Pocket Monsters Let's Go! Pikachu & Pocket Monsters Let's Go! Eevee

The Kanto Region is more than just the region that started the Pokemon story. It's a region that makes you come back for more. You've played it in the original Pokemon games such as Red, Blue/Green, Yellow, then the Gold and Silver saga, then the Fire Red and Leaf Green remakes, and also the Heart Gold and Soul Silver remakes. It's a region that once you started, forever smitten, and now, you are back in the region where it all began, this time on the Nintendo Switch, showcasing the future of Pokemon games in the Switch era while stirring up some nostalgia.

Pocket Monsters Let's Go! Pikachu

Pocket Monsters Let's Go! Eevee

Pokemon heads to Nintendo Switch in an all-new-but-not-so-new video game that brings you back to where it all began with new and exciting ways to play. The Pokemon Let's Go! games welcomes players back to the Kanto region as a Pokemon trainer and in this game, trainers catch, evolve, and train different Pokemon. There are over 150 Pokemon to collect in the Kanto region and although the game feels pretty much the same as the originals, the Let's Go games promises to be more different than the rest of the installments. You can either play it alone or co-op with your pal by giving your another Joy-Con to him/her and enjoy playing Pokemon together.

In Pokemon Let's Go! Pikachu, trainers paired up with Pikachu, while in Pokemon Let's Go! Eevee, they paired up with Eevee. Either way, both partner Pokemons are unique in their strengths and they're going to be forever at your side whether you like it or not. On second thought, we all like having mascot Pokemons on our side for the rest of our lives. 

Throughout your quest for the Indigo League, you may find your journey with your partner Pokemon to be full of obstacles. Luckily, however, your partner Pokemon will have some new tricks no Pokemon has done before. Later on in the game, your partner Pokemon will trigger Secret Techniques (which pretty much like the Hidden Machines from the past) which allows them to cut trees, cross through waters, or fly through areas you've visited before. Also, they can take advantage of their brand new exclusive moves no other Pokemon can learn. When you see a sign during a battle, just wave your Joy-Con to use their special powers. For Pikachu, there's Pika Papow and Splishy Splash. For Eevee, there's Veevee Volley, Bouncy Bubble, Buzzy Buzz, and Sizzly Slide. Put these new powers to good use.

Catching Pokemon is the main goal of every Pokemon game since the start but here in Let's Go!, catching Pokemon now works like the ones from the Pokemon Go app games. Using the Joy-Con or the Poke Ball Plus, players throw a Poke Ball on the Pokemon and when caught, it's yours to keep. Just like in Pokemon Go, the catch rate varies by the color and the size of the circle and to make the catch more easier, feed them berries. If it's not working, try again, but hurry because any time, the Pokemon you're trying to catch may run away so catch it while you can!

Like the Pokemon you caught? Set is as partner and your new Pokemon will follow you wherever you go. Some may find you hidden items while some will let you ride with them, making the journey quicker and easier.

While taking a break from your adventure, you can play with your partner Pikachu or Eevee by petting it, feeding it with berries, or tickle it. As your bond with your partner Pikachu or Eevee grows, it can even do high fives or find gifts for you as you travel. You can even personalize yourself or your partner Pikachu or Eevee as well. You can give them new hairstyles, accessories, or outfits to your partner Pikachu or Eevee to your liking.

Got a Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle? If you managed to evolve it all the way to Venusaur, Charizard, and Blastoise, later on, you can obtain Mega Stones for them to Mega Evolve, allowing you to turn the tide of the battle in your favor. Also, keep an eye out for Legendary Pokemon such as Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres. Unlike regular Pokemon, you have to battle them and when you defeat them, you get the chance to capture it. Be ready with lots and lots of Ultra Balls and berries when you're onto it.

In tradition, there are Pokemon exclusive to each version. In Let's Go! Pikachu, Pokemon such as Oddish, Sandshrew, and Growlithe only appear in the wild. In Let's Go! Eevee, you can only caught Bellsprout, Vulpix, and Meowth. As well, Differences aside, there's always trading that will help you complete your PokeDex. Either local or online (requires online subscription), trading Pokemon with friends is one of the many ways to complete the PokeDex. Who knows, there are some Pokemon that can be evolved by trading.

Demonstrating the future of Pokemon games, Let's Go! features Pokemon Go! connectivity so most of the Pokemon from the Kanto region you caught from the Pokemon Go app game can be sent to the game. You can even send Alolan variants of Pokemon such as Rattata, Sandshrew, Vulpix, Geodude, Marowak, Raichu, Meowth, Grimer, and Exeggutor as well. Did you know that if you sent 25 of the same species to the game, you'll play a special mini-game where you can win Candies for your Pokemon?

As you get hooked to their new feature, word of advice, however, that there is a chance that you might get a Mystery Box, which can be received by sending Pokemon from Pokemon Go to Pokemon Let's Go and there is a chance that you might get a brand new mythical Pokemon exclusive to Let's Go. A long time ago, while you were playing Pokemon Go, you may have encountered a mysterious creature that turned into a Ditto. Now, it has revealed that they mystery creature is none other than the mythical Pokemon named Meltan and get this; by gaining 400 Meltan candies, Meltan evolves into Melmetal, being the first-ever mythical Pokemon to evolve. Getting 400 Meltan candies to evolve it into Melmetal sounds like a herculean task but there are many ways to get 400 candies to evolve it so try it.

Defeated the Elite Four and became the Pokemon League Champion? That's only the beginning because later on, you might run into Master Trainers. They will battle you with one catch; if you have their favorite Pokemon and you'll only battle them without items. This is a true test of skill and if you defeat them, you'll earn the title that will make it worth the bragging rights in Link Battles.

Did you know that for limited quantities, you can get the Mythical Pokemon Mew on the Poke Ball Plus? Better buy one now while you still can to add this Psychic Pokemon in-game. This is a useful Pokemon that can learn almost any technical machines that can adapt through different battles.

So, there we are. While this game takes us back to where it all began, the new and exciting ways to play Pokemon Let's Go! delivers brings us the glimpse of the future of the Pokemon franchise while remembering the great heritage this worldwide phenomenon delivers after over two decades. It may feel like a Throwback Thursday to us but Let's Go! could serve as the new standard of the next Pokemon games. A template of greater things to come. So, get up and go as your new Pokemon adventure awaits.

Winners of the 2018 Pokemon World Championships

The 2018 Pokemon World Championships took place at Nashville, Tennessee, also known as Music City USA, and while the world's best ace trainers spent the time loving this place full of music and vibrance, they are showing to the world who's the very best that no one ever was in Ultra Sun/Ultra Moon, Trading Card Game, and Pokken Tournament DX.

2018 Pokemon World Championships

After an intense weekends of witnessing the world's best ace trainers battling their way for fame and glory, here are the list of this year's winners;

In the Pokemon Card Game, the winner of the Junior Division goes to Naohito Inoue from Japan for his Buzzwole-Lycanroc combo that saved the day. In the Senior Division, Magnus Pedersen from Denmark is named the victor for his brilliant use of his Banette-GX and Garbodor. And in Masters Division, winner goes to Robin Schulz from Germany for his strategy with cards like the Zoroark-GX and Garbodor.

In the Video Game Championship where players use the Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon games, Wonn Lee from Japan dominated the Junior Divison by letting loose with his Terrakion's attack power boosted from his Whimsicott Beat Up that takes advantage of Terrakion's Justified ability and the Continental Crush Z-Move. James Evans from the United States wins the Senior Division for his epic strategy, and Paul Ruiz from Ecuador named VGC Masters Division champion.

URL: https://www.pokemon.com/us/play-pokemon/worlds/2018/finals-recap/

Congratulations to the winners of the 2018 Pokemon World Championships! Next year, the Pokemon World Championships will invade (drumroll, please) the US Capital, Washington D.C.! Until then, Train On.

Best bits of 2018's Pikachu outbreak

For their fourth outing this year, the annual Pikachu outbreak held at Yokohama's Minato Mirai from the 10th to the 16th of August, 2018 and with the theme of this year's outbreak is "Science is Amazing", visitors spent the whole week at Minato Mirai welcoming an army of Pikachus roaming around the city while taking part on numerous events for the love of Pokemon.

It's not just Pikachus invading Minato Mirai, even a horde of Eevees are joining the fun in honor of the upcoming Pokemon Let's Go! games for the Nintendo Switch, due to be released this November, bringing more fun into this annual Pikachu outbreak.

