Otakuthon is an event that celebrates the cultural phenomenon known as anime (Japanese animation) and manga. Since 2008, the event has been held every summer at the Palais des congrès, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Rica Matsumoto will be attending Saturday, August 17th, 2019 and Sunday, August 18th, 2019.

The convention remains the second largest anime event in Canada. Proud of its Quebec origins, Otakuthon strives to be a fully bilingual convention (French and English) since its beginnings.


Rica Matsumoto is a voice actress, a singer, and a multi-talent actress. Her most popular role is Satoshi (Ash Ketchum in English translations), the main character of the anime series Pokémon. Matsumoto also performs the songs for many of the openings for the Japanese Pokémon anime.

Rica Matsumoto will have a panel and an autograph session on Saturday and a showcase and autograph session on Sunday. She will be singing Pokémon songs at both her panel and her showcase. The showcase will be in room 517A at 2:30 pm on Sunday. Don't miss these events!

RICA MATSUMOTO AUTOGRAPH POLICY

Priority will be given to attendees purchasing official Rica Matsumoto merchandise from J-rock North Promotions Inc. A very limited number of free autographs will be raffled at the beginning of the Rica Matsumoto's autograph sessions on Saturday and Sunday afternoon. Participants must line-up in the designated raffle ticket line where they will be given a raffle ticket to participate. Winners will be drawn at the beginning of the autograph session and will receive an exclusive shikishi board for the artist to sign.

Source: https://www.facebook.com/OtakuthonMTL/

China’s Tencent Games and the The Pokémon Company have announced a partnership to develop a new game but no details were announced nor what platform it will be released on. The game will be worked on by TiMi Studio Group who have created games such as Arena of Valor and Call of Duty Mobile.


Source: https://m.weibo.cn/detail/4396915061563565

The Pokémon Company has announced the details for Pikachu Outbreak! 2019 which will take place from August 6th, 2019 until August 12th, 2019 in the Yokohama Minato Mirai area. The official translations follow:

Pikachu Outbreak! 2019:

There's going to be another Pikachu Outbreak this year in the Yokohama Minato Mirai area! A performance from Pikachu set against the Minato Mirai nightscape, boosted by technology!

Have a blast with over 2,000 Pikachu, our highest number of Pikachu ever!

What's more, we'll be hosting a ticketed Pokémon GO event “Pokémon GO Fest in Yokohama”(ticket raffle through advance application) will be held in Yokohama from Tuesday,August 6 to Monday, August 12 2019.

Title: Pikachu Outbreak! 2019
Event Period: Tuesday, August 6 to Monday, August 12, 2019
Event Location: Minato Mirai area of Yokohama
Participation Fee: Free of Charge. Some content requires an admission ticket.
Area stations:

• JR Sakuragicho Station
• Minato Mirai Station on the Minato Mirai Line
• Bashamichi Station on the Minato Mirai Line
• Nihon-Odori Station on the Minato Mirai Line

Event 1: The Streets of Minato Mirai x Pikachu

Dressed in LED costumes, Pikachu will give a performance of light together with projection mapping, using the Yokohama Museum of Art as a backdrop.

Enjoy the evolution of the Minato Mirai nightscape colored by the latest technology and created through light, sound, and Pikachu.

Produced by m plus plus Co., Ltd., a company that handles stage and live performance for famous artists as well as spatial design.

Venue: Grand Mall Park (in front of the Yokohama Museum of Art)
Time: 7:10 PM~/8:35 PM~ However, on 8/9 (Fri) and 8/10 (Sat), performances will be held from 8:35 PM only.
Admission: Free of Charge
Precautions: This event is subject to change or cancellation without notice due to weather or other circumstances.

Event 2: The Seas of Minato Mirai x Pikachu

A magical performance set against the nightscape of Yokohama Bay Bridge that weaves together Pikachu with fountains springing forth from the seas to the skies.

Enjoy breathtaking views of the seas of Yokohama seen through colorfully illuminated fountains that change as Pikachu moves and the splashes they make!

Venue: Red Brick Warehouse Park
Time: 6:55 PM~/7:50 PM~/8:45 PM~
Admission: Free of charge
Precautions: This event is subject to change or cancellation without notice due to weather or other circumstances. This content features a fountain show that uses water. Depending on where you are watching from, you may get splashed with water. We ask visitors to be responsible for their own mobile phones or electronic devices. Also, be aware that we are not responsible for any damages incurred when participating in this event.

Event 3: The Forests of Minato Mirai x Pikachu

An awe-inspiring performance featuring the largest number of Pikachu in history, set against the nightscape of skyscrapers of Minato Mirai glittering beyond the green space.

Pikachu emerge endlessly from the shadows of the trees of Rinko Park, their bounding figures giving Minato Mirai new impact.

Venue: Rinko Park
Time: 6:55 PM~/7:50 PM~/8:45 PM~
Admission: Free of charge
Precautions: This event is subject to change or cancellation without notice due to weather or other circumstances.

Event 4: Parades

Pikachu Parade (Night) Venue: Nippon Maru Memorial Park
Time: 6:55 PM~/7:50 PM~/8:45 PM~
Admission: Free of charge


Eevee Parade Venue: Queen's Square YOKOHAMA Queen's Mall
Time: 6:55 PM~/7:50 PM~/8:45 PM~
Admission: Free of charge

These event are subject to change or cancellation without notice due to weather or other circumstances.

