On March 8th, 2022, The Pokémon Company International unveiled the next expansion for the popular Pokémon Trading Card Game, Sword & Shield—Astral Radiance, which launched at participating retailers around the world on May 27th, 2022. High resolution product pictures from the press release have been added to an Imageboard thread.

New Pokémon Trading Card Game: Sword & Shield—Astral Radiance Expansion to Introduce Radiant Pokémon Gameplay Mechanic

Inspired by the Pokémon Legends: Arceus video game, Sword & Shield—Astral Radiance will feature various Hisuian Pokémon and card art that showcases the Hisui region. The expansion will also introduce Radiant Pokémon, a new gameplay mechanic that features Shiny Pokémon illustrated in etched artwork. Radiant Pokémon tend to have a powerful Ability or attack with the potential to impact the Pokémon TCG metagame. Players will only be able to include one Radiant Pokémon in their deck.


In addition, Sword & Shield—Astral Radiance will continue to highlight Pokémon VSTAR and includes a special Trainer Gallery subset of 30 cards with artwork featuring fan-favorite Trainers and Pokémon.

Noteworthy cards from the expansion include:

• Three Radiant Pokémon
• Eight Pokémon VSTAR
• 21 Pokémon V and two Pokémon VMAX
• More than 20 Trainer cards

Sword & Shield—Astral Radiance will be available in booster packs, Elite Trainer Boxes and special collections, with the Sword & Shield—Astral Radiance Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box now available for preorder exclusively at Pokémon Center in the US, Canada and UK.

Pokémon TCG: Sword & Shield-Astral Radiance Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box

Legends of Time & Space Take Charge!

Travel back to a land of myths, legends, and wilderness as Origin Forme Dialga VSTAR and Origin Forme Palkia VSTAR shape the fabric of time and space! Decidueye, Typhlosion, and Samurott arrive as Hisuian Pokémon VSTAR, joining more Pokémon and Trainers from the ancient region of Hisui. Meanwhile, Shiny Pokémon reappear as Radiant Pokémon, with Radiant Greninja leading the charge in the Pokémon TCG: Sword & Shield—Astral Radiance expansion!

This Pokémon TCG: Sword & Shield—Astral Radiance Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box can be found only at Pokémon Center and comes with exclusive accessories—metal dice and a metallic coin—plus 10 booster packs (two more than in a standard Elite Trainer Box).

• 10 Pokémon TCG: Sword & Shield—Astral Radiance booster packs - Each booster pack contains 10 cards and either 1 basic Energy or 1 VSTAR marker
• 65 card sleeves featuring Darkrai
• 45 Pokémon TCG Energy cards
• A player’s guide to the Sword & Shield—Astral Radiance expansion
• A Pokémon TCG rulebook
• 6 metal damage-counter dice
• 1 metallic coin featuring Darkrai
• 2 acrylic condition markers
• 1 acrylic VSTAR marker
• A collector’s box to hold everything, with 4 dividers to keep it organized
• A code card for Pokémon Trading Card Game Live
• Item Dimensions: 7.4 x 3.4 x 6.5 IN
• Country Of Origin: Printed in the USA. Card Sleeves, Dice, and Condition Markers made in China.
• Materials: Paper / acrylic / polyresin / polypropylene / metal
• Recommended Age: 6+ Years
• Item Weight: 1.7 LB
• SKU: 181-85133

Pokémon TCG: Sword & Shield Astral Radiance Elite Trainer Box

The Pokémon TCG: Sword & Shield Astral Radiance Elite Trainer Box includes everything a player needs to outshine the competition in battle! Dazzle your opponent with cool card sleeves featuring the Mythical Pokémon Darkrai, as well as beautifully designed dice and markers. Then assemble a deck with help from the eight Sword & Shield—Astral Radiance booster packs and guidance from the included strategy guide. When it's all over, pack it all up in the collector's box so you're ready to head to your next clash.

The Pokémon TCG: Sword & Shield—Astral Radiance Elite Trainer Box includes:

• 8 Pokémon TCG: Sword & Shield—Astral Radiance booster packs
• 65 card sleeves featuring Darkrai
• 45 Pokémon TCG Energy cards
• A player's guide to the Sword & Shield—Astral Radiance expansion
• A Pokémon TCG rulebook
• 6 damage-counter dice
• 1 competition-legal coin-flip die
• 2 acrylic condition markers
• 1 acrylic VSTAR marker
• A collector's box to hold everything, with 4 dividers to keep it organized
• A code card usable in either the Pokémon TCG Online or Pokémon TCG Live

Delibird from the popular game Pokémon takes the lead role of the Pokémon Delivery campaign! Presenting special Pokémon Delivery goods that are a must-have for fans! High resolution photos from the press release and PR event have been added to an Imageboard thread.

menu will launch the Pokémon Delivery campaign on Friday, February 25th, 2022, offering special delivery bags, special Pokémon Delivery goods only available at menu.

menu, which launched its delivery service in April 2020, has been collaborating with games and animes and implementing a gacha function that allows customers to win original menu goods, with the aim of making the prolonged refrain from going out due to the coronavirus more enjoyable through meals at home. To celebrate the release of Pokémon LEGENDS Arceus, the latest in the globally popular Pokémon series, the Pokémon Delivery campaign will be held.


The Pokémon Delivery campaign is inspired by the fictional Pokémon Delivery service, in which the the Delivery Bird Delibird plays the leading role. To enjoy the world of Pokémon Delivery, the first 100,000 orders placed at participating stores will be delivered in a special Pokémon Delivery paper bag, and special Pokémon Delivery goods will be awarded.

