ broke a pinkie promise :)

[@ShadowColtbrony]

well at that point she felt ashamed of herself for not winning top spot at the event and felt she let everyone down, pinkie still forgave her and listened to why she broke it in the first place.

[@CustardCream515]

im not saying it wasn't justified within the plot, it was just the first example i could think of where a character 'went against' their element x

[@ShadowColtbrony]

i know, but sometimes they go against their elements without explination

[@guardianeris]

I actually feel like the Griffon kingdom being a ruin and the Griffons acting all cold and selfish really worked well. The kingdom being anything else would only add to the element of repetitiveness of the story, as I've seen similar stories even on other shows of the same genre. And it gives more of a reason on why is Gilda so rash with others, even though she was so shy and meek as a child, instead of falling into the cliche of "is jerk therefore must be rich" sort of thing that, honestly, I'm sick and tired of seeing on all sorts of shows and stories, and doesn't reflect reality, as many of the jerks and insensitive and rude people I've met around were actually people on similar or worse situations than me. Also, I really liked that the writers didn't opt for some magical/instantaneous cure for the problem on the nation, but instead more of an approach of planting the seed for the future, because that's what I feared if Rainbow Dash actually managed to get the idol, or if Pinkie found a magical cure of some sort. I know, I know, Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie are being stereotypical themselves, it's too easy to tell what they'll do next, but it doesn't become overbearing on the plot, that actually takes away from the story development. Also, I loved the desolate look of Griffonstone visually, it's so strikingly gloomier and decrepit, and the Griffons have regressed to even a worse state than before that, that is so shocking in comparison to Equestria, you can feel the atmosphere when they arrive there. You feel sorry for Gilda having to live there, trying to live her live and gather some money to leave the place, with whatever she can do to gather bits, mainly knowing she knows that there are places better Griffonstone to live, Equestria is right next to it, and all that she needs is enough bits to run off. I feel like this episode, along with the past eight ones, have been one roll of good episodes with good development and relevant stories.

[@Oban2006]

Omg best comment

[@guardianeris]

Shadowtechnik Thanks. ^.^ Just sharing my tidbits of thought.

[@RubberyCat]

Shadowtechnik I fully agree.

[@SilverWolf866]

Not only that, but it also makes sense why Rarity had said that griffons were rare (and why we don't see many), since their nation is a struggling and crumbling one.

[@RosieSievers]

This is was a great episode, I think I'm beginning to like Gilda more. Being the third villain reformed in the series was really worthwhile. I want to see more appearances from her and the griffons in future episodes. And I love the world building of the Griffon Kingdom aka Griffonstone, hope the kingdom will be rebuilt and come back stronger in future episodes too.

[@AJponyAPschannel]

Indeed, she may become the new sunset shimmer at this rate

[@minespatch]

The Autistic Pony Gilda's always been a favorite(which might have to do with my bias as a gryphonboo), mainly since we only saw one episode of her, thus potential. Like A.P. said, she could be in the same direction as Sunset.

[@Bookmite1]

Minespatch the channel Well, I don't know about her going in the same direction as Sunset Shimmer, but considering they did once have a king... It would be interesting to see Gilda take on the role of a Queen, or a leader of sorts. Considering her past, and her recent appreciation of friendship, I think she could go more in the line of Discord, but with more responsibility. I would like to see that, as we've yet to really see a character that really struggles with the pressures of being in charge. Thus far 'royalty' is basically been shown to be easy street, with most of the pressure coming from worrying rather than any actual issues of being royalty. This would be an excellent chance to do that, and to watch Gilda grow as a character.

[@minespatch]

It would be really great to see a benevolent queen compared to Chrysalis. Also, as StupidPrivate913 put it, Gilda's part of the "Friendship core" now. |D

[@blaa6]

Rosie Sievers You seem too positive. Wanna review Mare-do-Well with me?

[@ultamatepower]

I feel that the run-down condition the griffon kingdom is in helps explain why Griffons have had only a minuscule role thus far in Equestrian society, politics, and culture. Also it is fascinating that an object similar to the one ring from the LOTR series exists in equestria. There also exists a race of cyclops goat-minotaurs.

[@gmsk7588]

Plus, it had been a very long time since the book was written. And, I'm guessing the griffons stopped caring about the state of their village and just focused on gold and greed.

[@taddad2641]

***** think it is also 'headcanon' friendly. its clear that this griffon governing is long dead, but it does not mean there isn't another. or maybe they are a feudal state.

[@yondaime500]

***** I think the Idol of Boreas is more similar to the Arkenstone from The Hobbit, both because it was found by the king, and because it doesn't seem to possess any actual powers, but is considered a very valuable item because of its beauty.

[@RedCordPlayer]

This was a pretty good episode and had a lot of positive moments that made it memorable. I felt that Gilda's redemption was well executed more so than Trixie's. But Sunset Shimmers is still the best. While there was a missed opportunity for more exploration of the griffon kingdom, I felt that it was necessary for the story and focused on repairing a kingdom and the pride of the community. If the kingdom was still standing strong I think the moral wouldn't have been as strong as it was.

[@yugoxgc]

Am I the only one who thinks that Griffonstone truning out to be a run down dump isn't a missed opportunity... In fact I think it the contrary. Seriously we got an intro about a flourishing culture, Noble Nation Historically known for pride & glory... & we come to realize it was like that but failure of the leaders following the one who got Griffins to live in pride & glory Royally messed things up resulting a major fall from grace for Griffins & continuous crumble of their nation that wasn't able to rise from the fall. Following leaders only kept it afloat until it truly fell apart.... Come on there so much room for compelling story telling right there... Not to mention holly crap sth resembling real life historical progress... & again Ton of potential. I can already see Gilda gathering a small group of friends which could later get a bigger following a later lead to a rise to the glory for the Griffon nation like a Phoenix from Ashes. Were great & strong slowly weakened untill it died to be reborn but stronger. Think about it from what we got it kinda looked like Griffins Achieved their greatness from inspiration centred around a physical object & they fell appart once that great token was lost... Now If Gilda successfully spreads friendship among them the nation would be reborn stronger cause they'll rise from unity & cooperation followed up by Pride from their achievements which can grow with further development. Rather than feeble oneover their national treasure which could be stolen.

[@rogue123987]

yugoxgc I'm glad I'm not the only one who thinks so. My head cannon is that Gilda rebuilds Griffinstone on the power of friendship and becomes the first Griffin Queen.