Event 5: Others

POKEGENIC: Photogenic decorations featuring various Pokémon have been placed all over the Minato Mirai Area! Have fun finding them, taking photos, and sharing them!

Venue: Sail Training Ship Nippon Maru, MARK IS, Navios Yokohama, etc.

Please be aware of your surroundings when taking photographs.

Merchandise Corner / Pokémon Stand:
Places, where you can buy official Pokémon goods, are appearing all over town. Please stop on by! A Pokémon Stand vending machine will also be available which will sell official Pokémon Center merchandise.


Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield Digital Stamp Rally:
We're holding a digital stamp rally on the streets of Minato Mirai! Collect stamps featuring new Pokémon appearing in Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield at nine stamp rally points. What Pokémon will you find?

What's more, those who collect three or more stamps can win an original wallpaper, and those who collect nine stamps can enter a lottery to win an original Pokémon Center merchandise gift set, for a total of ten winners

Source: https://www.pokemon.co.jp/ex/pika_event/en/

A new addition to the Nintendo Switch family will arrive on September 20th, 2019 called the Nintendo Switch Lite. The Nintendo Switch Lite is compact and lightweight, making it easy to take on the go! This dedicated handheld device lets you play all Nintendo Switch games that support handheld mode. It will be available in three different colors: Yellow, Gray and Turquoise. A separate Nintendo Switch Lite Zacian and Zamazenta Edition will be released on November 8th, 2019.

Nintendo Switch Lite Zacian and Zamazenta Edition

This Nintendo Switch Lite Zacian and Zamazenta Edition features stylish cyan and magenta buttons and illustrations of the two new Legendary Pokémon, Zacian and Zamazenta, from the upcoming Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield games.

Nintendo Switch Lite is a compact, lightweight Nintendo Switch system dedicated to handheld play. With a built-in +Control Pad and a sleek, unibody design, it’s great for on-the-go gaming. Nintendo Switch Lite is compatible with the robust library of Nintendo Switch games that support handheld mode. If you’re looking for a gaming system all your own, Nintendo Switch Lite is ready to hit the road whenever you are.

Includes: Nintendo Switch Lite system and Nintendo Switch AC adapter.
Price: $199.99 USD MSRP
Release Date: November 8th, 2019

Source: https://www.nintendo.com/switch/lite/

YouTube Clip - First Look at Nintendo Switch Lite: New Addition to the Nintendo Switch Family

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=59yuBFRSZdg

Compare Differences Between the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite

Press Release - Nintendo Reveals Special Pokémon Edition of Newly Announced Nintendo Switch Lite System

A special Pokémon-themed version of the newly announced Nintendo Switch Lite system will be available in North America starting Nov. 8. The Nintendo Switch Lite Zacian and Zamazenta Edition features stylish cyan and magenta buttons and illustrations of the two new Legendary Pokémon from the upcoming Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield games* for Nintendo Switch. This unique system will be available at a suggested retail price of $199.99, while supplies last.

“November is shaping up to be a big month for Pokémon fans, with the arrival of this special hardware followed by the launch of the Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield games one week later”

“November is shaping up to be a big month for Pokémon fans, with the arrival of this special hardware followed by the launch of the Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield games one week later,” said Nintendo of America President Doug Bowser. “The Nintendo Switch Lite Zacian and Zamazenta Edition will be a great gift for Pokémon fans who want to play the latest games on the go.”

In Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield, players will embark on a new adventure through the Galar region, where they’ll catch, battle and trade newly discovered Pokémon and uncover the mystery behind Legendary Pokémon Zacian and Zamazenta. The Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield games are available Nov. 15 for all Nintendo Switch systems.

The Nintendo Switch Lite device can play all games in the robust Nintendo Switch library that support handheld mode**, although some games will have restrictions. The standard edition of the Nintendo Switch Lite system launches on Sept. 20 at a suggested retail price of $199.99 and will be available in three different colors: yellow, gray and turquoise.

Press Release - Nintendo Introduces Nintendo Switch Lite, a Device Dedicated to Handheld Game Play

A New Addition to the Nintendo Switch Family, Nintendo Switch Lite is Compact and Lightweight, Making it Easy to Take on the Go

In a video today, Nintendo introduced Nintendo Switch Lite, a device designed specifically to play Nintendo Switch games in handheld mode. The Nintendo Switch Lite system launches Sept. 20 at a suggested retail price of $199.99 and will be available in three different colors: yellow, gray and turquoise. A carrying case and screen protector set for Nintendo Switch Lite will also be available.

“Now consumers can choose the system that best suits how they like to play their favorite Nintendo Switch games.”

“Adding Nintendo Switch Lite to the lineup gives gamers more color and price point options,” said Nintendo of America President Doug Bowser. “Now consumers can choose the system that best suits how they like to play their favorite Nintendo Switch games.”

The flagship Nintendo Switch launched in March 2017 and offers three different play modes: playing in TV mode by placing the system into a Nintendo Switch dock, playing cooperatively or competitively in tabletop mode by sharing Joy-Con controllers and playing in handheld mode. The system comes with either Gray Joy-Con controllers or Neon Red and Neon Blue Joy-Con controllers.

Nintendo Switch Lite has integrated controls and is smaller than the flagship version of Nintendo Switch. It has no kickstand and, as a dedicated handheld gaming device, does not support video output to a TV. Therefore, it does not come with a dock or HDMI cable. For a full list of the differences between Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite, visit https://www.nintendo.com/switch/compare.