Check out the best bits of 2018's Pikachu outbreak courtesy from the official Pokemon Instagram account.

「ピカチュウ大量発生チュウ！」が本日からスタート🎉✨ 熱中症・熱射病対策をしっかりとして、横浜みなとみらいに遊びに来てね🤗☀️ #pikachu #pokemon #pikachu_snap #photooftheday #summer #pikachuoutbreak #parade #yokohama #ピカチュウ #夏 #ピカチュウ大量発生チュウ #パレード #横浜 #みなとみらい #エブリデイピカブイ

A post shared by ポケモン公式インスタグラム (@pokemon_jpn) on Aug 10, 2018 at 2:09am PDT

横浜みなとみらいで開催中の「ピカチュウ大量発生チュウ！」は本日2日目🎶🎶 会場では、セーラー服姿のピカチュウに出会えるかも⁉️✨ 熱中症・熱射病対策をしっかりして、ピカチュウたちに会いに来てね☀️ #pikachu #pokemon #pikachu_snap #photooftheday #summer #pikachuoutbreak #sailor #parade #yokohama #ピカチュウ #夏 #ピカチュウ大量発生チュウ #パレード #ショー #横浜 #みなとみらい #エブリデイピカブイ

A post shared by ポケモン公式インスタグラム (@pokemon_jpn) on Aug 11, 2018 at 1:32am PDT

横浜みなとみらいで開催中の「ピカチュウ大量発生チュウ！」は本日3日目⚡️⚡️ イベントの様子をお届けするよ🎬✨ 開催は8月16日（木）まで‼️ 熱中症・熱射病対策をしっかりして、ピカチュウ・イーブイに会いに来てね🎶 #pikachu #eevee #pokemon #pikachu_snap #photooftheday #summer #pikachuoutbreak #parade #yokohama #ピカチュウ #イーブイ #夏 #ピカチュウ大量発生チュウ #パレード #ショー #横浜 #みなとみらい

A post shared by ポケモン公式インスタグラム (@pokemon_jpn) on Aug 12, 2018 at 12:35am PDT

横浜みなとみらいで開催中の「ピカチュウ大量発生チュウ！」は本日4日目🍀✨ 今年は夜まで盛りだくさん🌃🤩 ピカチュウ・イーブイといっしょに盛り上がろう🙌🙌🎶 熱中症・熱射病対策をしっかりして、横浜みなとみらいに遊びに来てね‼️ #pikachu #eevee #pokemon #pikachu_snap #photooftheday #summer #pikachuoutbreak #parade #night #splash #music #DJ #yokohama #ピカチュウ #イーブイ #夏 #ピカチュウ大量発生チュウ #パレード #ショー #夜 #スプラッシュ #横浜 #みなとみらい

A post shared by ポケモン公式インスタグラム (@pokemon_jpn) on Aug 13, 2018 at 1:59am PDT

横浜みなとみらいで開催中の「ピカチュウ大量発生チュウ！」は本日5日目✋✨ 「ずぶぬれスプラッシュショー」は、暑い夏を盛り上げてくれること間違いなし🤣🎶 ピカチュウ・イーブイといっしょに、水を浴びて楽しもう💦🙌😆🙌 #pikachu #eevee #pokemon #pikachu_snap #photooftheday #summer #pikachuoutbreak #splash #dance #yokohama #ピカチュウ #イーブイ #夏 #ピカチュウ大量発生チュウ #ショー #ダンス #スプラッシュ #横浜 #みなとみらい

A post shared by ポケモン公式インスタグラム (@pokemon_jpn) on Aug 14, 2018 at 1:54am PDT

横浜みなとみらいで開催中の「ピカチュウ大量発生チュウ！」は本日6日目💛⚡️💛⚡️ 夜に行われる「ピカチュウの大行進」はとってもクール😎💫 ピカピカ光る✨ピカチュウたちのダンスは必見だよ🕺👀 イベントの開催は明日8月16日（木）まで‼️‼️ 熱中症・熱射病対策をしっかりして、ピカチュウたちに会いに来てね🎶 #pikachu #pokemon #pikachu_snap #photooftheday #summer #pikachuoutbreak #parade #dance #night #yokohama #ピカチュウ #夏 #ピカチュウ大量発生チュウ #パレード #ショー #ダンス #夜 #横浜 #みなとみらい

A post shared by ポケモン公式インスタグラム (@pokemon_jpn) on Aug 15, 2018 at 2:18am PDT

横浜みなとみらいで開催中の「ピカチュウ大量発生チュウ！」は本日最終日🎉✨ ピカチュウ・イーブイたちといっしょに、最後まで盛り上がろう‼️🤩 #pikachu #eevee #pokemon #pikachu_snap #photooftheday #summer #pikachuoutbreak #parade #dance #night #yokohama #ピカチュウ #イーブイ #夏 #ピカチュウ大量発生チュウ #パレード #ショー #ダンス #夜 #横浜 #みなとみらい #最終日 #エブリデイピカブイ

A post shared by ポケモン公式インスタグラム (@pokemon_jpn) on Aug 16, 2018 at 1:41am PDT

Until next summer!

Pokemon the Movie: The Power of Us

Everyone has a different story to tell. From good times to bad times, these wonderful stories tell by a handful of individuals really reflect the lives and times of themselves, especially Pokemon trainers. In this 21st Pokemon film, the tales of different Pokemon trainers will intertwine by fate and how the story unfolds is up to them.

As the sequel to last year's I Choose You film, this 21st Pokemon film is a Pokemon adventure unlike every before and as fans noticed some facial changes on the anime show's main character Satoshi (Ash Ketchum), that's because the producers teamed up with Wit Studio, the animation studio behind our favorite anime shows such as Attack on Titan and The Ancient Magus' Bride, delivering a much refreshed take on our ever favorite Pokemon adventure and this collaboration really onto something here.

In this film, our main character visits a vibrant city where a windy festival honoring the legendary Pokemon Lugia is held and he meets up with five different strangers; a young female trainer, a little girl, a budding researcher, a middle-aged man, and an old lady who dislikes Pokemon. As they know, this film features an all-star cast of voices played by some of the most respectable names in the Japanese entertainment industry and J-pop boy duo Pornografitti performed the theme song of the film as well, leaving viewers starstrucked by the big names playing their respective roles in this film and that's something the whole Japanese people should be talking or writing about.

For inspiration, the producers went to San Francisco to observe the scenery, the vibrance, and the dynamism needed to create the city the main characters are going to and by portraying a vibrant and colorful town brimming with energy and life as seen in the film, viewers are going to take some measures to compare this location from the film and in real life just like every single anime we know where locations mean business. Anyway, this isn't time to be talking locations because let's get to know about the film.

First of all, their appearances can be downright shoddy apart from the main character's different face and the random characters he joined alongside with, and just like I Choose You, the originality of this film kind of let the viewers down because fans wanted the Pokemon films to be just like the TV shows but the film, like last year's, throws caution to the wind and ended up getting lost in the woods full of crowded people. Despite the silly metaphor, this Pokemon film can be considered one of the most enjoyable films to watch in a middle of a Japanese summer of storms and because it's so good, it can easily overshadow the latest mythical Pokemon the moviegoers are getting it now; Zeraora. Speaking of Zeraora, moviegoers watching the film got a chance to get Zeraora for use in Ultra Sun or Ultra Moon games. Donning its signature Plasma Fists attack, this Electric-type mythical Pokemon makes a wonderful addition to the team and take advantage of its offenses that will save the day.

With the big names joining forces, a different approach by a well-known animation studio, and the appearance of Zeraora, this 21st Pokemon film promises to write wonderful stories for the whole family and that's something the world are looking forward to.

My rating: 3.9 out of 5.

Detective Pikachu

It's a Pokemon game unlike ever before because they're now taking on mystery solving games in this new adventure featuring a tough-talking, problem-solving, Pikachu. Wait...Talking...Pikachu? Oh, right. Anyway, say hello to Detective Pikachu (名探偵ピカチュウ), a bolt of brilliance.

Detective Pikachu

Ahem, sorry, am I interrupting you? Can I handle this, please? Thank you. Anyway, hey kids! You know who this is right? I may be Pikachu but I'm not. I AM DETECTIVE PIKACHU!

Let me tell you a little story about my adventure, just in case anyone's making a movie about me very soon (yes, really), I team up with a young man who called himself Tim Goodman, who spends the rest of his life searching for his father but there's more to it for Tim in search for his missing father. There are cases of rampaging Pokemon causing havoc around Rhyme City and that's why we're on the case here.