No.1: First 100,000! Delivered in a special paper bag made by Pokémon Delivery!
No.2: Special Pokémon Delivery goods will be given to those who meet the purchase conditions during the campaign period!
No.3: A special coupon commemorating Pokémon Day will be given to those who can eat the targeted products at a discount during the campaign period!

Please take this opportunity to participate in the menu Pokémon Delivery campaign while enjoying your meal delivered in a special Pokémon Delivery paper bag.

Outline of the Pokémon Delivery Campaign

① First 100,000! Delivered in a special Pokémon Delivery paper bag!

Campaign details:
During the campaign period, the first 100,000 orders of Pokémon Delivery meals will be delivered in special Pokémon Delivery paper bags with the Pokémon Delivery service logo on them.


■ Campaign period: Starting Friday, February 25th, 2022
■ Eligible Products: Products featured in the Pokémon Delivery
Notes: Please check the menu app for the participating stores. This campaign is subject to change without notice.
Please note that this campaign may be terminated, changed, or cancelled without prior notice.
*Please note that the campaign will end when the maximum number of paper bags is reached at each store.

② During the campaign period, those who meet the purchase conditions will receive special Pokémon Delivery goods!
Campaign details: During the campaign period, if you use the menu and order a meal delivery, you will be able to win a menu gacha, a special Pokémon Delivery item that can only be obtained here.

Campaign period: Starting February 25th, 2022
Eligible products: Please check the menu application.

Conditions for participation:
① Those who place a delivery order on menu within the campaign period
② Write a review of the purchased product.
③ A certain number of medals will be given according to the amount of the purchased product.
④ Participate in a drawing to win special goods depending on the type and number of medals.

Prizes:

Prize A: A gift from Delibird (You can win one of the following: a mug, a lunch box set, a cutlery set, or a mini chawan dish)


Prize B: Special Pokémon Delivery Clear File


Prize C: Special Pokémon Delivery Coasters (12 types)


Prize D: Special Pokémon Delivery Stickers (12 types)

③ Pokémon Day Coupon

In commemoration of Pokémon Day on February 27th, they will give away a special coupon to commemorate Pokémon Day!

Campaign details: The first 2,400 yen coupon will be given to those who use menu for the first time, and the first 10,000 customers who have already used menu will receive a 500 yen coupon.

Campaign Period: Starting February 25th, 2022
Coupon Codes:
First coupon: PKMN2683
500 yen coupon: PKMD5647

menu App Information:

Area of operation: 47 prefectures (delivery)
Number of participating stores: Approx. 83,000 stores (as of February 2022)
Application download fee: Free
App download URL: https://apps.apple.com/JP/app/id1443466646?mt=8
Supported OS: iOS/Android

Source: https://app.menu.jp/pr/pokemon/

Hoopa has been added to Pokémon UNITE. This ranged supporter is available now and ready to astonish, trick, and confuse opponents into submission.

Make Merry Mischief with Hoopa in Pokémon UNITE

Astonish and confuse opponents in Pokémon UNITE with Hoopa, now available to join your team. This Pokémon is a strategically complex Ranged Supporter that, if played effectively, can help ally Pokémon heal and move efficiently around the battlefield—in addition to dealing damage with its delightfully ominous attacks. Hoopa has two forms—Hoopa Confined and Hoopa Unbound—and spends most of its time battling as Hoopa Confined, though there are opportunities to change into its powerful Hoopa Unbound form.

Hoopa’s basic attack becomes a boosted attack with every third attack, unleashing an astonishing beam of light that deals damage to opposing Pokémon. When Hoopa is unbound, it unleashes beams of light with every basic attack, dealing damage to up to two nearby opposing Pokémon.

Hoopa’s Ability—Magician—takes advantage of maps being divided into ally territory and enemy territory. Magician creates a hole beneath one of the Berries in the opposing team’s territory and warps the Berry to right in front of Hoopa. If the enemy territory has no available Berries but there is Aeos energy on the ground, then some energy is warped to Hoopa instead. If Magician fails to warp any Berries to Hoopa, the cooldown until Magician’s next use is reduced.

Hoopa’s Moves
At Lv. 1 and Lv. 3, Hoopa can learn Astonish and Confusion.

Astonish deals damage to opponents within a designated area of effect, leaving them unable to act for a short time.

When using Confusion, Hoopa unleashes a powerful telekinetic force in a designated direction, dealing damage to the first opposing Pokémon it hits. The telekinetic force clings to that Pokémon and then causes a delayed explosion, dealing damage to opposing Pokémon in the area of effect and decreasing their movement speed for a short time.

Confusion Upgrades
At Lv. 4, Hoopa can upgrade Confusion into one of two strategically interesting attacks that benefit Hoopa’s allies: Hyperspace Hole or Trick.

Hyperspace Hole is a complex attack during which Hoopa creates a large ring at a designated location, dealing damage to opposing Pokémon in the area of effect. Then, the move gets interesting. After a certain amount of time, Hoopa and any ally Pokémon within the area of effect will return to their base, and their movement speed will be increased for a short time. However, any ally Pokémon that Hoopa returns to their base must wait a short period before receiving the HP recovery they trigger by being in their base. These ally Pokémon also have the option of warping back to the location where the original large ring was created.

One of your team’s forward goal zones can also be designated as the location where the large ring is created. Creating the ring on the forward goal zone of the top path will also create a ring on the forward goal zone of the bottom path, and vice versa. All ally Pokémon, including Hoopa, can then use the rings to warp between the two goal zones, and their movement speed will be increased for a short time after warping. After an ally Pokémon warps, there’s a brief cooldown before that ally can use the rings again. If a path’s forward goal zone is destroyed, the middle goal zone on the same path will take its place. Hyperspace Hole can’t be used on base goal zones. Hyperspace Hole can be upgraded to increase the movement speed of ally Pokémon near the ring when they are heading toward it.

