Blaine’s Ninetales defeats Ash's Squirtle using Fire Spin.

Ash, Misty, Brock, Gary Oak, and the "Riddle Master," who is eventually revealed to be Gym Leader Blaine .

The Riddle Master removes his disguise (a wig and sunglasses) to reveal himself as Blaine , the Gym Leader. The Gym Battle:

This episode was notably banned in South Korea due to its overt portrayals of Japanese culture, such as the hot springs and traditional attire.

Ash sends out Charizard, who refuses to fight and flies out of the arena, resulting in a forfeit.

Blaine calls upon his "secret weapon," Magmar . The episode ends as Magmar launches a powerful Fire Blast at Pikachu, who is cornered at the edge of the arena. Thematic Analysis

Throughout the episode, a mysterious hippie-like character provides riddles that lead the group to a hidden hotel and eventually the secret Gym location. Plot Summary and Key Events

The English title "Riddle Me This" is a reference to the catchphrase of The Riddler from the Batman franchise.