Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Pokemon Dream Radar, Pokedex 3D Pro coming to North American 3DS this fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/pokemon-dream-radar-pokedex-3d-pro-coming-to-north-american-3ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/pokemon-dream-radar-pokedex-3d-pro-coming-to-north-american-3ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/pokemon-dream-radar-pokedex-3d-pro-coming-to-north-american-3ds/#comments ImageThe two eShop-based Pokemon games announced during the last Nintendo Direct are coming to 3DSes in North America this fall. Pokemon Dream Radar is a pseudo-shooting game in which players move their 3DSes around to find Pokemon hiding in augmented-reality environments, then catch them by shooting. Pokemon caught in this game, including "some hard-to-get Pokemon," can be transferred into Black 2 and White 2.

Pokedex 3D Pro is an upgraded version of the free Pokedex 3D app, with "detailed information about the more than 600 Pokémon featured in the history of the Pokémon video game series." Unlike Pokedex 3D, which hid many of its contents behind AR markers, everyone is unlocked from the start.

Pricing information was not announced for North America, but Dream Radar and Pokedex 3D Pro sell for 300 yen ($3.75) and 1,500 yen ($18.77) in Japan respectively. Is ultimate Pokemon knowledge worth $18 to you?

Gallery: Pokedex 3D Pro (3DS eShop)

Gallery: Pokemon Dream Radar (3DS eShop)

Continue reading Pokemon Dream Radar, Pokedex 3D Pro coming to North American 3DS this fall

JoystiqPokemon Dream Radar, Pokedex 3D Pro coming to North American 3DS this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 May 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseshopfall-2012nintendopokedex-3dpokedex-3d-propokemonpokemon-dream-radarrelease-dateTue, 15 May 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The insatiable need to dominate in Pokemon Conquest]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/the-insatiable-need-to-dominate-in-pokemon-conquest/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/the-insatiable-need-to-dominate-in-pokemon-conquest/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/the-insatiable-need-to-dominate-in-pokemon-conquest/#comments I was more than a little excited when I was tasked with tackling a preview for Tecmo Koei and Nintendo's crossover DS title Pokemon Conquest last week.

Conquest crosses the worlds of cute indentured monster servants from Pokemon with Nobunaga's Ambition, a series of Koei strategy games revolving around the bloody unification of feudal Japan by Oda Nobunaga. But Pokemon Conquest, which released in Japan last month as Pokemon + Nobunaga's Ambition, takes itself so seriously as a strategy role-playing game that it isn't the irreverent experience I made it out to be in my mind.

Gallery: Pokemon Conquest (5/2/2012)

Continue reading The insatiable need to dominate in Pokemon Conquest

JoystiqThe insatiable need to dominate in Pokemon Conquest originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdskoeikoei-tecmonintendopokemonpokemon-conquestpokemon-plus-nobunagas-ambitionWed, 02 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Black 2 and White 2 trailer introduces the new cast]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/14/pokemon-black-2-and-white-2-trailer-introduces-the-new-cast/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/14/pokemon-black-2-and-white-2-trailer-introduces-the-new-cast/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/14/pokemon-black-2-and-white-2-trailer-introduces-the-new-cast/#comments Image
Meet the new protagonists of Pokemon Black 2 and White 2. They're the guy with hair spilling out of his visor and the girl with Princess Leia hair. In this trailer, you'll also see the rival (spiky haired guy with no nose), a researcher named Akuroma, and some new gym leaders.

We hope we're not spoiling anything by telling you that you'll have a rival and face a series of gym leaders. Pokemon Black 2 and White 2 will be out in Japan on June 23; it's due in North America this fall.

JoystiqPokemon Black 2 and White 2 trailer introduces the new cast originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 14 Apr 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsjapannintendopokemonpokemon-black-2-white-2Sat, 14 Apr 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Joystiq Indie Pitch: Monster MMORPG]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/the-joystiq-indie-pitch-monster-mmorpg/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/the-joystiq-indie-pitch-monster-mmorpg/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/the-joystiq-indie-pitch-monster-mmorpg/#comments Indie developers are the starving artists of the video-game world, often brilliant and innovative, but also misunderstood, underfunded and more prone to writing free-form poetry on their LiveJournals. We at Joystiq believe no one deserves to starve, and many indie developers are entitled to a fridge full of tasty, fulfilling media coverage, right here. This week, Furkan Gözükara, the Turkish developer of free-to-play Monster MMORPG, explains how he made a game based on Pokemon better than Pokemon. You heard it here first, folks.

What's your game called and what's it about?

My game is called Monster MMORPG. The game is all about catching, training, and battling with monsters.

You start out as a simple trainer with a starter monster, fresh to a world full of action and discovery. You must venture out into the vast lands and search for monsters both common and extremely rare.

The community of Monster MMORPG is also very important. Trainers are what make the game, and the relationships built between trainers creates rivalries and friendships. A trainer could be out helping another trainer find a monster one minute, and turning his monster team into shambles the next.

How do you reply to those who might say Monster MMORPG is too similar to Pokemon?

Monster MMORPG is the same in that respect as any other online MMO. You can't traverse the Internet stream without hearing, "That's just like...."

We all loved Pokemon, so why wouldn't you want a game that is very similar, but much better? Games like Empire Earth and Age of Empires 2, or Torchlight and Diablo 2 are very similar, much like Monster MMORPG and Pokemon. They were all still very successful.

Continue reading The Joystiq Indie Pitch: Monster MMORPG

JoystiqThe Joystiq Indie Pitch: Monster MMORPG originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Furkan-Gözükarajoystiq-indie-pitchMonster-MMORPGpcPokemonturkeyYes-he-said-better-thanFri, 23 Mar 2012 20:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Black and White Version 2 coming this fall to North America]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/pokemon-black-and-white-version-2-coming-this-fall-to-north-amer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/pokemon-black-and-white-version-2-coming-this-fall-to-north-amer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/pokemon-black-and-white-version-2-coming-this-fall-to-north-amer/#comments Nintendo of America officially announced plans to release Pokemon Black Version 2 and Pokemon White Version 2, the mysterious sequels revealed over the weekend in Japan. A brief press release from the publisher said that the DS sequels will arrive in North America this fall -- ensuring one more crazy holiday season for the Nintendo DS. Nintendo didn't offer any more details about the content of the games, or what it means to have a "Version 2" of a previously released Pokemon game.