Trick is another attack that largely benefits ally Pokémon. When using Trick, Hoopa creates a link between itself and an ally Pokémon using a ring. This link increases both Pokémon’s movement speeds and grants them each a shield for a short time. When Hoopa uses Shadow Ball or performs a basic attack, the ring on the linked Pokémon also unleashes the same move or attack. Hoopa can also use Trick on itself, increasing its own movement speed and granting itself a shield for a short time. When Hoopa uses Trick on itself, it also increases the damage dealt by Shadow Ball. Trick can be upgraded to also restore the linked ally Pokémon’s HP when it deals damage to opposing Pokémon.

Astonish Upgrades
At Lv. 6, Hoopa can upgrade Astonish into one of two new moves: Phantom Force or Shadow Ball.

Phantom Force leverages Hoopa’s penchant for space-hopping by creating a ring underneath Hoopa that warps it to a designated Pokémon’s location, dealing damage to opposing Pokémon at that location and shoving them. Hoopa then fires off two sinister flames that deal damage to opposing Pokémon they hit and decrease their movement speed for a short time. Phantom Force can be used a second time within a set amount of time. On Phantom Force’s second use, Hoopa can return to the initial location it warped from. When Hoopa uses Phantom Force, if there is a nearby ally Pokémon that is linked by Trick, that ally can also warp to the initial ring’s location. The ally Pokémon that warps in this way will also recover some HP. Phantom Force can be upgraded to make Hoopa invincible for a short time after Phantom Force is used.

When using Shadow Ball, Hoopa ominously unleashes a shadowy blob in front of itself, dealing damage to opposing Pokémon it hits and decreasing their movement speed and Sp. Def for a short time. If Hoopa then hits the same unfortunate Pokémon with a move or boosted attack within a set amount of time, it deals additional damage to the Pokémon and leaves them unable to act for a short time. When Hoopa uses Shadow Ball, if there is a nearby ally Pokémon linked by Trick, Shadow Ball will also unleash a shadowy blob directed at the same target from that ally’s location. Shadow Ball can be upgraded so that the shadowy blob explodes before it disappears. Opposing Pokémon hit by the explosion suffer the same effects as being hit by the shadowy blob itself.

Hoopa’s Unite Move, Rings Unbound
Unleashing Hoopa’s full power, Rings Unbound transforms Hoopa into Hoopa Unbound for a short time. Hoopa Unbound increases Hoopa’s max HP and creates a ring at a designated location. Each ally Pokémon can warp to that location once only.

While Hoopa is unbound, its moves change to Hyperspace Fury and Psybeam. When using Hyperspace Fury, Hoopa unleashes a barrage of attacks in a designated area with its many arms, dealing damage to opposing Pokémon in the area of effect and leaving them unable to act for a short time. When attacking with Psybeam, Hoopa fires a peculiar ray in a horizontal sweeping motion in front of itself, dealing damage to opposing Pokémon caught in the attack’s path. While using Psybeam, Hoopa also becomes immune to hindrances. It’s important to note that while Hoopa is unbound, it cannot score goals or activate its Ability.

Hoopa is ready to wreak mischief and terror upon its opponents. Sneak over to the United Battle Committee shop to get Hoopa’s Unite license now.

Source: https://unite.pokemon.com/en-us/news/make-merry-mischief-with-hoopa-in-pokemon-unite/

YouTube Clip - Hoopa Character Spotlight | Pokémon UNITE

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CqTi3LgVkAw

From February 24 to April 11, 2022, Pokémon UNITE will be giving out special log-in bonuses and a thrilling new type of quick battle: full-fury battles.

Pokémon UNITE Goes Full-Fury for Pokémon Day

Pokémon Day happens just once a year on February 27, but fortunately, Pokémon UNITE’s Pokémon Day event will be celebrating your love of Pokémon for over two weeks! From February 24 to April 11, 2022, Pokémon UNITE will be upping its game with special log-in bonuses and a thrilling new type of quick battle—full-fury battles.

Battle to the max in these new full-fury battles, available on Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays throughout the Pokémon Day event and beyond. Full-fury battles offer shorter waiting times before diving into the heat of battle, and the battles themselves are flashier, with moves being easier to string together than ever before. These fast, frenzied battles feature shorter cooldowns, shorter recovery times after being knocked out, increased Aeos energy from knocking out opposing Pokémon, and much more. This is also the perfect opportunity to battle using Pokémon you haven’t tried yet, because on special days throughout the event, all Pokémon will be available to play at no cost in all battles except ranked matches.

Look your best while battling by receiving Trainer fashion items just for logging in to Pokémon UNITE during the Pokémon Day event. The first day you log in during the event, your Trainer can receive a T-shirt featuring a Pokémon Day logo, and on the second day you log in during the event, your Trainer can receive a matching cap to go with it.

Source: https://unite.pokemon.com/en-us/news/pokemon-unite-goes-full-fury-for-pokemon-day/

YouTube Clip - Pokémon UNITE Goes Full-Fury for Pokémon Day!

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vR6D-fnRB40

The Pokémon Company has announced details for the Pokémon Day 2022 celebrations which will take place througout the week of Monday, February 21st, 2022 to Sunday, February 27, 2022. Pictures from the press release have been added to an Imageboard thread.

