News Articles
In an announcement today, The Pokémon Company International and Nintendo revealed new Pokémon that have been discovered across the Galar region in the Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield video games, available now exclusively on Nintendo Switch systems. High resolution artwork and screenshots from the press release have been added to an Imageboard thread.
The new Pokémon revealed include:
Sandaconda
Category: Sand Snake Pokémon
Type: Ground
Height: 12'6"
Weight: 144.4 lbs.
Ability: Sand Spit / Shed Skin
Sandaconda covers its head with its inflated sand pouch, protecting itself from outside attacks. This sand pouch is able to store over 220 pounds of sand at a time, and it is so highly elastic and thick that even a Durant’s pincers can’t pierce it. Sandaconda’s Ability Sand Spit is a brand-new Ability. When Sandaconda is hit by an attack, the Ability allows this Pokémon to spray sand from its sand pouch and cause a sandstorm.
Centiskorch
Category: Radiator Pokémon
Type: Fire/Bug
Height: 9'10"
Weight: 264.6 lbs.
Ability: Flash Fire / White Smoke
Centiskorch creates flammable gases by fermenting its food within its body. The gases are then burned in the heat-generating organs along its belly. This process produces so much fire that the flames overflow from the antennae on its head. The flames are extremely hot, with temperatures reaching nearly 1,500 degrees Fahrenheit!
Gigantamax Sandaconda
Type: Ground
Height: 72'2"+
Weight: ???
Ability: Sand Spit / Shed Skin
When Sandaconda Gigantamaxes, it appears as a terrifyingly huge tornado. Gigantamax Sandaconda attacks by spinning its body at high speeds in battle, which causes the sand surrounding it to inflict massive damage on anything it touches. Any Ground-type attacks used by Gigantamax Sandaconda will change to G-Max Sandblast. G-Max Sandblast deals damage to opponents when it hits and cause the opponent to be trapped within a tomb of sand that damages them every turn for four to five turns. It also prevents Pokémon from fleeing or being swapped out.
Gigantamax Centiskorch
Type: Fire/Bug
Height: 246'1"+
Weight: ???
Ability: Flash Fire / White Smoke
The number of segments in Centiskorch’s body increases due to the influx of Gigantamax power, as does the number of its legs. With these legs, Gigantamax Centiskorch is capable of astounding speeds despite its massive size. Fire-type attacks used by Gigantamax Centiskorch will change to G-Max Centiferno. G-Max Centiferno deals huge damage to opponents and cause them to be trapped within a firestorm that will deal continuous damage to them for four to five turns. G-Max Centiferno will also prevent opponents from fleeing or being swapped out.
These special Gigantamax Pokémon can be encountered in Max Raid Battles. Until January 9, 2020 players of Pokémon Sword will be more likely to encounter Gigantamax Sandaconda, while Pokémon Shield players will be more likely to encounter Gigantamax Centiskorch, so be sure to try your hand at some Max Raid Battles during this period.
Version exclusive Pokémon and more Gym Leaders were also revealed. In Pokémon Sword, players will be able to encounter:
Stonjourner
Category: Big Rock Pokémon
Type: Rock
Height: 8'2"
Weight: 1146.4 lbs.
Ability: Power Spot
Stonjourner has a body made of various stones, big and small, and it acts by moving these stones like arms and legs. On occasion, this Pokémon will put on a burst of speed to use its long legs in a dynamic move. Stonjourner’s Ability, Power Spot, is a new Ability which will power up the moves of its allies. This Ability can be used to great effect in Double Battles and Max Raid Battles to help support your allies.
Galarian Darumaka
Category: Zen Charm Pokémon
Type: Ice
Height: 2'4"
Weight: 88.2 lbs.
Ability: Hustle
It is said that Galarian Darumaka arose long ago, when seismic shifts caused the warm region they lived in to cool down. The fire that once burned within their bodies was extinguished, and in its place, Darumaka of this region developed an organ that allows them to produce cold air.
Galarian Darmanitan
Category: Zen Charm Pokémon
Type: Ice
Height: 5'7"
Weight: 264.6 lbs.
Ability: Gorilla Tactics
Galarian Darmanitan evolves from Galarian Darumaka. This Pokémon lives its life with a large ball of snow always upon its head. This snowball serves as a way for it to store food, and Galarian Darmanitan seems to place the food and things it finds into this snowball to keep them preserved. Galarian Darmanitan has the new Ability Gorilla Tactics, which causes its Attack stat to increase but means it can only use the first move that is chosen for the entirety of a battle. Some Galarian Darmanitan can have the Hidden Ability Zen Mode. A Galarian Darmanitan with this Ability will ignite with fury and change form if its HP drops to half or less of its maximum during battle. Its dormant fire sac, long neglected in the Pokémon’s cold environment, blazes back to life in battle.
Gym Leader Gordie
Gordie is a Gym Leader exclusive to Pokémon Sword. This Rock-type leader’s Gym has risen to the majors and has garnered a lot of attention in the Galar region; it’s known as the dark horse of the Pokémon League. His admiration for Rock-type Pokémon led him to join the Rock-type Gym to forge his own path to greatness.
In Pokémon Shield, players will be able to encounter:
Eiscue
Category: Penguin Pokémon
Type: Ice
Height: 4'7"
Weight: 196.2 lbs.
Ability: Ice Face
Eiscue hails from a very cold area, and it produces cold air from within its head to create ice around it and protect its head from warmth. The ice around its head can be shattered by a strong blow. It creates new ice every time this happens. Eiscue has a new Ability called Ice Face. When Eiscue is in this form, the ice covering its head will protect it from the damage of a single physical move—but the ice will then be destroyed, changing Eiscue into its Noice Face form. When Noice Face Eiscue is on the battlefield, it will be able to return to its ice-topped Ice Face form if the weather condition changes to hail. Noice Face Eiscue will turn back into Ice Face Eiscue once hail begins or once Eiscue enters the battlefield when it’s hailing if the Pokémon had been withdrawn from battle. In Noice Face form, Eiscue has lower Defense and Sp. Def compared to its Ice Face form, but it will have increased Speed.
Galarian Corsola
Category: Coral Pokémon
Type: Ghost
Height: 2'
Weight: 1.1 lbs.
Ability: Weak Armor
It’s said that this form arose from the Corsola that lived in the sea surrounding the Galar region in the ancient past that lost their lives to a meteorite impact in the area. They are often found living in places that were once seabeds, and it’s said that they sometimes attack humans and Pokémon that they come in contact with.
Cursola
Category: Coral Pokémon
Type: Ghost
Height: 3'3"
Weight: .9 lbs.
Ability: Weak Armor
Cursola evolves from Galarian Corsola. After continuing to store up the energy it has absorbed from other creatures for so long, Cursola has lost its corporeal body. Its spirit energy overflows and now pours out of its former shell. Cursola enjoys the new lightness this form gives it, because it’s sometimes spotted bobbing along as it wanders.
Gym Leader Melony
Melony is an Ice-type Pokémon user and the only Gym Leader able to boast that she’s never once lost to Raihan, who is generally regarded as the strongest Gym Leader in the current Galar Pokémon League. She is also the mother of the Rock-type user Gordie. While she has a generous and bighearted nature, she loves hard battles and hits opponents in their weak spots with unflinching accuracy.
In both Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield, players will be able to encounter both the Dark-type Gym Leader Piers and the Dragon-type Gym Leader Raihan.
Gym Leader Piers
Piers is the Gym Leader of a Gym that was once said to have been among the greats. He may be a bit wild, but he is a Trainer who truly cares for his hometown and his friends. He loves his Gym, with its close ties to the town it’s based in, and he has been trying desperately to support it together with his Dark-type Pokémon. But he also seems to be getting impatient with the limitations of his own strengths.
