Pokémon White

After more than 10 years since the original Pokémon titles first hit Japan, the franchise has shown no sign of slowing down. Game Freak’s remakes of Gold and Silver were evidence that the classic collecting mechanic and rock-paper-scissors style battle system hadn’t lost their luster. Still, Pokémaniacs have anxiously waited for the franchise to take steps in a fresh direction, and with the upcoming releases of Pokémon Black and White versions, these loyal fans won’t have to wait much longer.

Pokémon Black and White versions immediately show off the fifth generation’s new direction with an animated cutscene. An uncharacteristically dark scene reveals a crowning ceremony for a mysterious young man with no supporting details as to who he is and the role he’ll play. The scene then jumps to a more upbeat scenario with the signature Pokémon theme song as the words “Hope,” “Dream,” and “Discovery” flash on screen, all the while expansive new environments of the Isshu region and images of a ton of new Pokémon just waiting to be captured are revealed.

With a quick introduction by Pokémon expert Dr. Araragi, you’re free to explore the bustling new world. While we know little about the plot at this point, you’re still responsible for collecting badges and battling stray trainers you’ll encounter on your quest that include confrontations with troublesome Team Plasma. After a few hours of exploring the Isshu region, you’ll notice more densely populated towns, tall housing structures spanning multiple floors, and the Pokémon Center and Poké Mart combined into a one-stop shop. Environments are colorful and detailed with each new area featuring its own catchy soundtrack. Camera angles dynamically change while traveling, giving the three-dimensional space a sense of large scale. You’ll have plenty of land to cover when seeking the 156 new Pokémon that appear in Black and White.

Players will select among three new starter Pokémon: Tsujara (grass-type), Mijumaru (water-type), and Pokabu (fire-type), and begin traversing from one grass patch to the next to engage monsters in combat. The battle system has received a graphical overhaul, as creatures are far more detailed and better animated than the old pixelated sprites. Camera angles shift to give a greater sense of action and battle music intensifies when your Pokémon are low on health. Up to three Pokémon are able to participate in some battle scenarios, introducing an element of party-based combat. Even though the battle mechanics remain similar to one-on-one, figuring out which half of your six Pokémon to call upon while being mindful of elemental strengths and weaknesses certainly shakes things up.

Pokémon Black and White have already been greeted with success in Japan, becoming the fastest selling DS games of all time. We will just have to wait a bit longer as Game Freak’s latest entries launch next spring in North America.

All details in this preview pertain to the Japanese version of Pokémon Black/White. Names in the North American version are subject to change. Preview of the North American version coming soon.