Tim got shocked when I am a Pikachu that can talk but you'll meet lots and lots of characters (and Pokemon) as we keep searching for mysteries, some of them hold possible answers to the cases and because, hey we do live in a mystery solving game, right? Because this is a mystery solving game, you'd better not rush to some conclusions just yet. You need to go around different places in search for clues and puzzles that will help you uncover cases. I know, this is how mystery solving games work, kids.

If you're stuck, don't worry because I had skits featuring me, myself, and I, where some of them are hints in case you are looking for a particular clue. I know that you're itching for clues but come on, pal, at least you spend lots of time getting to know about me. Still, you get the point.

Well, now that you got the whole idea on how my adventure's going to be, it would be the perfect time to flex your heads doing problem solving. No, not the math kind of problem solving, MY KIND OF PROBLEM SOLVING, right? I know it won't be an easy case for you and me but I'm sure we can handle them.

By the way, did you see my amiibo? It's the biggest you'll ever see and it's bigger than your basic Pikachu amiibo you kept in your silly toy box. If you scan me, I had all the possible hints you'll need as well as some cool skits with me. Now, don't do any puns, okay? ONLY I DO THE PUNS.

Thank you. So, there you are. Detective Pikachu can be downright tough-talking but he's quite reliable and in this mystery-solving game, it takes some knowledge to solve puzzles and uncover cases as long as you're not rushing over. Although time-consuming, this heart-warming Pokemon mystery game is fun for all ages and because, well he's right about it, with a film starring Detective Pikachu himself is coming soon, it would be the ideal time to be prepared with the game that is more on jokes, more on mystery, and a few plot twists in between. Better get your thinking caps and chairs ready cause this is going to be a busy day.

Pocket Monsters Ultra Sun and Moon

Last year, the Pocket Monster (PokeMon) franchise celebrated their 20th anniversary with their newest installment, Pocket Monster Sun and Moon. In that game, players venture across the Alola Region capturing new Pokemon, battle, take on trials, uncover the legend of Solgaleo or Lunala, unleashing powerful Z-moves and face against the threats from the Ultra Beasts. If the original Sun and Moon games wasn't enough to whet your appetite for new Pokemon, here comes the definitive Alola adventure that will make you love the Alola Region more.

Welcome everyone to Pocket Monsters Ultra Sun and Moon, the definitive Sun and Moon experience that's got more ways to enjoy than the original. If by definitive, it really is because with all the past, present, and future collide, this will be the Pokemon game you will never forget.

Like most games, the adventure starts with a choosing and just like in the original, you can start with either Rowlet, Litten, or Popplio. With the Pokemon of your choice set, the adventure begins and as a trainer, you can explore the vast wonders of the Alola region; collect and battle Pokemon, take on trials, stand up to incoming threats, and uncover the hidden truth in this region. Since this is Ultra, we delve deeper to the secret of the legendary Prism PokeMon Necrozma.

No one really knows what Necrozma is all about until now and we are going to witness a transformation beyond the fabric of time as Necrozma's power cannibalizes either Solgaleo or Lunala to become Dusk Mane Necrozma or Dawn Wings Necrozma. But there's more to it than that because what happens when you engage Necrozma's Ultra Boost? You'll have to figure out for yourself.

With Solgaleo or Lunala's power, you can travel through Ultra Wormholes in search not just the fearsome Ultra Beasts, but also legendary Pokemon from past installments! With legendaries making a grand comeback and in addition of two new Ultra Beasts, this is going to be the most epic Pokemon adventure yet!

Be warned, with familiar baddies lurking around Alola, especially those from Team Skull and the Aether Foundation, you've been gunned down by those mysterious people known as the Ultra Recon Squad and worse, a rogue gallery of villains from past games have returned to form Team Rainbow Rocket and they're going to hunt you down unless you are prepared for the worst.

Like the original, Ultra Sun and Moon features Z-moves that can turn the tide of the battle. Players need a specific Z-Crystal, which can be obtained from clearing trials or other things, and specific Pokemon moves to trigger it. Most can deliver massive damage but when coupled with non-damaging moves, it triggers additional effects. In Ultra Sun and Moon, there are new Pokemon-exclusive Z-moves that can turn the tide of the battle such as Solgaleo's Searing Sunraze Smash, Lunala's Menacing Moonraze Maelstrom, Kommo-o's Clangorous Soulblaze, Mimikyu's Let's Snuggle Forever, and Lycanroc's Splintered Stormshards. Put these Z-moves to good use! Did you know that you can experience the full Z-Power action with the Z-Power Ring toy from Takara Tomy?

The Rotom Dex we are familiar with is now upgraded with new features such as the Roto Loto, which grants you one special powerup that can be proven useful on your adventures such as faster hatching, befriending, extra EXP, and more. Use it further and you will gain a new feature that lets your Pokemon use a Z-move a second time! Thanks Rotom Dex! And guess what? Takara Tomy made a Rotom Dex replica toy that works well in the Ultra Sun and Moon games.

By public demand, they're bringing back the shops where you can teach Pokemon outlandish moves that you can't get from either leveling up or by TM. Of course, you're going to need BP which you can earn from winning battles at the Battle Royal, Battle Tree, and the new Battle Agency. But if battling isn't your thing, why not earn BP by performing better in the brand new Mantine Surf minigame.

Oh, about that Battle Agency, it's a new place where they will provide a random set of Pokemon you will be using and all you have to do is win. Do well, you will get BP for purchasing outlandish items or moves for your Pokemon.

Did you know that you can get totem-sized Pokemon when you exchange Totem Stickers? If you collect Totem Stickers hidden throughout the Alola Region, you can exchange it for a totem -sized Pokemon of your choosing, and the choice differs from each version. For instance, Ultra Sun players can get a totem-size Lurantis while Ultra Moon players can get a totem-size Salazzle. Of course, they don't do special effects like how Totem Pokemon do but that sizing is worth the bragging rights.

If you're having a break, you can visit the new Alola Photo Club where you can take pictures of you and your favorite Pokemon so you can show it to the world.

For two decades, the Pokemon games became a household name known the world over and with the arrival of Ultra Sun and Moon, the best just got even better because with so many new stuff going on around, it makes you want to waste precious amounts of time living on the Alola Region for more. Are you ready?

Guess what? There are two special Pokemon up for grabs! 

Those who pre-ordered it will gain access to a special Rockruff that can be evolved to the brand new Dusk Forme Lycanroc. To evolve it, make sure it's 5:00PM Alola Time so if your not sure, talk to the barista at the nearest Pokemon Center. He knows what time it is on Alola time and if its 5:00PM, do hurry because you have an hour of dusk to evolve Rockruff into Dusk Forme Lycanroc.

Have you got the Pokemon Ga-ole card of Ash's Pikachu as a gift of watching "Pokemon the Movie: I Choose You!" last summer? Use the QR Scanner to scan its QR code and you will trigger a special quest, where you will have a chance to get the "I Choose You" version of Ash's Pikachu and as a bonus, a Pikashunium Z crystal where you can trigger Ash's Pikachu's Z-move, the 10,000,000 Volt Thunderbolt. Enjoy your new Alola story with these two special Pokemon!

Best and worst of Alola Pokemon

Gearing up on Pokemon Ultra Sun and Moon, which releases this Friday worldwide, it's time for me to get a lowdown on the best and worst of Alola Pokemon as seen in Sun and Moon. Take note, I will only cover those from the Alola PokeDex because the Alolan Pokemon are the stars of the Sun and Moon games so if you're looking for something other than Alola, sorry to disappoint.

Anyway, after a year of having fun with the Sun and Moon gig, from games and TV show, it's time for me to give you the best and worst of Alolan Pokemon, beginning with...

