Thank you for taking time too read over my comments and reply back. By the by I've been playing the game using Opera. I don't think anything game breaking has occurred for Any release so far in my time playing.
Combat note:
I still need too play through the other three characters again with this update. But I doubt anyone will feel as rough as Rata's start. If someone feels a bit too weak, I'll tack a reply onto this one.
Peanut Gallery 2: Electric Boogaloo
Item Shop: 'Tism' Warning
This one I'll answer in parts.
What all could they sell? Heals, Status restores, and Move restores. The basics. Next is Stat boosters, temporary, or permanent for helping with early battles.
The third category, trinkets/ gifts. Figure out what your opponent would love too be surprised with. Skip the fight, get the exp, and go on a short date. I saw a comment, or two about interacting more with the Encountered mons, or trying too recruit them. Maybe as in between this would be better? Get the normal reward, and a few images with said lass. Images, and writing being influenced by them being at 50, 100, and 150.
Example: Delphox, and Meowscarada could enjoy occult/ magic items.
Shop/ Shop owner:
When you asked who'll run the shop, my head locked in on a Ninetales (Weight/ Breast) with a manor she operates out of. Course whose too say she wouldn't have help. Give her a Machoke (Muscle), and Meowth/ Persian (Ass) assistants that you could trade with and level... And date all three.
Companions:
Not gonna lie, more than a lil awesome hearing Arcanine is planned for the player's roster early, or as an Encountered mon. If Mewtwo is a boss character... Then I'd swap my suggestion with Kadabra/ Alakazam (Breast/ Ass). Far as I recall none of the gals fit the 'Mystic' trope yet.
Vs. Arceus:
I didn't know bosses were planned. If the gauntlet was put in then, it and those rewards would be best as the final challenge then. Idea is that Dynamax would just let you Bm other challenges you've beaten as a final reward, and farm exp for items/ trinkets with ease. Lastly, if spamming ultimate moves is too much, maybe Crazy boost a mon's stats like she's lvl. 300 (Or lower)?
Okaaay Ted talk is done. Thank you for humoring me. I'm already eager too see what's next for this game. Take care of yourself.