Gym Leader Raihan
Raihan is said to be the strongest Gym Leader in the current Galar Pokémon League. He is also the rival of Leon, the sitting Champion. Raihan is a Dragon-type user and trains relentlessly, while also making the time to enjoy his hobbies of fashion and cultivating his social media presence.
NEW POKÉMON AND MORE CHARACTERS REVEALED FOR POKÉMON SWORD AND POKÉMON SHIELD
Version Exclusive Pokémon, New Galarian Forms, More Gym Leaders, and More Revealed for Pokémon Sword and Pokémon ShieldThe new Pokémon revealed include:
Sandaconda
Category: Sand Snake Pokémon
Type: Ground
Height: 12'6"
Weight: 144.4 lbs.
Ability: Sand Spit / Shed Skin
Sandaconda covers its head with its inflated sand pouch, protecting itself from outside attacks. This sand pouch is able to store over 220 pounds of sand at a time, and it is so highly elastic and thick that even a Durant’s pincers can’t pierce it. Sandaconda’s Ability Sand Spit is a brand-new Ability. When Sandaconda is hit by an attack, the Ability allows this Pokémon to spray sand from its sand pouch and cause a sandstorm.
Centiskorch
Category: Radiator Pokémon
Type: Fire/Bug
Height: 9'10"
Weight: 264.6 lbs.
Ability: Flash Fire / White Smoke
Centiskorch creates flammable gases by fermenting its food within its body. The gases are then burned in the heat-generating organs along its belly. This process produces so much fire that the flames overflow from the antennae on its head. The flames are extremely hot, with temperatures reaching nearly 1,500 degrees Fahrenheit!
Gigantamax Sandaconda
Type: Ground
Height: 72'2"+
Weight: ???
Ability: Sand Spit / Shed Skin
When Sandaconda Gigantamaxes, it appears as a terrifyingly huge tornado. Gigantamax Sandaconda attacks by spinning its body at high speeds in battle, which causes the sand surrounding it to inflict massive damage on anything it touches. Any Ground-type attacks used by Gigantamax Sandaconda will change to G-Max Sandblast. G-Max Sandblast deals damage to opponents when it hits and cause the opponent to be trapped within a tomb of sand that damages them every turn for four to five turns. It also prevents Pokémon from fleeing or being swapped out.
Gigantamax Centiskorch
Type: Fire/Bug
Height: 246'1"+
Weight: ???
Ability: Flash Fire / White Smoke
The number of segments in Centiskorch’s body increases due to the influx of Gigantamax power, as does the number of its legs. With these legs, Gigantamax Centiskorch is capable of astounding speeds despite its massive size. Fire-type attacks used by Gigantamax Centiskorch will change to G-Max Centiferno. G-Max Centiferno deals huge damage to opponents and cause them to be trapped within a firestorm that will deal continuous damage to them for four to five turns. G-Max Centiferno will also prevent opponents from fleeing or being swapped out.
These special Gigantamax Pokémon can be encountered in Max Raid Battles. Until January 9, 2020 players of Pokémon Sword will be more likely to encounter Gigantamax Sandaconda, while Pokémon Shield players will be more likely to encounter Gigantamax Centiskorch, so be sure to try your hand at some Max Raid Battles during this period.
Version exclusive Pokémon and more Gym Leaders were also revealed. In Pokémon Sword, players will be able to encounter:
Stonjourner
Category: Big Rock Pokémon
Type: Rock
Height: 8'2"
Weight: 1146.4 lbs.
Ability: Power Spot
Stonjourner has a body made of various stones, big and small, and it acts by moving these stones like arms and legs. On occasion, this Pokémon will put on a burst of speed to use its long legs in a dynamic move. Stonjourner’s Ability, Power Spot, is a new Ability which will power up the moves of its allies. This Ability can be used to great effect in Double Battles and Max Raid Battles to help support your allies.
Galarian Darumaka
Category: Zen Charm Pokémon
Type: Ice
Height: 2'4"
Weight: 88.2 lbs.
Ability: Hustle
It is said that Galarian Darumaka arose long ago, when seismic shifts caused the warm region they lived in to cool down. The fire that once burned within their bodies was extinguished, and in its place, Darumaka of this region developed an organ that allows them to produce cold air.
Galarian Darmanitan
Category: Zen Charm Pokémon
Type: Ice
Height: 5'7"
Weight: 264.6 lbs.
Ability: Gorilla Tactics
Galarian Darmanitan evolves from Galarian Darumaka. This Pokémon lives its life with a large ball of snow always upon its head. This snowball serves as a way for it to store food, and Galarian Darmanitan seems to place the food and things it finds into this snowball to keep them preserved. Galarian Darmanitan has the new Ability Gorilla Tactics, which causes its Attack stat to increase but means it can only use the first move that is chosen for the entirety of a battle. Some Galarian Darmanitan can have the Hidden Ability Zen Mode. A Galarian Darmanitan with this Ability will ignite with fury and change form if its HP drops to half or less of its maximum during battle. Its dormant fire sac, long neglected in the Pokémon’s cold environment, blazes back to life in battle.
Gym Leader Gordie
Gordie is a Gym Leader exclusive to Pokémon Sword. This Rock-type leader’s Gym has risen to the majors and has garnered a lot of attention in the Galar region; it’s known as the dark horse of the Pokémon League. His admiration for Rock-type Pokémon led him to join the Rock-type Gym to forge his own path to greatness.
In Pokémon Shield, players will be able to encounter:
Eiscue
Category: Penguin Pokémon
Type: Ice
Height: 4'7"
Weight: 196.2 lbs.
Ability: Ice Face
Eiscue hails from a very cold area, and it produces cold air from within its head to create ice around it and protect its head from warmth. The ice around its head can be shattered by a strong blow. It creates new ice every time this happens. Eiscue has a new Ability called Ice Face. When Eiscue is in this form, the ice covering its head will protect it from the damage of a single physical move—but the ice will then be destroyed, changing Eiscue into its Noice Face form. When Noice Face Eiscue is on the battlefield, it will be able to return to its ice-topped Ice Face form if the weather condition changes to hail. Noice Face Eiscue will turn back into Ice Face Eiscue once hail begins or once Eiscue enters the battlefield when it’s hailing if the Pokémon had been withdrawn from battle. In Noice Face form, Eiscue has lower Defense and Sp. Def compared to its Ice Face form, but it will have increased Speed.
Galarian Corsola
Category: Coral Pokémon
Type: Ghost
Height: 2'
Weight: 1.1 lbs.
Ability: Weak Armor
It’s said that this form arose from the Corsola that lived in the sea surrounding the Galar region in the ancient past that lost their lives to a meteorite impact in the area. They are often found living in places that were once seabeds, and it’s said that they sometimes attack humans and Pokémon that they come in contact with.
Cursola
Category: Coral Pokémon
Type: Ghost
Height: 3'3"
Weight: .9 lbs.
Ability: Weak Armor
Cursola evolves from Galarian Corsola. After continuing to store up the energy it has absorbed from other creatures for so long, Cursola has lost its corporeal body. Its spirit energy overflows and now pours out of its former shell. Cursola enjoys the new lightness this form gives it, because it’s sometimes spotted bobbing along as it wanders.
Gym Leader Melony
Melony is an Ice-type Pokémon user and the only Gym Leader able to boast that she’s never once lost to Raihan, who is generally regarded as the strongest Gym Leader in the current Galar Pokémon League. She is also the mother of the Rock-type user Gordie. While she has a generous and bighearted nature, she loves hard battles and hits opponents in their weak spots with unflinching accuracy.