Alongside this announcement, Nintendo issued slightly bigger character art of the new Black Kyurem and White Kyurem Pokemon -- but didn't label them! How will we ever figure out which is which?

Gallery: Pokemon Black Version 2/White Version 2 (DS)

Continue reading Pokemon Black and White Version 2 coming this fall to North America

JoystiqPokemon Black and White Version 2 coming this fall to North America originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsnintendopokemonpokemon-black-2-white-2pokemon-black-version-2pokemon-white-version-2q4-2012release-dateMon, 27 Feb 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fake Pokemon Yellow ends up on iOS App Store]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/fake-pokemon-yellow-ends-up-on-ios-app-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/fake-pokemon-yellow-ends-up-on-ios-app-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/fake-pokemon-yellow-ends-up-on-ios-app-store/#comments A fraudulent version of the Game Boy Color classic Pokemon Yellow has somehow made it through Apple's approval gauntlet and wound up on the App Store. Published by "Home of Anime" with Daniel Burford listed as the author, the "game" runs for $0.99 and has a one-and-a-half star rating after 1,352 reviews. According to said reviews, the app crashes after the title screen and cannot actually be played.

As if the simple existence of a Pokemon game on the App Store weren't enough of a red flag, the listing's screenshots aren't even from Pokemon Yellow, they're actually from Pokemon Fire Red/Leaf Green. The app's description also contains unattributed "press quotes" and a statement that "all trademarks and copyrights are owned by their respective owners," because everyone knows that admitting your copyright infringement absolves you of all responsibility, right? We've reached out to Apple for comment.

Editor's Note: My faulty, old-man brain confused the fact that Pokemon Yellow launched with a Poke-themed Game Boy Color, with it actually being a Game Boy Color game (which it was not). I've exploded an Electrode in penance.

JoystiqFake Pokemon Yellow ends up on iOS App Store originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app-storecounterfietfake-pokemonfraudiosipadiphonemobilepokemonpokemon-yellowscamMon, 20 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Pokemon Plus Nobunaga's Ambition trailer rewrites history]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/18/new-pokemon-plus-nobunagas-ambition-trailer-rewrites-history/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/18/new-pokemon-plus-nobunagas-ambition-trailer-rewrites-history/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/18/new-pokemon-plus-nobunagas-ambition-trailer-rewrites-history/#comments
We don't remember Oda Nobunaga's blood-soaked conquest of Japan being quite so cute and fluffy, or having so much to do with scantily clad ninja women and so little to do with murder, but what do we know? It's not like we double majored in History and Applied Pokeology. Oh wait, we totally did.

JoystiqNew Pokemon Plus Nobunaga's Ambition trailer rewrites history originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 18 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsnintendonobunagas-ambitionpokemonpokemon-plus-nobunagas-ambitionTecmo-KoeiThe-Pokemon-CompanySat, 18 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Adorable Valentine's Day card templates from PaperRockScisorz]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/adorable-valentines-day-card-templates-from-paperrockscisorz/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/adorable-valentines-day-card-templates-from-paperrockscisorz/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/adorable-valentines-day-card-templates-from-paperrockscisorz/#comments Despite previous indications to the contrary, the Joystiq Qrew is actually pretty keen on Valentine's Day. We're all hopeless romantics, but you don't need to be as in love with being in love as we are to recognize how precious, touching and clever these gaming themed Valentine's Day card templates are.

Made by Etsy user PaperRockScisorz and available at her shop, these print-your-own card templates feature Pokemon, Dr. Mario, Sonic, Zelda and Portal motifs with cutesy sayings and pixel hearts at $2.75 a pop. It's an easy and inexpensive way to show your significant other that you care, assuming you're lucky enough to share your life with a person that loves games as much as you do. If you're not that lucky, well, maybe get them a gift card or something. Single people are advised to dress up like a member of their preferred gender and have a romantic candle-lit dinner with themselves in a mirror. Ain't love grand?

JoystiqAdorable Valentine's Day card templates from PaperRockScisorz originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Jan 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dr-marioduck-huntetsymariopaperrockscisorzpokemonportalsonictemplatevalentines-dayzeldaSat, 28 Jan 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Catch Mewtwo in Pokemon White and Black starting on Feb. 12]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/catch-mewtwo-in-pokemon-white-and-black-starting-on-feb-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/catch-mewtwo-in-pokemon-white-and-black-starting-on-feb-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/catch-mewtwo-in-pokemon-white-and-black-starting-on-feb-12/#comments It was hard for us to trust Pokémon again after Gold and Silver came out. We had spent years learning every minute detail about the original 151, and suddenly all of that work and devotion was worthless? What's more, it needed repeating with 100 more Pokemon? We may have been young tykes, but we were old enough to feel broken.

Regardless, the Kanto Pokemon still hold a special place in our hearts, and it's endearing to see one of the most awesome monsters in the OG Pokedex coming back into the fold. Starting on February 12, Mewtwo (#150 for you whippersnappers out there) will be distributed to Pokémon White/Black via the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service "for a limited time."

Further information about the event is forthcoming, but we do know that the legendary clone comes packing "an exclusive move that Mewtwo cannot normally learn," which we're hoping is an ability that takes us back to the days of the PokeRap and Team Rocket's original voice actors.

JoystiqCatch Mewtwo in Pokemon White and Black starting on Feb. 12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdseventkantomewmewtwonintendonintendo-wifi-connectionpokedexpokemonpokemon-blackPokemon-Black-and-Whitepokemon-whiteThu, 26 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Good morning! Here's Herman Cain singing the Pokemon 2000: The Movie theme song]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/good-morning-heres-herman-cain-singing-the-pokemon-2000-the-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/good-morning-heres-herman-cain-singing-the-pokemon-2000-the-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/good-morning-heres-herman-cain-singing-the-pokemon-2000-the-m/#comments
You can hate or love SOPA, call yourself a hardcore Republican or Democrat, or prefer vegetable oil to butter. No matter how you identify, you will no doubt laugh your face off watching a former presidential primary candidate sing the entirety of the theme song from Pokemon: The Movie 2000. Herman Cain did just that last Friday afternoon during Stephen Colbert's Charleston, South Carolina faux political rally, much to the delight of people everywhere on the planet.

