>>713667982
People like to harp on the digimon having much less focus than the kids, but the focus has always been on the kids, and the purpose of the digimon themselves is a lot more subtle, but as a companion piece to the children.
The digimon embody each kid's virtue, which can also act as their vice. Taichi's courage can become aggression. Sometimes he expects too much of his team and doesn't understand their fears, for example. Agumon is always supportive of Taichi's courage, but immediately starts questioning him when he starts crossing the threshold. Since they're full of loyalty, they'll still go along with whatever the kids choose to do, but it's clear what the Digimon's aims are, what aspects they're receptive to most in the children.

I think Gabumon and his design in general are genius. He's clearly some kind of lizard wearing the pelt of a wolf, and while Yamato continuously tries his lone wolf thing, or tries to keep his friends safe while maintaining an aloof demeanor, it's clear it's not who he is underneath. Yet sometimes that persona is necessary and Gabumon evolves into wolf-themed forms, even one fully armored and covered in cold steel.
>>713668215
Yeah all the season 1 sequels are pretty bad, spare the Our War Game movie. Season 3 is also stellar though.