[@yugoxgc]

rogue123987 *EXACTLY*... Thats my head cannon too... It may start with her finding a few more friends, getting them together to start a business thanks to Pinkie improving hr family recipe & later it expands into a bigger thing & she unites Griffon nation... Honestly it might be fun to have their nation rebuild thanks to a baking industry xD... Off course it can also just grow from a spreading friendship... Which ever it is I want to be part of it... "goes looking up birds for his OC' xD

[@Shadowfate93]

yugoxgc I agree. I think makeing Griffinstone run-down almost third-wheel country like (which, I have been to Haiti, so I know first-hand how it looks and feels) was just what the show needed. They live in a hostile environment, and have grown hostile in response. It also explains why Rarity called them "rare" in Griffon the Brush Off. They aren't some large powerful nation, they're a struggling nation that's crumbling. I thought it was the right call for the show.

[@Oban2006]

yugoxgc Headcannon=Garbage

[@nightofraven]

yugoxgc i agree

[@WarDocx]

Only got one thing to say. If Gilda doesn't apologize to flutter shy in the future, i'm am gonna kill someone.

[@chisomololo4941]

Well, she never did, so.....

[@chilathecreativefox9098]

Well, she never did, so.....

[@camille2175]

That flashback WAS adorable! I loved it so much! :)

[@maliceflare]

heh, that's the sound of a million MLP fan fiction cry out in despair as they got Jossed...

[@SuperGodzilla2]

i never thought i would say this... I HAPPY TO SEE GILDA AGAIN!!

[@Jakewolf69]

Me too.

[@SuperGodzilla2]

Jakewolf69 im really glad they gave us more info about her, and i love that her and Dash made up

[@TheSuperPleb]

Personally, I think that this was an amazing episode. I felt that it was very well paced, all of the characters acted completely rationally (excepting maybe Pinkie Pie being a bit overly flirtatious with that statue) and Gilda's redemption at the end was handled well, at least more so than the show's usual "redemption" at any rate. I also loved all of the griffon lore we got. The art during the lore segments was also pretty great. While this was an interesting review that changed the way I looked at some aspects of the episode, I must disagree with the notion that Griffonstone being rundown was wasted potential, in fact I felt that it was one of the strongest parts of the episode. I absolutely adore when something is built up to be so great and, while it may have been at some point, it just isn't any more. That sense that something so great was just... lost and may never return to its former glory is something I just love in fiction. It's a theme the game Dark Souls uses a lot and I kind of wish it was used more, because there are not very many examples of it being done, at least, not many where it is done well. Ah, but maybe I'm the only one that likes that kind of stuff. I don't really know, so I guess I'll stop my insipid rambling now. Oh and yeah, Gilda's flashback was super adorbs.

[@KairiYajuu]

With all due respect, I can't help but feel you missed the point when it comes to the shape of the kingdom. The idea was to put the audience in the characters shoes. The disappointment you feel was placed on purpose. Hearing all that buildup to how amazing the kingdom was only for it to be brought down in a single instant gives the audience reason to want to help this town. Personally, I was expecting the episode to be about prejudice with how Rainbow was talking about Griffons as a whole based on one bad experience, but, as you said, best not to judge the episode for what I want it to be rather than for what it is.

[@dracowolfdog]

Cuteness overload OMG also Pinkie Pie talking to a statue and then just Gummy just Gummy

[@ultamatepower]

Both this episode and last week's were some of the best single part episodes.

[@Lori_P89]

I liked the episode, but... The lore was kinda boring for me. I mean yeah I had a lot of time to speculate and daydream about what the Griffons in MLP would be like, so I really shouldn't complain about them not fitting my own headcanons, but...all we got, basically, was "Griffons are Greedy! Kind of like Dragons, but not as much!" and I'm just like "That's it??" Yeah they didn't have much of a cultural identity until the artifact came along, but that's just..idk Also, wow! Who would have thought that a FRIENDSHIP PROBLEM could be solved as easily as telling everyone "Hey! Quit being jerks and just be nice to each other!" Griffons do things differently than ponies do. It's probably more complicated than that. Though Gilda's line about t he "Typical Pony Hero Complex!" makes me wonder if the Ponies are the "White Saviors" of the world.

[@Lori_P89]

***** Oh wow! I didn't know that :O That's actually really cool now that you mention it. I just figured that in Griffon the Brush off, Rarity said that Griffons were "rare". I just figured that maybe they were few in numbers? Perhaps an endangered mythical species or something. But apparently they have an entire Kingdom, probably more towns than the one they showed. However I'm willing to concede that I had a LOT of time to think about Griffons ever since Gilda first appeared. Though is it just me? Or do the backgrounds seem to use dull colors these days? Maybe not all the time (Fluttershy's cottage during sunset looks beautiful!) but whenever we get a "new" location it's not very colorful or inspired looking. (unless you count the radioactive rainbows from Rainbow Falls, though the town itself looked kind of boring)

[@Lori_P89]

***** I totally feel you on the whole "Secret of my Excess" vs "Dragon Quest" thing xD

[@Lori_P89]

***** You should go for it! :D In the mean time, have you watched a show called Steven Universe? I think they do a really good job with the Lore, though a lot of it is still shrouded in mystery so far. They just went on Hiatus so you could catch up to it super easy if you wanted to :)

[@Bownimations01]

***** I can probably help with the animation portion ^^ I just got a new animating program last night, and my time opens up after finals this week. No guarantee, of course, but I'd certainly be willing to try ^^ I have my own animation in mind, myself, called the Mirror World. I'm still world building, so maybe we can help each other out? I want to start doing some projects so I can start building a portfolio for college.

[@Bownimations01]

***** Well, I'm new to commentaries, so I do admit my editing is very choppy ^^' But by not showing the video, it makes the video poor. If I don't show what I'm reacting to, it's not a very good reaction. As for copyright, I've taken a lot of precautions, but I'm also under fair use, because of critiquing. I show my reaction, commentate over it so it's fair, and add some thoughts at the end. I'm also working on official reviews on each episode, further pushing me into the Fair Use section that I have researched before creating my videos. As for reaction faces, I'm rather shy in person so a face cam is a no go at the moment ^^' Yes my offer was for 2D animation. It's not only easier to me, but I find it more appealing to the eye. At the moment I am trying to break out of an anime style, of which I'm doing so gradually, but until I can draw realistic cartoons, anime is what I will have to animate in. As for being a high grade artist, I'm not quite there yet ^^' Unlike my brother, who has a natural affinity with art, I had to work hard to be at the level I am now, and I'm still working hard to improve myself. I'm completely self taught and I'm just trying to animate so I can start building a useable portfolio (as I had animated back when my art was.... pretty choppy...) so I may use it to try and get into the Art Institute, my college of choice. Being as my offer isn't necessarily what you were looking for, I'll just continue my original project as planned ^^ Speaking of, the Mirror World is pretty fantasy-ish. I work best in fantasy than anything else due to my own personal interests. I don't go as far as elves, dwarves, and the like, but there is fantastical world designs, elemental magic, some mythological creatures, etc. And the mirror world itself is somewhat similar to Discord's dimension, but not quite that extreme. Lastly, for being (PG-13) or (17+) I fit both those categories. I am 17 at the moment, which means I'm past PG-13 and directly on the 17+. Also, even before I met these qualities, I was allowed to watch and play things rated PG-13 or M for mature. My family is quite open about most things, and allowed me to watch or play things as long as my behavior didn't change or I didn't act out anything I saw.