In both Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield, players will be able to encounter both the Dark-type Gym Leader Piers and the Dragon-type Gym Leader Raihan.
Gym Leader Piers
Piers is the Gym Leader of a Gym that was once said to have been among the greats. He may be a bit wild, but he is a Trainer who truly cares for his hometown and his friends. He loves his Gym, with its close ties to the town it’s based in, and he has been trying desperately to support it together with his Dark-type Pokémon. But he also seems to be getting impatient with the limitations of his own strengths.
Gym Leader Raihan
Raihan is said to be the strongest Gym Leader in the current Galar Pokémon League. He is also the rival of Leon, the sitting Champion. Raihan is a Dragon-type user and trains relentlessly, while also making the time to enjoy his hobbies of fashion and cultivating his social media presence.
Niantic has announced the details for the remaining events for December 2019 from raids to Shadow Pokémon, Legendary Pokémon, or Legendary Shadow Pokémon, to new avatar items, there’s so much to look forward to this Christmas season.
A Challenging Development
Before we get into the jolly announcements—the fight against Team GO Rocket continues! Activate the new Special Research, A Challenging Development, during the month of December to help Professor Willow and the team leaders take down this villainous group. This is another chance to fight Giovanni and save a Legendary Shadow Pokémon you’ve never seen before!
Features
Team GO Rocket never rests, Trainers, and neither can we! Be on the lookout for new Team GO Rocket Special Research from Professor Willow every month. For more information, please see our help center article.
All scrambled up! Different Pokémon will be hatching from Eggs!
Starting on Monday, December 16, 2019, you can expect different Pokémon to be hatching from Eggs! Which Pokémon will they be? Incubate some Eggs and start walking to find out!
Virizion glides into five-star raids!
Virizion, the Grassland Pokémon, will be coming to five-star raids! This Grass- and Fighting-type Legendary Pokémon has been said to confound opponents with its swift movements, so make sure you have your battle strategies ready before you encounter it.
Date + Time
Tuesday, December 17, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. PST to Tuesday, January 7, 2020, at 1:00 p.m. PST (GMT −8)
Features
Lugia and Ho-Oh Special Raid Weekend!
Lugia and Ho-Oh return for a Special Raid Weekend! Both the Psychic- and Flying-type Lugia and the Fire- and Flying-type Ho-Oh will be available in Raid Battles! Date + Time Friday, December 20, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. PST to Monday, December 23, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. PST (GMT −8)
Features
Pokémon GO Holidays 2019
The Pokémon GO Holidays event is back! Look forward to new Pokémon in costumes, Ice-type Pokémon never before seen in Pokémon GO, event-exclusive Field Research, winter-themed avatar items, and a blizzard full of bonuses!
Date + Time
Tuesday, December 24, 2019, at 12:00 a.m. to Wednesday, January 1, 2020, at 11:59 p.m. in your local time zone
Features
Bonuses
Take note, Trainers! Some bonuses will change throughout the event duration. From Tuesday, December 24, 2019, at 12:00 a.m. to Wednesday, January 1, 2020, at 11:59 p.m. in your local time zone
From Thursday, December 26, 2019, at 12:00 a.m. to Friday, December 27, 2019, at 11:59 p.m. in your local time zone
Warm up with a special winter weekend event!
During the final Saturday in December (and 2019!), you can look forward to a special eight-hour-long winter weekend event.
Date + Time
Saturday, December 28, 2019, from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. in your local time zone
Features
Source: https://pokemongolive.com/en/post/holiday2019/
A gift from us to you: Pokémon GO’s December events!
Trainers, While 2019 might be winding down, the world of Pokémon GO never stops! From raids to Pokémon (Shadow Pokémon, Legendary Pokémon, or Legendary Shadow Pokémon!) to new avatar items, there’s so much to look forward to this holiday season. Get cozy, Trainers—it’s going to be a long list full of cool gifts from us to you!- A Challenging Development—Team GO Rocket Special Research
- Different Pokémon will be hatching from Eggs
- Virizion glides into five-star raids
- Lugia and Ho-Oh Special Raid Weekend!
- Pokémon GO Holidays 2019
- Warm up with a special winter weekend event!
A Challenging Development
Before we get into the jolly announcements—the fight against Team GO Rocket continues! Activate the new Special Research, A Challenging Development, during the month of December to help Professor Willow and the team leaders take down this villainous group. This is another chance to fight Giovanni and save a Legendary Shadow Pokémon you’ve never seen before!
Features
- A Challenging Development, a new Special Research line designed to help take down Team GO Rocket, is available until the end of December.
- Defeat Giovanni this month, and you’ll have a chance to rescue Shadow Zapdos!
Team GO Rocket never rests, Trainers, and neither can we! Be on the lookout for new Team GO Rocket Special Research from Professor Willow every month. For more information, please see our help center article.
All scrambled up! Different Pokémon will be hatching from Eggs!
Starting on Monday, December 16, 2019, you can expect different Pokémon to be hatching from Eggs! Which Pokémon will they be? Incubate some Eggs and start walking to find out!
Virizion glides into five-star raids!
Virizion, the Grassland Pokémon, will be coming to five-star raids! This Grass- and Fighting-type Legendary Pokémon has been said to confound opponents with its swift movements, so make sure you have your battle strategies ready before you encounter it.
Date + Time
Tuesday, December 17, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. PST to Tuesday, January 7, 2020, at 1:00 p.m. PST (GMT −8)
Features
- Virizion will make its debut in five-star raids.
Lugia and Ho-Oh Special Raid Weekend!
Lugia and Ho-Oh return for a Special Raid Weekend! Both the Psychic- and Flying-type Lugia and the Fire- and Flying-type Ho-Oh will be available in Raid Battles! Date + Time Friday, December 20, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. PST to Monday, December 23, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. PST (GMT −8)
Features
- Lugia and Ho-Oh will appear in five-star raids during the event.
Pokémon GO Holidays 2019
The Pokémon GO Holidays event is back! Look forward to new Pokémon in costumes, Ice-type Pokémon never before seen in Pokémon GO, event-exclusive Field Research, winter-themed avatar items, and a blizzard full of bonuses!
Date + Time
Tuesday, December 24, 2019, at 12:00 a.m. to Wednesday, January 1, 2020, at 11:59 p.m. in your local time zone
Features
- Pokémon in holiday costumes: Pikachu, Raichu, and Pichu wearing beanies and Stantler wearing bells will appear in Pokémon GO for the first time!
- Pokémon appearing in the wild: Delightful Ice-type Pokémon will be appearing in the wild, such as Sneasel, Delibird, Snorunt, and more! Making its Pokémon GO debut will be Cubchoo, the Chill Pokémon!
- Pokémon appearing in Eggs: Alolan Sandshrew, Alolan Vulpix, Pichu wearing beanies, and Stantler wearing bells will be hatching from 7 km Eggs!
- Pokémon appearing in Raid Battles: Raichu wearing beanies and Stantler wearing bells will be available to challenge in two-star raids!
- Pokémon attracted by Glacial Lure Modules: Throw a Glacial Lure Module onto a PokéStop near you, and you’ll have a chance of encountering Cryogonal, the Crystallizing Pokémon, making its Pokémon GO debut!
- Event-exclusive Field Research: Enjoy event-exclusive Field Research tasks that will reward you with the chance to encounter Pokémon like Pikachu wearing beanies!
