A new poster has been released for Chapter 2 of the popular anime Pocket Monsters (airs on the TV Tokyo Network every Friday at 6:55pm, officially abbreviated "Anipoke"), "Terapagos' Shine".


The new poster depicts the members of the Rising Volt Tacklers, including protagonists Liko and Roy, standing together on the airship Brave Asagi. In the background we see the Black Rayquaza, as well as silhouettes representing a certain group of characters. In addition, Liko as depicted as holding a shining Terapagos, representing the new subtitle "Terapagos' Shine"

The story of Liko, Roy and their companions will continue to develop as they set off on a new adventure with Terapagos "To Places Far Far Away".


The ending theme "RVR: Rising Volt Tacklers Rap" is also getting an update as we enter Chapter 2.

"RVR: Rising Volt Tacklers Rap" is a song where the members of the Rising Volt Tacklers, the team the anime's protagonists Liko and Roy belong to, learn about Pokémon by rapping about them. This song, which viewers are familiar with from Chapter 1: Liko And Roy Set Off, has changed with episode 26 that aired today, with the melody remaining the same but the lyrics and line distributions changing.

The lyrics in this new RVR will change depending on which character is singing, as every week will see the different members of the Rising Volt Tacklers perform a personalized rap that relates to their Partner Pokémon. Just like the previous version, the lyrics are handled by the tremendously popular rapper Fuma no KTR, as well as Ryogo Matsumaru, Kaiyu Fujimoto and the Pokémon Rap Yattemi-tai from the riddle creator team RIDDLER Inc.


A comment from Ryogo Matsumaru:
When I was writing the lyrics for the first version of this song, I wanted to make a song that the listeners would love for years to come and want to hum to themselves no matter how old they were, so it made me really happy that I got to make another version of it too!

Just like the previous lyrics, these new ones are really fun and will make you want to try rapping along just by hearing them. While the first version was airing on TV the "Pokémon to Doko Iku?" show received a lot of videos of Pokénds singing the song, so I'd be delighted to see lots of Pokénds sing this new one too. I'm looking forward to it already!

The anime has finally started a new chapter too! Liko's pendant, the mystery of the Black Rayquaza, the Six Hero Pokémon... there are so many intriguing mysteries in this show that I can't help but go "Nice, it's Pokémon anime day today!" every Friday!

More than anything, seeing Liko and Roy, two characters that had so much to learn at first, gradually grow and mature thanks to their Pokémon really tugs at my heart and encourages me! "Kore kara donna Pokémon ni aeru no ka na, boken ga tanoshimi"!!


A comment from Minori Suzuki, the voice of Liko:
It's been half a year since the new series started, and I feel like I'm in the middle of a rich adventure both as Liko and as myself. Liko used to keep her thoughts and emotions to herself, but her encounter with Nyahoja led to her gradually starting to become able to express them with words.

In this second chapter, she sets off on a new adventure alongside Roy, Hogator and all the Rising Volt Tacklers in order to grant Terapagos' wishes. I want you to continue to follow the show and see what new Pokémon they'll encounter; I believe we'll be able to showcase even more of the fascinating world of Pocket Monsters, so I hope you'll look forward to it.


A comment from Yuka Terasaki, the voice of Roy:
I think the reason Roy set off on his adventure was specifically because of his fateful encounter with Hogator, an encounter that felt like getting struck by lightning. Please look forward to the battles in Chapter 2 as well, where you'll get to see how this duo that act more like siblings than like Trainer and Partner Pokémon will grow from here!

There are still lots of aspects of the show that are shrouded in mystery, like the legend of the Ancient Adventurer Lucius, as well as the whereabouts of the Black Rayquaza, one of the Six Hero Pokémon. There are tons of amazing twists and turns waiting for you, so I hope you'll watch the show and feel like you're on an adventure with Liko and Roy yourself.

アニポケのエンディングテーマ”RVR”がリニューアル！

テレビ東京系で毎週金曜よる6時55分から放送中のテレビアニメ「ポケットモンスター」は、エンディングテーマの『RVR～ライジングボルテッカーズラップ～』が、第2章突入とともにリニューアルすることを発表しました！
『RVR～ライジングボルテッカーズラップ～』は、アニメの主人公リコとロイが所属するチーム、ライジングボルテッカーズのメンバーたちが、ラップでポケモンを学んでいく楽曲です。
第1章「リコとロイの旅立ち」編でもお馴染みのRVRが、本日放送した第26話「テラパゴスの冒険」より、メロディーはそのままに、歌詞やパート分けが新しくなりました！
新RVRでは歌うキャラクターによって歌詞が異なり、ライジングボルテッカーズのメンバーが、それぞれのパートナーポケモンに関連した個性あふれるラップを週替わりで披露します！エンディングテーマも毎週目が離せません！

作詞は前回に引き続き、若者から絶大な支持を得るラッパー・Fuma no KTRさんと、謎解きクリエイター集団RIDDLERの松丸亮吾さん、藤本海右さん、ポケモンラップやってみ隊が担当します。

新エンディングテーマの作詞を担当する「ポケモンとどこいく！？」ポケリーダーの松丸亮吾さんからコメントが到着しました！
第1弾の作詞の時は、聴いてくれた人たちが子どもから大人まで口ずさみたくなるような、長く愛してもらえる曲にしたいという思いで作っていたので、今回新たなバージョンを作ることができて本当に嬉しいです！
新たな歌詞も、思わずラップに挑戦したくなるような楽しい歌詞になっています。第1弾の時も「ポケモンとどこいく！？」の番組に、たくさんのポケだちから歌っている映像が届いていたので、またたくさんのポケだちが歌ってくれたら幸せです。今から楽しみです！

そしてアニメもついに新章に突入しました！ リコのペンダント、黒いレックウザの謎、六英雄のポケモン…
気になる謎が多すぎて、毎週金曜になると「あ、今日はアニポケの日だ！」と楽しみで仕方ないです！

そして何より、最初は未熟なところも多かったリコとロイが、ポケモンを通して次第に成長していく姿がグッと来て、勇気をもらっています。「これからどんなポケモンに会えるのかな、冒険が楽しみ」です！！