THE CUTEST

1. Rowlet - I have my reasons why I think Rowlet is one of the cutest of the Alola Pokemon, probably because it kinda reminds us of LoveLive's Kotori Minami. Yes, that Kotobirb, and that is why I chose it as my starter when I first played Pokemon Moon. To my amazement, Rowlet is Ash's first Pokemon in the Alola region, which makes it very interesting to have one.
2. Pikachu - It would be total waste not to put the world's famous Pokemon to the list of cutest Pokemon in the Alola Region but a normal Pikachu is topping the list of Pokemons that can use their exclusive Z-moves. Such case is the Catastropika Z-move, which uses Volt Tackle as its base, but don't worry, Catastropika's fame as the best Z-move has ended thanks to Ash's Pikachu's Z-Move, the 10,000,000 Volt Thunderbolt. Only those who witnessed Pokemon the Movie: I Choose You got the chance to witness this Z-move in the game.
3. Litten - Anyone who picked Litten have one major purpose, they love cats, and I understand that because one look and you'll know, little kids going to start squeezing around and yell "kitty!" I admit, Litten is a cute little kitty and it's so cute, Ash has one in the TV show.
4. Togedemaru - Ever since they introduced Togedemaru to the world, all I can ever imagine is a cute little bouncy ball I can make use of when used as a ball for any kind of ball game. Anyway, it may be rude to use it for a ball game joke but I always fell in love with Togedemaru's cuteness that keeps on bouncing like a ball. No wonder Sophocles has one in the TV show.
5. Rockruff - It maybe a Rock-type but Rockruff's got some puppy power to charm the fans. Yes, I know, shooting rocks was its puppy power but I always want to cuddle on this little rocky puppy.

THE PRETTIEST

1. Primarina - I have to admit, Alola never runs short on the prettiest Pokemon and one such is Popplio's final evolution form, Primarina. Not only it looks pretty to look at but its devastatingly powerful Oceanic Operetta Z-move is what captivates players.
2. Alola Ninetales - A normal Ninetales is a Fire-type Pokemon. This Alola Ninetales is an Ice-and-Fairy Pokemon and its sheer beauty won my heart, although I am having difficulty getting the one with the Snow Warning ability that works with the Aurora Veil move. Trust me, it's everyone's recommendation but while not used in battles, Alola Ninetales is a beauty that can be tamed.
3. Pheromosa - Bearing the Ultra Beast code word Beauty, Pheromosa combines beauty with speed and power no one saw it coming and I have to say, I have fallen victim to Pheromosa's charms and ferocious powers a true Ultra Beast possess.
4. Tsareena - There is one crazy idea about why Tsareena is one of Alola's prettiest because it's not just the looks that lures the eyes of trainers. It's the Queenly Majesty that sets Tsareena apart from the competition. With the Queenly Majesty set, it nullifies any Pokemon that uses priority moves, even Fake Out or Golisopod's First Impression attack.
5. Oricorio - Oricorio is known to have four different forms depending on which nectar it feeds on but the prettiest is the Baile Style and the Sensu Style Oricorio.

THE SCARIEST

1. Mimikyu - Despite being feared as the "anti-Pikachu", the Disguise Pokemon won the hearts of many fans. For me, I'm not a big fan of Mimikyu because one; Team Rocket's Jessie has one, and second; whatever Pokemon Team Rocket had is SERIOUSLY NOT CUTE. I had my reasons, especially I keep hearing about horror stories about Mimikyu from the Rotom Dex about what's behind the disguise.
2. Salazzle - Anyone who took Kiawe's trial in the game will never forget two things in the middle of spot-the-difference game; a hiker and a Totem Salazzle jumping behind the hiker. That moment startled me, and even for a normal-sized Salazzle, I can still experience the trauma of that toxic lizard Pokemon popping up from nowhere, just to scare the butts out.
3. Alola Muk - I always believe Muk is one of the scariest and in the case of Alola Muk, it's about as frightening as one of the blob monsters from Super Mario Sunshine.
4. Xurkitree - One of the Ultra Beasts, the one bearing the UB code name Lightning is very frightening indeed by the looks of it and files show that this Ultra Beast absorbs electricity into its body to power the serious shocks it gives off.
5. Type: Null - This synthetic Pokemon is what made me intrigued and scared the most because when you read the secret files hidden below the depths of the Aether Paradise, the hidden truth behind the so-called Type: Null is shocking indeed, especially the fact that it wears a mask to control its powers. A young chap named Gladion called it Silvally and as observed in the games and in the TV series, this synthetic Pokemon is fierce in its tracks and later, the now-named Silvally unmasked itself and demonstrated its RKS System that changes the type of its Multi Attack.

THE TOUGHEST

1. Golisopod - The true beauty of Golisopod is not just to its attack and defense because this Pokemon only possess the powerful First Impression attack which only works in the first turn of its battle. Couple that with the Life Orb and it really wants to do its First Impression again right after its Emergency Exit ability.
2. Palossand - Durability is Palossand's specialty and when used in Double Battles, having a Palossand paired with a Water-type Pokemon, favorably a Greninja with a Water Shuriken on it, the surprisingly defensive trick works rather well because with a bit of Water Shuriken landing on a Palossand and a bit of recovery with Shore Up as well as a hint of Amnesia, this Palossand is as durable as steel, even for a Ground-Ghost type.
3. Tapu Bulu - The Guardian Deity of the Ula'Ula Island, Tapu Bulu is known for being one of the toughest Pokemon ever challenged because of its high attack and defense and because of its ability that triggers a grassy terrain from the beginning, it will keep coming back for more due to the terrain's healing properties. When coupled with very powerful attacks like Megahorn and Wood Hammer, it can really crush the competition like a demolition job.
4. Snorlax - The sleeping Pokemon we are familiar with comes with a hard-hitting Z-move for those who preordered it. With the Snorilum Z crystal and Giga Impact on Snorlax's paws, this Pulverizing Pancake can obliterate any opponent in one fell swoop, as long the opponent's not Rock, Ghost, or Steel.
5. Pyukumuku - It maybe as small as a Shuckle but Pyukumuku's excellent in the defensive stakes and when coupled with the Innards Out ability, which is its specialty of course, looks like someone will have the last laugh.

FAVORITE NEW POKEMON PER TYPE

• Bug - Golisopod
• Dark - Incineroar
• Dragon - Kommo-o
• Electric - Togedemaru
• Fairy - Primarina
• Fighting - Bewear
• Fire - Alola Marowak
• Flying - Toucannon
• Ghost - Decidueye
• Grass - Rowlet
• Ground - Alola Dugtrio
• Ice - Alola Ninetales
• Normal - Silvally
• Poison - Salazze
• Psychic - Lunala
• Rock - Lycanroc
• Steel - Solgaleo
• Water - Brionne

FAVORITE Z-MOVE SEQUENCE

1. Ash's Pikachu's 10,000,000 Volt Thunderbolt
2. Pikachu's Catastropika
3. Gigavolt Havoc
4. All-Out Pummeling
5. Inferno Overdrive
6. Primarina's Oceanic Operetta
7. Snorlax's Pulverizing Pancake
8. Guardian of Alola
9. Supersonic Skystrike
10. Decidueye's Sinister Arrow Raid

Are you ready to return to the Alola Region? Pokemon Ultra Sun and Moon is coming to the Nintendo 3DS this November 17 and experience the biggest Alola adventure that is better than the original. Oh, and be sure to watch the Pokemon Sun and Moon anime series every Thursday nights on TV Tokyo right after Aikatsu Stars!

Pokken Tournament DX

The ultimate Pokken Tournament experience has finally arrived on the Nintendo Switch as Pokken Tournament DX brings the Pokemon battle wherever you go while introducing you to new and exciting additions that will keep this family-friendly fighting game even more exciting than before.

Pokken Tournament DX

Pokken Tournament DX adds the same goodness from the original version with some added extras that will make you and your friends back for more. In addition to online multiplayer battles and story-focused Ferrum League, and avatar personalization, this game features Team Battle where each round, both players choose one of the three chosen Pokemon to battle with. At the end of the round, the HP and Synergy gauge of the winning Pokemon gets carried over to the next one and the team that defeats all three of the opponent's Pokemon first wins the match. Sounds technical but enjoyable. In addition, Pokken DX features Daily Challenges where you can complete specific tasks to earn skill points to boost your favorite Pokemon's stats.

With a wide array of playable Pokemon to choose from such as Pikachu, Lucario, Charizard, Machamp, Gengar, Gardevoir, Suicune, Sceptile, Blaziken, Weavile, Pikachu Libre, Chandelure, Mewtwo, Shadow Mewtwo, Braixen, and Garchomp, DX introduces five new playable Pokemon such as Darkrai, Scizor, Croagunk, Empoleon, and as a bonus, Decidueye from Pokemon Sun and Moon, bringing a total of 21 playable Pokemon to fight alongside with. In addition to the playable Pokemon, players can select a set of support Pokemon to create a divisive strategy to turn the tide of the battle. Speaking of which, care to recreate some anime moments using the some of the playable Pokemons in the roster? Yes, please.