1. February 27th is "Pokémon Day"! What is "Pokémon Day"?

Pokémon Red and Green, the first Pokémon games, were released on February 27, 1996. For Pokémon, which was born from a video game, February 27th marks a memorable beginning, and has been celebrated and cherished as "Pokémon Day" among fans worldwide.

In order to let Japanese people know about this special day, The Pokémon Company has designated February 27 as "Pokémon Day" and has been certified by the Japan Anniversary Association. In establishing this day, we would like to express our gratitude to everyone who has loved and supported Pokémon.

2. From Monday, Feb. 21 to Saturday, Feb. 26, 2022

From Monday, February 21st, 2022 to Saturday, February 26th, 2022, we will announce information on games, apps, and other events commemorating "Pokémon Day" each day.


February 21st, 2022 - Pokémon Masters EX
February 22nd, 2022 - Pokémon Sword and Shield
February 23rd, 2022 - Welcome! Pokémon Cafe ReMix
February 24th, 2022 - Pokémon UNITE
February 25th, 2022 - "Reconnect" special music video premiere simultaneously around the world
February 26th, 2022 - Pokémon GO Tour: Johto Region

3. Two projects to commemorate "Pokémon Day"!

① Daily Illustration Project
An illustration commemorating "Pokémon Day" will be posted on the special website every day from February 21st, 2022 to February 27th, 2022. The illustrations are inspired by scenes from the adventures of Pokémon and the main characters in the Pokémon series.


The illustrations released today are based on the themes of Pokémon: Red and Green and Pokémon: Gold and Silver.

②Pokémon Test - Region 8 Time Attack

To commemorate Pokémon Day, you can challenge quizzes related to the eight regions of the Pokémon series on a special website. From February 21st, 2022 to February 27th, 2022, a new quiz for the region will be released every day.

In this project, the number of correct answers and the time it takes to answer the 10th question for each of the 10 questions in each region will be recorded, and the scores will be displayed in a ranking format.

You can challenge the quiz as many times as you like. You can take the quiz as many times as you like, and try your hand at it, aiming for the top rankings.

Website: https://pokemon-kentei.jp/

Release Schedule
February 21st, 2022 - Kanto Region, Johto Region
February 22nd, 2022 - Houen Region
February 23rd, 2022 - Sinnoh Region
February 24th, 2022 - Isshu Region
February 25th, 2022 - Kalos Region
February 26th, 2022 - Alola Region
February 27th, 2022 - Galar Region


Please note that the schedule is subject to change without notice. The screenshots feature under development site.

THE POKÉMON COMPANY INTERNATIONAL UNVEILS PLANS FOR POKÉMON DAY 2022

Daily Fan-Focused Activations and Announcements Begin Today Leading up to the Annual Holiday on February 27

On February 27, 1996, the first Pokémon video games, Pokémon Red and Pokémon Green, launched in Japan, kicking off a global phenomenon that would grow into one of the most popular and influential entertainment brands in the world. Each year, fans celebrate their love for Pokémon on this day as a community. To help them celebrate, The Pokémon Company International and its partners host a variety of fan-focused activations annually.

Beginning today, The Pokémon Company International invites fans around the world to get excited for this year’s Pokémon Day by unveiling news and events from across the franchise in the lead-up to February 27. These updates will be revealed globally on the brand’s official social media channels @Pokemon, and fans are invited to join the conversation with #PokemonDay.

“The Pokémon fan community is one of the most passionate and dedicated in the world. We look forward to helping Trainers celebrate their love of all things Pokémon from the Pokémon Trading Card Game to the video games, mobile apps, animation and more every year on Pokémon Day,” said J.C. Smith, senior director of consumer marketing for The Pokémon Company International. “Following Pokémon’s landmark 25th anniversary in 2021, one day did not feel like enough for Pokémon Day 2022, so we invite fans to join us in a weeklong countdown to February 27 and enjoy the daily surprise reveals and activations along the way.”

Additionally, Pokémon Center, the premier online destination for official Pokémon merchandise in the US, Canada and UK will be celebrating by unveiling and releasing a variety of new products featuring fan-favorite Pokémon throughout this week. The introductions begin with the launch today of new custom skateboards in the US and Canada by industry craftsman, Bear Walker, featuring Mew and Gyarados (available while supplies last).

Fans around the world can also check their local Pokémon animation broadcaster and streaming services for Pokémon Day-related celebrations featuring classic episodes of the beloved series and movies. Curated collections of episodes and movies leading up to and on Pokémon Day are also available now for free on Pokémon TV.

The Pokémon Trading Card Game Battle Academy will be available Q1 2022, March 25th, 2022 at the Pokémon Center and where Pokémon TCG products are sold. High resolution pictures from the press release have been added to an Imageboard thread.

Pokémon Trading Card Game Battle Academy (2022)

Enjoy the thrill of battling right out the gate with the latest version of the ready-to-play Pokémon Trading Card Game Battle Academy! Updated with fun new decks and cards, this version contains everything that two players need to charge headlong into battle, along with guides to the decks so your first game is easy to follow.

Choose between fiery, feisty Cinderace or electrifyingly engaging Pikachu to lead your team in a heads-up battle against another Trainer. Then, switch up the decks to play adorable Eevee against Cinderace or Pikachu, and lead a different team of Pokémon into the arena!

With a little strategy, a little luck, and the contents of this incredible box, you can battle with the best and have a blast while doing it. Best of all, this latest version of the Battle Academy is fully compatible with other Pokémon TCG products, including the first Battle Academy.

