Just saw this yesterday after finding and beating a copy of explorers of sky I had lying around, so my question to you about this new patch is since you recommended to wait I'm not to concerned about QOL stuff or less intrusive side quests which you stated (assuming i dont beat them) that if I start now my save will carry over and I wont miss them and the only things i'd really miss out are the new shines for partner and starter.
so all this to say is rowlet/froakie getting shiny versions for the starter? because if they arent on the shiny list then I'll probably just begin my playthrough now
to add thanks for all the hardwork this kind of thing is awesome especially because we don't get explorers games all the time so any new stuff is very welcome.