The new device can play all games in the robust Nintendo Switch library that support handheld mode*, although some games will have restrictions. Compatible game modes will be listed on the back of game packaging and in Nintendo eShop.

Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite owners can get together to enjoy compatible multiplayer titles like Super Mario Maker 2, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Splatoon 2 and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate together via Nintendo Switch Online** or local wireless multiplayer***.

The Pokémon GO Fest 2019 Dortmund took place from from July 4th, 2019 to July 7th, 2019 in Dortmund, Germany. Niantic posted a write-up of the events that took place during that event.

Summer Adventures Continue at Pokémon GO Fest 2019 Dortmund!

Trainers, We are in awe of the welcome Pokémon GO received this past weekend. Our first-ever Pokémon GO Fest in Europe was incredible. Thank you for an exciting weekend in Dortmund! More than 85,000 attendees attended over the four-day event and 200,000 Trainers played in the surrounding Dortmund area.

It was inspiring to see so many friendships come to life and adventure together, both in Dortmund and around the world. Globally, Trainers completed Team Valor Leader Candela’s portion of Professor Willow’s Global Challenge to unlock XP rewards for all Pokémon GO players.

Over the course of four days, Trainers at Westfalenpark walked nearly 400,000 kilometers and caught more than 28 million Pokémon. We want to thank all of the passionate Trainers in Dortmund and all over the globe who helped continue our summer adventures and made this Pokémon GO Fest one for the books!

Here are just a few of the highlights from this week’s activities.


Pokémon GO Fest 2019 - Dortmund Special Research Ticketed attendees had the privilege of experiencing the very special research that was first unveiled at Pokémon GO Fest Chicago 2019. Professor Willow first greeted the player upon entering the park and recruited their help to investigate the Mythical Pokémon Jirachi! Through the act of making friends, sending gifts, and returning lost Pokémon to their rightful habitats, Trainers were then able to wake up Jirachi from its slumber and catch it.


Habitats, Trades, Battles, Autographs!
Throughout Westfalenpark, there were four diverse habitats for Trainers explore: Mysterious Woods, Steel Factory, Rocky Terrain, and Boat Lake. In the Mysterious Woods, Trainers found oddly shaped bubbles floating in the air while encountering Pokémon such as Ralts and Paras. We paid homage to the industrial history of Dortmund through the Steel Factory habitat, where Pokémon like Voltorb and Skarmory appeared. Trainers showed off their skills while navigating the Rocky Terrain habitat while taking the perfect GO Snapshots of Diglett and Onix in the cave. Trainers cooled off at Boat Lake, which featured an active geyser, and provided the perfect place for Water-type Pokémon like Clamperl and Carvanha.

Trainers working towards completing their Pokédex headed over to the Trading Outpost. There, attendees used their five special trades to collect Pokémon from all over the world!


Champions were made at Dortmund’s very own Battle Ground! After many hard-fought battles, Trainers basked in their glory by taking commemorative pictures in the Champion’s Circle.

Youtube Content Creators joined the festivities for autograph sessions daily including: Trainer Tips, MYSTIC7, REVERSAL, Spieltrend, and Keibron! Attendees with tickets were able to attend daily signings where they could meet, chat with, and get an autograph.

The Group Photo was not a moment to be missed. The turnout had Candela thrilled! It was the perfect ending to an awesome day of playing Pokémon GO together.


Global Challenge
Congratulations to all Trainers who took part in the second part of the Global Challenge! Pokémon GO Fest Dortmund attendees and Trainers around the world alike worked hard throughout the four-day event and successfully completed Candela’s XP Research Challenge. Candela has been running around yelling “Let’s GO!” all weekend. She even got Professor Willow to join in on the celebrations!

She wants us to let you all know that she says,

“Trainers—your fiery passion inspires me! We can do anything if we set our minds and our hearts to it. Let’s keep up this determination and support Team Leader Blanche too!”

Look forward to the following bonuses to be active from Tuesday, July 9, 2019, at 1 p.m. until Tuesday, July 16, 2019, at 1 p.m. PDT:

• 3x Catch XP
• 2x Raid XP
• 3x Hatch XP
• 1 Hour Lucky Eggs

In addition to those bonuses, Entei will be available in raids on Sunday, July 14, 2019, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m local time. Players will receive up to five free Raid Passes during the event. If you’re lucky, you might encounter Shiny Entei!

Thank you, Trainers.
We couldn’t have done this without you. This was our biggest Pokémon GO Fest yet and we hope you had just as an amazing time as we did! Please look forward to the final Pokémon GO Fest in Yokohama and be prepared to tackle Blanche’s challenge. They’re depending on you!

Oh...and one more thing…
What was up with that strange balloon in the skies of Dortmund?


Source: https://pokemongolive.com/post/gofest-dortmund-2019

The Pokémon Company International revealed details today about the Gigantamax phenomenon in the highly anticipated upcoming video games Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield. Newly discovered Pokémon, details about the Galar Pokémon League, and more were also revealed. Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield launch November 15, 2019, exclusively on the Nintendo Switch system. High resolution artwork and screenshots from the press release have been added to an Imageboard thread.