Like the original, Pokken Tournament DX is a family-friendly fighting game everyone can play with, even your ate or kuya, can join the battle. And because this is Nintendo Switch, you can take the battle everywhere you like, giving you the freedom to play this game wherever you like. From your neighbor's house, frat parties, after-school, office breaks, tailgating parties, every moment is a Pokemon battle and with Pokken Tournament DX, the world is your arena and everyone can join the Pokemon battle if they like.

It really is the ultimate Pokken experience by a long shot, where the only piece missing is you and your pals. Gotta Get Ready For The Next Battle one last time!

Winners of the Pokemon World Championships 2017

It's the time of the year when the best ace trainers from a multitude of countries gathered for the annual Pokemon World Championships and for this year, the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California, is jam-packed with people who love Pokemon and the professionals who are aiming for the top spot, be it Sun and Moon, Card Game, or even Pokken Tournament. There's even sneak peeks for the upcoming Ultra Sun and Moon games as well as new expansions for the Pokemon Card Game.

So, with this year's Pokemon World Championships wrapped up, let's get to know the winners of this year's WCS.

• Tobias Stromdahl from Norway wins the Pokemon Card Game Junior Division Final thanks to his strategic use of a Guzma supporter card against his opponent.
• Zachary Bokhari from the USA wins the Pokemon Card Game Senior Division Final after an intense game three against his rival compatriot.
• Argentina's Diego Cassiraga wins the Pokemon Card Game Masters Division Final, marking his third top-8 finish in 13 years he has attended the WCS.
• Nicholas Kan from Australia wins the Video Game Championship Junior Division Final thanks to his devastating combination of Gyarados' Supersonic Skystrike Z-move and an uncanny strategy he did with his Snorlax.
• Hong Juyong from South Korea wins the Video Game Championship Senior Division Final against his familiar foe from last year's quarterfinal bout.
• Ryota Otsubo from Japan wins the Video Game Championship Masters Division Final after his opponent's Z-move ended in disaster.
• Tonosama wins the Pokken Tournament World Championship

URL: https://www.pokemon.com/us/play-pokemon/worlds/2017/finals-recap/

Next year, the Pokemon World Championships are heading to Nashville, Tennessee, the Music City. Until then, don't miss Pokken Tournament DX coming to Nintendo Switch this September 22 and Pokemon Ultra Sun and Moon coming to Nintendo 3DS this November.

Congratulations to the winners of this year's Pokemon WCS.

Best bits from this year's Pikachu outbreak

Whether the entire city of Yokohama ended up on a Catastropika or struck by a 10,000,000-volt Thunderbolt, the Pikachu outbreak got them covered and for this year, it's the biggest Pikachu outbreak to date in addition to some special guests in store.

Running from the 9th until the 15th of August, 2017, this Pikachu outbreak got the entire Yokohama city under Pikachu control by land, air, and by sea. From subways, malls, parks, everywhere across the Yokohama Minato Mirai area, there are Pikachus everywhere, about 1,500 of them taking over the metropolis. There's even a Pokemon GO area where players can catch Pokemon in the said game as well as taking on ultra-hard raid battles as a team.

Let's take a look at the best bits from this year's Pikachu outbreak as told by netizens.

みんなのピカチュウの写真を紹介するよ！ #Repost @mariorimagoto ・・・ #ピカチュウ大量発生チュウ

A post shared by ピカチュウ公式Instagram (@pikachu_pokemon_official) on Aug 9, 2017 at 1:11am PDT

ピカチュウラッピングされたチョイモビの前で、記念写真📸 ミミッキュも仲間に入れて嬉しそう👏 #ピカチュウ大量発生チュウ #ピカチュウ #ミミッキュ #ポケモン #電気自動車 #チョイモビ #日産 #pikachuoutbreak #pikachu #mimikyu #pokemon #electricvehicle #nissan

A post shared by ピカチュウ公式Instagram (@pikachu_pokemon_official) on Aug 10, 2017 at 12:58am PDT

みんなのピカチュウの写真を紹介するよ！ #Repost @goodsign87523611 ・・・ #ピカチュウ #ピカチュウ大量発生チュウ #ピカチュウ大量発生チュウ2017 #pikachuoutbreak #pikachuoutbreak2017 #pikachu

A post shared by ピカチュウ公式Instagram (@pikachu_pokemon_official) on Aug 10, 2017 at 3:28am PDT

みんなのピカチュウの写真を紹介するよ！ #Repost @k_y1002 ・・・ かわいくてかわいくて。 #ピカチュウ大量発生チュウ

A post shared by ピカチュウ公式Instagram (@pikachu_pokemon_official) on Aug 10, 2017 at 4:34am PDT

みんなのピカチュウの写真を紹介するよ！ #Repost @ima_photo_m ・・・ JAPAN🇯🇵 ピカチュウ大量発生ちゅう #japan #pikachu #yokohama #pokemon #poketmonster #summer #landscape #landscapephotography #photographer #photogenic #photograph #写真 #写真好きな人と繋がりたい #写真部 #風景 #風景写真 #夏 #横浜 #ポケモン #ポケットモンスター #ピカチュウ #ピカチュウ大量発生チュウ #桜木町 #ファインダーごしの私の世界 #日本

A post shared by ピカチュウ公式Instagram (@pikachu_pokemon_official) on Aug 13, 2017 at 11:44pm PDT

「ピカチュウだけじゃない ピカチュウ大量発生チュウ！」、今日限りのパレード「ピカチュウ・カーニバル・パレード」の様子を少しだけ紹介するよ✨ #ピカチュウ大量発生チュウ #ピカチュウ #ポケモン #みなとみらい #日本大通り #pikachu #pokemon #pikachuoutbreak

A post shared by ピカチュウ公式Instagram (@pikachu_pokemon_official) on Aug 14, 2017 at 2:45am PDT

If you want to see more of Pikachu and pals, keep watching the Pokemon Sun & Moon anime on TV Tokyo every Thursday nights after Aikatsu Stars! Also, check out Pokemon the Movie: I Choose You, now showing in theaters, as well as the upcoming Pokemon Ultra Sun and Moon video games coming on the Nintendo 3DS this November.

About the Pokemon GO Fest

To commemorate the first anniversary of PokeMon GO, a very popular augmented-reality smartphone app game inspired from the PokeMon video game franchise, the first-ever real-life Pokemon GO Fest took place at Chicago's Grant Park. In this anniversary event, Trainers of all teams took part in numerous challenges to unlock global rewards.

In this said event, a legendary PokeMon made its debut appearance in the PokeMon Go Fest and it's Lugia from the Gold and Silver games (namely The Johto Journeys). The legendary Psychic-and-Flying type PokeMon is set to appear at Raid Battles globally starting on the 23rd of July (24th of July Tokyo Time). Apart from Lugia, there's another Legendary Pokemon making an appearance as well on Raid Battles and that is the Ice-and-Flying type Articuno.

Reason why Articuno because there is a competition between the three Pokemon GO teams such as Team Mystic (representing Articuno), Team Instinct (representing Zapdos), and Team Valor (representing Moltres). It's a challenge of which team captures the most PokeMon gets the Legendary Pokemon they've represented appear alongside Lugia and Team Mystic is the winner, meaning Articuno will be appearing alongside Lugia in Raid Battles.

Players who successfully defeat the Legendary Pokemon in Raid Battle gets the chance to capture it but it can't be used to defend their gym.

So, with Legendary Pokemon finally arrived, are you ready for a new kind of PokeMon GO challenge? What Legendary Pokemons do you want to see next? Do you want more PokeMon to appear on future updates?

URL: http://pokemongolive.com/en/post/legendaryrewards

PokeMon The Movie: I Choose You!

It's been two decades since the TV anime adaptation of the PokeMon video game franchise was aired in TV Tokyo since the Spring of 1997 and to commemorate the anime series' 20th anniversary, this year's PokeMon film is a retelling of the original saga, which is named after the very first episode of the show, titled "Pokemon, I Choose You!"

PokeMon The Movie:
I Choose You!

Pokemon the Movie: I Choose You (日本名：劇場版ポケットモンスターキミにきめた！), revisits the beginning of an epic journey of Ash Ketchum (Satoshi) and his Pokemon partner Pikachu. Those who saw the first episode of the PokeMon TV series don't mean a darn thing to them but for those who didn't, it's about Ash who is finally old enough to begin his journey as a PokeMon trainer when suddenly, he was too late to get one of the first three PokeMons and instead, he gets an Electric-type Pikachu. Following their disastrous first impressions, the two realized it became the start of their blooming friendship.