[@RizoKobold]

I love world building episodes. It makes things much deeper. I know you wanted more from the griffin culture but this works overall in the world. you dont see many griffons out and about mingling in Equestria because they are a fallen kingdom. Plus they are ..on the whole Jerks. I can see Gilda becoming the queen of the griffons from this start.

[@kjfdhgdf666dfghfd]

One thing I loved in this episode where the subtle animation touches that were given to the gryphons, to emphasize their birdlike qualities. The slight head bob when they strut around, et cetera.

[@GreycatRademenes]

I think one of the things that stuck with me was the lore and the design. First of all, I have to give shout outs to Silver Quill for how much of his OCs design resonated in this episode - different beaks, the baby griffins design, he did a lot of these things, so I want to congratulate his creative instinct. As for the lore and the story, I think it worked just right. I'd describe it as we got both the ideal and the realism (you can compare it with the "scones need baking powder instead of friendship" line). The story didn't seem rushed and it ended not with a magic mcgaffin fixing everything, but with hope that good will shall fix it. Not to mention Gilda was awesome. I talked with others about it and like I stated multiple times, season 1 was created with the order "sell toys" but the creators decided to go beyond that, yet didn't know how far they can go so they kept them simple, thus Gilda was a 2D bully. Today we know that the show has a lot oh confidence and potential so it can go far beyond that and even expand what early on was only touch upon. Best example, we see her interact with the Grandfather, that already huge. Also regarding the Idol, on the stream I was a lot of people were predicting she'll become the new queen, which didn't happen, again a low key ending, that much more realistic. I hope we'll see the progress of this development.

[@ShallieDragon]

I have been wanting Gilda to come back to the series for YEARS, so this was definitely a treat for me. The humor was solid (definitely one of Pinkie's better episodes), and I felt it added a lot to the world. Yeah, some of the story felt a little off, but honestly, it was just a very enjoyable episode for me.

[@Al1701]

I'm more or less immune to cuteness overload. I like cute things, but cuteness as a feint for a lack of storytelling is like action as a feint for a lack of storytelling. Tell a story. I liked this episode. Though, I found the griffons to be a little too cliche. I think even the Ferengi would have found their requirement for bits to do anything including saving their life to be over the top. I was also hoping Pinkie's hoard of food would play a role beyond rendering her broke before they even got there. Still, a good episode. Not looking forward to what we have coming next, but I can at least enjoy this one. Oh, and Twilight needs a ground bridge. It might put the railway out of business, but this map is begging for an instant transit attachment.

[@bbd5539]

I wonder if Discord has to walk.

[@Tall_Order]

I really like how the DHX team likes to incorporate characters from ancient real world legends (this time greek, but the daring do villain Ahuitzotl was Aztec). It really makes for some interesting characters. The Arimaspi had a very unique appearance, and seeing his skull down in the ravine like that gave me chills (a death in the show?). All the new griffin puppet models are what really made this episode great. Griffins are definitely being made into a diverse race. And here I thought they would have a dwarven style fortress for a city. What we got is world building! The episode made up for any faults it might have had just with it's backstory.

[@BlazikenYoshi]

What I want to see now is a PSA from Pinkie Pie about baking soda! "Keep a container of baking soda in your refrigerator to keep the items inside fresher! I mean, if we have fridges in this gen. Do we? Lauren? Larson? Anyone? Hello~?"

[@ProMonarchyGenius]

I think that Gilda is going to be the new Queen of the Griffins. Pinkie Pie was hilarious in this episode. And we got a dead Cyclops too which means that once again death is canon in MLP FIM

[@lieutenantpepper3421]

Can I have the head of said Cyclops?

[@ProMonarchyGenius]

Gyromite 76 Sure

[@lieutenantpepper3421]

ProMonarchyGenius Thanks.

[@ProMonarchyGenius]

Gyromite 76 Your welcome

[@MitchieDBBC]

With Twilight's voice over talking about the Griffin home-land, i expected it to be a run down nation, and i'm okay with that because it'll allow the Griffins to rebuild their homeland on the "power" of friendship. I am however, more intrigued by the goat villain from the story. I wouldn't mind having more creatures such as that running around, either in stories or being an obstacle for the mane6 to overcome. I feel as though we need more of these types of characters to build up the world.

[@BlueStarBrony]

Congratulations once again on getting this out so fast! Honestly I didn't really care much about the Griffons. I figured they and Gilda were "throw away" characters. When we were told that we were going to Griffonstone I should've realized that Gilda was probably going to be there so it was a big surprise when RD and Gilda meet. It certainly was really interesting to see them work this out, sort of. The grudge really didn't fully get resolved here but I'm glad that they were able to be friends again. The flash back scene was just so great and I almost had a cuteness overload. lol It was a little confusing how it seems to go from RD and Gilda just meeting and then a few moments later they singing the junior speedster song...Didn't they just meet a few minutes ago? Whatever it's not a big deal. Sadly the Griffons are...us...oh dear "We value money and power over love" Vir from Bablyon 5. I was kind of surprised that Griffonstone was in such a state of decay but in a way it's not too surprising. The only thing that held them together was a idol...So now that it is lost it's not surprising their whole culture fell apart. That's a very good sub lesson. I'm sure that really dissapoints the Griffon fans, but the good news is I don't think we're done with the Griffons or Gilda. RD and Pinkie have created the "spark" of Friendship here and I'm pretty sure they will be coming back to see what that spark turns into. The Cliche choice may be cliche but if you're going to use Cliches you may as well go for the really big ones. lol I particularly like this cliche since even though I'm certain Gilda will make the right choice it's still pretty cool to watch her make that choice. I do have to say it all kind of happened a little suddenly but I think it still kind of works in the end. Although if I was in trouble I would certainly hope my rescuer wouldn't be throwing insults at me. lol Oh well I'm sure that was meant in a "playful" way. lol Anyway good review as always and keep up the good work. BlueStar Out

[@tetsiga45XxX]

With this setup I want to see the Griffon rebuilt at some point in the future. Not any time soon, but eventually it needs to restored to somewhere at least close to its former glory.