- Save Shadow Pokémon! We have reason to believe that Team GO Rocket has turned more Pokémon, including Delibird, into Shadow Pokémon! There might be other Shadow Pokémon to discover in places high and low, so get out there and save them!
- If you’re lucky, you might encounter Shiny Stantler wearing bells and Shiny Snover!
- Winter-themed avatar items coming to the shop! You can look forward to a Stantler Sweater and a Stantler Headband as well as a Beanie Hat to match the one some Pikachu are wearing for this event!
Bonuses
Take note, Trainers! Some bonuses will change throughout the event duration. From Tuesday, December 24, 2019, at 12:00 a.m. to Wednesday, January 1, 2020, at 11:59 p.m. in your local time zone
- Open twice as many Gifts each day: For the duration of the event, the number of Gifts you can open daily will increase to 40.
- Carry twice as many Gifts: For the duration of the event, the number of Gifts you can carry in your inventory will increase to 20.
- One guaranteed single-use Incubator per day: In order to more easily hatch Eggs during the holiday season, Trainers will receive one single-use Incubator at no cost once per day during the event by spinning a Photo Disc on a PokéStop.
- 2× Catch Candy
- 2× Transfer Candy
From Thursday, December 26, 2019, at 12:00 a.m. to Friday, December 27, 2019, at 11:59 p.m. in your local time zone
- 2× Catch Stardust
- 2× Catch XP
- 1/2 Hatch Distance when Eggs are placed into Incubators during this time period
Warm up with a special winter weekend event!
During the final Saturday in December (and 2019!), you can look forward to a special eight-hour-long winter weekend event.
Date + Time
Saturday, December 28, 2019, from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. in your local time zone
Features
- Two-hour Glacial Lure Module duration: Glacial Lure Modules will last two hours for the duration of the event. Pokémon such as Lapras, Delibird, Cubchoo, and more will be drawn to Glacial Lure Modules during this time!
- Glaceon with Last Resort: Use a Glacial Lure Module to evolve Eevee during the event, and you’ll get a Glaceon that knows the Charged Attack Last Resort.
- Regice returns to raids! Did you miss out on catching a Regice the last time it was available in raids? This is your chance to catch the Iceberg Pokémon!
- Two additional Raid Passes: Receive up to two additional Raid Passes during the special event time period when you spin a Photo Disc at a Gym. These Raid Passes will not be available after the event period is over. You cannot hold more than one Raid Pass at once.
Source: https://pokemongolive.com/en/post/holiday2019/
Phil Keslin, Co-founder and CTO of Niantic, announced that Niantic is working with Qualcomm to execute a multi-year joint collaboration on an integrated design spanning AR glasses reference hardware, software, and cloud-components. This could lead to better performance in games like Pokémon GO and accelerate the usage of next generation AR experiences through the Niantic Real World Platform.
To ensure interoperability with today's latest AR innovations and accelerate the development of tomorrow’s devices, the platform plans to be optimized first for:
At Niantic, we’re unlocking the potential to create next generation AR experiences through the Niantic Real World Platform, and building new ways to map, share and understand reality. The Niantic Real-World Platform has been proven out by hundreds of millions of users, through consumer experiences such as Ingress, Pokémon Go and Harry Potter: Wizards Unite.
Last month, we announced the Niantic Creator Program and the Niantic Beyond Reality Fund which will open up the Niantic Real World Platform to the talented developers around the world to help achieve their visions in creating location-based and AR experiences. We’re excited to also share that access to this new collaborative architecture between Niantic and Qualcomm Technologies is expected to be provided to creators via the Niantic Creator Program when available. Developers and creators can apply to the Niantic Creator Program at niantic.dev.
We’re looking forward to helping move the entire AR industry forward as we work together with Qualcomm Technologies to define a true end-to-end architecture - inclusive of hardware, software, and cloud technologies.
Source: https://nianticlabs.com/blog/qualcomm/
Niantic Collaborating with Qualcomm Technologies to Accelerate AR Software and Hardware
Today at Qualcomm Technologies’ annual Snapdragon Technology Summit 2019, it was an honor to join Hugo Swart, VP & Head of XR, on stage to introduce our intentions to execute a multi-year joint collaboration on an integrated design spanning AR glasses reference hardware, software, and cloud-components.To ensure interoperability with today's latest AR innovations and accelerate the development of tomorrow’s devices, the platform plans to be optimized first for:
- Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ XR2 Platform: The world’s first 5G-supported XR platform. It unites Qualcomm Technologies’ expertise in XR, 5G and AI to provide breakthrough technology to help usher in a new era of XR. This premium-quality platform unveils innovative features and boasts multiple firsts for XR that can be scaled across AR (augmented reality), VR (virtual reality) and MR (mixed reality).
- Niantic Real World Platform: Niantic's core technology stack that includes an AR-first SDK enabling high quality, immersive end user experiences and integrated cloud services capable of "world scale" to support millions of concurrent users in a shared AR experience.
At Niantic, we’re unlocking the potential to create next generation AR experiences through the Niantic Real World Platform, and building new ways to map, share and understand reality. The Niantic Real-World Platform has been proven out by hundreds of millions of users, through consumer experiences such as Ingress, Pokémon Go and Harry Potter: Wizards Unite.
Last month, we announced the Niantic Creator Program and the Niantic Beyond Reality Fund which will open up the Niantic Real World Platform to the talented developers around the world to help achieve their visions in creating location-based and AR experiences. We’re excited to also share that access to this new collaborative architecture between Niantic and Qualcomm Technologies is expected to be provided to creators via the Niantic Creator Program when available. Developers and creators can apply to the Niantic Creator Program at niantic.dev.
We’re looking forward to helping move the entire AR industry forward as we work together with Qualcomm Technologies to define a true end-to-end architecture - inclusive of hardware, software, and cloud technologies.
Source: https://nianticlabs.com/blog/qualcomm/
Dec 05 2019
Pokémon Masters - Legendary Event Lurking Shadow
DeNa has announced that the ongoing Legendary event Lurking Shadow will take place from December 4th, 2019 until December 18th, 2019. Complete the event and collect 800 Custom Voucher 1 to acquire the area info needed to team up with Giovanni and Mewtwo!
Event Period:
12/4/2019 at 10:00 p.m. – 12/18/2019 at 9:59 p.m.
Legendary event Lurking Shadow ongoing! Complete the event to team up with Giovanni and Mewtwo
Lurking Shadow is a special legendary event where you can team up with Giovanni & Mewtwo. Complete the event and collect 800 Custom Voucher 1 to acquire the area info needed to team up with Giovanni & Mewtwo! You can check how many of these special items you’ve collected on the Event Items menu in your Bag. Use the custom items obtained in this event to have Giovanni & Mewtwo learn new moves and skills, unlock their level cap, and increase their potential! Custom items can be obtained as area rewards, or by exchanging Custom Voucher 1 and Custom Super Voucher 1 for them in the shop.
Additionally, the rewards for the areas below will be tripled once per day!
Source: https://pokemonmasters-game.com/en-US/announcements/Event_1110_1W_2
Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RE_m791xh4Q
Event Period:
12/4/2019 at 10:00 p.m. – 12/18/2019 at 9:59 p.m.
Legendary event Lurking Shadow ongoing! Complete the event to team up with Giovanni and Mewtwo
Lurking Shadow is a special legendary event where you can team up with Giovanni & Mewtwo. Complete the event and collect 800 Custom Voucher 1 to acquire the area info needed to team up with Giovanni & Mewtwo! You can check how many of these special items you’ve collected on the Event Items menu in your Bag. Use the custom items obtained in this event to have Giovanni & Mewtwo learn new moves and skills, unlock their level cap, and increase their potential! Custom items can be obtained as area rewards, or by exchanging Custom Voucher 1 and Custom Super Voucher 1 for them in the shop.