さらに、雄大な空を征くライジングボルテッカーズと、黒いレックウザを描いた新たなビジュアルも初公開！

主人公のリコとロイをはじめとしたライジングボルテッカーズのメンバーが、飛行船・ブレイブアサギ号と共に描かれています。そして、後方には黒いレックウザに加え、あのキャラクターたちを想起させるポケモンのシルエットも...！
リコは輝きを放つテラパゴスを抱えており、新たな副題「テラパゴスのかがやき」を想起させる新ビジュアルとなっています。
テラパゴスとともに「はるか、遠くまで」新たな冒険へ旅立つ、リコとロイたちの物語にご期待ください！
リコ役の鈴木みのりさん、ロイ役の寺崎裕香さんから新章開幕に向けたコメントも到着！
ぜひこの機会にご紹介のご検討を頂けますよう、お願いいたします。

【リコ役・鈴木みのりさん】
新シリーズが始まって半年が経ちましたが、リコとしても、そして私自身としても濃い冒険をしている最中のような感覚です。自分の思いを心に秘めたままだったリコが、ニャオハとの出会いをきっかけに少しずつ自分の気持ちを言葉にできるようになりました。

そして第2章は、テラパゴスの願いを叶えるため、ロイとホゲータ、ライジングボルテッカーズのみんなと一緒に新たな冒険へと旅立ちます。これから出会うポケモンたちにも注目して頂きたいですし、「ポケットモンスター」の魅力あふれる世界をもっと皆さんにお届けできると思いますので、ぜひ楽しみにして頂けると嬉しいです。

【ロイ役・寺崎裕香さん】
まるで雷が落ちるような運命的な出会いをして、その相手がホゲータだったからこそロイは冒険に出たのだと思います。トレーナーとパートナーポケモンというよりは、まるで兄弟のような関係のふたりがこれからどのように成長していくのか、第2章はバトルも楽しみにしてください！

そして、六英雄ポケモンの1匹である黒いレックウザの行方や、いにしえの冒険者・ルシアスの伝説など、まだまだ謎に包まれていることがたくさんあります。この後もすごい展開が待っているので、リコやロイたちと一緒に冒険しているような気持ちで見て頂けたらと思います。

Source: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000001072.000002610.html

It has been announced that chapter 1 of the popular anime Pocket Monsters (airs on the TV Tokyo Network every Friday at 6:55pm, officially abbreviated "Anipoke"), "Liko and Roy Set Off", is about to reach its climax. A new trailer depicting upcoming events was also released.

YouTube Clip - Terapagos' Shine Arc Trailer (Japan Region Locked)

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMJBx_HTuB8

Episode 23, "Galar Fire Blazes Up", which aired on the 22nd, featured not the Black Rayquaza, but a Galar Fire carrying an ancient monster ball, the proof of being one of the Six Heroes that traveled with Lucius! Liko and the others want to close in on this Galar Fire somehow, but it's burning with anger and keeps everyone at arm's length, so they came up with a plan that incorporated Gym Leader Kabu's advice that winning battles isn't the only way to be a Trainer.

The new trailer finally reveals the tale of the Ancient Adventurer Lucius' adventures, as well as the true identity of the mysterious Pokémon the pendant turned into. The story centered around this mysterious Pokémon starts taking some sudden twists and turns as the executives of the Explorers, the organization Amethio belongs to, begin taking personal action.

The next episode, episode 24, "Reunion at the Old Castle", will air October 13th. Liko's pendant has turned into a mysterious Pokémon, as, wanting to learn the truth about this Pokémon, she and the others head for Liko's grandmother Diana's location and finally reunite with her at a hidden old castle. Diana tells them the tale of Lucius' adventures, and of the mysterious Pokémon "Terapagos". Meanwhile, Amethio and his fellow Explorers approach the old castle, having followed Liko and the others there...

Weekly sets of episodes of the Pocket Monsters anime will be available on the official Pokémon Youtube channel from Friday September 29th to Friday October 27th! This allows you to binge the "Liko and Roy Set Off" arc in time for the upcoming "Terapagos' Shine" arc, so make sure to check it out!

It has been decided that Nanase Nishino, who plays the protagonist in the original Pokémon live action serial Pokétsume, will join the Pokémon anime as a guest voice actor in December. She will be playing an Eteboth. Further details will be announced later.

A comment from Nanase Nishino:
I've loved the Pokémon video games ever since I was a child, so I was extremely happy to learn that I would be appearing in the Pocket Monsters anime TV show. I was initially surprised that I had been cast as an Eteboth, since I wasn't expecting that I'd play an actual Pokémon, but I'm considering this a great honor.
I actually found it to be quite difficult since the way I had to approach my lines was so different from when I'm doing live action. It required a strong sense of imagination since I needed to get across my character's thoughts and current situation purely through making noises.
I got the hang of it little by little though, and it made me really happy when the sound director told me I was "getting close to an Eteboth now"! This entire thing was a really good experience for me, and one that really made me fall in love with Eteboth. The episode won't be airing for a while though, but look forward to it!
-Nanase Nishino, the voice of Eteboth

Terapagos' Shine

The popular anime Pocket Monsters (airs on the TV Tokyo Network every Friday at 6:55pm, officially abbreviated "Anipoke") is about to enter its second chapter, which is going to be subtitled "Terapagos' Shine". A new poster depicting the Pokémon Terapagos, which holds the key to the protagonists Liko and Roy's adventure, has been released, as has a new trailer.

In Chapter 2, "Terapagos' Shine", a new adventure begins for Liko and Roy when they meet Terapagos, the mysterious Pokémon that has just transformed from its pendant form.


Liko has previously learned about the legend of the "Ancient Adventurer Lucius" from her grandmother Diana, and the trailer released today shows her pledging to grant Terapagos' wish by searching for "Rakua", a place filled with its memories of Lucius.

It has also been revealed that the Black Rayquaza Roy is chasing down was one of the Six Hero Pokémon that went on an adventure with Lucius in the distant past, and that the Explorers, the organization Amethio belongs to, have started their pursuit of the Black Rayquaza as well.


But what is the true goal of the Explorers...? The curtain goes up for a new adventure for Liko, Roy and the others centered around Lucius, the Six Heroes, as well as Terapagos.

It has also been revealed that the new opening theme that will adorn the story of Chapter 2 will be "Hello". Outstanding creators yama and Botchi Boromaru, who have recently been getting really popular on the Internet, primarily on social media, have teamed up as the special unit "yama x Botchi Boromaru" in order to vigorously sing this fast-paced song!

The new opening theme "Hello" will debut on October 27th with episode 26, "Terapagos' Adventure", and can also be heard in the trailer that released today.