[@LoadedEmu97]

It still amazes me how fast you make these reviews. It's amazing. Anyway, I really enjoyed this episode. Not one of my favourites, but it was still really good. It was a massive downer when they actually got to Griffinstone however, and I didn't like that. I get it was to make a point and drive the story home, but I was expecting Griffinstone to look amazing, but of course, it wasn't. However, I would like to see Griffinstone again in the future when it's all rebuilt. Hell, I'd even be okay if Gilda became the next Griffin queen after rebuilding. That would be a fun plot twist.

[@lightning-bliss]

I admit I was susprised to see a run down gryphon kingdom...especially after all the RPs I've been in, imagining a gryphon world where they were strong, proud people with an amazing castle and villiages...and instead it was broken trees and homes worthy of being...well out houses... But I understand why it is the way it is, and it does give good reason to why Gild is the way she is, for that the episode redeems itself for me. I'm just more curious now of what's going to happen to the Gryphon Kingdom now? Will they get a new ruler? Will they start rebuilding soon? QUESTIONS!!!

[@WolfEntertainment]

I wanted to see Gilda return and I did like that she kept some of her original characteristics. I loved seeing the kingdom in shambles because I love that darker reality (since life isn't always what it seems).

[@jtib5968]

Pinkie's teaching Gilda to make the scones was actually an important point from continuity. In the Diary of the Two Sisters, Celestia learned that Griffons are very weak to baked sweets and this helped prevent a war between the Griffons and Pegasi over airspace. Pinkie uses this to gain Gilda's trust and Gilda uses it to gain the trust of others. I like how it all tied together.

[@Lightspeedvore]

Loved the humour in this Episode. XD Rainbow's inpersonation of Twilight cracked me up. XP

[@TheDark4light]

Given the title I kind of expected them having to find the treasure. However I was thinking it would be more along the lines of Gilda being the only one capable of guiding rainbow and Pinkie through the abyss. Instead what I thought was gonna be a spelunking episode was skipped and became.... well what it became. But did anyone else feel like it was a lot shorter then it actually was? Opening with Gummy and Pinke, map, trip to Griffonstone, Gilda, Rainbows trapped, Pinkie fixes a recipe, rainbow is saved, Gilda makes a friend, end. The length of time it took me to describe it all felt like the amount of time it took for the episode to do it all. It wasnt a case of it being rushed either. It was more like, done, done, done, done oh episode is over already? Gilda's change of heart also got me by surprise. At first I was "Oh Gilda, the one who needs to burn for making Fluttershy cry." Then her flashback happened and it became "Oh she is so sweet... crap I need to take her off the fire." How does this show make redeemed villains lovable so easily?

[@tyrant-den884]

like episode 6: if this is the worst the season has to offer, this will be a very good season.

[@thewolfofwallstreet627]

Outside of the season 5 two parter, this is probably the best episode of season 5 thus far. Plus, I loved all the Pinkie Pie moments throughout this episode. the scene where she kissed gummy goodbye was rather sweet of her. I was like "Aww", when she did that. lol Of course I'm biased considering she's my favorite out of the main 6, so I wouldn't take this post too seriously because I rarely ever dislike an episode with Pinkie Pie playing one of the key roles. :P

[@vividbeige3067]

I think the decay of Griffonstone contributes a lot to this episode. Visiting the heart of the Griffon kingdom at the height of its glory would've been nice, but it was very powerful seeing how much a community can suffer simply for lacking pride and spirit. It helps explain a lot about Gilda and adds a great deal to the importance of friendship in this episode. And it creates opportunities to return to Griffonstone in the future and see how things have improved with Gilda doing what she can to spread the magic of friendship.

[@Hulksmasher1995]

If you had told me back when i saw season one that I would actually enjoy, even be hype, for Gilda to redeem herself i wouldn't have believed you. But here we are! Seriously! While i knew the episode was about griffons i didn't really expect Gilda to be there AND be so prominent to the story. I was actually smiling wide when i realized what was going to happen with her. MLP should redeem it's villains more often :3 Secondly, and boy am i repeating myself here, Pinkie is killing it with the humor this season!!!! Everything she does nowadays gets a chuckle out of me :) I'm glad the show is really showing that part of her off. And Lastly....I can't wait to see Silver-Quill look into this episode :3 I feel comedy ensuing

[@Juliebel177]

I liked seeing the fact that Griffinstone was fallen. Reminded me of the Holy Roman Empire. In the dark ages, the HRE still "existed" on maps, but the heart of it was dead.

[@memethyst]

that ending though

[@capybapy]

When you see baby Gilda: Wave of cuteness hits you in the face, you "dawwwwwwwwwwwwww" out loud, and you crack up for no reason.

[@Foxgearstudios]

So the griffins are the mongols? Or some kind of eastern culture, I'm not sure whose started those pointed fuzz hats Rainbow and Pinkie were wearing on the climb up to GriffenStone it was an interesting episode. As for the review I think your focusing a little too much on what if. No episode can be 100% what we want it to be Doc and as one of those fanfic writers I like the idea of the fallen Griffin Kingdom, it sets up just as many stories as a Standing Griffin Kingdom in my eyes.

[@Oban2006]

Wolf Gear They are the French

[@Foxgearstudios]

Right the other griffen from the Mmm episode forgot about him

[@MoonlitKarma]

Those would be sherpa styled hats ^^ think the alps/himalayas. So you weren't too far off.

[@Foxgearstudios]

Ah, thanks for pointing that out, couldnt for the life of me remember what those hats were called.

[@minespatch]

Shadowtechnik Wait... Does this make Gryphons Gauls then?

[@baffledbrandon6971]

As soon as I heard the synopsis for this episode, I knew form the beginning that Gilda would be a part of the episode. I loved this episode and I loved the flashback. SO far, this is shaping up to the best season we've had since season two.

[@Bookmite1]

Personally, I enjoyed seeing the run-down city in contrast to Pinkies optimism. There's only so much time to an episode, and it gives us a chance to see how they might rebuild in future episodes. Also, while I admit I understand and enjoy the fact Twilight wasn't included in going with them, I also have to admit I would have loved to see her reaction to the 'library' and watch her OCD go into overdrive. The fact they actually gave a reason for how Gilda acts and how they handled it was quite good. You actually see such things fairly often in films, and it's often handles differently. The writers managed to put in that little message on how a persons past can shape them, and how it takes good friends to help change a persons outlook for the better, rather than exonerating them. Not to mention it was good of the writers not to have the gryphons or even Gilda suddenly be all 'yay' about friendship, but rather taking it one small step at a time, which isn't something we really see in FIM. The episode I'm waiting for, however, is one of these 'map-quests' to include Discord somehow, because that really one thing we have yet to see, Discord actually being helpful. Yes, we do see him being helpful at times, but in those cases he's also the one who caused the problem in the first place. He basically has unfathomable powers, and it would be nice to see a situation where he can learn not every problem can be fixed with a snap of the fingers. Now on a side note... When do we get to see where Zecora comes from!? We're finally getting some more world-building, so this is a good opportunity to introduce us to such a thing, and the many interesting species they can also introduce us to. Edit: Second side note... I'm probably one of the few here who have read the Dresden Files books, but to any of you who have, am I the only one who keeps thinking of Dresdens little mini-city he uses whenever the map comes up? Seriously, it's pretty much the same thing. Makes me wonder if the writers are Dresden fans.