Additionally, the rewards for the areas below will be tripled once per day!
- Take Down Giovanni! Round 1
- Take Down Giovanni! Round 2
- Take Down Giovanni! Round 3
- Take Down Giovanni! Round 4 Note: First-time rewards and completion rewards will not be increased.
Event Missions
You can take on special missions during the event period.Important
- To participate, you must have completed chapter 5 of the main story.
- The sync pairs that appear as opponents in battle have different capabilities than those you can actually obtain.
- The legendary event Lurking Shadow may return again in the future. The data below will carry over for its return:
1. Completion status of related areas, status of first-time rewards, and status of event area info.
2. Completion status of related missions and number of items exchanged in the shop.
3. The Custom Voucher 1 and Custom Super Voucher 1 quantity in your possession. - The following two conditions must be met in order to acquire the area info needed to team up with Giovanni & Mewtwo:
1. Complete Unfathomable Strength in the Lurking Shadow legendary event.
2. Collect a total of 800 Custom Voucher 1. - Mission completion rewards can only be claimed during the event period and can no longer be claimed after this period.
- The content is subject to change without notice.
Source: https://pokemonmasters-game.com/en-US/announcements/Event_1110_1W_2
YouTube Clip - Giovanni and Mewtwo - Legendary Event Lurking Shadow
Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RE_m791xh4Q
Dec 04 2019
Nintendo Switch Sold Over 830,000 Units during Thanksgiving Week | 3 Million SwSh Sales in Americas
Sunain
0
Dec 04 2019 17:18:55
Tags: Press Release Nintendo Sales Nintendo Switch Pokémon Sword Pokémon Shield
0
Dec 04 2019 17:18:55
Tags: Press Release Nintendo Sales Nintendo Switch Pokémon Sword Pokémon Shield
Over Thanksgiving week (Nov. 24 to Nov. 30), the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite systems sold a combined total of more than 830,000 units in the U.S., according to internal data. This ranks as the single best week of U.S. sales in Nintendo Switch history. These results were bolstered in part by the recently introduced Nintendo Switch Lite system and a variety of Black Friday offers, such as a Nintendo Switch bundle that included a full game download of the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe game at no additional charge. Total sales of Nintendo Switch in the Americas have reached 17.5 million units.
“Whether shopping for the ideal gift or picking one up for yourself, the Nintendo Switch family of systems provides options that fit every play style.”
Additionally, Cyber Monday broke records as well, becoming the best one yet for Nintendo Switch.
“Holiday shoppers see the value of Nintendo Switch, which offers a vast library of games for every type of player,” said Nick Chavez, Nintendo of America’s Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “Whether shopping for the ideal gift or picking one up for yourself, the Nintendo Switch family of systems provides options that fit every play style.”
In addition to hardware, Nintendo Switch software also sold well over Thanksgiving week. In only a few weeks since launch, the Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield games have now sold a combined total of more than 3 million in the Americas. Other Nintendo Switch games also passed new life-to-date sales milestones in the Americas, including Mario Kart 8 Deluxe at 8.5 million, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate at 8 million, Super Mario Odyssey at 6.5 million and New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe at 1.5 million.*
Niantic has announced that from Thursday, December 5th, 2019 to Thursday, December 12th, 2019, the first-ever Pokémon GO Evolution Event and an accompanying Raid Day will take place.
Evolution Event
Look forward to Evolution items from raids, longer-lasting Lure Modules, and increased encounters with Pokémon that evolve in special ways.
Date + Time
From Thursday, December 5, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. to Thursday, December 12, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. PST (GMT −8)
Features
Bonuses
Evolution Event Raid Day
Date + Time
Source: https://pokemongolive.com/en/post/evolutioneleganza2019/
Celebrate the power of change with the Evolution Event!
Trainers, Perhaps one of the greatest lessons we learn from Pokémon is that it’s possible to evolve into a surprising and cool being—sometimes we just need a little boost or help! Let’s celebrate how much your Pokémon (and you) have grown this year with the first-ever Evolution Event and an accompanying Raid Day. Pokémon Evolution can depend on whether a Pokémon is a certain gender or has spent time as a Buddy Pokémon. Sometimes Evolution occurs because of particular items, times of day, or Lure Modules. During this event, you’ll be able to explore all these unique ways Pokémon evolve!Evolution Event
Look forward to Evolution items from raids, longer-lasting Lure Modules, and increased encounters with Pokémon that evolve in special ways.
Date + Time
From Thursday, December 5, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. to Thursday, December 12, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. PST (GMT −8)
Features
- Pokémon that evolve in unique ways—such as Onix, Eevee, Roselia, and Burmy—will be appearing more often in the wild, in raids, and in Field Research.
- Take on raids against Pokémon with unique Evolutions, like Lickitung, Scyther, Togetic, and Ralts!
- Find more 2 km Eggs that will hatch into Pokémon such as Tyrogue, Feebas, Burmy, and Happiny.
- Event-specific Field Research tasks that reward Evolution items, which can help you evolve certain Pokémon, will be available.
- If you’re lucky, you may encounter a Shiny Burmy!
Bonuses
- All Lure Modules will last one hour for the duration of the event, including the Glacial, Magnetic, and Mossy Lure Modules.
- 2× XP when evolving Pokémon
- Evolution items from raids
Evolution Event Raid Day
Date + Time
- Saturday, December 7, 2019, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in your local time zone
- Encounter Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle in one-star raids.
- Encounter Ivysaur, Charmeleon, and Wartortle in two-star raids.
- Encounter Venusaur, Charizard, and Blastoise in four-star raids.
- Receive up to five additional Raid Passes during the Raid Day time period when you spin a Photo Disc at a Gym. These Raid Passes will not be available after the event period is over. You cannot hold more than one Raid Pass at once.
Source: https://pokemongolive.com/en/post/evolutioneleganza2019/
DeNa has announced that the Grimsley and Liepard Spotlight Scout will take place from November 27th, 2019 to December 18th, 2019.
Increased chance to scout newly released Grimsley & Liepard! 5★ Grimsley & Liepard now available to scout! To celebrate their release, this sync pair will be featured for a limited time.Featured sync pairs have a higher chance of appearing than other 5★ sync pairs.
Source: https://pokemonmasters-game.com/en-US/announcements/Scout_1110_1W_1
Scout Period:
11/27/2019 at 10:00 p.m. – 12/18/2019 at 9:59 p.m.Increased chance to scout newly released Grimsley & Liepard! 5★ Grimsley & Liepard now available to scout! To celebrate their release, this sync pair will be featured for a limited time.Featured sync pairs have a higher chance of appearing than other 5★ sync pairs.
About Grimsley & Liepard
This member of the Unova Elite Four cleverly maneuvers his way to a direct assault!Important
- Sync pairs other than the one mentioned above may appear.
- The scout period and its content are subject to change without notice.
- To check the offering rates of sync pairs, go to the Offering Rate section on the Sync Pair Scout screen.
- Please read the Notes section under Offering Rate on the Sync Pair Scout screen before using the feature.
Source: https://pokemonmasters-game.com/en-US/announcements/Scout_1110_1W_1
Nov 27 2019
Pokémon Trading Card Game: Sword and Shield Expansion / Gigantamax Snorlax Max Raid Battle
Sunain
0
Nov 27 2019 10:20:26
Tags: TCG Press Release YouTube Event Pokémon Raids Pokémon Sword Pokémon Shield
0
Nov 27 2019 10:20:26
Tags: TCG Press Release YouTube Event Pokémon Raids Pokémon Sword Pokémon Shield
Today, The Pokémon Company International and Nintendo shared more information regarding the recently discovered Gigantamax Snorlax, Evolutions of Grookey, Scorbunny, and Sobble, and the Legendary Pokémon Zacian and Zamazenta, for the Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield video games, available now exclusively on the Nintendo Switch system. High resolution artwork and screenshots from the press release have been added to an Imageboard thread.