A comment from yama:
When I was little, I was particularly fond of the Pokémon movies, which moved me to tears as I kept watching them over and over. This wasn't because I was a particularly emotional child, but because I found the deep bond between Pokémon and humans, along with the music in these movies, to be so moving. I still play video games even as an adult, and Pokémon ones give me these therapeutic, warm and exciting memories. It's a genuine honor to be allowed to handle the theme song this time.
It will make me really happy if this song wil help ease its listeners' anxieties and insecurities and make them recall how cheerful and exciting their daily life can be, even if just a little. Botchi Boromaru-san and I poured our hearts and souls into this song, so I hope its message will reach as many people as possible.


A comment from Botchi Boromaru:
Pokémon has been there with me in some shape or form ever since I was little, not just as video games, but also as a card game, stickers included with sweets, and plushies. I was especially into the anime, taping it every week and watching the episodes over and over, and singing the opening and ending themes at karaoke competitions during grade school. I even used to draw manga starring Pikachu that I'd show to my friends.
But I never even dreamed that I'd one day get to sing a theme song for the Pokémon anime I loved so much! If I tried telling this to my past self that hadn't even started playing the guitar yet, it'd probably sound too ridiculous to believe. This is hands down the greatest thing that has ever happened to me, no exaggeration! yama-san and I took great care in creating this song as we remembered our past selves and thinking about our present selves at the same time. Please enjoy!!!

The Pokémon Company and GameStop have announced that Mimikyu will be distributed via a free code card for Pokémon Scarlet or Pokémon Violet from October 13th, 2023 to October 29th, 2023 in Canada and the United States.

Receive an Electric–Tera Type Mimikyu at GameStop

Visit your local retailer to get a code card that lets you receive an Electric–Tera Type Mimikyu in your Pokémon Scarlet or Pokémon Violet game.

Happy Pokéween! Get ready to charge up your Pokémon Scarlet or Pokémon Violet team with some extra spooky energy: a Mimikyu with Electric as its Tera Type is sneaking into GameStop and looking for more playmates in Paldea! You’ll be able to receive this Electric–Tera Type Mimikyu by visiting GameStop (US and Canada only) and picking up a free code card October 13–29, 2023, while supplies last.

Whether you’re looking to start a new adventure with this exclusive Mimikyu or train it up for competitive battles and raids, it’s sure to add a certain spark to your Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet collection. This Mimikyu comes in a Cherish Ball, has the Classic Ribbon, and is holding a Life Orb that increases the damage of all its moves at the cost of its HP. This special Mimikyu also knows the move Thunderbolt, which will receive a same-type attack bonus while Mimikyu is Terastallized into an Electric-type Pokémon.

If you need even more Mimikyu in your life, you can always check out Pokémon Center for the latest Mimikyu products. You can stay warm and embrace the Pokéween season with a Mimikyu-themed hoodie, display the macabre side of Mimikyu with a Pokémon Center × Vic Lee: Pokémon Scary Stories figure, or refine your accessories with Mimikyu jewelry. There’s no better time to be a fan of the Disguise Pokémon.

To claim your in-game gift, follow these steps:

1. Launch your Pokémon Scarlet or Pokémon Violet game.
2. Select Poké Portal on the X menu.
3. Select Mystery Gift, then select Get with Code/Password to connect to the internet.
4. Enter your code.
5. Watch as the gift arrives in your game. (Pokémon will appear in your party or your Pokémon Boxes.)
6. Be sure to save your game.

No purchase is required to receive a code card for this Mimikyu—but code cards will only be available while supplies last, so don’t delay! Head over to your local retailer to claim this electrifying Disguise Pokémon.

Source: https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-news/receive-an-electric-tera-type-mimikyu-at-gamestop

Following the resounding success of Pokémon: Art through the Ages in 2022, Pokémon: Art in All its Forms (Pokémon : l’art sous toutes ses formes) is coming to the Val d’Europe Shopping Mall in France this fall from October 16th, 2023 to November 12th, 2023.

Pokémon: Art in All its Forms is coming to Val d’Europe this fall, for four weeks of creative adventures for the whole family

London, United Kingdom, October 9, 2023. Today, The Pokémon Company International unveiled Pokémon: Art in All its Forms, an art experience in partnership with shopping destination Val d'Europe, which will take place from October 16th, 2023 to November 12th, 2023.

Following the resounding success of Pokémon: Art through the Ages in 2022 at the Trafford Centre in the UK, the free, open-access event, inspired by a treasure hunt, returns to take up residence in France this time. For four weeks, visitors to Val d'Europe will be able to discover hidden works of art celebrating the 151 Pokémon that first appeared in the Kanto region, featured in Scarlet and Violet 151, the latest expansion to the popular Pokémon Trading Card Game. The Pokémon artwork scattered throughout the mall are inspired by various artistic skills and styles, from stained glass to abstract art.

Participants in this treasure hunt will receive a free activity booklet with which they can explore the aisles of the Val d'Europe to find ten hidden works and discover a secret code. Successful completion of the mission will award three limited-edition Pokémon posters, distributed at Val d'Europe's Auchan, Fnac and Micromania/Zing stores. Each store will offer a different poster.

In keeping with the Pokémon Ensemble campaign, which celebrates the entertainment franchise's spirit of conviviality, Val d'Europe customers and Pokémon fans alike will be able to take part in a range of Pokémon activities:

One of the challenges will be to find the 151 Pokémon from the Kanto region scattered around the Val d'Europe shopping center and complete the Pokédex in the activity booklet, in order to obtain a special certificate.

• On Monday October 16 only, to mark the launch of the partnership between Val d'Europe and Pokémon, the Pokémon Bus will be parked in front of the mall from 11 am to 6 pm.
• On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, lucky visitors will be able to catch a glimpse of Pikachu in the mall's Place des Étoiles, and try to take a photo with the iconic Electric-type Pokémon.
• Evoli will also appear in the Star Plaza every day from October 16 to 22 (except Tuesdays and Thursdays).
• Pokémon Trading Card Game trading sessions will also be held at Place des Étoiles at set times.
• Pokémon GO fans will be able to take advantage of additional in-game activities available in the Val d'Europe area: a one-time Field Research to obtain free Incense, an encounter with Pikachu wearing a party hat, and three-hour Incense that spawns Pokémon from the Kanto region, and much more!

"We are delighted to announce this partnership with Val d'Europe and to offer such an exceptional experience to our fans in France," said Peter Murphy, Marketing Director at The Pokémon Company International. "We hope parents and children alike will enjoy this artistic celebration around the 151 Pokémon from Kanto, the region where it all began over 25 years ago."