The Pokémon Trading Card Game Battle Academy includes:

• 3 complete Pokémon TCG decks (60 cards each)
• Each deck includes a powerful special Pokémon: Cinderace V, Pikachu V, or Eevee V
• Eevee deck includes 2 copies of an all-new promo card featuring Galarian Obstagoon
• 1 instruction sheet to help you set up to play
• 2 tutorial guides to lead you through the decks
• 1 two-player game board
• 3 deck boxes to keep the cards organized
• 1 rulebook
• 1 large metallic coin featuring Cinderace, Pikachu, and Eevee
• 1 set of damage counters
• A code card usable in either the Pokémon TCG Online or Pokémon TCG Live

Source: https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-tcg/product-gallery/pokemon-trading-card-game-battle-academy-2022/

NEW VERSION OF AWARD-WINNING POKÉMON TRADING CARD GAME BATTLE ACADEMY NOW AVAILABLE

March 25, 2022 — Today, The Pokémon Company International released the latest iteration of the Pokémon Trading Card Game Battle Academy, available at Pokémon Center in the US, Canada and UK, and at participating retailers around the world. NEW VERSION OF AWARD-WINNING POKÉMON TRADING CARD GAME BATTLE ACADEMY NOW AVAILABLE

Battle Academy (2022) is an updated board game adaptation of the best-selling Pokémon TCG, which makes it easy and fun for the whole family to learn the classic tabletop game, and comes after the original version was awarded Game of the Year at The Toy Association’s 2021 Toy of the Year Awards.

The new version introduces the Pokémon V gameplay mechanic and an updated lineup of fan-favorite Pokémon, including Pikachu, Eevee and Cinderace. Each Battle Academy (2022) product comes with everything needed to master the basics of the Pokémon TCG — including a two-player game board, three 60-card decks, tutorial guides and gameplay accessories — making it an ideal activity for family and friends.

YouTube Clip - Welcome to the Game | Pokémon Trading Card Battle Academy 2022

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m0R4iiFYz-c

To launch the new Pokémon Futsal resources for 2022, we wanted to go BIG.... So, with our partner England Football, we thought that there would be no better person for the occasion than the England Senior Men’s Manager himself, Gareth Southgate... with a bit of help from Pikachu of course.

Gareth paid a trip to Torriano Primary School to surprise a group of Year 5 students during their Pokémon Futsal Masterclass and offered some training tips! High resolution pictures from the press release have been added to an Imageboard thread.

YouTube Clip - UK: England Manager Gareth Southgate delights school with surprise visit to Pokémon Futsal class.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RaLZzQ42kI0

Gareth Southgate delights school with surprise Pokémon Futsal skills masterclass

England Manager visits Torriano Primary School, Camden to launch expanded and enhanced programme of futsal-based activities as part of the 2022 Schools Games initiative. ​​​​​​​

London, United Kingdom — February 08, 2022. – England manager Gareth Southgate helped launch the latest additions to the Pokémon Futsal programme with a surprise visit and skills masterclass to pupils at Torriano Primary School in Camden, London. During the session pupils trialled the new resources which are available to download today, via mastertheball.com

Offering the ultimate team talk to 16 excited youngsters, Southgate gave children from the school’s year five class a taste of elite level coaching as he stepped in to offer advice during a training session with leading FA coaches.

During the session, Southgate and the coaches engaged the children in a series of games from the Pokémon Futsal resources for 2022. He outlined the importance of futsal in developing football skills - both technically and tactically - as well as discussing the exciting year ahead for England Football. The pupils were also given a series of Pokémon gifts including a special trading card featuring Pikachu in an England shirt.

Speaking about his involvement at the event, Southgate said: “I am delighted to visit Torriano Primary School to celebrate their efforts with Pokémon Futsal and support the launch of the new school resources for 2022. It’s amazing to see and hear about the passion for Pokémon Futsal. I’ve worked a lot in youth football and know how important futsal can be as a pathway for developing a young person’s football skills and confidence before they transition to the 11-aside format. The new resources created by Pokémon and the FA will make futsal fun and engaging as well as offering a great opportunity to build confidence through small-sided games. I would encourage as many schools as possible to visit Mastertheball.com and learn more about Pokémon Futsal.”

Futsal is an exciting, fast-paced form of the game that originates in South America; several world stars have roots in the game. Played on hard pitches with small-sided teams, futsal places emphasis on technical skill in restricted spaces and creates an environment that allows young people to simulate and develop many skills and proficiencies that are transferrable to the 11-a-side game. The partnership works to encourage children of all abilities to play futsal and develop their skills in a fun and supportive environment.

Pokémon Futsal combines a series of fun futsal training games that aim to help schools introduce futsal or prepare for the School Games. The programme is available as a competition option for School Games Organisers (SGOs) at a local level as part of the School Games; a government led initiative designed to deliver competitive school sport to all young people.

Building on the success of last year’s inaugural programme which was created to offer pupils access to futsal in the absence of inter school competition, the new 2022 resources have been created to expand and enhance the Pokémon Futsal offering to schools. These resources have been developed for teachers and School Games Organisers looking to add exciting new ways to provide every child with a positive experience of competition through futsal, encourage children to take up futsal or improve their footballing skills.

New for 2022, schools will now have access to a series of new games (2v2, 3v3, 4v4) to take part in during the spring term. These are designed to build skills and confidence, whilst introducing players to futsal or preparing for a summer School Games futsal competition.

Torriano Primary School was selected by the FA to try out the new resources, after showing their enthusiasm for the Pokémon Futsal Challenge in 2021. Last year, over 55 pupils from the school took part in the various challenges as part of their morning football club sessions.