[@dexterthoma867]

That last one is my favorite saying that the animation was awesome the episode was awesome the beginning was a lot of complaining but everything else was like oh my gosh it's like I happen I felt like I was five years old watching Sailor Moon again

[@Next0gen0]

Now doctor. It's important to not have all your cake in one go. This was a great introduction to the gryphon empire, and it would be great in future episode's if we continue to revisit it. Seeing how Gilda's influence helped shaped the town back into it's former glory. Who knows. Could this be the start of, a new Gryphon Princess? :)

[@ryangrayson5958]

I agree with you on the fact that they really could have done more in regard to the Griffin Kingdom here. Showing that it is really run-down is a start, but they could have done a little more with it for this first episode. Hopefully we get to visit again and see some improvements. I definitely don't expect it to be pristine and happy by then, but a more friendly atmosphere as we see the griffins change and progress. I also liked the reference to Last Crusade there at the end. Just as an observation, Dr. Wolf, you might want to change the way you say your closing line for your episodes. From the way your voice sounds you mostly have a tenor range. To me it just sounds a little off when you try to drop your voice below what it can actually handle clearly. You can still drop it, just not as low as you have been trying to do. Thanks for all you do and for all the great videos you produce. I really enjoy them.

[@speculativemusings3593]

That Cyclops Skull! O_O Death comes to MLP:FIM in its most blatant form yet!

[@SMKears519]

Personally, I might count this as a contender for (if not) my (actual) favourite episode of the series. It felt so dense with humour, lore/word-building, and heart- I really couldn't of asked for more! The Doctor DOES make a valid point about RD and Gilda's dialogue. At first I had no idea what he was talking about, but upon reflection, I realized I was hoping for a deeper emotional talk between them, because they DID used to be friends before it ended so abruptly, so it's natural to expect some residual feelings of affection are hiding under their anger. Even still, I was so swept away with the beautiful world and new elements and culture, and the new ideas the episode brought up that I totally didn't care. I was having such a great time, and I guess it's BECAUSE it felt so dense with content for me that I didn't miss that element. Plus, I could still feel it was there. Maybe I was reading into things, but that's the way it seemed. And this episode was so subtle and smart! Both Rainbow Dash and Gilda made (the equivalent of) racist remarks toward the other's race throughout the episode- but they each are based ONLY in the bad experience they had with their friendship ending. Dash talks about how Griffons are jerks and bullies at the start, and Gilda scoffs that all ponies have a hero-complex (and isn't it convenient that later we're given a flashback where Dash acts heroically against the bullies for Gilda). See, it's a lot like real life: sometimes all it takes to make someone a racist is one really bad experience with one person, and they don't even realize that they've coloured an entire group of people because of it (or that they're being racist). I LOVE that the episode doesn't even address it out loud, because this isn't the focus of the story (and I ADORED how this story went), but to me, at least, it's definitely there and it's a very intelligent way of showing, not telling! And someone else brought up how Gilda might eventually become the Griffon's new Queen someday because she's gonna be the one to bring friendship to them (which would make the line "We don't have a /King/" a cool bit of foreshadowing). I LOVE that they're teaching other ponies not only how to be friends, but to spread friendship themselves. It's so exciting to think that someday, all thanks to the small seed planted today, the griffon kingdom could flourish again. I actually enjoyed seeing the ruined kingdom, but if you're saddened by the lost potential to show the kingdom in its prime, I still think they could return one or two seasons down the line- or at least show them rebuilding. ... MAN, I love this show. Plus, the art-work in the backstory was breathtaking (even more so in 1080p!), the adventure was so exciting (having Twilight narrate the exposition while they make their epic quest through the mountain ranges blew me away), the comedy always hit, the culture we did get to see was one-note but an understable and interesting note, the flashback explained so much (in canon; as the Doc said, many have suspected as much), and I just ... Man, I don't know if I'm in the minority or not, but I thoroughly enjoyed this episode. Instant classic for me, all the way. To be fair, even I can't say it was /perfect/. Pinkie was absolutely awesome- being the one to solve things and having so many funny moments- but the one thing that was a little too far was the two times she messed up with the rope. Honestly, it feels like I'm nitpicking here because it really didn't bother me, but it was a little ridiculous for Pinkie to not understand that she had to tie the rope for it to be useful, and pretty obvious it just needed to happen for the plot. The cliched 'if-I-could-only-reach-a-little-farther-but-oh-no-my-friends-are-falling' bit was easy to enjoy for me even if I've seen it before, and it ended up being an important development for Gilda, so I really have trouble complaining about that, but I can see where some might take issue. I can understand if anyone has qualms with this one, but boy, was this ever one fun ride!

[@SMKears519]

SMKears519 Oh, and thinking about it a little more, I think I know why the lack of a more emotional or to-the-point-about-their-friendship talk/confrontation didn't bother me. It's completely in character (I feel). Not just because their both characters who don't like talking about their feelings, but because 1. Gilda was ashamed of the way she acted in Ponyville, and felt guilty for their friendship ending, but was too prideful to apologize of bring it up and 2. Once Rainbow Dash makes her mind up about somepony (or somegriffon), she's hard to sway; it's ESPECIALLY true if that person hurt her friends (take Discord for instance, she took her sweet time in trusting him), so it makes sense that Gilda would have to really prove she cares in a big way, like saving Dash's life That's just a justification for how I felt, and this isn't to say that the Doctor's or anyone else's feeling for the episode are wrong, though! That's just how I see their characters to be.

[@AndrewJasonQuan]

I think this is the best episode of Season 5 so far. Nice structured story, focus on characters, a little world building, and ties nicely into previous continuity. Sure Griffonstone was a bit lackluster after hearing the lore, but it gave the story more room to focus on the actual story. And in a series that has been increasingly more grandiose in its setting and stories, a simpler story about friendship like the old days is well welcomed as far as I'm concerned. The only gripe I have is probably the Cutie Map being the standard mcguffin for sending whoever wherever for whatever reason. But then again, that is just a problem with the Cutie Map in general.