"It's more than a game, it's a unique artist experience, and Val d'Europe, awaits these visitors. With the graphical universe and colorful Pokémon characters as a backdrop, this adventure will unite all the generations that make up our clientele. The center is set to become the playground for a thrilling treasure hunt, and to welcome magnificent Pokémon works of art," declared Anne-Catherine Tournon, Director of the Val d'Europe shopping center.

For more information, visit: https://val-d-europe.klepierre.fr/evenements-actualites/evenements/pokemon-2023

Press Release (French) - Pokémon : l’art sous toutes ses formes » arrive à Val d’Europe cet automne, pour quatre semaines d’aventures créatives destinées à toute la famille

Londres, Royaume-Uni, le 9 octobre 2023. Aujourd'hui, The Pokémon Company International a dévoilé « Pokémon : l'art sous toutes ses formes », une expérience artistique en partenariat avec la destination shopping Val d'Europe, qui aura lieu du 16 octobre au 12 novembre 2023.
Suite au succès retentissant de « Pokémon : Art through the Ages » en 2022 au Trafford Centre au Royaume-Uni, l'évènement gratuit en accès libre, inspiré d’une chasse au trésor, revient pour s’installer cette fois en France. Pendant quatre semaines, le public de Val d'Europe pourra découvrir des œuvres d'art cachées mettant à l'honneur les 151 Pokémon apparus pour la première fois dans la région de Kanto, qui figurent dans Écarlate et Violet - 151, la dernière extension du célèbre Jeu de Cartes à Collectionner Pokémon. Les œuvres d'art Pokémon disséminées à travers le centre commercial s'inspirent de divers savoir-faire et styles artistiques, tels que le vitrail ou encore l'art abstrait.

Les participantes et participants à cette chasse au trésor recevront un livret d'activité gratuit avec lequel explorer les allées du centre Val d’Europe pour débusquer les dix œuvres cachées et découvrir un code secret. Réussir cette mission permettra de remporter trois posters Pokémon en édition limitée, distribués dans les magasins Auchan, Fnac et Micromania/Zing de Val d'Europe. Chaque enseigne proposera un poster différent.

Dans le prolongement de la campagne Pokémon Ensemble qui célèbre l'esprit de convivialité propre à la franchise de divertissement, la clientèle de Val d'Europe comme les fans de Pokémon pourront prendre part à un éventail d'activités Pokémon:

• L'un des défis consistera à trouver les 151 Pokémon de la région de Kanto éparpillés à travers le centre commercial Val d’Europe et à compléter le Pokédex du livret d'activité, afin d'obtenir un certificat spécial.
• Le lundi 16 octobre uniquement, pour marquer le lancement du partenariat entre Val d'Europe et Pokémon, le Bus Pokémon sera garé devant le centre commercial de 11 h à 18 h.
• Les vendredis, samedis et dimanches, les visiteuses et visiteurs les plus chanceux pourront apercevoir Pikachu sur la Place des Étoiles du centre commercial et tenter de prendre une photo avec l'emblématique Pokémon de type Électrik.
• Évoli apparaîtra également sur la Place des Étoiles tous les jours du 16 au 22 octobre (sauf le mardi et le jeudi).
• Des séances d'échange du Jeu de Cartes à Collectionner Pokémon auront également lieu sur la Place des Étoiles à des horaires déterminés.
• Les adeptes de Pokémon GO pourront profiter d'activités supplémentaires disponibles en jeu dans la zone du Val d'Europe : une Étude ponctuelle permettant d'obtenir de l'Encens sans frais, une rencontre avec Pikachu portant un chapeau de fête et de l'Encens d'une durée de trois heures qui fait apparaître des Pokémon de la région de Kanto, entre autres !

« Nous sommes ravis d'annoncer ce partenariat avec Val d'Europe et d'offrir une expérience aussi exceptionnelle à nos fans de France », a déclaré Peter Murphy, directeur du marketing chez The Pokémon Company International. « Nous espérons que parents comme enfants profiteront de cette célébration artistique autour des 151 Pokémon de Kanto, région où tout a commencé il y a plus de 25 ans. »

« Plus qu'un jeu, c'est une expérience inédite sur le thème de l’art, cher à Val d’Europe, qui attend nos visiteurs. Avec l’univers graphique et les personnages colorés de Pokémon en toile de fond, cette aventure va fédérer toutes les générations qui composent notre clientèle. Le centre s’apprête à devenir le terrain de jeu d’une chasse aux trésors palpitante et à accueillir de magnifiques œuvres d’art Pokémon » a déclaré Anne-Catherine Tournon, directrice du centre commercial Val d’Europe.

Pour plus d’informations, rendez-vous sur: https://val-d-europe.klepierre.fr/evenements-actualites/evenements/pokemon-2023
Source: https://pokemon.gamespress.com/fr/-Pokemon-lart-sous-toutes-ses-formes-arrive-a-Val-dEurope-cet-automne-

Nintendo has announced that Online servies for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software will be ending in early April 2024 although Pokémon Bank will still continue but also may end at some point in the future. The Pokémon Company is encourage players to transfer their Pokémon to Pokémon HOME at their earliest convenience. This announcement follows the previous one about the Wii U and Nintendo 3DS eShop discontinuing in March 2023.

Announcement of Discontinuation of Online Services for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software

Applies to: New Nintendo 3DS, New Nintendo 3DS XL, New Nintendo 2DS XL, Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo 3DS XL, Nintendo 2DS, Wii U Deluxe, Wii U Basic

Thank you very much for supporting our products. In early April 2024, online play and other functionality that uses online communication will end for Nintendo 3DS* and Wii U software. This also includes online co-operative play, internet rankings, and data distribution. We will announce a specific end date and time at a later date.

Please note that if an event occurs that would make it difficult to continue online services for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software, we may have to discontinue services earlier than planned.
We sincerely thank players for using the online services of Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software over a long period of time and apologize for any inconvenience.

* This includes software exclusive to New Nintendo 3DS.

Q&A

• Will I still be able to play offline even after online services end?
• Will any online services still be available even after online services generally end?
• Are you also ending online services for software from publishers other than Nintendo?
• Will it still be possible to download update data or purchased software?
• When online services end, will StreetPass and SpotPass no longer be available either?

Will I still be able to play offline even after online services end?
Yes. Players will still be able to use features and game modes that do not require online communication.

Will any online services still be available even after online services generally end?
It will still be possible to use online services for the following software but that may also end at some point in the future.

• Pokémon Bank

Are you also ending online services for software from publishers other than Nintendo?
With some exceptions, online services will end for all Nintendo 3DS and Wii U software. Please contact publishers for information about the online services for their software.