Speaking about their special guest, PE teacher Carmen Blanco, who has been responsible for the Torriano Primary School’s participation in the initiative said: “To see the kids’ faces light up as Gareth entered the room was absolutely magical. As a school, we have loved learning about futsal and completing the challenge during our morning football sessions. The shooting challenge is a particular favourite. We have discovered so much about Pokémon Futsal and are delighted to be the first school to try this year’s new activities.”

Pokémon is the title partner of the FA’s Youth Futsal Programme which aims to work with boys and girls aged eight–sixteen. Alongside the Pokémon Futsal initiative in schools, futsal clubs across the country have registered to take part in this season’s Pokémon Youth Futsal Cup by England Football, which kicked off in November 2021 and culminates in a national finals this June.

The partnership works to encourage children of all abilities to play futsal and develop their skills in a fun and supportive environment.

“We’re delighted to have Gareth’s support to help us launch the 2022 Pokémon Futsal resource; the advice he has offered to the children that haven taken part in the masterclass is invaluable,” said Peter Murphy, Senior Director of Marketing at The Pokémon Company International. “Through our partnership with the FA, we wanted to ensure that the futsal activities we offer are engaging, fun and accessible, to help children across the country level up their football skills. We look forward to seeing the progress that will be made by all of those who have signed up.”

Pokémon Futsal is offered to schools around the country as one of the School Games competitions, with over 6,000 children taking part in the Pokémon Futsal Challenge in 2021.

Schools looking to find out more about the Pokémon Futsal offering, can visit the Schools Hub on mastertheball.com. Those taking part in the programme may be in with a chance of winning a selection of Pokémon themed futsal gifts.

The 2022 Pokémon Futsal resources will be available to access from the 8th February. To learn more about the new elements of Pokémon Futsal and how your school can get involved in this and the Schools Games head to https://www.mastertheball.com/schools-hub/

The Pokémon Company International announced sales data for 2021 in Europe which was also the 25th anniversary of the franchise. The brand had a stellar year especially with the Pokémon Trading Card Game.

THE POKÉMON COMPANY INTERNATIONAL SEES SALES SOAR IN 25TH ANNIVERSARY YEAR FOR POKÉMON TRADING CARD GAME AND TOYS IN EUROPE

London, UK—07 February 2022—The Pokémon Company International announced today that Pokémon celebrated a fantastic year at retail in 2021, seeing a significant increase in sales across Europe for its Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) and toy ranges as it celebrated its 25th anniversary.

Named Best Gaming Licensed Property at the 2021 Licensing Awards, Pokémon was the #1 property for 2021 in France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, and saw the highest year-on-year sales increase across all listed properties in the UK, France, Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands, according to figures recorded by NPD Group*. Pokémon is the #1 gaining property in 2021 across the EU8** according to NPD, growing by +106% vs. 2020.

Pokémon was the #1 NPD toy property in France with sales almost double that of the #2 brand, achieving 102% growth YOY. Pokémon also had five items in the top 50 toys of the year, including Pokémon TCG Battle Academy, the first-ever board game adaptation of the TCG which won the Best Game category at the 2021 US Toy of the Year Awards, coming in at #7 with over €5m in sales. In 2021, Pokémon achieved its highest-ever annual position in both Germany and the UK. It was #9 in Germany with 100% growth, and #7 in the UK with 78% growth.

Pokémon was #1 in both Belgium and the Netherlands, achieving an amazing 183% growth in the Netherlands and 125% in Belgium, where its sales were almost double those of the #2 brand. In addition to Pokémon’s success in western Europe, TPCi is currently eyeing future growth and is extending its localised marketing efforts for the hugely popular Trading Card Game to Poland, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Israel.

The new Pokémon TCG: Sword & Shield—Brilliant Stars expansion, which introduces the Pokémon VSTAR mechanic, launches on 25 February.

Pokémon offers a fantastic and varied toy range for fans. Latest highlights include Mattel’s Mega Construx Celebration Pikachu, the absorbing strategy game Pokémon Labyrinth from Ravensburger, and the award-winning range from Jazwares including the popular Pokémon Carry Case Volcano Playset backpack.

“2021 was an exceptional year for Pokémon,” said Mathieu Galante, Licensing Director EMEA for The Pokémon Company International. “Our packed programme of exciting activity and new and different best-in-class product launches, including a host of fabulous anniversary items, resulted in huge demand and surging sales. We are delighted with the superb performance at retail which demonstrates the brand’s continued iconic cultural relevance, and we continue to work hard to bring more innovation to fans over the coming months.”

“Pokémon TCG sales were simply sensational in 2021, breaking all previous records,” said Simon Benton, VP Pokémon TCG Sales Europe. “We would like to thank our retail partners and distributors for their continued support in showcasing the products to consumers. Pokémon is the #1 NPD property in three countries and also saw astonishing three-digit year-on-year gains across the majority of our key territories. These figures have cemented the phenomenal success of the brand’s 25th anniversary year. With increased TCG distribution set to launch in Eastern Europe, we look forward to expanding our reach in 2022.”

The global phenomenon of Pokémon was first launched in Japan in 1996 as a role-playing game for Nintendo’s Game Boy system and reached the United States and Europe in 1998–99. Pokémon has since grown into one of the most popular entertainment properties in the world, encompassing video games, the Pokémon Trading Card Game, mobile games and apps, animation and movies, Play! Pokémon competitive events, and licensed products.

It is one of the most successful video game franchises of all time with more than 368 million video games sold worldwide. In addition, more than 22 billion Pokémon TCG cards have been shipped to 77 countries in 13 languages, while the mobile game sensation Pokémon GO has received more than one billion downloads globally since launch in 2016. More than 1000 episodes of the animated TV series span 24 seasons, licensed for broadcast in 176 countries and regions in more than 30 languages.