GIGANTAMAX, A PHENOMENON THAT CHANGES SIZE AND APPEARANCE OF POKÉMON, REVEALED IN POKÉMON SWORD AND POKÉMON SHIELD ​​​​​

Newly Discovered Pokémon and Details about the Galar Pokémon League Also Announced ​​​​​​​

Gigantamax Pokémon
The previously discovered phenomenon known as Dynamaxing can only occur in specific areas of the Galar region. While Dynamaxing seems to be a phenomenon common to Pokémon from Galar, it’s been discovered that there’s a special phenomenon known as Gigantamaxing. Not only do Gigantamax Pokémon become bigger, but their appearance also changes. Like normal Dynamaxing, Gigantamaxing boosts the power of the Pokémon—and it also allows each Gigantamax Pokémon to use a unique move known as a G-Max Move. Each G-Max Move is particular to a specific species of Gigantamax Pokémon, and regular Dynamax Pokémon are not able to use G-Max Moves. Only certain species of Pokémon can Gigantamax—and even among such species, only rare specimens will be able to Gigantamax. The majority of Pokémon will keep their usual appearance when they Dynamax. Two Pokémon species revealed to have Gigantamaxing capabilities today are Drednaw and Corviknight.


Gigantamax Drednaw
Type: Water/Rock
Height: 78′9″+
Weight: Unknown
Ability: Strong Jaw / Shell Armor

The power of Gigantamaxing has allowed Drednaw to stand on its hind legs and become bipedal. From its standing position, it can come crashing down on opposing Pokémon and crush them with its massive body. Drednaw normally keeps its neck retracted within its shell, but when it attacks, it can rapidly shoot its neck out. Its jaws are also incredibly strong and can easily bite through huge metal towers. The strength of its jaws combined with the force of its neck gives Drednaw the power to punch a hole through a rocky mountain in a single strike. Water-type moves used by Gigantamax Drednaw will change to G-Max Stonesurge. G-Max Stonesurge doesn’t just deal damage to an opponent—it will scatter sharp rocks around the opponent and cause Pokémon entering the battlefield to take damage.


Gigantamax Corviknight
Type: Flying/Steel
Height: 45′11″+
Weight: Unknown
Ability: Pressure/Unnerve

Corviknight uses its massive wings to catch updrafts created by Gigantamax energy to hover in the air while it battles. The armor on its body has been reinforced, so attacks from Pokémon on the ground barely have any effect. Gigantamax energy has caused the armor covering Corviknight’s wings to separate and become blade birds, capable of flying independently. Flying-type moves used by Gigantamax Corviknight will change to G-Max Wind Rage, which removes any effects of moves like Reflect, Light Screen, Spikes, and Electric Terrain that the opponents may have.

Newly Discovered Pokémon of the Galar Region:

Alcremie
Category: Cream Pokémon
Type: Fairy
Height: 1′
Weight: 1.1 lbs.
Ability: Sweet Veil

Alcremie can produce whipped cream, which becomes richer the happier Alcremie is feeling. Desserts made using this cream are invariably delicious, so many pastry chefs strive to have an Alcremie as their partner. When attacked by an opponent, Alcremie will throw sweet-scented cream to distract them or temporarily blind them, giving itself time to escape.


Gigantamax Alcremie
Type: Fairy
Height: 98′5″+
Weight: Unknown
Ability: Sweet Veil

The cream pouring out of its body hardens when subjected to impacts—the stronger the impact, the harder it becomes—giving Alcremie an impressive resistance to physical attacks. Additionally, the giant “Berry” decorations on Alcremie’s body are as hard as diamonds, and it’s said that most attacks won’t even be able to leave a scratch. Alcremie will launch high-calorie cream missiles around itself to attack its opponents. Any Pokémon that touches this cream will be filled with energy and euphoria but at the same time will fall into a state of complete confusion. Fairy-type moves used by Gigantamax Alcremie will change to G-Max Finale, which will heal all Pokémon on Alcremie’s side while dealing damage to an opponent.


Yamper
Category: Puppy Pokémon
Type: Electric
Height: 1′
Weight: 29.8 lbs.
Ability: Ball Fetch

Yamper tends to be drawn to things that are moving quickly. It can chase after people, Pokémon, or even vehicles. It has an organ in its body that generates electricity, and it’s activated when Yamper runs around. Yamper can’t store the electricity it generates, so it’s often seen running around with electric sparks crackling around it. Yamper’s Ability, Ball Fetch, is a new Ability that comes into play when the Trainer throws a Poké Ball at a wild Pokémon but fails to catch it. If Yamper isn’t holding an item, it will fetch the first Poké Ball that failed to catch the Pokémon, regardless of what type of Poké Ball it is.


Rolycoly
Category: Coal Pokémon
Type: Rock
Height: 1′
Weight: 26.5 lbs.
Ability: Steam Engine / Heatproof

Rolycoly’s red eye can illuminate dark areas, while it uses the lump of coal attached to its body like a wheel to move through coal mines and caves. It is able to travel smoothly even over rough terrain. Until about one hundred years ago, every household in the Galar region had a Rolycoly. The families would use the coal that dropped off its body for cooking and heating their homes. Rolycoly’s Ability, Steam Engine, is a new Ability that provides a Speed stat boost if it’s hit with a Fire- or Water-type move during battle.