Although this film is a retelling of the Indigo League saga, there has been some major changes happened to the tale to put a fresh new twist on the beginning of the tale and while this film features some familiar PokeMons such as Lucario, Piplup, and Ho-oh, as well as new ones such as Sun and Moon's Incineroar and the brand new mythical Pokemon Marshadow but more on that later on. 

Because this is the epic retelling of Ash's first adventure as a PokeMon trainer, it's a welcoming feast for fans and newcomers alike and it doesn't matter if you know the anime series or not because while this film serves as a quick refresher like every anime compilation films do, this film is the ideal introduction to anyone who never watched the first PokeMon episode as well as the whole series. This is important work but for the 90's kids like us, it brings back memories of when we watch the anime show since childhood and this is one of the main reason why we love watching anime shows thanks to this. Whether if its catching PokeMon, battle against Gym Leaders, drive away Team Rocket's dastardly schemes to separate these two, or a nice stroll through new and exciting places, this film is by no means the best fragment of our childhood memories.

Although the retelling of the Indigo League saga is abruptly ruined by some cast changes and others because we want this film to retell just like what the anime series does, this film is one of the best reasons we are fans of Pokemon since two decades ago.

So, now that I explained everything about that film, time to talk about the brand new mythical Pokemon Marshadow and how you can get one. From now until the end of September, a movie ticket grants you a special code to obtain Marshadow for use in Pokemon Sun and Moon games. Capped at Level 50, Marshadow bears the Technician ability which boosts the power of moves with the power rate of 60 and below and features a signature move called Spectral Thief, which allows Marshadow to steal the opponent's stat changes while delivering massive damage to it. With the Marshadium Z crystal, Marshadow can unleash its signature Z-move called Soul-Stealing 7-Star Strike. This is a wonderful Pokemon that bears Fighting-and-Ghost type, meaning it can cover up its weaknesses while unleashing some terrifying moves on hapless opponents.

My rating: 4.7 out of 5.

20 Years of Pokemon: List of Pokemon Movies

Since 1998, the first Pokemon movie shown in Japanese theaters and now, a Pokemon movie has been the hallmark for the Japanese summer vacation. Every summer in Japan, there is a new Pokemon movie and to date, there are 19 Pokemon films ever made to keep the kids during their summer holiday interested for more. For every Pokemon movie, there is a new Pokemon featured. Some are what the called mythical Pokemon and can be given to gamers while others are preview for new installments to come in the future.

So, with the 20th Pokemon movie ready to hit theaters in the Summer of 2017, made to honor the TV series' 20th anniversary when the TV show adaptation began airing on TV Tokyo since 1997, let's jot down the films that expand our love of Pokemon.

Since the beginning:

• Pokemon: The First Movie (1998) - In the first ever Pokemon movie, shown in Japanese theaters in the summer of 1998 and then a year later globally, Ash and the gang takes on the most powerful adversary ever faced; a genetic Pokemon Mewtwo. What's supposed to be an invitation to take on the most powerful trainers in one place, turned out to be a trap set by Mewtwo, to create clones of their Pokemon in order to destroy the balance between Pokemon and trainers alike. We had a lot of memorable scenes in this film and its appearance of Mew made everyone want to have one in their collection, especially when they offered it as a gift for the moviegoers. Before the film, moviegoers are treated with a Pikachu short film featuring new Pokemon such as Snubbull and Marill.
• Pokemon The Movie 2000 (1999) - The second film sees the debut of the legendary Lugia, a Pokemon which appears in the Gold and Silver games, as well as the three legendary birds Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres. A mysterious adversary tries to gain control of the three legendary birds just to hunt down the legendary Lugia. Unaware on what's going on around here, it seems that only a person like Ash could change the future of the world and how he lives up to his name and the foretelling (according to Slowking's wisdom) is a risky challenge. Like the first one, filmgoers are treated with another Pikachu short film,this time it featured newer Pokemon such as Elekid, Bellossom, and others.

The Johto Journeys:

• Pokemon The Movie 3 (2000) - In this third film based on the Johto Journeys arc of the show, a young girl is trapped on her dream set by the mysterious Unown and her father became a legendary Pokemon Entei, who took Ash's mom for a certain reason. It's up to Ash and the gang to uncover the hidden truth behind the series of strange events. Before the action kicked in, there is a Pichu and Pikachu short featuring Pikachu and the Pichu Bros in an adorable adventure in the city.
• Pokemon 4Ever (2001) - 40 years ago, the mythical Pokemon Celebi is fleeing from a vicious hunter and a young trainer rushed to rescue Celebi. The legend of the mysterious trainer who saved Celebi and vanished into thin air has about to become real as Ash and the gang find out when will the young trainer and Celebi able to show up again. However, there are still people wanted to hunt down Celebi, and this time, a powerful villain plots to get Celebi by a mysterious Poke Ball that will enslave anything in evil it captures. With Celebi fell into the wrong hands, Ash and the gang is on a quest to save Celebi from the crutches of a villainous Iron Masked Marauder. Before the film, there's a Pikachu short featuring new Pokemon such as Kecleon and Azurill, and this short sees Pikachu and friends getting through all sorts of trouble. Those who witnessed the film got their hands on Celebi, for use in the Gold and Silver games.
• Pokemon Heroes (2002) - The fifth film sees Ash and the gang made a fateful encounter with the Eon Pokemon Latias and Latios. In the start, upon losing the Water Pokemon race, Ash rescued a young girl from two femme fatales but the young girl Ash rescued is actually Latias in disguise and those two femme fatales they've encountered, they're going after Latias and Latios as well as the mysterious Soul Dew, which controls the powerful machine that protects against danger. With imminent danger has risen, it's up to Ash and the gang to save the day. Before the film, there's a Pikachu short where Pikachu and the gang are going camping, with the special appearances of Wynaut, Duskull, and Volbeat.

The Advanced Generation:

• Jirachi: The Wish Maker (2003) - Based on the Advanced Generation saga of the show, Ash and the gang are on a wishful adventure to save the mythical Wish Pokemon Jirachi from a powerful villain who wished to revive Groudon and wreak havoc over the land. Before the film, there's a short film which sees Meowth throwing up a party where all Pokemon invited and Meowth's going to need their help to make the best party ever. Those who witnessed the film got their wish come true by having Jirachi on Pokemon Ruby and Sapphire games.
• Destiny Deoxys (2004) - The next Advanced Generation flick sees Ash and a gang met a young boy who is afraid of all Pokemon, even the cute ones like Pikachu, and got caught in a crossfire between two powerful Pokemon Deoxys and Rayquaza. Those who watched the film got their own Deoxys for use in the Pokemon Fire Red and Leaf Green versions and with this Pokemon, they can unleash different forms in terms of attack, defense, and speed, as well as its signature Psycho Boost attack.
• Lucario and the Secret of Mew (2005) - Upon winning a battle, Ash became a ceremonial Aura Guardian and out of nowhere, a mysterious Aura Pokemon Lucario appeared and following its long betrayal from its long-time master, a descendant of a Aura Knight, Mew appeared and took Pikachu and Meowth away to the Tree of Life. As the situation becomes critical, Ash and the gang must convince Lucario to put aside its betrayal and save their friends. Of course, while moviegoers never got the chance to have Lucario, as well as the other new Pokemon appeared in this film, they got Mew instead for use in the Fire Red and Leaf Green versions.
• Pokemon Ranger and the Temple of the Sea (2006) - Ash and the gang got mixed into the action when May befriends a mythical Pokemon named Manaphy and that Pokemon was targeted by a pirate who wants to gets his hands on the Sea Crown. Teaming up with a Pokemon Ranger, who has a Buizel at his side, they have to shake off the pursuers to protect Manaphy before its too late. Since this is 2006 and this is the year when Diamond and Pearl are out, those who got the game got a special Manaphy bonus in-game.