What does this have to do with video games? In all honesty, not very much, but we know how hard life can be -- sometimes it seems impossible. It's never easy when there's so much on the line, but you can make a difference. And Herman Cain is here to share that message, in song.

JoystiqGood morning! Here's Herman Cain singing the Pokemon 2000: The Movie theme song originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsherman-cainnintendopokemonpokemon-the-movie-2000south-carolinastephen-colbertMon, 23 Jan 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Plus Nobunaga's Ambition could have been Dynasty Warriors: Pokemon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/20/pokemon-plus-nobunagas-ambition-could-have-been-dynasty-warrior/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/20/pokemon-plus-nobunagas-ambition-could-have-been-dynasty-warrior/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/20/pokemon-plus-nobunagas-ambition-could-have-been-dynasty-warrior/#comments The newest Pokemon title will combine Nintendo's popular catch-em-all creatures with the Japanese historical setting of Nobunaga's Ambition, but it turns out that wasn't the first choice of historical periods. Originally, according to the latest Famitsu, the spinoff was going to combine Pokemon with the very popular Tecmo Koei Dynasty Warriors series and its historical setting, which is instead based on the Three Kingdoms period in Chinese history.

Nintendo felt the Dynasty Warriors series was a little too violent to be matched up with its cute little creatures, however, and so Tecmo Koei pitched the series known more for strategy than action, which Nintendo eventually agreed with. Famitsu also says that though both companies are working on the game, Tecmo Koei is heading up day-to-day development during production.

JoystiqPokemon Plus Nobunaga's Ambition could have been Dynasty Warriors: Pokemon originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdynasty-warriorsfamitsunintendonoabunagas-ambitionpokemonpokemon-plus-nobunagas-ambitionrumortecmo-koeiFri, 20 Jan 2012 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Stare at Pokemon Plus Nobunaga's Ambition for two minutes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/stare-at-pokemon-plus-nobunagas-ambition-for-two-minutes/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/stare-at-pokemon-plus-nobunagas-ambition-for-two-minutes/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/stare-at-pokemon-plus-nobunagas-ambition-for-two-minutes/#comments
So ... Pokemon Plus Nobunaga's Ambition is still happening. That's pretty weird.

JoystiqStare at Pokemon Plus Nobunaga's Ambition for two minutes originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsnintendonobunagas-ambitionpokemonpokemon-plus-nobunagas-ambitiontecmo-koeiThu, 19 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon World Championship Series dated]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/18/pokemon-world-championship-series-dated/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/18/pokemon-world-championship-series-dated/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/18/pokemon-world-championship-series-dated/#comments Warm up your Bidoofs and polish off your Pawniards, because it's time to start preparing your flock of collectable pocket monsters for the 2012 Pokemon Championship Series! Comprised of a series of battles held across Europe, the top 4 trainers from each tournament will win an all-expenses-paid trip to the Pokemon World Championship in sunny, distinctly non-european Hawaii, USA.

Players are separated into three divisions based on age: Junior, for those born after 2001, Senior, for those born between 1997 and 2000, and Master, for grizzled old Poke-veterans born before 1996. All participants must bring their own (3)DS and must battle using their regions' version of Pokemon Black/White. The latest National Pokedex has been opened for use, meaning that all all 646 Pokemon are eligible for ranked tournament battles, save for a small handfull of legendary and extremely rare monsters. Check out this PDF for the complete rules and jump past the break for tournament dates and locations.

Continue reading Pokemon World Championship Series dated

JoystiqPokemon World Championship Series dated originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 18 Dec 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20123dsdseuropehawaiinintendopocket-monsterspokemonPokemon-Black-and-Whitepokemon-championshippokemon-championship-seriesSun, 18 Dec 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Pokemon game is a Nobunaga's Ambition crossover, really]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/17/new-pokemon-game-is-a-nobunagas-ambition-crossover-really/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/17/new-pokemon-game-is-a-nobunagas-ambition-crossover-really/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/17/new-pokemon-game-is-a-nobunagas-ambition-crossover-really/#comments We promise we didn't photoshop this picture of a Pokemon and Nobunaga's Ambition crossover game, but only because there was no way that we would have thought to combine these two franchises, like ever. For more proof of our innocence, there is an official Pokemon + Nobunaga's Ambition website with a trailer for the game, apparently slated for a 2012 release on Nintendo DS in Japan.

We have to admit, the trailer does a good job of making the two games look like one, with individual Pokemon seamlessly matching a few Nobunaga's Ambition characters -- however, we're not sure how many girls want to be equated with something called a "Jigglypuff."

JoystiqNew Pokemon game is a Nobunaga's Ambition crossover, really originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 17 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrossOverdsJigglyPuffnintendonobunagas-ambitionPokemonPokemon-Nobunagas-AmbitionSat, 17 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PokeAwesome presents the ugly side of monster training]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/pokeawesome-is-exactly-what-you-think-it-is/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/pokeawesome-is-exactly-what-you-think-it-is/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/pokeawesome-is-exactly-what-you-think-it-is/#comments
Animator "Egoraptor" chooses the Pokemon series as the next target of ridicule and, like his previous offerings, it's rude and weird. It's not safe for work and aptly titled -- err, I mean, Venusaur with a question mark.