Duraludon
Category: Alloy Pokémon
Type: Steel/Dragon
Height: 5′11″
Weight: 88.2 lbs.
Ability: Light Metal / Heavy Metal

Duraludon live in caves and mountainous areas. Their two arms have slightly different shapes, and they use them to grind down rock surfaces for food. Its body is composed of incredibly durable metal but is also surprisingly light, so Duraludon can move quite quickly despite its appearance. Its body is susceptible to corrosion, however, and is known to rust easily. They share their habitat with Tyranitar, so these two Pokémon are often seen battling each other in the mountains of the Galar region.

The Galar Region Pokémon League

In the Galar region, where Pokémon battles are big entertainment, the region’s Pokémon League holds tournaments to determine the next Pokémon Champion. Players will have to compete with their rivals and challenge the Gym Leaders of the region for their chance to take part in this tournament.

The Gym Challenge is a true celebration of Pokémon battling. Participating Trainers strive to collect all eight Gym Badges, and only Pokémon Trainers who have been endorsed by specific people, such as Gym Leaders, can join. During the Gym Challenge, each challenger wears a special uniform for the occasion. Trainers can choose the combination of three numbers on their own uniform.

Once a year, a series of Pokémon battles known as the Champion Cup are held in the Galar region. The Champion Cup decides who will be able to challenge the reigning Champion for their seat. Exemplary Trainers throughout the region, such as those who successfully complete the Gym Challenge, can participate in the Champion Cup tournament. The Champion Cup battles are broadcast on TV in the Galar region and are watched by everyone.

People of the Galar Region:

Leon
Leon is the strongest Trainer in the Galar region, and he won the Championship in his first-ever Gym Challenge—without being defeated in battle a single time. To this day, his winning streak continues to grow, and his formidable talent for Pokémon battles is unmatched. He’s aided in his countless victories by his partner Charizard, and he’s known to go all out during battles, no matter who he’s facing. His battle style has captured the hearts of the people of Galar.


Chairman Rose
Rose is the chairman of the Galar Pokémon League and the president of a large business conglomerate. He’s made the Galar Pokémon League famous by implementing Gym Battles featuring the Dynamax phenomenon. Chairman Rose was also the first to endorse Leon for the Gym Challenge.


Oleana
Oleana is Chairman Rose’s secretary and is known for her calm and collected personality. She also serves as the vice president of Rose’s company and is largely in charge of the day-to-day running of the company.


Bea
Bea is a prodigy in Galar karate, carrying on its century-old traditions and techniques. Known for her stoicism and rarely showing her emotions, Bea is also an expert on Fighting-type Pokémon. Her battle style remains very precise even when she’s backed into a corner.


Allister
Allister is a talented Trainer of Ghost-type Pokémon who has taken on the mantle of the Ghost-type Gym Leader at a young age. He’s extremely shy and fearful, and he always hides his face with a mask when around other people. Allister rarely makes public appearances and apparently spends most of his time around ruins or in cemeteries.

Certain towns in the Galar region will have different Gyms that Trainers can challenge depending on whether they’re playing Pokémon Sword or Pokémon Shield. In Pokémon Sword, they will face down Bea, while in Pokémon Shield, they can test their skills against Allister.

Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield Dual Pack SteelBook® Edition

As a special bonus for purchasing the Dual Pack SteelBook® Edition, Trainers will receive two codes (one per game) that will reward them with special items known as Dynamax Crystals. By using the Dynamax Crystals in the Wild Area, Trainers will be able to face Dynamax Larvitar and Dynamax Jangmo-o, Pokémon that are normally encountered later in the game, in special Max Raid Battles. Larvitar won’t appear in Pokémon Sword and Jangmo-o won’t appear in Pokémon Shield during normal gameplay, but players will be able to catch them in either version by using these Dynamax Crystals.

YouTube Clip - Gigantamaxing Changes the Game in Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield!

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhIc6UwnHj8

YouTube Clip - Gigantamaxing Changes the Game in Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield! - Japanese

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzPexjVHF5I

Niantic has officially confirmed that from July 10th, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. PDT to July 31, 2019 at 1 p.m. PDT, players of Pokémon GO will be able challenge Armored Mewtwo in raids.

Harness the power of Armored Mewtwo!

Trainers, Mewtwo returns...with a new look. For a limited time, you can encounter this Psychic-type Pokémon in five-star raids.

Date + Time
• Armored Mewtwo will appear in five-star raids from July 10 at 1:00 p.m. PDT to July 31 at 1 p.m. PDT

Features
• For the first time in Pokémon GO, Armored Mewtwo will be available to challenge in raids for a limited time!

Avatar Items
• Do you consider yourself a Mewtwo Trainer? Show off your prowess for power and aesthetics with some stylish new items coming to the Style Shop!

Don’t miss this chance to encounter Armored Mewtwo. Are you up for the challenge?

Source: https://pokemongolive.com/en/post/armoredmewtworaids2019/

YouTube Clip - Armored Mewtwo Appears in Pokémon GO Raid Battles for a Limited Time!

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D7nbsoa9PNk

The Pokémon Company International announced on June 27th, 2019, the Hidden Fates expansion. They also announced that the expansion contains golden rare Secret cards called Shiny Vault cards.