The Pokémon Company International also unveiled Sword & Shield, the first new expansion for the Pokémon Trading Card Game: Sword & Shield Series that is based on the latest video games. Sword & Shield will offer a new type of card and game mechanic called Pokémon VMAX—beautifully illustrated and powerful cards that showcase Dynamax or Gigantamax Pokémon such as Gigantamax Snorlax. Trainers will be able to collect, trade, and play with Pokémon VMAX when the set launches around the world on February 7, 2020.
POKéMON SWORD AND POKéMON SHIELD
Gigantamax Snorlax
Type: Normal
Height: 114'10"+
Weight: ???
Ability: Immunity / Thick Fat
Thanks to the power of Gigantamax, the Berry seeds and small rocks that were tangled in Snorlax’s belly fur have undergone explosive growth. With a tree sprouting upon its belly, Gigantamax Snorlax has the majesty of a great mountain. Even though it almost never moves, Gigantamax Snorlax is said to be one of the strongest Dynamax Pokémon discovered. When the time comes for it to battle, it lifts its upper body by just a tiny amount and attacks by flailing with its arms and legs—actions that actually pack a tremendous punch. When Snorlax is Gigantamaxed, its Normal-type attacks will be transformed into G-Max Replenish. G-Max Replenish doesn’t just deal damage to targets—it can also restore any Berries that Gigantamax Snorlax’s allies have eaten during the battle.
Gigantamax Snorlax will appear more frequently in Max Raid Battles from Wednesday, December 4, until early January 1. Trainers can check out the Pokémon Dens that dot the Wild Area to battle this gigantic form of Snorlax. A connection to the internet will be required to participate in Max Raid Battles. Connecting their Nintendo Switch system to the internet will automatically enable Trainers to encounter the latest Pokémon appearing in the Wild Area. Players can also achieve the same results manually by opening the X menu in their game, selecting Mystery Gift, and then selecting Get the Wild Area News.
Thwackey
Category: Beat Pokémon
Type: Grass
Height: 2'4"
Weight: 30.9 lbs.
Ability: Overgrow
Grookey’s Evolution has caused its stick to change as well. The stick has split into two, and it uses them to keep rhythm. To be able to drum faster and longer than anyone else, it devotes itself entirely to its practice with these sticks. Sometimes Thwackey becomes so focused on its practice that it doesn’t even hear the orders of its Trainer. To develop its sense of rhythm, Thwackey keeps the beat alive during its daily life. It walks while swaying back and forth to a beat and drumming with its sticks. Some Thwackey have even been seen to keep rhythm while eating.
Rillaboom
Category: Drummer Pokémon
Type: Grass
Height: 6'11"
Weight: 198.4 lbs.
Ability: Overgrow
As Thwackey evolves, its two sticks develop into two sticks and a stump drum. In battle, Rillaboom unleashes powerful sound waves with its drumming and throws opponents about by controlling the roots of its stump. The skills it honed while it was a Thwackey are put on full display. Rillaboom has a gentle nature and won’t involve itself in trivial fights. However, it is extremely sensitive to any actions that could risk the harmony around it and keeps such actions strictly in check. Rillaboom also has a strong sense of solidarity with others, and it will fight ferociously when its allies are in trouble.
Raboot
Category: Rabbit Pokémon
Type: Fire
Height: 2'
Weight: 19.8 lbs.
Ability: Blaze
The fur that covers Raboot’s body has changed to become more effective against cold weather. This thick fur is also good for controlling the Pokémon’s fire energy, which allows it to unleash its full power in a shorter amount of time. The temperature on its brow and the soles of its feet has increased since evolving, and Raboot uses these areas to deal flaming-hot headbutts and kicks. Favoring the powerful legs it gained through Evolution, Raboot keeps both hands tucked into the thick fur around its waist when it acts. To better train its kicking attacks, Raboot tries not to use its hands at all, which also seems to be effective in keeping it from losing body heat. It’s also not unusual for Raboot to jump high and kick down Berries that grow in tall trees, juggling them on its feet as it eats them.
Cinderace
Category: Striker Pokémon
Type: Fire
Height: 4'7"
Weight: 72.8 lbs.
Ability: Blaze
Cinderace has excellent physical abilities and boasts some of the best skills among all Pokémon when it comes to explosive force, jumping ability, and kicking power. It’s got a strong core and great balance, meaning that it can unleash powerful kicks from any position. Cinderace attacks using a soccer ball made of fire, which it creates by pouring its fire energy into a small stone. It plays with opponents by using its artful footwork—kicking its ball about as it feints this way or that to throw opponents off in their timing or putting a spin on the ball for an attack that’s hard to evade.
Drizzile
Category: Water Lizard Pokémon
Type: Water
Height: 2'4"
Weight: 25.4 lbs.
Ability: Torrent
Drizzile uses its long and dexterous tongue, which is coated in mucus, both for battle and for eating. This tongue is usually kept within its mouth, but when necessary, it can be launched in a quick shot to strike at Drizzile’s prey. It’s only during these moments that this usually lethargic Pokémon demonstrates a shocking degree of focus. Drizzile is a very cautious Pokémon. It sets up numerous traps in the area where it lives, using the Water-type moves it excels in. It also engages in hit-and-run tactics utilizing the landscape around it and devises strategies that take full advantage of its ability to turn invisible when wet.
Inteleon
Category: Secret Agent Pokémon
Type: Water
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 99.6 lbs.
Ability: Torrent
Inteleon’s rail-thin body hides a variety of surprising tricks within it. Its fingertips can fire out water that has been compressed within its body—shooting it out at a speed of Mach 3—to hit opponents where they’re weakest. Inteleon also has special lenses in its eyes and a sharp knife hidden in its tail. These hidden tricks allow it to adapt to any situation. Inteleon possesses great intellect and thinks deeply about things, calmly and deliberately. It is also known for its chivalrous behavior. In battle, it analyzes the weaknesses and habits of its opponents to devise strategies against them. Inteleon also appears to show absolute loyalty to Trainers it has recognized as worthy.
Zacian
Category: Warrior Pokémon
Type: Fairy/Steel
Height: 9'2"
Weight: 782.6 lbs.
Ability: Intrepid Sword
Zacian attacks its foes using the sword it grips in its mouth. The sword’s edge is extremely sharp and can tear through the thick scales of Dragon-type Pokémon as if they were paper. Zacian dashes through the battlefield to strike its enemies with the speed of a swift wind. Its graceful movements are beautiful to behold and have been compared to a dance. Zacian’s slashing attacks possess a speed that makes them impossible to see with the naked eye, and those hit by its blade are cut down before they can even feel pain from the blow. With this Steel-type physical move, Behemoth Blade, the sword in Zacian’s mouth grows to gigantic proportions and is used to slice at a target. It is especially strong against Dynamax Pokémon, and the impact of it slams through a Dynamax Pokémon’s body to deal devastating damage. The destructive power of this move is said to be enough to cut the ocean in two.
Zamazenta
Category: Warrior Pokémon
Type: Fighting/Steel
Height: 9'6"
Weight: 1730.6 lbs.
