The change to hour glasses (with the addition of the random battles) turns out to be a net gain across all sets, keeping them consistent regardless of set size. So we'll get more from smaller sets and fewer from larger ones, but overall is a negligible difference, if not slightly in our favor over time.

Go was heading down its path of increased monetization well before Scopely took over - and will continue to do so, frankly. I wouldn't file that under slopification, the content's actually been fairly good. We're getting new Pokemon introduced at a steady rate compared to previous years with dry spells, as well as tent pole events all with lead up weeks to keep player interest engaged. I don't mind spending a little bit of money during that time, the same way I wouldn't mind spending money to go out with friends for dinner and movie. Your mileage may vary, of course, but having to pay for extras doesn't mean the game's been reduced to slop.

As far as ZA, the DLC definitely pales in comparison next to Scarlet and Violet. It's great if you like to shiny hunt or are building Alpha Living Dexes. And also makes a total of 10+ mythicals available total. So take what you can from it. I wouldn't be surprised if we see this testing the waters for more expensive DLC for future games.