[@OkariCheetah]

I liked this episode quite allot actually. I really didn't expect them to bring Gilda back, nor did I expect the city to be in ruins once they came there. The ruins of the once great city did make things a little less interesting. It made the whole episode gain a dreary mood, yet it did serve it's purpose. Also, I do agree with you on the pacing and the overall events with the griffins. What also bugged me was Gilda's voice, as it went out of Gilda's usual voice more than one time. I, though, really liked the history of the griffin kingdom. It gives more depth do the griffin species in general, and I can see several griffin related mlp fanfics coming out of this. I also can say the flashback of Gilda and Rainbow Dash was so cute! I think my heart exploded while watching it. o~o The beginning and ending was really well done, and though the middle was a bit boring, I can say I really liked this episode in general. I can see someone making a story on how Gilda helps others and makes friends, making the kingdom great again through friendship. Now I would love to see that. I also hope that they bring her back again as well, since there are plenty of ideas that can still be used for her. Overall, I can say that I do agree with you in most of the things you stated. This was a great video and you made me think really hard on the things inside this episode. Thanks again and I can't wait for the next review! ^.^ ~Lynn

[@aliasahah2965]

my main thing I enjoyed from this was the fact it pretty much canonized the fact that the map is gonna play into more stories then the season opener and finale.

[@Kayclau]

Even thought it was needed to the story, I really wanted them to save the idol in the end. In my imagiation, I saw Gilda learning that nothing is more valuable than friendship, just like in the episode, but I also saw her turning into the new leader of the kingdom spreading this lesson to all the griffins. I think that if Gilda was queen it'd be easier for her to unite the kingdom.

[@PlanetZoidstar]

I totally called the Cutie Map being used as a plot device to split off the Mane 6 into pairs, it allows for more development and better, less diluted focus, and lets them cover more ground in spreading Friendship.

[@mystuff789]

Personally, I loved Gilda's flashback. She needed a friend when she came to flight camp, and Rainbow Dash just came in, gave her confidence, and the two became friends and flew around together. I could relate to young Gilda, something like that happened to me when I was very young

[@Jora23145737]

When flashback arrived, i was trying not to die because of cuteness overload. IT WAS TOO CUTE!!!!

[@shibumi8]

I too was expecting a more regular kingdom, but the whole fallen kingdom(or was it just the capital) did give it an unexpected charm. It certainly explains why most of the Griffins we've met are bossy and why they'd be hanging around Equestria.

[@dna3991]

it might be funny if Gilda, after introducing friendship to all the griffins, was made the first Griffin Princess... ensuring that peace and harmony remain in her subjects as long as she reins. Boy, that would be a reunion, Rainbow and Pinky return to check on progress, only to hear that a new Princess has been crowned, they go to the castle to meet her and are shocked to find Gilda with a crown on (well, Rainbow is shocked, Pinky's just waving like she knew the whole time.... good ol' Pinky). Oh the laughs.

[@Dark_Tale_2077]

Something I have been noticing a lot of people forgetting. There are Cyclops matadors. That is freaking awesome.

[@robertparkhurst4034]

Yes, cuteness overload, and it actually made sense how they 'redeemed' Gilda. *Now we just have to wait for SilverQuill's reaction with his homeland in such disrepair.*

[@Peaches-fs9zq]

To be honest, i LOVED todays episode! I flipped out when i saw gilda was in it! Griffon The BrushOff was always an episode i enjoyed, and getting to see gilda again and her having an "Attitude change" and actually become quite friendly at the end really made me happy! I really hope to see more of her in the future

[@YeCrustModifier]

I'm just grateful we're going to get a lot more fanfic and a lot less clop out of this episode when compared to the previous X3

[@phoenixamaku5551]

I've always wondered if the other kingdoms looked like, along with existing kingdoms.and thats cool we get to see how Gilda and Rainbow met in the past

[@vj3137]

GET MLP OUT OF HERE! I CAN"T STAND IT!!

[@Werewolf_Korra]

I wanted the satyr-clops to still be alive, perhaps trapped like rainbow and lamenting his choices.

[@Werewolf_Korra]

Oh, and death is a thing now... Apparently.

[@roo2385]

noobmaster117 The next step: ponies dying.

[@Werewolf_Korra]

Roberto Espinosa Sombra exploded violently onscreen, what more do you want (it's not confirmed he died, like the monster, since he's like a spirit, but still)

[@roo2385]

Who doesn't know how Sombra died? I know that. And talking seriously, ponies dying is not a good idea, It was a joke.

[@lordapple1618]

noobmaster117 Seeing how Sombra is based on Sauron from LotR (spirit trying to get his physical form back), I am going to assume that just like Sauron, when Sombra's body got destroyed, he became an invisie sort of spirit, wandering the world forever but without power. Kind of sad really....

[@jaketucker2559]

First time I saw griffenstone, I said " as spike wound say that nest should be condemned!"

[@Aeonicentity]

I actually appreciated the unexpected turn with Griffonstone being a run-down dump. In fantasy realms its pretty easy to fall into the trap of making every place people visit perfect 'good villages' and 'evil fortresses' and its refreshing to see that even in a world powered by magic and ruled by powerful kings/queens a place with serious problems that isn't a fortress full of baby-killing priests. More importantly it shows the danger of a community built entirely on one unifying thing/event rather than a sense of friendly community. Once Griffonstone lost their treasure the only thing keeping their people together was their love of money, and you can see how well that turns out. I think the general theme for this season (if one could be assigned to it) is that friendship and community is the super-power. Last season we saw the elements of harmony be destroyed in favor of setting up Twilight as a kind of friendship evangalist, who is now going around helping people build communities, not with magic, but people. I think that's a really good moral for a story for kids.

[@babablackiesheep]

It would have been nice to see a beautiful griffon kingdom, but I think it would have been distracting from the main story. I like the idea that without friendship a once great kingdom can crumble. Makes total sense to me. With the griffons becoming more and more selfish, their society began to deteriorate. Thus you get bitchy bullies who are out for themselves living in a trash pit.

[@isabelleburge9009]

I'm actually really interested in the map. At first, I thought it would send the mane 6 out on adventures to spread the magic of friendship but it actually sends the ponies most suited for the task at hand. It's a nice plot device but for a castle that came from a tree that somehow knows where friendship is needed it must be really powerful.

[@MrMarinus18]

I actually really loved it. It was quite surprising that run down town but I do understand. Griffenstone was once a mighty kingdom rivalling equestria but has since fallen from grace and is now a vassal state. Also gold to griffons is like magic to ponies. It's what they rally around. The golden idol of borious is like the crystal heart. It's the thing that makes a leader's rulership true for them. Cadance was called the crystal princess when she was shown with the crystal heart.

[@ObsessiveReaderLuv]

Yeah, it was predictable, but man, I'm actually really glad I got to like Gilda this episode. So much potential! And the pattern seems to be helping others learn friendship lessons so they can spread friendship, which seems pretty cool. Also, it's interesting to find out that not everyone has to go to each place the map calls them. Makes me think we'll be getting a few more returning characters, with related characters being drawn to them. Maybe Trixie, for example...?