Will it still be possible to download update data or purchased software?
For the foreseeable future, it will still be possible to download update data and redownload purchased software and downloadable content from Nintendo eShop.

When online services end, will StreetPass and SpotPass no longer be available either?
StreetPass uses local communication between Nintendo 3DS family systems, meaning that it will still be available even after online services end. However, because SpotPass uses online communication, SpotPass features will no longer be available.
For example, you will be able to use StreetPass in StreetPass Mii Plaza, which is pre-installed on Nintendo 3DS family systems, but you will no longer be able to use features that use online communication (such as receiving new panels in Puzzle Swap).

Source: https://en-americas-support.nintendo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/63227/

The Pokémon Primary Schools’ Cup 23/24 season is getting ready in England. This is the second year of a multi-year partnership between the English Schools’ Football Association (ESFA) and The Pokémon Company International. Photos from the press release have been added to an Imageboard thread.

Press Release - Get ready for the kick off of the Pokémon Primary Schools’ Cup 23/24

London, United Kingdom – 3 October 2023 – The multi-year partnership between the English Schools’ Football Association (ESFA) and The Pokémon Company International is now in its second year, giving opportunities to over 5,000 primary school football teams and over 50,000 players across England. Schools across England will be getting ready to rally their teams and get stuck into the competition.

The partnership offers equal access to football for children at primary school, with a pathway for players to build their football skills across mixed teams, girls’ teams and small schools’ teams in the following categories:

• U11 Schools’ Cup
• U11 Girls’ Cup
• U11 Small Schools’ Cup

During the 23/24 season, school teams will be able to showcase their skills in the local district rounds, successful teams then go on to compete in County rounds, then one of four Regional Finals, which take place in the North, Midlands, South East and South West of England. The top 6 teams who qualify in each Regional Final will have the opportunity to travel to the National Finals, which will be held at a prestigious English football club, to battle it out to be crowned National Champions.


“It was amazing to see so many talented teams from across the country take part in last season’s competition, truly demonstrating that teamwork, friendship and respect are equally important factors in a football competition,” said Peter Murphy, Senior Director of Marketing at The Pokémon Company International.

“We look forward to continuing to work alongside the ESFA to build on last year’s competition and add in a few special touches that will hopefully help inspire teams along the way. We’re excited to see new teams enter the competition this year and follow their journeys throughout the season.”

ESFA Chair, Marvin Robinson said: “On behalf of the English Schools’ FA, I am delighted to see the growth of the partnership between the ESFA and Pokémon, allowing the Pokémon Primary Schools’ Cup to provide such fantastic opportunities for schools and their pupils across England. Building on the resounding success of our inaugural season together, we eagerly anticipate the evolution of this partnership in the coming months. The Pokémon brand has an unparalleled resonance with children, and it breathes life into the U11 schools’ cup competitions in ways that are truly extraordinary.”

Alex Norman, team coach of last year’s winning U11 Small Schools’ Cup Team, Alma Primary School said, “Having seen the school win the competition last year, the children are so excited to compete again. The chance to play against other schools across the country creates opportunities that some may never have experienced and memories that last forever. Playing at Leicester City’s King Power stadium is something the kids and parents will never forget. It was a fantastic day! Our participation last year was a massive plus for the whole school with everyone feeling a part of the success.”

The Pokémon Company International is on a mission to delight their fans through excellent products and meaningful experiences. They hope to help make the world a better place for everyone by creating opportunities to bond and grow through shared journeys and friendly competition. To take part, schools can get in touch with their local County Schools’ FA and register to take part in local rounds of the competition.

Competition and event updates will be shared via the ESFA’s website and across social channels throughout the coming months.

Source: https://pokemon.gamespress.com/Get-ready-for-the-kick-off-of-the-Pokemon-Primary-Schools-Cup-23-57014

Pokémon Sleep has announced details about the September 2023 Good Sleep Day Event which takes place from Thursday, September 28th, 2023 to Sunday, October 1st, 2023.

The Second Good Sleep Day Event

Sightings of Cleffa, Clefairy, and Clefable have been reported during the current Good Sleep Day event, which began at 4:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 28th, 2023!

It seems they’re easier to spot on the day of a full moon and the days immediately before and after it. Were all of you researchers able to encounter a Cleffa, Clefairy, or Clefable?

・ Appearing at
All areas

・ Sleep Types
Cleffa: Slumbering
Clefairy: Snoozing
Clefable: Snoozing

Rest your very best on the night of a full moon! This event will be held once a month for a total of three days: on the day of the full moon and the days before and after it. During this time period, Drowsy Power will be multiplied by 1.5, and on the day of the full moon (September 29), it will be multiplied by 2. Let’s all try to get lots of sleep during the event and research loads of Pokémon sleep styles!

Day 1: Thursday, September 28, at 4:00 a.m. to Friday, September 29, at 3:59 a.m.​
Day 2 (the night of the full moon): Friday, September 29, at 4:00 a.m. to Saturday, September 30, at 3:59 a.m.​
Day 3: Saturday, September 30, at 4:00 a.m. to Sunday, October 1, at 3:59 a.m.

How to Progress in the Event

Participating in the event is easy! Simply press the “Sleep” button before going to sleep during the event period to track your sleep. A variety of event-related effects will be triggered during your sleep research.
— Night of the full moon (Sep 29) —
Drowsy Power ×2
Pokémon Sleep EXP ×3
Bonus Sleep Points +1,000

— Other days (Sep 28, Sep 30) —
Drowsy Power ×1.5
Pokémon Sleep EXP ×2
Bonus Sleep Points +500
Notes about Good Sleep Day

• [Important] Each day of the Good Sleep Day event rolls over at 4:00 a.m.
• Event bonuses apply only to sleep data tracked within the event period.
• If you wait to report sleep data tracked before the event begins, and select “Review Later” during the event, event bonuses will not be applied.
• If you wait to report sleep data tracked during the event, and select “Review Later” after the event has ended, event bonuses will be applied.
• You can only receive bonus sleep points once per day. You will not receive bonus sleep points for the second sleep session in a day.
• Event bonuses do not apply to sleep tracking during the tutorial.
• Event bonuses will be triggered regardless of which site you conduct your sleep research in.

Source: https://www.pokemonsleep.net/en/news/2686/

Details About the September 2023 Good Sleep Day Event in Pokémon Sleep

Earn bonus Drowsy Power every month during the full moon. It’s always good to get a solid night’s sleep—especially when you’re playing Pokémon Sleep. To encourage you to rest your very best, each month features a special in-game Good Sleep Day event centered around the full moon.