Pokémon Trading Card Game: Hidden Fates Expansion

Fans of the Pokémon Trading Card Game can look forward to collecting a variety of new and unique cards in the upcoming Hidden Fates expansion, including the first TAG TEAM trio featuring Moltres & Zapdos & Articuno-GX, as well as cards depicting Pokémon in their Shiny forms, like Mewtwo-GX and Charizard-GX. The first wave of Hidden Fates products will be available starting August 23. Highlights include:

• Hidden Fates Pin Collection - Available August 23, this collection includes one of two foil promo cards featuring the Legendary Pokémon Mewtwo or the Mythical Pokémon Mew, one of two collector’s pins featuring Mewtwo or Mew, and three Hidden Fates booster packs.

• Hidden Fates Tin - On September 6, players can choose from three special tins that spotlight Charizard-GX, Gyarados-GX, or Raichu-GX. Each tin includes a foil Pokémon-GX card showcasing one of these three Pokémon, as well as four Hidden Fates booster packs.

• Hidden Fates Elite Trainer Box - Releasing on September 20, the Hidden Fates Elite Trainer Box includes one full-art foil promo card featuring Moltres & Zapdos & Articuno-GX and 10 Hidden Fates booster packs. It also includes Pokémon TCG accessories like card sleeves, dice, a player’s guide, and more.

Furthermore, fans can look forward to additional items from the expansion coming this fall, such as the Hidden Fates Poké Ball Collection and Hidden Fates Premium Powers Collection.

Once available, Hidden Fates will be supported in the Pokémon TCG Card Dex app, which offers an easy way to digitally browse and discover cards from the Pokémon TCG: Sun & Moon Series.

Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates Pin Collection - Mewtwo | Mew

Show your Pokémon pride with a collector's pin featuring the Legendary Pokémon Mewtwo or the Mythical Pokémon Mew! You'll also expand your Pokémon TCG roster with awesome foil promo cards featuring one of these amazing Psychic-type Pokémon. Plus, each collection includes three booster packs from the special Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates expansion!

Each Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates Pin Collection—Mewtwo/Mew includes:

• 1 of 2 foil promo cards featuring Mewtwo or Mew
• 1 of 2 collector's pins featuring Mewtwo or Mew
• 3 Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates booster packs
• A code card for the Pokémon Trading Card Game Online

The Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates Pin Collection—Mewtwo/Mew will be available on August 23, 2019, in the Pokémon Center and where Pokémon TCG products are sold.

Shiny Pokémon and Rare Secret Cards from Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates

The upcoming Pokémon TCG expansion contains over 90 special cards, including Shiny Pokémon and golden rare Secret cards.

The upcoming Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates expansion is unlike most Pokémon TCG expansions that you might be used to. In addition to the 68 cards in the main set, this expansion also features a Shiny Vault filled with Shiny Pokémon, full-art Trainer cards, and rare Secret cards that sport a golden hue. This 94-card subset features cards from previous Sun & Moon expansions, which range from powerful tournament cards to fun fan favorites. All 94 cards have amazing etched artwork for fans to collect.

Because the Shiny Vault cards are all from previous expansions, they are specially marked to indicate whether they're legal for tournament play in the Standard format. As an example, let's take a look at the Charizard-GX from Hidden Fates.

All cards in the Shiny Vault are marked with the Yellow A Alternate symbol (see callout A in the above diagram), meaning that each one is an existing card reprinted with a new illustration. Instead of the Hidden Fates expansion symbol, each card carries the symbol of its original expansion (callout B). This Charizard-GX has the expansion symbol from Sun & Moon—Burning Shadows, which signifies that it's an alternate illustration of the Charizard-GX from that expansion.


Unlike regular Yellow A Alternate cards, the Shiny Vault cards have their own collector card numbers in order to denote that these cards are from Hidden Fates (callout C). When considering tournament legality, the important thing to look at is the expansion symbol. If the Sun & Moon—Burning Shadows expansion isn't legal in the Standard format, then this Charizard-GX isn't either.

By the time Hidden Fates is released, many of the Shiny Vault cards won't be legal in the Standard format, but they can still be used in the Expanded format. And of course, they will still be awesome additions to your Pokémon TCG collection!

With 94 cards in the Shiny Vault, the Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates expansion has more etched cards than any other expansion in the history of the Pokémon TCG. Remember that Hidden Fates booster packs will not be sold separately. Instead, look for these incredible cards in special collections beginning August 23, 2019, at the Pokémon Center and where Pokémon TCG products are sold.

Source: https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-news/shiny-pokemon-and-rare-secret-cards-from-pokemon-tcg-hidden-fates/

Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates Poké Ball Collection—Shiny Zoroark-GX / Shiny Metagross-GX

The Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates Great Ball Collection—Shiny Zoroark-GX and Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates Ultra Ball Collection—Shiny Metagross-GX were available at the Pokémon Center and where Pokémon TCG products are sold on October 4th, 2019.

With a coloration rarely seen, the full-art Shiny Zoroark-GX and Shiny Metagross-GX featured in these sets are a collector’s dream, ready to add their skills to your Pokémon Trading Card Game collection or become a brilliant part of your next deck. Each collection also comes with a powered-up Poké Ball featuring a secret compartment that holds up to 60 Pokémon TCG cards. You also get 10 Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates booster packs so you have plenty of cards to store in the Poké Ball!

Each Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates Poké Ball Collection includes:

• 1 of 2 full-art foil cards featuring Shiny Zoroark-GX or Shiny Metagross-GX
• 10 Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates booster packs
• A Great Ball or Ultra Ball big enough to hold a stack of Pokémon TCG cards
• A code card for the Pokémon Trading Card Game Online

Source: https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-tcg/product-gallery/hidden-fates-poke-ball-collection-shiny-zoroark-gx-shiny-metagross-gx

Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates Elite Trainer Box

The Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates Elite Trainer Box was available at the Pokémon Center and where Pokémon TCG products are sold on September 20th, 2019.

