‘Pokémon Black Version 2′ and ‘Pokémon White Version 2′ announced for Nintendo DS
The much loved Pokémon series has been surprising both fans and cynics recently, first with the announcement of the unlikely crossover Pokémon + Nobunaga’s Ambition and now with not one, but two sequels to the Pokémon Black and White games. Instead of continuing with tradition and releasing a third installment that adds new features and Pokémon to the mix without exactly being a full-fledged “sequel,” Junichi Masuda appeared on the Japanese TV show Pokémon Smash to announce two separate titles: Pokémon Black Version 2 and Pokémon White Version 2.
Adding to the intrigue, it was also revealed that the games are not in development for the Nintendo 3DS, but the DS. They are scheduled to launch in Japan in June, and the US Pokémon site has already updated a page for Pokémon Black Version 2 and Pokémon White Version 2, which currently has the release date as “coming soon.” So far, the only details released about the game have been that legendary Pokémon Zekrom and Reshiram will both receive new forms, which appear to be some sort of fusion with Kyurem.
Though it’s very clear that a Pokémon game would make the 3Ds an instant must have for children around the globe, for the time being we will reserve judgement until proven otherwise and commend Gamefreak on their decision to shake up the series. Hopefully this new turn for the series isn’t just a cheap cash in but a decidedly new turn with exciting new features and enhancements, perhaps as direct sequels to the original Pokémon Black and White. Only time will tell.
Anne will tell you whether or not you’re missing out when it comes to those pesky Japan-only releases. When she isn’t researching gender and sexuality in Japanese popular culture, she’s playing the quirkiest games she can get her hands on. Region locking is the bane of her existence.