This month’s Good Sleep Day event will be held from Thursday, September 28, 2023, to Sunday, October 1, 2023. During this event, Drowsy Power will be multiplied by 1.5 on the days before and after the full moon, and it’ll be multiplied by 2 on the day of the full moon (Friday, September 29). With more Drowsy Power, you may be able to draw in more Pokémon or see rarer sleep styles!

Additional bonuses include 2× Pokémon Sleep EXP and 500 bonus Sleep Points on September 28 and September 30, and 3× Pokémon Sleep EXP and 1,000 bonus Sleep Points on September 29. Please note that each day of this event runs from 4:00 a.m. to 3:59 a.m. local time.

Keep your eyes open (when you’re not sleeping, that is) during this month’s event, as you might have a surprise encounter!

Thanks for playing Pokémon Sleep and have fun filling out your Sleep Style Dex during the Good Sleep Day event!

Source: https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-news/details-about-the-september-2023-good-sleep-day-event-in-pokemon-sleep

Explore the art of Vincent van Gogh with Pokémon at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam! Discover Pokémon-themed artworks, take part in an art hunt, and shop exclusive merchandise from Pokémon Center and at the museum from September 28th, 2023 through January 7th, 2024! High resolution images from the press release have been added to an Imageboard thread.

The Pokémon Company International Partners With The Van Gogh Museum For Special ‘Pokémon x Van Gogh’ Art Collaboration

AMSTERDAM – Sept. 27, 2023 – See Pikachu, Eevee, Snorlax and many other Pokémon in a whole new way starting Sept. 28 until Jan. 7, 2024 at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam. Experience a variety of Pokémon themed activities across the museum and online aimed at introducing and teaching young budding artists about the works of Vincent van Gogh.

To celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Van Gogh Museum, Pokémon and the Van Gogh Museum have launched an official collaboration aimed at introducing new audiences to the work of Vincent van Gogh. Both Vincent van Gogh’s work and Pokémon have a special connection with Japanese art and culture. Japanese prints had a profound impact on Vincent’s art and on his world view. Speaking to his brother Theo in a letter in September 1888, Vincent said ‘And we wouldn’t be able to study Japanese art, it seems to me, without becoming much happier and more cheerful, and it makes us return to nature, despite our education and our work in a world of convention.’

Emilie Gordenker, General Director of the Van Gogh Museum commented: ‘This collaboration will allow the next generation to get to know Vincent van Gogh’s art and life story in a refreshing way. The Van Gogh Museum and The Pokémon Company International have drawn on many years of educational expertise to create a special experience for children, their supervisors, and we hope many others at the Van Gogh Museum.’


The Pokémon and Van Gogh Museum collaboration will feature the following activations running from Sept. 28 until Jan. 7, 2024. To participate in the activities, a regular museum admission ticket is required which can only be purchased online.

‘Pokémon at the Van Gogh Museum’ presentation (permanent collection, floor 1)

Several of Vincent van Gogh’s most famous works from the permanent collection of the Van Gogh Museum served as inspiration for six paintings made by artists from The Pokémon Company. Examples include, Pikachu shown in a work that is inspired by Self-portrait with Grey Felt Hat (1887), the Pokémon Sunflora is hidden in a variant of Van Gogh’s famous Sunflowers (1889), and you can find Snorlax and Munchlax relaxing in a work inspired by The Bedroom (1888). You can admire these six specially created paintings on the first floor of the Rietveld building (Rietveldgebouw)

A Pokémon Adventure activity (6 years+, activity leaflets are handed out at the Atrium)

A Pokémon Adventure leaflet will lead visitors along the works by Vincent van Gogh that served as inspiration for the paintings in the six-piece special presentation, Pokémon at the Van Gogh Museum. During the activity, visitors will discover the museum and the stories behind the paintings. Once participants complete the Pokémon Adventure activity, they can hand in their completed leaflet for a special Pikachu x Van Gogh Museum promo card (subject to availability). The Pokémon Adventure leaflet is available in both Dutch and English.

Pokémon x Van Gogh online learning material – Van Gogh at School (Upper primary lower secondary education level)

Vincent greatly admired everything related to Japan, and Japanese prints taught him to look at the world differently. The use of flat planes of strong colors, everyday subjects and attention for detail in nature spoke to him. Using the Pokémon x Van Gogh collaboration as a starting point, pupils will learn about the connection between Van Gogh and Japan, and about how inspiration can work in two directions. The teaching materials are available in both Dutch and English.

‘How to draw Pikachu’ video guide (Restaurant Rietveldgebouw 0)

A guided video activity will be available within the museum which teaches visitors how to draw the fan favorite Pokémon Pikachu and encourages them to try it for themselves.

‘Pokémon Center x Van Gogh Museum’ merchandise

The Pokémon Center online store will feature an exclusive range of ‘Pokémon x Van Gogh Museum’ merchandise featuring the art from the collaboration. Items available include a special Vincent Van Gogh inspired Pikachu Plush, Trading Card Game sleeves, Van Gogh inspired figures of Pikachu and Eevee, Poster Prints, a Jigsaw Puzzle and more. A special promotional ‘Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat’ trading card inspired by Vincent Van Gogh’s ‘Self Portrait with Grey Felt Hat’ will be available as a gift with purchase item with all Pokémon Center x Van Gogh Museum products. Products and promotional trading cards are available whilst stocks last. For the full ranges available please visit www.pokemoncenter.com in the U.S. and www.pokemoncenter.ca in Canada.

The Van Gogh Museum Shop will also feature an exclusive range of Pokémon x Van Gogh Museum merchandise featuring art from the collaboration.

Director of Licensing at The Pokémon Company International, Mathieu Galante commented ‘We are always looking for fantastic partners that we can create unique and joyful experiences with for Pokémon fans, and we have genuinely found that in working with the Van Gogh Museum. There is a strong link between the inspiration behind Pokémon and the inspiration behind some of Vincent Van Gogh’s most famous work. With this collaboration we really hope that we can see children discovering and immersing themselves into the world of art through the incredible works of Van Gogh and Pokémon.’

Pokémon x Van Gogh TCG Promo Card Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get the special Pikachu Pokémon promo card?
1. Book a museum ticket between 28 September 2023 and 7 January 2024.
2. Get yourself a copy of the Pokémon Adventure at the museum's Information Desk in the Atrium.
3. Complete the answers and hand in your copy at the Information Desk. Only then, you will receive a special Pikachu Pokémon promo card.