A wild set loaded with all-time favorites, the Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates expansion is a collector’s dream and a player’s paradise! The Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates Elite Trainer Box contains everything you need to get started collecting this unique new expansion. In addition to ten Hidden Fates booster packs, you can soar to new heights with a full-art foil promo card featuring the first TAG TEAM trio, Moltres & Zapdos & Articuno-GX! The box also includes card sleeves featuring this Legendary trio that will keep your cards looking pristine, along with plenty of Energy cards. To help get you into the game, there are handy accessories like dice and condition markers, plus a player’s guide that features a handy card list and useful strategies to take into battle. Your fate will shine bright with the Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates Elite Trainer Box!

The Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates Elite Trainer Box includes:

• 10 Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates booster packs
• A full-art foil promo card featuring Moltres & Zapdos & Articuno-GX
• 65 card sleeves featuring Moltres & Zapdos & Articuno
• 45 Pokémon TCG Energy cards
• A player’s guide to the Hidden Fates expansion
• 6 damage-counter dice
• 1 competition-legal coin-flip die
• 2 acrylic condition markers and 1 acrylic TAG TEAM GX marker
• A collector’s box to hold everything, with 4 dividers to keep it organized
• A code card for the Pokémon Trading Card Game Online

Source: https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-tcg/product-gallery/hidden-fates-elite-trainer-box

Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates Tin

The Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates Tins were available at the Pokémon Center and where Pokémon TCG products are sold on September 6th, 2019.

Can you harness the raw power of a Pokémon-GX? Choose the blazing fire of Charizard-GX, the raging waves of Gyarados-GX, or the crackling electricity of Raichu-GX in the Pokémon Trading Card Game: Hidden Fates Tin. Each of these fantastic tins contains an amazing Pokémon-GX, able to hold its own with the very best—and to add a bit of extra power to your collection! Not only that, but you’ll also get four booster packs from the Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates expansion. Your opponent won’t know what hit them!

Each Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates Tin includes:

• 1 of 3 foil Pokémon-GX cards: Charizard-GX, Gyarados-GX, or Raichu-GX
• 4 Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates booster packs
• A code card to unlock a playable deck in the Pokémon Trading Card Game Online

Source: https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-tcg/product-gallery/hidden-fates-tin

Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates Collection—Charizard-GX, Raichu-GX, or Gyarados-GX

The Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates Collection—Charizard-GX, Raichu-GX, or Gyarados-GX were available at participating Walmart stores on November 1st, 2019.

Can you harness the raw power of a Pokémon-GX? Whether it’s the blazing fire of Charizard-GX, the crackling electricity of Raichu-GX, or the raging waves of Gyarados-GX, each Pokémon Trading Card Game: Hidden Fates Collection will put this power in your grasp. You get a foil promo card and oversize card featuring Charizard-GX, Raichu-GX, or Gyarados-GX. Plus, four booster packs from the special Hidden Fates expansion round out this power-packed set.

The Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates Collection—Charizard-GX, Raichu-GX, or Gyarados-GX includes:

• 1 foil promo card featuring Charizard-GX, Raichu-GX, or Gyarados-GX
• 1 oversize foil card featuring the star Pokémon
• 4 Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates booster packs
• A code card for the Pokémon Trading Card Game Online

Source: https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-tcg/product-gallery/hidden-fates-collection-charizard-gx-raichu-gx-or-gyarados-gx

Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates Ultra-Premium Collection

The Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates Ultra-Premium Collection was available at the Pokémon Center and where Pokémon TCG products are sold on November 22nd, 2019.

In the deep vastness where Legendary Pokémon roam, it is astonishingly rare to see even a single such legend—let alone three at once! This Ultra-Premium Collection combines the power of three Legendary Pokémon in one set of amazing etched foil cards, plus a trove of extras and accessories not found anywhere else.

Each Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates Ultra-Premium Collection includes:

• 3 full-art foil cards: Shiny Rayquaza-GX plus special gold versions of Solgaleo-GX and Lunala-GX
• 1 card holder featuring Shiny Rayquaza, to show off your favorite Pokémon TCG card
• 15 Pokémon TCG: Hidden Fates booster packs
• A full-size Pokémon TCG playmat for your next game
• And a code card for the Pokémon Trading Card Game Online!

Source: https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-tcg/product-gallery/hidden-fates-ultra-premium-collection

The Pokémon Company will broadcast a video showcasing the latest information for the newly announced mobile game Pokemon Masters for iOS and Android on Thursday, June 27th, 2019 at 13:00 UTC / 9:00AM EST / 22:00 JST. The video will be about 8 minutes long. High resolution artwork and screenshots from the press release have been added to an Imageboard thread.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qbBT5dzx53MM/

Press Release - Exciting Details Unveiled for Pokémon Masters, a New Adventure Coming to Mobile Devices

Planned for release in summer 2019, the strategy and battling game features a never-before-seen location, Trainers past and present, and new ways to battle!