JoystiqPokeAwesome presents the ugly side of monster training originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsawesomeawesome-seriesdsegoraptornintendopokeawesomepokemonpokemon-rumble-blastwiiwii-uMon, 12 Dec 2011 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PokePark 2: Beyond the World coming to Wii this fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/pokepark-2-beyond-the-world-coming-to-wii-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/pokepark-2-beyond-the-world-coming-to-wii-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/pokepark-2-beyond-the-world-coming-to-wii-this-fall/#comments Hey internet, remember PokePark Wii: Pikachu's Adventure? It was that not entirely unlike Tiny Toon Adventures 2: Trouble in Wackyland minigame collection set in a Pokemon-themed poke-themepark, remember? You and Pikachu had to complete minigames and make new pokepals in order to collect the 14 missing Sky Prism pieces for Mew. Really? Not ringing any bells? Well, Nintendo and Creatures Inc remember it, and they're making another one.

The latest issue of CoroCoro Comics has revealed PokePark 2: Beyond the World, headed to the Wii (in Japan, at least) this winter. Pikachu returns as the title's star pocket monster, bringing with him additional playable pals and 4 person multiplayer. No further details are available at the moment, but Tokyo Game Show's imminent hugeness looms over the horizon in a reassuring fashion.

JoystiqPokePark 2: Beyond the World coming to Wii this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Creatures-IncGame-Freaknintendopikachupokemonpokeparkpokepark-2PokePark-2-Beyond-the-Worldpokepark-wiiPokePark-Wii-Pikachus-AdventurewiiMon, 12 Sep 2011 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Nobody on the planet is as good at Pokemon as Ray Rizzo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/nobody-on-the-planet-is-as-good-at-pokemon-as-ray-rizzo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/nobody-on-the-planet-is-as-good-at-pokemon-as-ray-rizzo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/nobody-on-the-planet-is-as-good-at-pokemon-as-ray-rizzo/#comments Ray Rizzo is the greatest Pokémon player on the planet.

We have a number of reasons for thinking that -- the most obvious being that Ray Rizzo is the greatest name a human being has ever been given -- but Rizzo's accomplishments speak for themselves. He placed first in the Masters division of the 2011 Pokémon World Championships, bringing the gold home for the United States; as did Junior and Senior division winners Brian Hough and Kamran Jahadi. Take that, every other country!

These big, American heroes will take home portions of a $100,000 scholarship fund made available to competitors in the video game and trading card game tournaments. Still, we think being lifted on the shoulders of your peers and told that you're the greatest Pokémon player on the planet is probably reward enough.

Continue reading Nobody on the planet is as good at Pokemon as Ray Rizzo

JoystiqNobody on the planet is as good at Pokemon as Ray Rizzo originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 01:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsgame-freaknintendopokemonPokemon-Black-and-Whiteray-rizzothe-pokemon-companyWed, 17 Aug 2011 01:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Gavin Mackey's artwork captures Pokemon, our nightmares]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/13/gavin-mackeys-artwork-captures-pokemon-our-nightmares/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/13/gavin-mackeys-artwork-captures-pokemon-our-nightmares/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/13/gavin-mackeys-artwork-captures-pokemon-our-nightmares/#comments Growing up, most of the Joystiq staff yearned for the life of a Pokemon trainer. To abscond from our responsibilities and embark on a new life, adventuring and seeing the countryside, all the while capturing and befriending adorable critters and awesome dragons along the way. We double-checked, though, and nowhere in our extensive back catalogue of Joystiq-centric Pokemon fanfiction does it say anything about being afraid to sleep at night because of Mr. Mime's fleshy abdomen and textured finger-pads.

Gavin Mackey's reimagined Pokemon are beautiful, grotesque, and masterfully well done. His controlled applications of realism counterbalance his pieces' cartoonish proportions, which results in a unique and somewhat disturbing juxtaposition of familiarity and something wholly alien. Hit the source link for more of his phenomenal work; you didn't plan on sleeping tonight anyway, right?

[Thanks, Dan!]

JoystiqGavin Mackey's artwork captures Pokemon, our nightmares originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 13 Aug 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsgavin-mackeynintendopokemonrealistic-pokemonSat, 13 Aug 2011 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Rumble Blast to wind up in American stores October 24]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/pokemon-rumble-blast-to-wind-up-in-american-stores-october-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/pokemon-rumble-blast-to-wind-up-in-american-stores-october-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/pokemon-rumble-blast-to-wind-up-in-american-stores-october-24/#comments Super Pokémon Scramble, the 3DS sequel to the 2009 WiiWare brawler Pokémon Rumble, will be released from its Pokéball into North American retail on October 24 under the name Pokémon Rumble Blast.

Like its WiiWare predecessor, Pokemon Rumble Blast is a Dynasty Warriors-ish beat-em-up in which you control one mechanical "Toy Pokémon" against hordes of other Poké-automata, with, of course, the ability to capture enemies and add them to the playable roster. More than 600 wind-up Pokemon varieties will appear, including new ones from Black and White.

If you happen to meet other players as you wander about the world with your 3DS, you'll be able to view their Miis and engage in automatic battles via StreetPass. Or, you can play together actively in a cooperative local wireless mode.

Gallery: Pokemon Rumble Blast (3DS)

JoystiqPokemon Rumble Blast to wind up in American stores October 24 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jul 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsnintendopokemonpokemon-rumblepokemon-rumble-blastq4-2011release-dateTue, 19 Jul 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon charity marathon aims to catch them all at the same time]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/pokemon-charity-marathon-aims-to-catch-them-all-at-the-same-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/pokemon-charity-marathon-aims-to-catch-them-all-at-the-same-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/pokemon-charity-marathon-aims-to-catch-them-all-at-the-same-time/#comments If you haven't spent all your money on charity gaming marathons yet, another opportunity for you to throw money at human suffering is coming up -- and this time, it's a test of both endurance and gluttony.

Starting on July 15, Pro3Studios will embark on a 72-hour marathon, in which it will attempt to catch all the Pokémon species in Pokémon FireRed, Emerald, Diamond, Pearl, HeartGold, SoulSilver, Black, and White -- simultaneously. The gameplay will be streamed on a 3x3 grid, allowing you to watch it all happen in real time.

As this is going on, the group will accept donations through PayPal for the Children's Miracle Network. Those donations will allow viewers the privilege of naming some Pokémon and specifying a song for one of the players to sing on air -- and also, you know, help children.