You can join the Pokémon Adventure until 7 January 2024. Please note: the promo cards are subject to availability.

Can I get the promo card somewhere other than the museum?
The promo cards will only be available in the Netherlands between 28 September 2023 and 7 January 2024, by completing a Pokémon Adventure at the Van Gogh Museum. The promo cards are subject to availability.

Book museum admission tickets in advance at tickets.vangoghmuseum.com

Can I take an extra promo card for people at home?
No, you'll only receive a promo card when you've completed the Pokémon Adventure at the museum. No promo cards will be issued for your friends or family at home.

How many promo cards can I get?
A maximum of one promo card will be issued per person and per completed Pokémon Adventure. The promo cards are subject to availability.

Until when can I join the Pokémon activities at the museum and get a promo card?
You can join the Pokémon activities from 28 September 2023 until 7 January 2024. The promo cards are subject to availability. If the stock at the museum runs out, there is no other way to obtain the promo cards.

Can I buy an admission ticket to the museum at the door?
Admission tickets are only available online and are not sold at the door of the Van Gogh Museum. Check ticket availability at tickets.vangoghmuseum.com.

Can I enter the museum without an admission ticket to purchase Pokémon x Van Gogh Museum items at the museum shop?
No, access to the museum's shop is only possible with a valid museum admission ticket. Book tickets at tickets.vangoghmuseum.com.

However, you can also purchase selected Pokémon x Van Gogh Museum items at the museum's online shop or at the Pokémon Center.

Is the Pokémon Adventure only suitable for children?
The Pokémon Adventure activity is developed for children aged 6 and older, but adults are of course also welcome to join in.

Sources: https://www.vangoghmuseum.nl/en/van-gogh-museum-x-pokemon#frequently-asked-questions and https://press.pokemon.com/en/releases/The-Pokemon-Company-International-Partners-With-The-Van-Gogh-Museum-Fo

Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum

The Pokémon Center released a line of products to tie in with this exhibition. Each qualifying product received the promo Pikachu card.

Items:

Item List:

Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Pokémon Inspired by Paintings from the Van Gogh Museum Collection Posters (6-Pack) - $39.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Pokémon Inspired by Paintings from the Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam 15 oz. Mug - $14.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Pokémon Inspired by Paintings from the Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam Pin Box Set (6-Pack) - $49.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Pokémon Inspired by Paintings from the Van Gogh Museum Playmat - $24.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Pokémon Inspired by Paintings from the Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam Journal - $19.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Pokémon Inspired by Paintings from the Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam Postcards (12-Pack) - $14.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Pokémon Inspired by Paintings from the Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam Double Deck Box - $12.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Corviknight Inspired by Wheatfield with Crows Playmat - $24.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Eevee Inspired by Self-Portrait with Straw Hat Figure - $19.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Pikachu Inspired by Self-Portrait with Grey Felt Hat Figure - $19.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Eevee Inspired by Self-Portrait with Straw Hat Canvas Wall Art - $49.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Pikachu Inspired by Self-Portrait with Grey Felt Hat - $49.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Sunflora Inspired by Sunflowers Canvas Wall Art - $49.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Pikachu Plush - 7 ¾ In. - $24.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Pikachu & Eevee Inspired by Vincent's Self-Portraits Playmat - $24.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Eevee Inspired by Self-Portrait with Straw Hat Canvas Tote Bag - $19.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Pikachu Inspired by Self-Portrait with Grey Felt Hat Canvas Tote Bag - $19.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Pikachu Inspired by Self-Portrait with Grey Felt Hat Journal - $19.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Eevee Inspired by Self-Portrait with Straw Hat Card Sleeves (65 Sleeves) - $7.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Munchlax & Snorlax Inspired by The Bedroom Puzzle (1,008 Pieces) - $19.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Sunflora Inspired by Sunflowers Card Sleeves (65 Sleeves) - $7.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Munchlax & Snorlax Inspired by The Bedroom Journal - $19.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Pikachu Inspired by Self-Portrait with Grey Felt Hat Card Sleeves (65 Sleeves) - $7.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Munchlax & Snorlax Inspired by The Bedroom Double Deck Box - $12.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Corviknight Inspired by Wheatfield with Crows Double Deck Box - $12.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Smeargle Inspired by Self-Portrait as a Painter Card Sleeves (65 Sleeves) - $7.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Munchlax & Snorlax Inspired by The Bedroom Card Sleeves (65 Sleeves) - $7.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Corviknight Inspired by Wheatfield with Crows Card Sleeves (65 Sleeves) - $7.99
Pokémon Center × Van Gogh Museum: Munchlax & Snorlax Inspired by The Bedroom Playmat - $24.99

Source: https://www.pokemoncenter.com/search/van-gogh

The Pokémon Trading Card Game Classic was announced on Pokémon Day 2023 and pre-orders are now open at stores and the Pokémon Center. It will retail for $399.99 USD and will be released on November 17th, 2023. High resolution images from the press release have been added to an Imageboard thread.

Pokémon Trading Card Game Classic Is Coming to Pokémon Center

Enjoy the Pokémon TCG in style by preordering this premium collection of playable decks and accessories.

Earlier this year, Pokémon Trading Card Game Classic was announced as a timeless set of Pokémon TCG decks designed for fans to enjoy friendly battles anytime and anywhere. Now, fans can prepare for these battles when Pokémon Trading Card Game Classic launches at Pokémon Center and local hobby stores on November 17, 2023. Preorders for this premier collectible product are now available at Pokémon Center.

Pokémon Trading Card Game Classic melds older cards with new concepts and features never-before-seen cards: Lugia ex, Ho-Oh ex, Suicune ex, Sun Seed, Scorching Charcoal, and Drops in the Ocean. Fans can also look forward to a Pokémon TCG card featuring Mr. Mime that’s releasing outside of Japan for the first time. The unique cards printed for Pokémon Trading Card Game Classic will also be made available in a separate product coming in February 2024. Stay tuned for more details.

Pokémon Trading Card Game Classic has an MSRP of $399.99. Remember, this high-end collectible is available for preorder now at the Pokémon Center. Prepare for classic battles, Trainers!