*Source: The NPD Group / Toys / Retail Tracking Service / EU8
**UK, France, Belgium, Netherlands, Italy, Germany, Spain & Russia

NANZUKA is hosting an exhibition project by American artist Daniel Arsham called A Ripple in Time which features his Pokémon artwork. As part of the promotion for the exhibit, an anime short was created. Some merchadise items based on his work will also be available to purchase. The exhibition takes place throughout February 2022 at 5 different locations in Tokyo, Japan.

YouTube Clip - A Ripple in Time" by Pokémon × Daniel Arsham

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T3_Si9np920

YouTube Clip - A Ripple in Time" by Pokémon × Daniel Arsham

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n1YE9OlstpM

Press Release - Daniel Arsham × Pokémon - A Ripple in Time

NANZUKA is pleased to present A Ripple in Time, an exhibition project by American artist Daniel Arsham. The series of exhibitions marks the third installment of Arsham’s collaborative art project with The Pokémon Company following the shows Relics of Kanto Through Time held consecutively at NANZUKA and Parco Museum Tokyo from June to August 2020, and Time Dilation at Perrotin, New York in January 2021.

Arsham continues to seek out devices for creating unreality through constantly continuing to explore and experiment with new materials. These endeavors derive from Arsham’s interest in architecture and the environment (earth science) as observed in his activities as co-organizer of the architectural project Snarkitecture. From environments with eroded walls, stairs leading nowhere, to landscapes where nature overrides artificial structures, Arsham meticulously unveils spaces and moments that seemingly confuse and confound our expectations, resolving such experiences within the context of his work.

“I was always interested in architecture as a child. Architecture has played a large part in my practice, as well [as] in thinking about how to reform architecture and make it do things that it’s not supposed to do. It’s also something that I think about quite heavily when I’m thinking about exhibitions, how people experience an exhibition as they move through it and how the architecture, the light, the length of time it takes them to move through space, impacts their understanding and experience of it.”*

Arsham’s sculptural works made of materials such as pyrite, selenite, volcanic ash, glass, obsidian, growler rocks, crystal, and bronze, invite viewers on a journey through time. Through looking at buildings, a camera, toys, and cars etc. that have changed over time, viewers are able to imagine the possibility of various objects that are present around us to become nothing but fossilized artifacts in the distant future that lies a million years ahead. Alternatively, Arsham’s work provokes us to think about our very own existence.

“The idea of fictional archaeology is about taking objects from the present and reforming them in geological materials to project them into the future. It’s as if you could go to the future and look at the remnants of your own life, of your own civilization, really.”*

A Ripple in Time consists of five exhibitions. In addition to a showcasing of works in NANZUKA’s three gallery spaces, a public art piece will be presented at Roppongi Hills’ 66 Plaza, as well as an installation in Isamu Noguchi’s indoor stone garden in the Sogetsu Plaza on the first floor of The Sogetsu Kaikan designed by architect Kenzo Tange. At Roppongi Hills, a total of 6 Pokémon will be displayed to the public for around a one-month period in the form of large-scale bronze sculptures, while NANZUKA UNDERGROUND presents the animated artwork “A Ripple in Time” by Pokémon x Daniel Arsham born through the artist’s collaboration with Kunihiko Yuyama, General Director of Pokémon the Series broadcast in 1997, who continues to oversee the efforts of his successors as Creative Supervisor of the anime franchise. This project was produced over the course of two years at the strong request of Arsham himself. From organizing the plot to the scene-setting, determining which Pokémon and characters appear, as well as the storyboards and finishing process, the production team led by Arsham and Director Yuyama, communicated numerous times online to create a work like never before seen in the history of art. Furthermore, the production of this animation work had led Arsham to produce a series of paintings. A variety of paintings on the theme of "intermixed passages of time" will be showcased, including those depicting crystallized Pokémon discovered within a giant cave, and those inspired by scenes from the animation work. In addition, a selection of new three-dimensional works will be exhibited at The Sogetsu Kaikan, making use of the unique space of Isamu Noguchi's indoor stone garden, while Arsham’s drawings, which can be considered as the origin of his oeuvre, are presented at 3110NZ.

Arsham states as follows, regarding the project.

“I grew up with Pokémon and collected the cards when I was young. It’s something that is also present in the childhood of my children. They love Pokémon now, and I think that speaks to the universal nature of Pokémon, and the incredible universe of imagination that it has created for me and my own children.”*

The project book, Daniel Arsham’s Pokédex will be published by Bijutsu Shuppan-sha Co., Ltd. in correspondence to the exhibition. In addition, a selection of related products and apparel items will be available to purchase at 2G (Shibuya Parco 2F). We look forward to welcoming you to the exhibitions.

*As measures against covid-19, NANZUKA implements body temperature check prior to the entry, and refuse the entry if it exceeds 37 degrees Celsius, and requests the sterilization of hands and wearing a face mask.
*Excerpted from an interview by Machiko Harada

Daniel Arsham

Daniel Arsham (b.1980, Ohio, United States) graduated from The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art, and currently lives and works in New York. His works are founded upon the concept of “Fictional Archaeology,” and consist of a diverse variety of mediums ranging from sculpture, painting, installation, to performance. Arsham’s work has been shown in numerous museums and international exhibitions throughout the world including, MoMA PS1 in New York, The Museum of Contemporary Art in Miami, The Athens Biennale in Athens, Greece, The New Museum in New York, Mills College Art Museum in Oakland, California and Carré d'Art de Nîmes, France, How Art Museum in Shanghai.