JoystiqPokemon charity marathon aims to catch them all at the same time originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Jul 2011 23:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitydsgame-boymarathonnintendopokemonPokemon-Black-and-Whitepro3studiosMon, 11 Jul 2011 23:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon gets a free official Android and iOS app this summer (in Japan)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/pokemon-gets-a-free-official-android-and-ios-app-this-summer-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/pokemon-gets-a-free-official-android-and-ios-app-this-summer-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/pokemon-gets-a-free-official-android-and-ios-app-this-summer-in/#commentsLook, we've all seen Pokéholics in the throes of deprivation. Well, perhaps us more than you ... consider who we work with. But here's the thing: There's finally, finally a way for you to get your fix without having to drag along your DS.

A new, official app for both Android and iOS will be available for download sometime this summer -- free of charge. It's the product of a licensing agreement between Nintendo and Game Freak in Japan.

Pokemon Say Tap? BW is a rhythm-based card game where you tap the screen in rhythm as music is being played and Pokemon cards are being displayed. Currently, there is no word of any versions for outside of Japan but, let's be real, how hard can it be to learn Japanese? If you start now, we bet you'll be fluent by the time this app launches!

We have faith in you.

JoystiqPokemon gets a free official Android and iOS app this summer (in Japan) originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidiosipadiphonejapanmobilenintendopokemonpokemon-say-tap-bwWed, 06 Jul 2011 14:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Regional Tournaments end with a Dragon Rush of stats]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/03/pokemon-regional-tournaments-end-with-a-dragon-rush-of-stats/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/03/pokemon-regional-tournaments-end-with-a-dragon-rush-of-stats/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/03/pokemon-regional-tournaments-end-with-a-dragon-rush-of-stats/#comments People who dedicate a significant portion of their lives to the honorable art of capturing and training Pokemon deserve some recognition and, this summer, they're getting it. The 2011 Pokemon Black and Pokemon White Video Game Championship just completed its Regional Tournaments, and the kingdom's most powerful trainers have revealed some strategies regarding their noble creatures, as compiled by IGN.

Hydreigon, a Dark/Dragon Pokemon with three pairs of wings and a vicious cry, was the clear champion at Regionals, helping compose 53 percent of winning teams. Dark and Grass Pokemon made up 15 percent each of the most-used primary types, while Steel took a low 1 percent. Trainers used Protect for 14 percent of their moves, a clear majority when compared to the next-highest move, Rock Slide, at only 5.5 percent. For some pretty pictures to go along with the stats and a list of Regional winners, take a peek at IGN's post. National Championships run July 8-10 in Indianapolis, Indiana, because that's where heroes are made.

JoystiqPokemon Regional Tournaments end with a Dragon Rush of stats originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 03 Jul 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dshydreigonnintendoPokemonPokemon-Black-and-Whitepokemon-world-championships-2011regional-tournamentSun, 03 Jul 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Excitebike 3D free for 30 days after eShop launch, Pokedex 3D free forever]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/excitebike-3d-free-for-30-days-after-eshop-launch-pokedex-3d-fr/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/excitebike-3d-free-for-30-days-after-eshop-launch-pokedex-3d-fr/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/excitebike-3d-free-for-30-days-after-eshop-launch-pokedex-3d-fr/#comments When the eShop launches on June 6, it won't just be our Japanese friends ripping up the track: Excitebike 3D Classic, a remake of the NES title, will be right there for free on the North American store. Act fast, though, as you'll be paying $5.99 to download it after the first 30 days of availability have elapsed.

If you don't mind parting with some cash, you'll also be able to buy Game Boy ports Super Mario Land, Alleyway and Radar Mission on day one.

The update will also add the ability for DSi and DSi XL owners to transfer "most" of their DSiWare purchases to the system (we're looking for clarification on what titles will be left behind).

But let's get to the really important news: Nintendo's eShop will also arrive alongside PokéDex 3D, a virtual compendium of pokemon from the Black/White games. It's available as a free download (not timed) and lets you summon vast amounts of information on the critters, as well as full 3D models. It also has Street Pass functionality (unlock random pokémon by exchanging data) and QR support.

The QR feature is actually pretty neat: you can take a picture of your friend, set it as a background layer, then snap a pic of a QR code to introduce a pokémon. Now you won't have to photoshop all your poké-snaps!

Gallery: Excitebike 3D Classic


Gallery: PokeDex 3D

JoystiqExcitebike 3D free for 30 days after eShop launch, Pokedex 3D free forever originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Jun 2011 09:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdseshopexcitebikeexcitebike-3d-classicnintendopokedex-3dpokemonThu, 02 Jun 2011 09:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Black and White sell 2 million in U.S. in first two weeks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/pokemon-black-and-white-sell-2-million-in-u-s-in-first-two-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/pokemon-black-and-white-sell-2-million-in-u-s-in-first-two-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/pokemon-black-and-white-sell-2-million-in-u-s-in-first-two-week/#comments The Pokémon franchise is commonly criticized for refusing to change between generations -- luckily for Nintendo, one of the elements that doesn't seem to change over the years is all the mad, mad money each new installment pulls in. Nintendo of America recently Tweeted to inform its followers Pokémon Black and White have sold 2 million units in the U.S. during their first two weeks on store shelves.

On top of the 5 million-plus copies that have sold in Japan, we think it's safe to say that gamers aren't scared off by all the similarities to previous iterations of the franchise. We're a little worried about the game's success, though -- after all, it's going to be rather difficult to be the very best (like no one ever was) when over 7 million people share our aspirations.

JoystiqPokemon Black and White sell 2 million in U.S. in first two weeks originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 Mar 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsgame-freakindustrynintendopokemonPokemon-Black-and-WhitesalesThe-Pokemon-CompanySat, 26 Mar 2011 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Black and White review: This year's model]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/pokemon-black-and-white-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/pokemon-black-and-white-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/pokemon-black-and-white-review/#comments Pokémon, I love you -- but you're bringing me down.