Source: https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-news/pokemon-trading-card-game-classic-is-coming-to-pokemon-center

Press Release - Pokémon Trading Card Game Classic Coming Soon, Offering Trainers an Elevated Pokémon TCG Experience

Sept. 21, 2023 — The Pokémon Company group announced today that Pokémon Trading Card Game Classic, revealed on Pokémon Day 2023, will be available at participating retailers starting Nov. 17, 2023. In addition, Pokémon Trading Card Game Classic is now available for preorder at Pokémon Center, the premier online destination for official Pokémon merchandise in the U.S. and Canada.

Created as a collaboration among The Pokémon Company, Creatures Inc. and design firm nendo, Pokémon Trading Card Game Classic is a premium Pokémon TCG collection designed to be a staple play set for any Pokémon TCG fan. Sporting a reimagined design, Pokémon Trading Card Game Classic contains everything fans need to play and collect the Pokémon TCG, including preconstructed decks and gameplay accessories — all of which have been uniquely designed to be both beautiful and functional to deliver a polished battling experience.

Pokémon Trading Card Game Classic comes with three preconstructed decks headlined by iconic cards from the history of the Pokémon TCG, including recreations of Base Set Venusaur, Charizard and Blastoise. Each deck contains 60 foil cards and features one of the three Kanto first partner Pokémon — Bulbasaur, Charmander or Squirtle. Alongside classic cards, brand-new cards are included to enable players to form new strategies. The new cards feature Lugia ex, Ho-Oh ex, Suicune ex, Sun Seed, Scorching Charcoal, Drops in the Ocean and a Mr. Mime card that was previously released only in Japan.[1]

Pokémon Trading Card Game Classic will also equip Trainers with the following components:

• A high-quality game board featuring card placement zones on a premium fabric surface, plus a compartment that holds up to three decks and a toolbox complete with all the gameplay accessories needed for battling.
• An all-inclusive toolbox containing enough gameplay accessories for two players to battle, including stackable damage counters, three-dimensional Poison and Burn markers and metal orbs that take the place of Pokémon coins.
• Intuitive damage counters and Special Condition markers designed with bright colors and unique conical and ring shapes, allowing players to quickly calculate total damage and identify Special Conditions.
• Elegant card sleeves and deck boxes thoughtfully crafted to maintain visual focus on the card artwork while protecting the three preconstructed decks and allowing for easy storage of sleeved cards when not in use.

[1] Except for Basic Energy cards, cards included in Pokémon Trading Card Game Classic cannot be used for tournament play.

Source: https://press.pokemon.com/en/releases/MEDIA-ALERT-Pokemon-Trading-Card-Game-Classic-Coming-Soon-Offering-Tra

The Pokémon Company International and Creatures Inc announced the Pokémon Trading Card Game Illustration Contest is returning for 2024 and this year it is open to submission from people in UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand in addition to the U.S. and Japan. Details about the previous Illustration Contest 2022 are also available in an archive news article.

YouTube Clip - Announcing the Pokémon Illustration Contest 2024

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=64MCUqvs5-Y

Press Release - Returning Pokémon Trading Card Game Illustration Contest Expands to Additional Markets

2024 Contest Available to Trainers in the U.K., Canada, Australia and New Zealand for the First Time

Bellevue, Wash. — Sept. 14, 2023 — Today, The Pokémon Company International and Creatures Inc. announced the Pokémon Trading Card Game Illustration Contest 2024, a fan art contest inviting Trainers to spotlight their artistic talents through the lens of the globally popular Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG).

Following the success of the Pokémon Trading Card Game Illustration Contest 2022, fans are encouraged to submit their creative artwork capturing “Magical Pokémon Moments,” the official contest theme for 2024. With the option to illustrate a standard card or a Pokémon ex card, Trainers can select one of the following Pokémon to feature in their submission: Charizard, Pikachu, Eevee, Feraligatr, Flygon, Absol, Bidoof, Melmetal, Amped Form Toxtricity or Koraidon.

“We were astounded to see the sheer talent and passion of the Pokémon fan community from contest submissions in 2022,” says Barry Sams, vice president of the Pokémon TCG at The Pokémon Company International. “With the contest expanding to additional markets in 2024, we’re eager to see what our dedicated fans have in store for us and how they envision ‘Magical Pokémon Moments’ in their creative minds.”

The Pokémon Trading Card Game Illustration Contest 2024 will be open to applicants in the U.K., Canada, Australia and New Zealand for the first time, in addition to those in the U.S. and Japan. An informational video about the upcoming contest can be viewed here.

Entries for the upcoming contest will be accepted from October 12, 2023, through January 31, 2024, and winners will be announced in September 2024.

For full contest details, including eligibility and prizing, please visit https://www.ptcgic-cr.com/2024/en/.

Message

Since the Pokémon Trading Card Game (developed by Creatures Inc.) debuted as Japan's first full-fledged trading card game, it has continued to be one of the most popular and best-selling trading card games in the world and has been shipped in 14 languages and 89 countries and regions to date. The Pokémon TCG is celebrating 27 years this year, alongside the 27th anniversary of the beloved Pokémon brand.

It all started in Japan in 2019 with the Pokémon Trading Card Game Illustration Grand Prix, which was followed by another one the following year. Then, in 2021, the Pokémon Trading Card Game Illustration Contest 2022 started accepting submissions from both Japan and the United States for the first time. These contests let us see wonderful illustrations brought to life and new talents brought to light. This year's contest has "Magical Pokémon Moments" as its theme, and we are accepting submissions from Japan, US, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. We can't wait to see what incredible and exciting artwork you will come up with.

Awards

Grand Prize - One (1) Grand Prize Winner will receive a cash value of $5,000.
Best Standard Card Illustration/Best ex Card Illustration - One (1) Best Standard Card Illustration Winner, and one (1) Best ex Card Illustration Winner will receive a cash value of $3,000.
First Runner-Up - Six (6) First Runners-Up will receive a cash value of $1,000.
Judges’ Award - Fifteen (15) Judges’ Award Winners will receive a cash value of $500.

Judges

Tsunekazu Ishihara - The Pokémon Company, President
Kenji Okubo - The Pokémon Company International, President
Yuji Kitano - Creatures, Inc. President
Atsuko Ujiie - Creatures, Inc. Executive Director, CG Studio - Executive Art Director
Atsushi Nagashima - Creatures, Inc. Executive Director, Pokémon TCG Development Division Executive Creative Director
Satoru Nagaya - Creatures, Inc. Art Director
Haru Saito - Creatures, Inc. Illustration Director
OOYAMA - Illustrator Judges
kantaro - Illustrator Judges
Teeziro - Illustrator Judges
Atsushi Furusawa - Illustrator Judges
Masahiro Karasawa - Special Judges