NANZUKA

NANZUKA UNDERGROUND is a gallery that was founded in 2005 in Shibuya, Tokyo, as an experimental space dedicated to facilitating connections between pop culture and contemporary art, while redefining the creativities in design, illustration, street culture, fashion, music, and other related fields as academic subjects. “Tokyo Pop Underground,” held in 2019 as a joint project with American gallerist Jeffery Deitch, had received much international attention as an exhibition that unraveled the depths of Japanese art through new frameworks and perspectives.

Location Information:

Daniel Arsham × Pokémon - A Ripple in Time

Roppongi Hills 66 Plaza, Roppongi
Pokémon of Future Past
February 5th, 2022 to February 26th, 2022

NANZUKA UNDERGROUND
A Ripple in Time
February 12th, 2022 to March 27th, 2022

Sogetsu Kaikan Sogetsu Plaza
Hidden within the Tall Grass
February 11, 2022 to February 20th, 2022
*Open every day throughout the exhibition

NANZUKA 2G, Shibuya Parco
Ancient Power: Hidden in the Ruins
February 11th, 2022 to March 6th, 2022

3110NZ by LDH kitchen, Nakameguro
Field Research
February 8th, 2022 to March 6th, 2022

Items:

Source: https://arsham-pokemon.nanzuka.com/en

eBay has announced an Authentication for Trading Cards service for cards sold for $750+ in the U.S. It will expand to cards sold for $250 later in the year. This service includes Pokémon cards that are sold on eBay.

eBay Launches Authentication for Trading Cards

SAN JOSE, Calif., Jan. 25, 2022 - eBay today announced the launch of its Authenticity Guarantee service for trading cards. Beginning now, single ungraded trading cards (including collectible card games, sports and non-sports) sold for $750+ in the U.S. will be authenticated. By mid-2022, the service will expand to include graded, autograph and patch cards sold for $250+. With the addition of trading cards to eBay's Authenticity Guarantee service, the company now offers authentication in four key enthusiast collector categories, including sneakers, watches, handbags and now trading cards.

eBay now offers its Authenticity Guarantee service for trading cards, where single, ungraded trading cards (including collectible card games, sports and non-sports) sold for $750+ in the U.S. will be authenticated. By mid-2022, the service will expand to include graded, autograph and patch cards sold for $250+.

As one of eBay's top categories, trading cards has been growing at a significant pace -- hitting $2 billion in transactions in the first half of 2021. With an average of one sports trading card bought every second, Authenticity Guarantee now brings an added layer of trust to these transactions – as well as unmatched access to comprehensive and accurate product information for collectors.

"Our trading cards business has been growing for the past six years, and the recent surge speaks to the immense cultural significance of the category," said Dawn Block, VP Collectibles, Electronics and Home at eBay. "As hobbies turn into investments, authentication services in categories of high value have become a priority for collectors. With the introduction of Authenticity Guarantee for trading cards, we're giving enthusiasts exactly what they want, while continuing to improve confidence in the marketplace."

Authenticity Guarantee, an industry first for trading cards in terms of size and scale, ensures accuracy so enthusiasts can buy and sell with total confidence. As the service expands to include trading cards alongside handbags sold for $500+, sneakers sold for $100+ and watches sold for $2,000+, eBay further solidifies the marketplace as a top, trusted destination for buying and selling high value items.

eBay is continuously listening to its growing community of collectors to ensure the marketplace is delivering what enthusiasts want and need. Giving collectors even more options and flexibility, Authenticity Guarantee comes on the heels of the introduction of industry-leading tools Price Guide and Collection and Image Scan, which the company debuted in 2021.

Authenticity Guarantee for Trading Cards: How It Works

When a service-eligible trading card purchase is made, the seller ships it directly to a team of third-party authenticators at Certified Collectibles Group – including its affiliates, CGC Trading Cards and Certified Sports Guaranty (CSG) – for a comprehensive, multi-point physical inspection. Following this rigorous assessment, the card is sent via expedited shipping to the buyer or seller. Details on the trading card authentication process include:

• Thorough Inspection: Referencing an extensive database, authenticators inspect the overall condition and general quality. The overall condition of each card is checked against the auction listing description to ensure accuracy and authenticity.
• Proof Of Authentication: The e-tag features a unique QR code that's attached to the card's protective packaging. The packaging is then placed in the card holder to finalize the process, reaffirming confidence in collectability and resale value. Scan the QR code on any mobile device to learn more about the card and its authentication journey.
• Verified Returns: For sellers who choose to offer returns, eBay's Authenticity Guarantee service for trading cards ensures the exact item initially sold is returned to the seller, via a verified returns process. Returns are shipped back to the authentication center, where authentication experts verify each item and its condition before returning to the seller.

eBay Trading Cards By The Numbers

• eBay's Trading Cards category is growing significantly faster than the total marketplace.
• Trading Cards in the first half of 2021 hit $2 billion in transactions - equal to ALL of 2020.
• To date, close to 4 million cards purchased on and off eBay have been added to customer Collections.
• In addition, close to a quarter million buyers have used the Price Guide tool in search to visualize trends for their favorite trading cards.
• In 2020, a sports trading card was purchased every second.
• Top Trading Cards GMV Growth by Categories (H1 2021):
• Tennis - 1797%
• Soccer - 852%
• Pokemon - 536%
• Marvel - 437%
• Golf - 436%

Source: https://www.ebayinc.com/stories/news/ebay-launches-authentication-for-trading-cards/