Ability: Dauntless Shield
Zamazenta fends off the attacks of foes by using the golden shield that covers its front. The shield’s strength is so formidable that even the sharp claws of Dragon-type Pokémon cannot leave a single scratch upon it. No battlefield, no matter how terrible, can make Zamazenta flinch in its resolve. It will charge the enemy lines head on to defeat its opponents. Its shield-like armor provides impregnable defense but is also a weapon to be used in powerful attacks. When Zamazenta bashes into opponents with all its might, it’s said that the destructive force is enough to put cracks in the land and that the resulting shock wave can lay waste to hundreds of enemies. With this Steel-type physical move, Behemoth Bash, the winged armor on Zamazenta’s front grows to gigantic proportions and is used to bash into a target with devastating force. It is especially strong against Dynamax Pokémon, and the impact of it slams right through a Dynamax Pokémon’s body to deal devastating damage. The destructive power of this move is said to be enough to bore straight through towering mountains.
Pokémon VMAX to Debut in the Pokémon TCG
Pokémon VMAX evolve from Pokémon V and feature Dynamax or Gigantamax Pokémon, as seen in the recently launched Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield video games. These cards have massive HP and powerful attacks, but when a Pokémon VMAX is Knocked Out, the player’s opponent will take three Prize cards.High resolution card artwork from the press release have been added to an Imageboard thread.
First Expansion of the Pokémon TCG: Sword & Shield Series Arrives on February 7, 2020
Trainers can look forward to collecting Pokémon VMAX cards like Snorlax VMAX and Lapras VMAX—both in their Gigantamax forms—in the new Sword & Shield expansion from The Pokémon Company International, releasing worldwide starting February 7, 2020.
Available in booster packs, theme decks, Elite Trainer Boxes, and special collections, Sword & Shield introduces more than 50 Pokémon from the Galar region, including Rillaboom, Cinderace, and Inteleon, Galarian forms like Galarian Ponyta, as well as the Legendary Pokémon Zacian and Zamazenta as Pokémon V.
Key cards from the set include:
Meowth VMAX Special Collection Provides First Chance to Receive Pokémon V and Pokémon VMAX
Trainers eager to be among the first to pick up Pokémon V and Pokémon VMAX cards can look for the new Meowth VMAX Special Collection, releasing on January 3, 2020. The Meowth VMAX Special Collection contains five booster packs, one Meowth V, one Meowth VMAX, and one oversize Meowth VMAX.
Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wW23hdGYXV8
MORE POKÉMON SIGHTED IN POKÉMON SWORD AND POKÉMON SHIELD AND COMING TO THE POKÉMON TRADING CARD GAME
Over 50 Galar Region Pokémon Make Their Pokémon TCG Debut in New Sword & Shield Expansion, Featuring Powerful New Game Mechanic, Pokémon VMAX
The Pokémon Company International also unveiled Sword & Shield, the first new expansion for the Pokémon Trading Card Game: Sword & Shield Series that is based on the latest video games. Sword & Shield will offer a new type of card and game mechanic called Pokémon VMAX—beautifully illustrated and powerful cards that showcase Dynamax or Gigantamax Pokémon such as Gigantamax Snorlax. Trainers will be able to collect, trade, and play with Pokémon VMAX when the set launches around the world on February 7, 2020.
POKéMON SWORD AND POKéMON SHIELD
Gigantamax Snorlax
Type: Normal
Height: 114'10"+
Weight: ???
Ability: Immunity / Thick Fat
Thanks to the power of Gigantamax, the Berry seeds and small rocks that were tangled in Snorlax’s belly fur have undergone explosive growth. With a tree sprouting upon its belly, Gigantamax Snorlax has the majesty of a great mountain. Even though it almost never moves, Gigantamax Snorlax is said to be one of the strongest Dynamax Pokémon discovered. When the time comes for it to battle, it lifts its upper body by just a tiny amount and attacks by flailing with its arms and legs—actions that actually pack a tremendous punch. When Snorlax is Gigantamaxed, its Normal-type attacks will be transformed into G-Max Replenish. G-Max Replenish doesn’t just deal damage to targets—it can also restore any Berries that Gigantamax Snorlax’s allies have eaten during the battle.
Gigantamax Snorlax will appear more frequently in Max Raid Battles from Wednesday, December 4, until early January 1. Trainers can check out the Pokémon Dens that dot the Wild Area to battle this gigantic form of Snorlax. A connection to the internet will be required to participate in Max Raid Battles. Connecting their Nintendo Switch system to the internet will automatically enable Trainers to encounter the latest Pokémon appearing in the Wild Area. Players can also achieve the same results manually by opening the X menu in their game, selecting Mystery Gift, and then selecting Get the Wild Area News.
The Evolution of First Partner Pokémon
Thwackey
Category: Beat Pokémon
Type: Grass
Height: 2'4"
Weight: 30.9 lbs.
Ability: Overgrow
Grookey’s Evolution has caused its stick to change as well. The stick has split into two, and it uses them to keep rhythm. To be able to drum faster and longer than anyone else, it devotes itself entirely to its practice with these sticks. Sometimes Thwackey becomes so focused on its practice that it doesn’t even hear the orders of its Trainer. To develop its sense of rhythm, Thwackey keeps the beat alive during its daily life. It walks while swaying back and forth to a beat and drumming with its sticks. Some Thwackey have even been seen to keep rhythm while eating.
Rillaboom
Category: Drummer Pokémon
Type: Grass
Height: 6'11"
Weight: 198.4 lbs.
Ability: Overgrow
As Thwackey evolves, its two sticks develop into two sticks and a stump drum. In battle, Rillaboom unleashes powerful sound waves with its drumming and throws opponents about by controlling the roots of its stump. The skills it honed while it was a Thwackey are put on full display. Rillaboom has a gentle nature and won’t involve itself in trivial fights. However, it is extremely sensitive to any actions that could risk the harmony around it and keeps such actions strictly in check. Rillaboom also has a strong sense of solidarity with others, and it will fight ferociously when its allies are in trouble.
Raboot
Category: Rabbit Pokémon
Type: Fire
Height: 2'
Weight: 19.8 lbs.
Ability: Blaze
The fur that covers Raboot’s body has changed to become more effective against cold weather. This thick fur is also good for controlling the Pokémon’s fire energy, which allows it to unleash its full power in a shorter amount of time. The temperature on its brow and the soles of its feet has increased since evolving, and Raboot uses these areas to deal flaming-hot headbutts and kicks. Favoring the powerful legs it gained through Evolution, Raboot keeps both hands tucked into the thick fur around its waist when it acts. To better train its kicking attacks, Raboot tries not to use its hands at all, which also seems to be effective in keeping it from losing body heat. It’s also not unusual for Raboot to jump high and kick down Berries that grow in tall trees, juggling them on its feet as it eats them.
Cinderace
Category: Striker Pokémon
Type: Fire
Height: 4'7"
Weight: 72.8 lbs.
Ability: Blaze
Cinderace has excellent physical abilities and boasts some of the best skills among all Pokémon when it comes to explosive force, jumping ability, and kicking power. It’s got a strong core and great balance, meaning that it can unleash powerful kicks from any position. Cinderace attacks using a soccer ball made of fire, which it creates by pouring its fire energy into a small stone. It plays with opponents by using its artful footwork—kicking its ball about as it feints this way or that to throw opponents off in their timing or putting a spin on the ball for an attack that’s hard to evade.
Drizzile
Category: Water Lizard Pokémon
Type: Water
Height: 2'4"
Weight: 25.4 lbs.