Don't let either half of that opening assertion cheapen the significance of the other. More than any previous installment in the franchise, Pokémon Black and White taps into the visceral core of what makes the series so exceptional. The compulsion for all-catching is as strong as ever, the new roster is the best generational addition to the universal Pokécatalog, and the capacity for building, customizing and perfecting your team is the deepest its ever been.

However, for all its iterative improvements, Pokémon Black and White still feel like this year's model. The framework the game is built around, while sturdy, is the very same skeleton which propped up literally every other generation that came before it. After five generations, this duplication has lost its nostalgic charm -- now it just seems like the series' creators possess a frankly befuddling hostility towards change.

Gallery: Pokemon Black and White (DS)

Continue reading Pokemon Black and White review: This year's model

JoystiqPokemon Black and White review: This year's model originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsgame-freaknintendopokemonPokemon-Black-and-Whitethe-pokemon-companyFri, 04 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Black and White DSi bundles sneak in before 3DS release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/pokemon-black-and-white-dsi-bundles-sneak-in-before-3ds-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/pokemon-black-and-white-dsi-bundles-sneak-in-before-3ds-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/pokemon-black-and-white-dsi-bundles-sneak-in-before-3ds-release/#commentsEven with the 3DS launching in March, Nintendo is offering some incentive to buy a regular DSi instead (or additionally, of course): Pokémon pictures! The company announced limited-edition Pokémon Black and White DSi bundles, coming to North America on March 6.

The bundle includes either a black or white DSi with an etched image of the Legendary Pokémon Reshiram and Zekrom, a matching copy of the new game, and an exclusive DSi case. It'll cost $179.99, about $5 less than buying the game and a DSi separately. A small relief, we're sure, to the Pokémon superfans and/or DS collectors who feel compelled to buy both.

JoystiqPokemon Black and White DSi bundles sneak in before 3DS release originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Feb 2011 09:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundledsdsinintendopokemonPokemon-Black-and-WhiteWed, 23 Feb 2011 09:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamestop distributing Celebi before Pokemon Black and White launch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/16/gamestop-distributing-celebi-before-pokemon-black-and-white-laun/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/16/gamestop-distributing-celebi-before-pokemon-black-and-white-laun/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/16/gamestop-distributing-celebi-before-pokemon-black-and-white-laun/#comments Jeez, between all the different Pokémon promotional events held over the past few months, it seems plausible that we could "catch em' all" before Pokémon Black and White even hits store shelves. Here's another one for the pile: From February 21 through March 6, owners of one of the existing DS Pokémon games can stop by their local Gamestop and download Celebi, the time-traveling Pokémon for (eventual) use in Black or White. The little guy will even come with a bonus move that's not accessible through normal training in the game. Also? He's adorable.

There's extra incentive for you to grab Celebi from Gamestop while you can: transferring him over to your save file in Pokémon Black or White is the only way that you can access the new, shape-shifting Pokémon Zorua. You don't want to be the only kid on your block that doesn't have a Zorua, do you? Just think of all the smug looks you'd get from your neighbors.

Continue reading Gamestop distributing Celebi before Pokemon Black and White launch

JoystiqGamestop distributing Celebi before Pokemon Black and White launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Feb 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>celebidsgamestopnintendopokemonPokemon-Black-and-WhitepromotionWed, 16 Feb 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Trainer Challenge brings the trading card game online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/pokemon-trainer-challenge-brings-the-trading-card-game-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/pokemon-trainer-challenge-brings-the-trading-card-game-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/pokemon-trainer-challenge-brings-the-trading-card-game-online/#comments The problem with trading card games is that you have to have friends around to play them -- and, a lot of times, that means you actually have to leave the house. In a video game, roaming the world in search of Pokémon may be relatively safe, but out in the real world, there are certain dangers that need to be taken into consideration. Bears, diseases and cosplayers are all real threats.

That's why we're excited about the Pokémon Trainer Challenge, a new Flash version of the TCG coming to the internet near you this April. Using three pre-constructed decks, you'll be able to face off against 12 virtual trainers across three leagues in the online game, hopefully learning enough to keep you from embarrassing yourself at the next Saffron City Social.

Pokémon Trainer Challenge will require a free Pokémon Trainer Club account to play. You can find more details on Pokemon.com.

Gallery: Pokemon Trainer Challenge

JoystiqPokemon Trainer Challenge brings the trading card game online originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsflash-gamenintendopcpokemonPokemon-Black-and-WhitePokemon-Trainer-ChallengetcgThe-Pokemon-Companytrading-card-gameTue, 15 Feb 2011 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Black & White preview: a clear-cut sequel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/pokemon-black-and-white-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/pokemon-black-and-white-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/pokemon-black-and-white-preview/#comments Given its focus on cute, cuddly animals, it seems odd to describe the Pokémon series as hardcore, yet generation after generation of games have created an elite group of dedicated players who have "caught 'em all." They know every stat, every attribute and every breeding strategy needed to edge out competitors. As the divide between hardcore and casual Pokémon players grew, it seemed Nintendo had reason enough to press the reset button.

"A new player is starting on the same footing as a Pokémon expert," a Nintendo representative told me while pitching the latest games in the series, Black & White. At first glance, it's just another Pokémon game: you go around the 2D world collecting monsters to use in RPG-styled battles. This time, however, you won't encounter the Pokémon you've come to know, grow and love. There's an all-new set of 150+ critters to collect, meaning everyone will have to learn a brand new Pokedex to stay competitive.

"That's a good idea," I retort. "But if there aren't any new elemental types, then won't people just apply the same strategies as before?" Yes, the Nintendo representative had encountered a wild Pokemon nerd, ready for battle.

Gallery: Pokemon Black and White (DS)

Continue reading Pokemon Black & White preview: a clear-cut sequel

JoystiqPokemon Black & White preview: a clear-cut sequel originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Feb 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsgame-freaknintendopokemonPokemon-Black-and-WhiteFri, 11 Feb 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Toys R Us now distributing TV's Pikachu to your DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/toys-r-us-now-distributing-tvs-pikachu-to-your-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/toys-r-us-now-distributing-tvs-pikachu-to-your-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/toys-r-us-now-distributing-tvs-pikachu-to-your-ds/#comments Sure, you've probably caught plenty of Pikachu across the various generations of the Pokémon franchise, but have you ever added a celebrity Pikachu to your collection? Toys R Us is offering a chance for you to do just that from today through February 13 -- just stop by any participating location with any of the DS Pokémon games in tow, and you can download "Ash's Pikachu" directly to your roster.