Diamond and Pearl

• The Rise of Darkrai (2007) - The first of the Diamond and Pearl films and in this film, Ash, Brock, and Dawn got caught in a conflict of time-space proportions and witnessing the wrath of the mythical Pokemon Darkrai, which causes nightmares for humans and Pokemon alike. Those who witnessed the film got their hands on Darkrai, which comes with its signature Dark Void attack which renders multiple Pokemon to sleep and then let its Bad Dreams ability drain the sleeping opponents' HP per turn.
• Giratina and the Sky Warrior (2008) - Since the launch of Pokemon Platinum, a second Diamond and Pearl movie went out and in this film, following events from the previous film, Giratina, the renegade Pokemon, dragged Dialga to the Reverse World until it was thwarted by the mythical Shaymin. Ash and the gang are helping Shaymin return to Gracidea garden until an evil plot threatens the very landscape by harnessing the power of Giratina. Giratina's Origin Forme and Shaymin are the star highlights of the film and while players are able to unleash Giratina's Origin Forme from Platinum, players who watched the film get a chance to have Shaymin as well as the Gracidea that transforms Shaymin from Land Forme to Sky Forme only on the daytime.
• Arceus and the Jewel of Life (2009) - Since the dawn of time, the Alpha Pokemon Arceus was worshipped as a god, and then betrayed by those after granted with the Jewel of Life. With the world's under threat from disruptions from the previous films, an imminent end of the world draws Ash and the gang travel back in time to revert the mistakes its ancestors done to Arceus. In addition to the mythical Arceus, a spiky-haired Pichu was present in the film and both are special bonuses given to players who played Pokemon Heart Gold and Soul Silver.
• Zoroark: Master of Illusion (2010) - A city that was ravaged by the three legendary beasts; Entei, Raikou, and Suicune, as well as the return of Celebi, sees Ash and the gang team up with the mischievous Zorua to solve the series of unfortunate events, where the turning point is the work of a Illusion Fox Pokemon named Zoroark. Since this film was launched in the same year Black and White went out, players get their own Zorua or Zoroark in the game by catching one normally.

Black and White

• Pokemon the Movie Black/Pokemon the Movie White (2011) - To celebrate 15 years of Pokemon, their Summer 2011 film is a dual film experience. The storyline is the same but what's differ between these two film is the appearances of the Pokemon. Since this is a double sided film, moviegoers think twice about which side are they on. If they want Black; the tale of Victini and Reshiram is told, but for those who gone White, it's going to be the tale of Victini and Zekrom. Either way, the double film experience sees Ash, Iris, and Cilan, help Victini free from the barriers it couldn't escape while uncovering the truth or ideals that surrounds them.
• Kyurem vs. The Sword of Justice (2012) - Ash and the gang meets up the mythical Pokemon Keldeo, who got caught in trouble when the Swords of Justice; Cobalion, Virizion, and Terrakion, held captive by the powerful Kyurem and its power to combine genes of either Reshiram or Zekrom to become more powerful. Unaware of this, the gang must shake off by any means necessary while letting Keldeo face its own destiny. Before the film, there's a short musical film featuring Pikachu and the gang as well as the mythical Meloetta.
• Genesect and the Legend Awakened (2013) - Genesect, a paleozoic Pokemon, lived a million years ago until Team Plasma modified it to become a powerful weapon. In a middle of nowhere, searching for their home, five Genesects, led by the shiny Red Genesect, made a fateful encounter with the legendary Mewtwo. Moments later, Ash and the gang caught up in a deadly crossfire between the Red Genesect and Mewtwo and how will our heroes prevent a possible disaster caused by these powerful Pokemons while promising a certain Genesect to find its home. Before the film, a special Pikachu short features Eevee evolutions, including the new evolved form, Sylveon. A different kind of Mewtwo and Sylveon became a mystery to the viewers until the launch of XY tells all that Sylveon's a Fairy-type Pokemon and that Mewtwo in question is Mega Mewtwo Y, one of the Mega Evolutions.

XYZ

• Diancie and the Cocoon of Destruction (2014) - The first film in the show's XY saga sees the mythical jewel Pokemon Diancie making its debut appearance. In this film, the Heart Diamond at the Diamond Domain where Diancie and the Carbinks live is disintegrating and Diancie's not powerful enough to make a new one. As it ventures to find the legendary life Pokemon, Xerneas, Diancie is being targeted by mysterious adversaries trying to take advantage of it and with Ash, Serena, Clemont, and Bonnie met up with Diancie, the gang are trying to fend off against pursuers before the wrath of Yveltal was unleashed. Those who witnessed the film got their hands on Diancie for use in the X and Y games and when Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire went on sale in November 2014, they can transfer Diancie via Pokemon Bank and gain the Diancite mega stone to mega evolve it. Oh yeah, before this film was shown, there's a Pikachu short where Pikachu and friends met up with Klefki and embark on a journey like no other. Mythical Pokemon like Jirachi, Manaphy, Darkrai, and Victini made special cameos in this short.
• Hoopa and the Clash of Ages (2015) - In this film, our heroes arrived at a desert city by the sea and later, they've been introduced by the mythical Pokemon Hoopa. Hoopa has the power to summon different things, especially humans and Pokemon, through its magic ring. What they didn't know that there was a tale about a young hero who managed to stop a major cataclysm unleashed by a powerful Pokemon long ago and with the darkest secret waiting to be unleashed, how can Ash and his friends protect Hoopa before a massive onslaught bring chaos to the world? This film features a powerhouse cast of legendary Pokemon that overshadowed the star Pokemon of the film, Hoopa, and those who witnessed the film got their very own Hoopa for use in XY and ORAS, and to unleash its Unbound form, players need to find the Prison Bottle at their nearest PokeMarts in-game. Oh yeah, there's a Pikachu short where Pikachu and the gang are doing a musical.
• Volcanion and the Mechanical Marvel (2016) - Shown in Japanese theaters last summer of this year, this last film of the XYZ saga stars two mythical Pokemon such as the Steam Pokemon Volcanion and the Artificial Pokemon Magearna. In this film, Ash and the gang made a fateful encounter with Volcanion, a powerful Pokemon who despises all humans, and the unlikely pair set off on an adventure to save Magearna from a rogue minister trying to take control its Soul-Heart for hostile takeover. Although Volcanion and Magearna are the stars of the film, the real credit goes to the Mega-evolved Pokemon, including the shiny Mega Gengar and the shiny Mega Gardevoir. Of course, those who saw the film got two special bonuses. One is a code to get Volcanion for use in XY and ORAS, while the second is a Magearna card for use in the Pokemon Ga-ole arcade game by Takara Tomy. Thanks to Pokemon Sun and Moon's QR scanner, they managed to scan its QR code to add Magearna to their Alola adventure. With the addition of Magearna, the total number of Pokemon recorded on the National Pokedex, if you add the Alolan Pokedex, is now 801.

So, what will next year's Pokemon movie going to be? Since it's made to honor the TV series' 20th anniversary, it's going to be very special in store for the fans and your guesses will be as good as mine so see you in 2017!

Nintendo 3DS Pokémon Sun & Moon Super Music Complete

Nintendo 3DS Pokémon Sun & Moon Super Music Complete

The highly anticipated installment of the Pokémon franchise, Pokémon Sun and Moon, has arrived since last week and in this new installment, players emerge through the tropical Alola region where they can catch, trade, and battle new Pokémon around the region, pass through trials, avert a major threat, and become the island challenge champion. I'm sure most of the folks already done that less than a week or so. To commemorate the launch of the latest installment, a four-disc original soundtrack based on the latest Pokémon installment has arrived and fans can't hardly wait to listen to the background music as heard from the Pokémon Sun and Moon games.

From Melemele to Poni Island, from the Team Skull territory of Po Town to the Aether Paradise, all the way to the summit of Mount Lanakila, this four-disc compilation features background music handcrafted by the GAME FREAK sound team so fans can listen to the sounds of Alola as heard throughout the game. Apart from that, they've even added special tracks, including those as heard from the official Pokémon Sun and Moon Z-Ring toy from Takara Tomy.

Apart from this four-disc mega compilation of background musics and sounds heard from the Alola Region and more, it comes with a 32-page booklet that will give you a behind-the-scenes look in the making of the sounds of the Alola Region as well as honoring 20 years of Pokémon.

Nothing says Alola than having this four-disc compilation at your own living room because with Pokémon Sun and Moon became a huge success since launch day, it's another way to give thanks to Pokémon's 20 year celebration.

Pocket Monsters Sun & Moon

The Pocket Monsters (PokéMon) franchise is now on its 20th anniversary since the launch of the first Red and Green games in Japan since 1996 and fans from around the world done many ways to honor the hit franchise's 20th anniversary as a whole. From the games, the TV show, the movies, spin-offs, and merchandising rights, fans have endless ways to honor PokéMon's 20th anniversary and here it is, the ultimate birthday present to the franchise we all know and love has arrived and the all-new PokéMon Sun and Moon games for the 3DS are here to usher us to the next generation of the hit franchise.