Ability: Torrent
Drizzile uses its long and dexterous tongue, which is coated in mucus, both for battle and for eating. This tongue is usually kept within its mouth, but when necessary, it can be launched in a quick shot to strike at Drizzile’s prey. It’s only during these moments that this usually lethargic Pokémon demonstrates a shocking degree of focus. Drizzile is a very cautious Pokémon. It sets up numerous traps in the area where it lives, using the Water-type moves it excels in. It also engages in hit-and-run tactics utilizing the landscape around it and devises strategies that take full advantage of its ability to turn invisible when wet.
Inteleon
Category: Secret Agent Pokémon
Type: Water
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 99.6 lbs.
Ability: Torrent
Inteleon’s rail-thin body hides a variety of surprising tricks within it. Its fingertips can fire out water that has been compressed within its body—shooting it out at a speed of Mach 3—to hit opponents where they’re weakest. Inteleon also has special lenses in its eyes and a sharp knife hidden in its tail. These hidden tricks allow it to adapt to any situation. Inteleon possesses great intellect and thinks deeply about things, calmly and deliberately. It is also known for its chivalrous behavior. In battle, it analyzes the weaknesses and habits of its opponents to devise strategies against them. Inteleon also appears to show absolute loyalty to Trainers it has recognized as worthy.
New Details about the Legendary Pokémon Zacian and Zamazenta
Zacian
Category: Warrior Pokémon
Type: Fairy/Steel
Height: 9'2"
Weight: 782.6 lbs.
Ability: Intrepid Sword
Zacian attacks its foes using the sword it grips in its mouth. The sword’s edge is extremely sharp and can tear through the thick scales of Dragon-type Pokémon as if they were paper. Zacian dashes through the battlefield to strike its enemies with the speed of a swift wind. Its graceful movements are beautiful to behold and have been compared to a dance. Zacian’s slashing attacks possess a speed that makes them impossible to see with the naked eye, and those hit by its blade are cut down before they can even feel pain from the blow. With this Steel-type physical move, Behemoth Blade, the sword in Zacian’s mouth grows to gigantic proportions and is used to slice at a target. It is especially strong against Dynamax Pokémon, and the impact of it slams through a Dynamax Pokémon’s body to deal devastating damage. The destructive power of this move is said to be enough to cut the ocean in two.
Zamazenta
Category: Warrior Pokémon
Type: Fighting/Steel
Height: 9'6"
Weight: 1730.6 lbs.
Ability: Dauntless Shield
Zamazenta fends off the attacks of foes by using the golden shield that covers its front. The shield’s strength is so formidable that even the sharp claws of Dragon-type Pokémon cannot leave a single scratch upon it. No battlefield, no matter how terrible, can make Zamazenta flinch in its resolve. It will charge the enemy lines head on to defeat its opponents. Its shield-like armor provides impregnable defense but is also a weapon to be used in powerful attacks. When Zamazenta bashes into opponents with all its might, it’s said that the destructive force is enough to put cracks in the land and that the resulting shock wave can lay waste to hundreds of enemies. With this Steel-type physical move, Behemoth Bash, the winged armor on Zamazenta’s front grows to gigantic proportions and is used to bash into a target with devastating force. It is especially strong against Dynamax Pokémon, and the impact of it slams right through a Dynamax Pokémon’s body to deal devastating damage. The destructive power of this move is said to be enough to bore straight through towering mountains.
POKéMON TRADING CARD GAME
Pokémon VMAX to Debut in the Pokémon TCG
Pokémon VMAX evolve from Pokémon V and feature Dynamax or Gigantamax Pokémon, as seen in the recently launched Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield video games. These cards have massive HP and powerful attacks, but when a Pokémon VMAX is Knocked Out, the player’s opponent will take three Prize cards.High resolution card artwork from the press release have been added to an Imageboard thread.
First Expansion of the Pokémon TCG: Sword & Shield Series Arrives on February 7, 2020
Trainers can look forward to collecting Pokémon VMAX cards like Snorlax VMAX and Lapras VMAX—both in their Gigantamax forms—in the new Sword & Shield expansion from The Pokémon Company International, releasing worldwide starting February 7, 2020.
Available in booster packs, theme decks, Elite Trainer Boxes, and special collections, Sword & Shield introduces more than 50 Pokémon from the Galar region, including Rillaboom, Cinderace, and Inteleon, Galarian forms like Galarian Ponyta, as well as the Legendary Pokémon Zacian and Zamazenta as Pokémon V.
Key cards from the set include:
- 17 Pokémon V and 12 full-art Pokémon V, including Zacian V and Zamazenta V
- Four Pokémon VMAX, including Snorlax VMAX and Lapras VMAX
- 35 Trainer cards, including four full-art Supporter cards
- One Special Energy card
Meowth VMAX Special Collection Provides First Chance to Receive Pokémon V and Pokémon VMAX
Trainers eager to be among the first to pick up Pokémon V and Pokémon VMAX cards can look for the new Meowth VMAX Special Collection, releasing on January 3, 2020. The Meowth VMAX Special Collection contains five booster packs, one Meowth V, one Meowth VMAX, and one oversize Meowth VMAX.
YouTube Clip - Familiar Pokémon are evolving in Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield!
Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wW23hdGYXV8
The official Pokémon Global Link website has announced that the entire Pokémon Global Link service will be closing on Monday, February 24th, 2020 at 23:59. The service has been running for more than 9 years and as a thank you for using the service, players who log in to the Pokémon Global Link can receive a special Munna based on Fennel's Munna from Pokémon Black and White. This code can be obtained from November 26th, 2019 until February 24th, 2020. The Munna is in a Dream Ball with its Hidden Ability Telepathy and it knows the moves: Hypnosis, Dream Eater, Rest and Sleep Talk.
Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield will provide services similar to the PGL’s Rating Battles and Online Competitions features and will be available to play via Nintendo Switch.
Thank you for using the PGL, and we hope you will continue to enjoy using the PGL until the service ends.
Source: https://3ds.pokemon-gl.com/information/31219158-a56a-4014-b911-3c9eefc79493
Pokémon Global Link Service Ending Late February 2020
After more than nine years of operation, the Pokémon Global Link (PGL) service will be retired on February 24, 2020, at 23:59 UTC. After PGL service has ended, you will no longer be able to use any gameplay features that require a connection to the PGL on your Pokémon Ultra Sun, Pokémon Ultra Moon, Pokémon Sun, or Pokémon Moon games. You will still be able to use other online functionality apart from the PGL.Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield will provide services similar to the PGL’s Rating Battles and Online Competitions features and will be available to play via Nintendo Switch.
Thank you for using the PGL, and we hope you will continue to enjoy using the PGL until the service ends.
Source: https://3ds.pokemon-gl.com/information/31219158-a56a-4014-b911-3c9eefc79493
Despite the Pokémon Center London being extremely popular with hours long queues to get in and merchandise selling out daily, the pop-up location closed as scheduled on November 15th, 2019. Many people have suggested that they keep it open as a permanent location. The Pokémon Company did announce though that a new store will open for the 2020 Pokémon World Championships.
Taking place in London next summer at a venue yet to be announced, the Pokémon World Championships is the premier tournament for Pokémon video games and the Pokémon Trading Card Game.
POP UP POKÉMON CENTER RETURNING TO LONDON AT THE 2020 POKÉMON WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS.
Following the success of the recent Pokémon Center London pop up store at Westfield London that saw more than 30,000 visitors over its four-week opening, fans will have another opportunity to purchase a range of Pokémon merchandise thanks to a new store on the site for the duration of the 2020 Pokémon World Championships.Taking place in London next summer at a venue yet to be announced, the Pokémon World Championships is the premier tournament for Pokémon video games and the Pokémon Trading Card Game.