What sets this particular instance of the electric rat apart from the others? Well, he possesses the same moveset as the Pikachu from the television show (Thunderbolt, Iron Tail and Volt Tackle, for interested parties) and generally has an air of authenticity you'll find lacking in your run-of-the-mill Pikachu. At least, it will until you delete those moves, replacing them with stronger abilities, then breed the little guy into oblivion hoping to get a Pichu with a favorable Nature, whom you can then EV train, evolve and level up until you have a lean, mean, Lv. 100 Raichu-killing-machine.

... We're sad that we know what all of those things mean.

Continue reading Toys R Us now distributing TV's Pikachu to your DS

JoystiqToys R Us now distributing TV's Pikachu to your DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Feb 2011 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>downloaddsnintendopikachupokemonPokemon-Heart-Goldtoys-r-usThu, 03 Feb 2011 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon to invade your local mall around 'Black and White' release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/pokemon-to-invade-your-local-mall-around-black-and-white-relea/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/pokemon-to-invade-your-local-mall-around-black-and-white-relea/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/pokemon-to-invade-your-local-mall-around-black-and-white-relea/#comments We knew this day would come -- we just knew it. Fortunately, we've had a contingency plan for years now, on the off chance that wild Pokémon should ever infest our local shopping mall. If you'll turn your attention to Diagram 6C in your Poké-Survival Guide, you'll see where we've marked the locations most safe from these powerful menaces. For instance, that Hot Topic? It's really well-reinforced against some of the larger ones, and the music should scare away any monsters with unobstructed ears. The Orange Julius kiosk? That's what we like to call a "kill zone." Do not, under any circumstances, wander into the Orange Julius.

Oh, wait -- you mean that Nintendo is just demoing Pokémon Black and White at various malls around the games' release date, March 6, a full list and schedule for which is posted after the jump? We suppose that makes a lot more sense.

You'd better stay away from that Orange Julius, though. Just to be safe.

Continue reading Pokemon to invade your local mall around 'Black and White' release

JoystiqPokemon to invade your local mall around 'Black and White' release originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Jan 2011 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsgame-freakmallmarketingnintendopokemonPokemon-Black-and-Whitethe-pokemon-companyWed, 12 Jan 2011 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Black and White dated March 6 for North America]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/27/pokemon-black-and-white-dated-march-6-for-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/27/pokemon-black-and-white-dated-march-6-for-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/27/pokemon-black-and-white-dated-march-6-for-north-america/#comments Nintendo's encapsulated warrior creatures return to North America in a new adventure with Pokémon Black and Pokemon White on March 6, 2011. The two versions of the game continue the tradition of being slightly different (this time, slightly more than usual) with different locations, creatures and seasons available. The Black version will offer the Pokémon Reshiram and a setting called Black City, while White will contain the "lush, green area" of White Forest and let you capture Zekrom.

The game will also feature seasons this time around, with certain areas only becoming accessible during specific times of the year and several creatures -- of the 150 new ones in the game -- appearing more frequently at specific periods. Nintendo of America has made no mention of those classy Pokémon Black and White DSis with regards to a stateside release.

JoystiqPokemon Black and White dated March 6 for North America originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Dec 2010 09:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsnintendoPokemonPokemon-Black-and-Whiterelease-dateMon, 27 Dec 2010 09:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Largest Pokemon Center on Earth opening in Osaka next month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/26/largest-pokemon-center-on-earth-opening-in-osaka-next-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/26/largest-pokemon-center-on-earth-opening-in-osaka-next-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/26/largest-pokemon-center-on-earth-opening-in-osaka-next-month/#comments Nintendo has announced a few more details about the new Pokémon Center it's planning on opening soon in the heart of Osaka. The retail outlet, which will swing wide its colorful doors on November 26th, will stuff 2,500 different kinds of purchasable Pokémon goods and a "Union Room," where players can congregate to trade and battle, into 9,000 square feet of retail space, making it the largest Pokémon Center on this, our planet Earth. We want to go to there.

It sounds like a pretty huge ordeal, but it's kind of a waste -- all anyone ever does in those places in run to the front desk, heal their dudes, then run back out for more adventures and stuff.

[Image Credit: Ipin]

JoystiqLargest Pokemon Center on Earth opening in Osaka next month originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Oct 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsjapannintendoosakapokemonpokemon-centerPokemon-Heart-GoldThe-Pokemon-CompanyTue, 26 Oct 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get the original secret Pokemon, Mew, for HeartGold and SoulSilver]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/get-the-original-secret-pokemon-mew-for-heartgold-and-soulsilv/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/get-the-original-secret-pokemon-mew-for-heartgold-and-soulsilv/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/get-the-original-secret-pokemon-mew-for-heartgold-and-soulsilv/#commentsFiled under: , ,

While the rest of you suckers are going to be running around, perfectly content with your housetrained Mewtwos, we're going to take advantage of an upcoming promotion from Nintendo -- one which allows us to come face to face with the original event Pokémon: Mew. You too can lock down Number 151 by using the Mystery Gift option on your copy of Pokémon HeartGold or SoulSilver from October 15 until October 30.

The Mew you'll receive is only Level 5, meaning the world's your oyster when it comes to how you decide to raise the little guy. We're unsure of where we'd like to focus his stats, but we are certain that we're going to name him Joey, and make him wear a little baseball cap, and he will be our precious little perfect angel.