[@Foolsdust2034]

Something I noticed about season 5, particularly this episode and Appleoosa's Most Wanted, is the advent of eclectic hats. I rather like that. I hope as the season progresses, we'll get to see more.

[@RandomPopcultureNewsFreak]

Omg Dr. You have absolutely no clue as to how much i've been wanting Gilda the Griffon to appear to make her comeback in a season/episode one day,and now that it's finally happen i can tell you for a fact good sir.That i t made me fanboy and bounce off the walls so darn hard man!!!! ^_^ .I mean to see that girl make her comeback again, made my day so worth living .(Since irl in my real life, i've been extremely busy moving to a new spot, along with getting a new job transfer where i still barley know anyone yet since i started this past monday earlier this week.It's been very extremely stressful and life has pretty much taken a turn for the more stress inducing side for sure =(. So this episode made my whole week worth it for waiting on the hype on how much it promised.I love the quick little adorable animation when rainbow dash pretty much mocks and pokes fun of how persistent and smart Twilight always is with her expeditions in a very nerdy, intellectual sort of matter.( i mean i'm not even a huge fan of Dash and she actually made me laugh there for once when she was mocking her manestyle and her voice!XD)Other than that Dr.Wolf, I also loved that amazing backstory on the history of the GriffonStone city and how much history and culture that they flourished in so much amazing ways of living before that evil cyclopes monster ended up destroying their peaceful and kindness way of life ,into making them extremely greedy money hungry bit coin gluttony griffons =( Totally 100% and beyond agree with you man!. That scene when Gilda Has that origins style of a flashback blew me away so hard with the feels and emotions that came with it!!! ^_^ .I cannot even believe that at one point in Gilda's life she was the exact same way that fluttershy was and still is !It's so impossible to believe at one point in her life, she was such a cute,innocent shy and very nervous individual and was very scared of making new friends!=O .But once filly rainbow dash ran into her , they because the greatest of friends(besides dash having flutters as her friend in Cloudsdale training young flyers competition school back then)then rainbow dash showed gilda how to be tough,confident, and a very brave griffon ,then it flashes forward to the future with Adult Gilda tearing up thinking about those amazing times they use to have when they were still close friends .Before the events unfolded in that season 1 episode of course!Over all dr.wolf , i really loved this episode ,especially with the 2 new characters that were introduced in this one segment like Greta or whatever gilda's griffon name was, and her old grandfather, grandpa Gruff,and the new mlp fim universal snack called GriffonsconesXD.Peace bro and cant wait in almost 3 weeks from now the big ginormous overhyped other episode of MLP FIM Season 5 episode 9(or 100 overall) SLICE OF LIFE!!!!!aka the episode that is supposedly going to have every fan favorite backround pony as the main 6's replace for just this one episode =)

[@TheBrohoofBuddha]

I'm gonna say, I was NOT expecting Gilda to return!

[@MLPDethDealr32]

i was laughing my ass off when Rainbow was impersonating Twilight on the train XD

[@deelite19]

upon thinking on it, i kinda find it interesting to see griffonstone in ruins. this way, we can see the possible rebuilding of griffonstone in future episodes, and would open up a whole lot of possibilities. who knows, by the time we near the end of the series, we might see griffonstone as a grand city again.

[@angelabird8481]

I hope that when they eventually return to Griffinstone, it will be all rebuilt and will be a great city once again.

[@rexamillion8446]

I like the rundown Griffonstone aspect in that it gives a chance story building more than lore building. Heck who knows maybe we'll find out that Grandapa Gruff was a relative of one of the kings making Gilda a griffon princess once they get the library up and running again. I just like the idea of a fall from grace and born from the ashes kinda story at times. It opens a lot of possibilities for us to see the nation to grow in the future.

[@TheAbsinthemind]

I like that they ended the episode with Gilda having a new mission to revive gryphon culture and doing so by baby steps rather than a montage of Gryphonstone getting back on its feet practically overnight. It makes the story very believable. I'm reminded of traveling to Russia, Poland, and Ukraine and seeing the surface of these former Soviet/Eastern Bloc countries culture and how depressing and desolate it seems. The people there don't seem to have any point of pride or identity they can get behind and form a culture around. However, if you meet with many of the younger generations of people there you can see them experimenting with new ideas and trying to bring about a cultural rebirth.

[@discordlexia2429]

I actually really liked that Gilda and Dashie got back together... I always thought Gilda was just acting out from stress and annoyance and that such a minor thing should never end a friendship, especially not one with the Element of Loyalty...

[@RynKen]

I think making Griffinstone so run down is the best thing for the story. It gives the perfect opportunity to show how it looks now and how it will look after Gilda spreads friendship throughout the land, uniting them without the use of a magical item. I will be disappointed if they don't show the place again later with some improved... everything.

[@heatherkramer3139]

I think we can expect a reappearance of Gilda and the friends she makes later in the series. The glum appearance of the Griffin capital now I think just makes it better to come back later and see what progress has been made.

[@aria_daize9926]

i do agree with you that rainbow's quick forgivness at the end felt a bit rushed, but i felt like the middle worked great. the griffens have been bitter and mean for so long, you can't just say "friendship" and expect to come completely full circle. as the middle part went on, we saw gilda soften up a little bit, and at the end, not every griffen becomes friends. if fact, it's mostly the same, and that is a good thing. i felt like this story handles well. also.......... CUTENESS OVERLOAD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@missedthebandwagon976]

The thing that really got me was the monster that stole the treasure, and seeing its skull later. 0^0' That thing really scared me when it was alive. Also, it seems like you're not the only one who didn't much like the Griffon kingdom but I think that that was a good move actually. It sets up a contrast to pony towns that are well maintained and very nice looking because ponies work together but the Griffons only care about "number one" so they didn't bother to help each other to keep the place looking nice. The only reason anyone of them still live there is because it costs money to move, like we heard that Gilda was saving up her bits so she could leave. I think it was that way so that we could see how greed and selfishness leads to ruin, while most ponies are the exact opposite of Griffons always willing to lend a hoof.

[@pokedash55]

I was really excpecting Gilda to return when I saw the Info on the episode. It stated that Pinkie and Rd were going to a griffon village and I wanted them to bring Gilda back after hearing this. I was pleased with this episode. Also, super cute rd flashback. AWWWWWWWW!!

[@NavnikBHSilver]

Right on cue with the review!

[@jshadowhunter]

Am I the only one who thought of Grogar from 80s MLP, when the giant one eyed goat, who later stole the artifact, appeared?

[@Lin2Waterfall]

Turmoil I thought the same thing, too, for a moment when I missed the thing's name. However I think the staff gave it more goat-like features since it would be odd to have something so close to "Human" in the show, since the creature it is based on is of a group of 1-eyed people or so that had battles with the Griffons over gold.