Pocket Monsters Sun

Pocket Monsters Moon

So, here we are, twenty years of PokéMon and it goes now as in this brand new installment, players are ready to step on the tropical Alola Region as they are ready to take on new trials, capture new PokéMon, battle the best trainers in the region, avert an imminent threat, and discover the secrets of the Alola Region. Because this is an all-new game with all new PokéMon in store for them, you are introduced with three brand new starters to begin your Alolan quest. First, there's the Grass-and-Flying-type Rowlet, then there's the Fire-type Litten, and finally, there's the Water-type Popplio.

As you progress further, you will encounter more and more new Pokemon around this new region such as Grubbin, Pikipek, Togedemaru, Yungoos, Stufful, Type: Null, and others. Also, keep an eye out of Alolan versions of familiar PokéMon such as Exeggutor, Meowth, Dugtrio, Sandshrew, Vulpix, and others. They may look similar to the ones you remember back when you are kids but they're different in terms of type and their new brand of firepower in store for them. Oh, and if you see an Alolan Grimer and Alolan Muk, please hide the kids. They might be having nightmares about them.

Firepower aside, Pokemon Sun and Moon welcomes players to a whole new way of unleashing devastating attacks to the opposition. Called Z-Moves, a Pokemon must have the same variety of Z-Crystal he/she equipped on the Z-Ring in order to unleash it. There are different kinds of Z-Crystals to collect (depending on the version). Some are applicable to the PokéMon's type (like for example: Bloom Doom for Grass-types, Inferno Overdrive for Fire-types, Hydro Vortex for Water-types, and Gigavolt Havoc for Electric-types) and some are signature Z-moves for a specific PokéMon (like for example: Decidueye's Sinister Arrow Raid, Incineroar's Malicious Moonsault, Primarima's Oceanic Operetta, and Pikachu's Catastropika). 

Did you know that Z-Power can add special effects on status moves? That's right because with a Z-Power and a status move mixed in with them, you'll be gaining an upper advantage on battles. One inate example will be the worthless Splash attack. At first, nothing happened, but if you mixed in with a specific Z-Crystal, the result will be a triple boost to the Attack stat. Looks like who gets the last laugh now, huh? There are so many status moves that can be mixed from a Z-Power. Try it out! Who knows what's in store with those status moves you're familiar with.

The storyline of Sun and Moon is what critics called it "sacrilege" because instead of the usual gym battles and league battles, the new games are focused on trials where players have to complete specific tasks in order to proceed and then battle against the island's Kahunas. Since the Alola Region is comprised with four islands, there are four Kahunas to take on if you're good enough. Defeat the Kahuna and you can proceed to the next island. Be warned though that these new kind of challenges are not going to be easy so stay sharp because there might be surprises in store for you. Later on, you will be encountering more challenges such as collecting Zygarde cells and cores in order to unleash the legendary Order PokéMon Zygarde with three different forms.

Somewhere in the Alola Region, there are powerful entities that pose a huge threat to both mankind and PokéMon. They are known as "Ultra Beasts" and their relentless firepower are second to none. Worse, your capturing methods against these beasts are useless. What holds the mystery of these Ultra Beasts lies on a mysterious organization called the "Aether Foundation" and this organization could be the key to uncover the Ultra Beasts and how to face off with these along with its brutal firepower.

If you need to take a break from the game, you can always check out the new Festival Plaza feature, which is unlockable after you progress through the game. The Festival Plaza feature allows players to trade, battle, do favors, go co-op, shop, and more. There are so many ways to enjoy in the Festival Plaza.

If you have captured PokéMon stored in the PC, don't worry because these PokéMon will not go to waste because of the brand new Poké Pelago feature. With this new feature, PokéMon stored in the PC can go exploring, play, and enjoy other activities. You can even get PokéMon as well. The more PokéMon on the PC you send to the Poké Pelago, the more facilities can be expanded and you will be able to do extra stuff such as finding rare items, raising PokéMon on the go, and more. Isn't science convenient?

Stuff you are familiar back from the Kalos quest of XY are back on Sun and Moon such as personalizing your trainer with various outfits and accessories. Personalization will make your trainer look unique as you show it to the others. The PokéMonAmie from XY has now been upgraded and it's now called PokéMon Refresh. In here, you can tidy up your PokéMon after a battle, heal status conditions, feed Poké Beans, and more, just to boost your PokéMon's friendliness. Simple as that.

There are different ways to search for PokéMon throughout the Alola Region. First, there's the Poké Finder feature on your Rotom PokéDex. Using Rotom PokéDex's camera, you can take photos of PokéMon you find. The better your shots, the better chances this feature will be upgraded such as the zoom in feature. Later, you will be able to use the brand new QR Scanner feature, which allows players to scan specific QR codes to meet new PokéMon.

In the past, trainers rely on using Hidden Machines to their PokéMon to do specific tasks, but here in Sun and Moon, there's a brand new Poké Ride feature which allows users to summon certain PokéMon to get through hard to reach areas by land, air, or sea. Convenient, isn't it? Beats HMs of the past by a long shot so feel free to summon them when you need it.

PokéMon Trainer battles usually comprised of Single, Double, or Triple battles, among many other ways to battle, but here in Sun and Moon, there's a new battle feature called Battle Royal and by far this new battle format will be the most unpredictable format ever because you never know who will strike first and telling the difference between a friend and a foe. But still, it's everyone's game so take some time to learn and master this difficult battle format by yourself or with your mates.

Also new in Sun and Moon is the brand new Hyper Training. In the past, PokéMon grew stronger by increasing their levels and their base stats but their stats are affected by the individual strengths. With Hyper Training, any PokéMon that reached the max level will be able to train their specific strengths beyond limits. All you need is a Bottle Cap and bring it to a specific someone who can train your PokéMon beyond limits with Hyper Training. Be warned though that results might not be typical to your averaged maxed-out PokéMon.

Since this new installment is comprised with two different versions, you can expect differences between the two games, Of course, the legendary Solgaleo is exclusive to Sun while the legendary Lunala is for Moon, apart from the 12-hour differences, there are PokéMon exclusive to each version, especially the Ultra Beasts you will encounter later on. One bizarre difference is how Rockruff evolves into Lycanroc and that's because in Pokemon Sun, Rockruff evolves to Lycanroc in its Midday Forme, while in Pokemon Moon, Rockruff evolves to Lycanroc, this time in Midnight Forme. So, because there are differences between the two versions, one major way to complete the Alola (and later National) Pokédex is by trading, either here or online via the GTS.

In honor of the launch of the two games, there are three special PokéMon in store for the fans. First, there's the pre-order bonus Munchlax which comes with a Snorilum Z crystal. Once evolved to Snorlax, you can unleash Snorlax's signature Z-move, Pulverizing Pancake. Second, there's the mythical PokéMon Magearna, the star from last summer's PokéMon The Movie: Volcanion and the Mechanical Marvel. If you're in Japan and if you got a special Magearna card for use in the PokéMon Ga-ole arcade game, use the QR Scanner (when unlocked post-game) on the card's QR code to get the mythical PokéMon. For international users, wait for further instructions on how to get Magearna via QR code. And lastly, there's Ash-Greninja from the recently concluded PokéMon The Series XYZ TV show. First played on the special demo, it can now be transferred to the main game. Ash's Greninja comes with a signature Battle Bond ability. When Greninja knocks out the enemy PokéMon, it transforms into Ash-Greninja and its Water Shuriken attack's becoming more powerful. Just be sure to have the cleared Special Demo data in your 3DS in order to do so.

Next year, the PokéMon Bank app will be upgraded and the PokéMon you worked so hard to train on XY and ORAS can now be transferred to Sun and Moon. Which means, its time to complete the National PokéDex once again! Who's up for the challenge? Well, don't rush though because while this is a new game, take your time to fill up the PokéDex while training them to be battle-ready.

So, I think that's all to say about the new installment and I didn't realized it was that long to tell you about Sun and Moon. Because this is the biggest birthday gift for the PokéMon franchise's 20th anniversary, this is more than enough to celebrate two decades of catching them all. From trading, battling, and sharing their favorite PokéMon moments, these moments have been the hallmark of the PokéMon franchise and with PokéMon Sun and Moon, a new chapter is about to be written to the history books as twenty years of PokéMon payed off to deliver a brand new experience for fans, veterans and newcomers alike.

Say Aloha to your next PokéMon adventure to the Alola Region. Everyone's waiting for you.