Continue reading Get the original secret Pokemon, Mew, for HeartGold and SoulSilver

JoystiqGet the original secret Pokemon, Mew, for HeartGold and SoulSilver originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Oct 2010 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsgame-freakmewnintendopokemonPokemon-Heart-GoldTue, 12 Oct 2010 20:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon offering wonderful Pikachu DSi charge stand this December]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/amazon-offering-wonderful-pikachu-dsi-charge-stand-this-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/amazon-offering-wonderful-pikachu-dsi-charge-stand-this-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/amazon-offering-wonderful-pikachu-dsi-charge-stand-this-december/#commentsFiled under: , ,

This Pikachu DSi charge stand looks absolutely delighted to be sending electricity to a DSi. We feel the same way about bringing you the news that you'll be able to buy one of these for yourself in December. An Amazon listing shows that the charger, which was released in Japan this September, will be available in America through the online retailer on December 23.

It's designed to work with both the DSi and DSi XL, and will sell on Amazon for $40. Sure, that sounds like a lot, but does your current DSi charger make you smile?

JoystiqAmazon offering wonderful Pikachu DSi charge stand this December originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Oct 2010 21:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessorieschargerdsdsidsi-xlnintendonintendo-dsipikachupokemonPokemon-Black-and-WhiteFri, 08 Oct 2010 21:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Black and White get limited edition DSis in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/pokemon-black-and-white-get-limited-edition-dsis-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/pokemon-black-and-white-get-limited-edition-dsis-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/pokemon-black-and-white-get-limited-edition-dsis-in-japan/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you've got a bizarre hang-up about playing video games on consoles that don't have Pokémon branded upon their hulls, you'll be pleased to learn that you'll soon be able to add the DSi to your list of allowed devices. On November 20, Japanese store shelves will be stocked with limited edition Pokémon Black and White DSis, each of which come with a copy of the appropriately hued monster-catching title.

Each handheld prominently features Black and White's main Legendaries, Reshiram and Zekrom -- a premium for which shoppers will have to pay 19,800 yen (a tad more than the DSi's standard 15,000 yen price point). Is it worth the extra cash? We're not sure, but as far as special edition Pokémon-branded handhelds go, this one's kind of ... classy? Yeah, classy.

JoystiqPokemon Black and White get limited edition DSis in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Oct 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsdsigame-freakjapannintendopokemonPokemon-Black-and-Whitethe-pokemon-companyThu, 07 Oct 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gotta build 'em all: Pokemon in LEGO form]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/gotta-build-em-all-pokemon-in-lego-form/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/gotta-build-em-all-pokemon-in-lego-form/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/gotta-build-em-all-pokemon-in-lego-form/#comments Why spend hours scouring grassy areas in search of Pokemon when you could simply build your own out of LEGOs? That's what Filip Johannes Felberg did. Nothing says "I'm awesome" like a LEGO-ified Geodude -- unless, like, that's printed on your T-Shirt or something.

JoystiqGotta build 'em all: Pokemon in LEGO form originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Oct 2010 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsnintendopokemonPokemon-Black-and-WhitewiiTue, 05 Oct 2010 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Kirby, Pokemon Typing (!) on the way to regular old DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/29/kirby-pokemon-typing-on-the-way-to-regular-old-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/29/kirby-pokemon-typing-on-the-way-to-regular-old-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/29/kirby-pokemon-typing-on-the-way-to-regular-old-ds/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Despite the 3DS making its big appearance at Nintendo's conference and dominating the news, that system doesn't get to claim the weirdest story of the night. The humble DS gets that honor, thanks to "Battle & Get! Pokemon Typing DS," which is exactly what it sounds like. Judging by the screenshots (available here), you type Pokemon and attack names when prompted, using a virtual keyboard. Wacky!

Also wacky: Kirby (tentative title), a new DS game which appears to have the player managing a team of up to 10 Kirbies at a time. We sincerely hope there are no restaurants in the game. Both games will be released in 2011.

There's also a training game about dogs who know English, but considering America's widespread knowledge of English -- and the partnership with the Japanese NHK television network -- it's safe to say that one is Japan-only.

JoystiqKirby, Pokemon Typing (!) on the way to regular old DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Sep 2010 03:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-and-get-pokemon-typingbattle-and-get-pokemon-typing-dsjapankirbynintendo-conference-2010pokemonpokemon-typingWed, 29 Sep 2010 03:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Fan-made Pokemon Apokelypse trailer is long, long overdue]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/fan-made-pokemon-apokelypse-trailer-is-long-long-overdue/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/fan-made-pokemon-apokelypse-trailer-is-long-long-overdue/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/fan-made-pokemon-apokelypse-trailer-is-long-long-overdue/#comments All the components -- they'd been there all along. Fan-made trailers have become increasingly popular over the years, as has Nintendo's monster-catching franchise. Why didn't we anticipate that a group (in this case, Ki-Voltage Productions) could merge the two trends with delightful results?

Continue reading Fan-made Pokemon Apokelypse trailer is long, long overdue

JoystiqFan-made Pokemon Apokelypse trailer is long, long overdue originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Sep 2010 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dski-voltage-productionsnintendopokemonpokemon-apokelypseWed, 22 Sep 2010 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: What if Call of Duty was a Pokemon game?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/26/video-what-if-call-of-duty-was-a-pokemon-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/26/video-what-if-call-of-duty-was-a-pokemon-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/26/video-what-if-call-of-duty-was-a-pokemon-game/#comments The problem with Pokemon is that it's pretty embarrassing to tell people you play it, especially if you're over the age of 13 -- just ask Griffin. They're great games, don't get us wrong. It's just that we're adults, with actual utility bills and Netflix memberships, and alive and breathing significant others. We can't risk losing all of that.

That's why we want to draw your attention to this Call of Duty and Pokemon mash-up clip, available just past the break. By incorporating the two, we can maintain our adult facade, while enjoying the deep and robust RPG experience Nintendo's line of games offers without all the kiddie stuff. It's the best of both worlds!

Continue reading Video: What if Call of Duty was a Pokemon game?

JoystiqVideo: What if Call of Duty was a Pokemon game? originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Aug 2010 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-dutydsfunmash-upmicrosoftModern-Warfare-2nintendopcplaystationpokemonps3spoofxboxThu, 26 Aug 2010 22:30:00 EST