[@jshadowhunter]

Lin2Waterfall Cyclopse. And In comics Trolls are human like.

[@generaljimmies3429]

Turmoil Of course trolls would be human-like, no one can troll better than us.

[@guardianeris]

Turmoil I thought of the monsters from the land where Tirek comes from. The monster looked like Tirek, but with one giant eye.

[@SarahStarLibra]

Oh my gosh you're right! I didn't notice that! :0

[@MaddTheSane]

I could see them setting up Griffon lore as something to use in the future. Maybe in the next season: I'd be surprised if they did do something this season.

[@sethhughes3416]

I think an episode with the return to the Griffin kingdom in all its former glory would be cool

[@royvdhel7374]

I thought it was a very amusing episode to watch, but I can't put away the feeling I get, of it almost being "not done" or that it actually ended a bit to early. The only thing they did is encourage Gilda to make friends...but did it work? was Gilda able to help her fellow Griffins by making them understand what friendship is about? Did they together help each other to rebuild the kingdom to it's former glory? I really hope they will come back on this later.

[@theDENIMMAN]

fittingly the day this came out I watched your review of griffon the brush off... I have impeccably good timing like that.

[@lordsjaak]

well i found little shock we saw directly about Gilda, i found little bit more about different griffion but gilda does fine. how every when pinkie cutie mark whent off how does that work and get we there little more background about it? also when cutie mark whent off...i get feeling about adam west batman show with the batphone.... it also flashing like normaly ^^ and did have pinkie now a crush on statue of the griffon king?? hhmm...

[@sastov1681]

This episode also revealed that the cutie map is selective. This is the first time we see specific characters being sent on a mission. I think this is going to be very significant since Twilight Sparkle made such a big deal about "if the map wanted her to go, it would have asked for her". What do you guys think?

[@toast7868]

I think this is good. I was expecting a Mich more greater empire looking place but I loved the episode anyway. This can also mean we will be seeing more griffon OCs in the future :)

[@AkumaTh]

Been waiting to see Gilda return and glad it ended with redemption. Was a lot better than Trixie's return episode for me. Of course, could of been better, but still good.

[@Sperium3000]

I was really hoping the episode would end with Pinkie arriving back at Sugarcube Corner and Gummy is at the same point she left him but the cake is all done and glorious looking.

[@LaissezFairyWriter]

Yeah, I have to agree with you on the disappointment and missed opportunities. This didn't feel like what they did with Equestria Games because we were actually shown what the city looked like when in "Equestria Games," we could only guess what they could be like. Plus, many fans, including myself have been waiting since season 1 to visit the Griffon Kingdom. I even came up with my own version of it so I was excited to see what twists the actual show would take on it and what did I get... A rundown village. Seriously? I don't mean to sound harsh but I'm sorry to say I feel a little cheated. We were given an idea of what Griffonstone looked like and then never got to see it. However, it seems that Griffonstone is only one part of the Griffon Kingdom, not all of it, so there is a possibility, in the future, to explore other areas. And who knows, maybe Griffonstone will be restored to its former glory when we return. I can only hope.

[@oscarstainton]

I was initially disappointed by the rundown look of the Griffon town, but at the same time it hit me, not all the world is going to look like Equestria, not everywhere's going to look majestic and wondrous. And since the Griffons put so little care in their everyday lives after the loss of the golden idol, it made sense that their realm would be so dilapidated. Who knows, perhaps if we return next time, the Griffon Kingdom will look less like Knock-Turn Alley and more like Minas Tirith.

[@Oracle36]

Wow I'm not sure I've seen you this excited about an episode doc ^_^ I kind of expected Gilda return due to the whole Chekhovs gun things. As for the state of the kingdom it was on the list of possibilities. One thing I've noticed in MLP is if the episode starts off building your expectations you can most certainly expect a very sudden and long fall. This is not to say the episode was bad by any means but I wasn't an unexpected twist. What i was kinda hoping for was a reference back to the unicorn meadow glen (hope I remembering the name right) due to the power the idol seemed to have. I loved seeing some character development for Gilda as well. It's not an instant turn around as some might think as she is still nervous about doing the friend thing with out Rainbow and Pinky and is at risk of falling back into her old ways. I look forward to little nods now and then towards her like the writers have done to Babs and Discord (though one of those has been getting more screen time to my immense pleasure). And yes my "D'awww" meter exploded at young Gilda and Dash.

[@earthbind83]

Ok, so the episode came out at 1:30pm NY time and you uploaded your review on... about 7:30pm NY time? Wow, that's amazing. ^^ Have MLP analysts always been this fast? Because to me it looks like it started this season that each week there's someone who uploads an analysis within hours of the airing time (Firebrand, KP and I think MLPSilverQuill at one time, too). About the episode: At first I dreaded seeing Griffins and especially Gilda again, but all in all she wasn't too mean and she finally opened up, so it was ok. Also I liked the RD/PP team, because they're both not level-headed, so the way this problem was tackled and solved was very different from most episodes, because nopony was the voice of reason.

[@Jmyster4]

I personally thought it was an episode about candy colored talking ponies (and a griffon) learning about the magic of friendship. But ya totally, lore, nations, cultures, glory and stuff are also.. things. haha

[@KillerXSquirtle]

Honestly I was figuring that Gilda would wind up Griffon queen towards the end or at least getting everyone's crap together on a larger scale instead of doing something small. But hey, small works. Can't build a castle without placing one brick at a time.

[@JadestonePony]

Honestly, I don't think Griffonstone being run-down is a missed opportunity, and I was mainly only surprised at the extent to which it collapsed, not quite so much at the fact that it had. It was said over and over again how the kingdom was built on pride and glory centered around this one special artifact. That sounds like an easy recipe for disaster to me if that one artifact is gone, not to mention that the values of pride and glory are rather limited in how much cohesion they can provide in a group. Pride and glory, without anything to focus on, can easily dissolve into squabbling, bickering, and selfishness, so to me it makes perfect sense that the Griffon kingdom collapsed -- it was already built on a rather flimsy foundation to begin with. I honestly think this is a great opportunity to see the rebuilding of Griffonstone and how the Griffon race can learn to unify through the power of friendship. I'm really curious to see how their culture is going to adapt to this change, and I'm excited at the possibility of seeing more Griffons in the future. I got a strong sense at the end of the episode that the writers might be planning to revisit Griffonstone as it begins to rise back into prosperity. At least, based on MLP's past, I don't think the writers would go throwing around all that lore about how amazing a certain location is without eventually showing it. The Crystal Empire and Canterlot have been reused several times already, so I think there's a good chance of Griffonstone being reused the same way. At least, that's what I'm hoping for!