For the groups, I think coming up with some kind of tagging order could help preempt that "I don't want to step in if someone is waiting..." feeling. This causes a delay problem if the person whose turn it is can't respond, but having something like, maybe you get skipped if you don't reply within a certain window? That could work. (Unfortunately, this might mean people with tighter schedules might not be as able to participate... every decision has its setbacks, so that's just one suggestion.)

Alternately, maybe players having a more open discussion within groups/teams about what each person wants (as a goal) to do in the group thread could help, too. Part of the reason why I didn't step up sooner with Hans, for example, was because I wasn't sure if I'd be stealing the limelight (oocly) from someone who wanted to perhaps have a bigger role. Then again, I'm naturally prone to avoiding stepping on anyone's toes, so maybe I could have asked people too... well, that sort of thing. Communication, even over plurk, could help smooth things along. Maybe the modplurk could set up a thing and ping people, or at least provide that shared space for players to ping each other when it's their turn...?

I agree that the pokemon bonding mechanic is really fun and adorable, but I can see how it can be very time consuming for you guys as mods too. Maybe if they're worth more trouble than you'd like, you could set up a queue? People could sign up once a week, and get them done over the course of that following week...? I dunno, really. It's not a mechanic I've used much recently, but it's super fun and I think it should stay in some way, shape or form.

Also thanks nor!!!!!!! \o/ ilu