TOKYO—June 27, 2019—DeNA Co., Ltd. (henceforth DeNA), in partnership with The Pokémon Company, unveiled additional information about the upcoming mobile game Pokémon Masters, which is planned to release globally on iOS and Android devices in summer 2019. In Pokémon Masters, players will embark on a new adventure to form teams of Trainers and their partner Pokémon and engage in 3-on-3 real-time battles.

Take the treasured bond between Trainer and Pokémon to the next level in an all-new location—the island of Pasio—where Trainers from every Pokémon region gather to compete

Pokémon Masters takes place on the island of Pasio, where the rules of battle are different and the treasured bond between Trainer and Pokémon is taken to the next level with sync pairs—the combination of a Trainer and their partner Pokémon. For the very first time in a Pokémon game, Trainers and their partner Pokémon from every Pokémon region will come together to form sync pairs. Players can team up with duos such as Korrina & Lucario, Brendan & Treecko, Clair & Kingdra, and many more. With all sorts of Trainers on Pasio, there are sure to be some exciting and unexpected encounters in this new story.

At launch, there will be 65 sync pairs to recruit in Pokémon Masters, with additional sync pairs to come following the game’s release.

Form a team of three sync pairs, and battle to become champion of the Pokémon Masters League

In Pokémon Masters, players will explore Pasio to meet various Trainers and make new friends while progressing through the story. Once a player has made friends with other sync pairs, they can recruit those friends to form a team of three sync pairs (meaning three Trainers and their three partner Pokémon) and battle AI (artificial intelligence) opponents to become champion of the prestigious Pokémon Masters League tournament.


Command a team of Pokémon and Trainers in 3-on-3, real-time battles in this strategy and battling game

Pokémon Masters introduces a new way to battle in the Pokémon world. Players will command a squad of three sync pairs in real-time team battles and release a barrage of moves—all while the AI opponent unleashes theirs at the same time. For the very first time in a Pokémon game, players can also direct Trainers in battle to use moves and healing items to increase a Pokémon’s stats. In addition to standard moves, players can occasionally deploy sync moves—powerful attacks performed by specific sync pairs.


Players will need to ration their move gauge, which refills over time, to deploy the best moves at the most opportune times to lead their squad to victory.

“The Pokémon brand has captured the imagination of the world, and we are honored to create the newest Pokémon adventure for mobile devices with Pokémon Masters,” said Isao Moriyasu, CEO of DeNA. “We look forward to sharing new ways to battle when the game releases.”

“For years, fans have created enduring memories engaging with their favorite Pokémon characters throughout the Pokémon video game series,” said Tsunekazu Ishihara, president and CEO of The Pokémon Company. “With DeNA’s development expertise, we’re excited to bring together past and present Trainers and their partner Pokémon in a unique gaming experience that will delight fans around the world.”

Pokémon Masters will be available worldwide as a free-to-start game with in-app purchases on compatible iOS and Android devices, with release planned for summer 2019. The game will be available in English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, and Traditional Chinese.

YouTube Clip - More Trainers, More Battles. Get Ready for Pokémon Masters!

YouTube Clip - More Trainers, More Battles. Get Ready for Pokémon Masters! - Japanese

YouTube Clip - Pokémon Masters | Trailer

YouTube Clip - Pokémon Masters | Trailer - Japanese

Pokémon GO is celebrating the games 3rd anniversary with new features and events from June 28th, 2019 through September 2nd, 2019.

Happy third anniversary, Pokémon GO!

Trainers, They say third time’s the charm. Pokémon journeys begin with a choice between three Pokémon. Your journey in Pokémon GO involved joining one of three teams. Today, we celebrate the third anniversary of Pokémon GO’s release! Throughout this incredible journey, we’ve made countless memories along the way.

To commemorate this incredible milestone, you can look forward to these exciting features!

New features starting on June 28 at 1 p.m. PDT

• Shiny Alolan Pokémon — You’ll have a chance of encountering the following Shiny Alolan Pokémon: Rattata, Sandshrew, Vulpix, Diglett, Meowth, Geodude, Grimer, and Exeggutor.
• Team leader avatar items — Avatar items featuring the team leaders’ personal styles will be available in the Style Shop.

From June 28, 2019, at 1 p.m. PDT to July 6, 2019, at 1 p.m. PDT

• A familiar face returns to the party! — Once per day, you might have the chance to encounter a Pikachu wearing a party hat when you take a GO Snapshot photo! Pichu wearing a party hat will also be available to hatch from 7 km eggs.

From June 28, 2019, at 1 p.m. PDT to September 2, 2019, at 1 p.m. PDT

• Jump-Start Research — Looking to get up to speed with your research? Do you have a friend who wants to play but feels they’ve missed out on too much in Pokémon GO? Don’t worry! Trainers can complete new Special Research for helpful rewards that will jump-start their new or continuing adventures. This Special Research is only available this summer for players at level 10 or higher, so be sure to let your friends know about this opportunity to join in and get special rewards.
• Raid bonuses — Take down Raid Bosses faster and earn extra bonus Premier Balls to catch them with when you raid with friends.
• Decreased Stardust costs for trading — Trading Pokémon will cost ¼ less Stardust.

Remember, Trainers: play more with your friends this summer to get the most out of raids and trading! We couldn’t have reached this epic milestone without you all. Thank you, Trainers, for your continued passion for Pokémon GO and for joining us on this amazing adventure. In the words of our favorite professor, “Let’s GO!”

Source: https://pokemongolive.com/post/birthday2019