Samsung has announced that it will sell Galaxy Buds2/Buds2 Pro Pokémon Case Packages starting on June 27th, 2023 in South Korea. In May of 2022, Samsung released the Galaxy Buzz 2 Pokémon Monster Ball Case Package as a limited edition and was very popular.

The newly introduced Galaxy Buds 2/Buds 2 Pro Pokémon Case Packages consist of earbuds, a bud case and a sticker featuring Snorlax, Ditto and Jigglypuff. The prices are 129,000 won for the Buds2 and 199,000 won for the Buds2 Pro version.


Samsung will sell them through their online store GMarket from June 27th, 2023 at 9:00 am but they will also be available at the Samsung Gangnam store staring on June 29th, 2023.

An official from Samsung representative said, "The newly prepared packages for this year have a more special and attractive design based on actual Pokémon."

Press Release (Korean) - 삼성전자, ‘갤럭시 버즈2·버즈2 프로 포켓몬 케이스 패키지’ 출시

삼성전자가 ‘갤럭시 버즈2·버즈2 프로 포켓몬 케이스 패키지’를 27일부터 판매한다고 밝혔다.
삼성전자는 지난해 5월 ‘갤럭시 버즈2 포켓몬 몬스터볼 케이스 패키지’를 한정판으로 출시해 큰 인기를 얻은 바 있다.
이번에 새롭게 선보이는 ‘갤럭시 버즈2·버즈2 프로 포켓몬 케이스 패키지’는 각각 해당 제품과 함께 포켓몬스터 캐릭터 중 ‘메타몽’, ‘잠만보’, ‘푸린’을 모티브로 제작된 버즈 케이스와 스티커로 구성됐고, 가격은 각각 12만 9천원과 19만 9천원이다.
삼성전자는 27일 오전 9시부터 온라인 쇼핑몰 G마켓을 통해 ‘갤럭시 버즈2·버즈2 프로 포켓몬 케이스 패키지’를 판매하며, 이달 29일에 오픈 예정인 ‘삼성 강남’ 매장에서도 ‘메타몽’, ‘잠만보’, ‘푸린’ 등 3종의 버즈 케이스를 3만 9천 6백원에 판매한다.
삼성전자 관계자는 “올해 새롭게 준비한 패키지는 ‘포켓몬스터’를 기반으로 한층 더 특별하고 매력적인 디자인을 적용했다”며, “갤럭시 사용자 개성을 표현할 수 있는 다양한 콜라보를 지속적으로 진행할 예정”이라고 전했다.

Source: https://news.samsung.com/kr/

The POKÉMON × KOGEI | Playful Encounters of Pokémon and Japanese Craft exhibit which debuted at the National Crafts Museum in Kanazawa, Japan is coming to JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles, United States from July 25th, 2023 to January 7th, 2024.

The POKÉMON × KOGEI Art Exhibition Is Coming to JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles

Starting July 25, 2023, you can witness Playful Encounters of Pokémon and Japanese Craft in this incredible exhibition.

Pokémon and fine art collide in POKÉMON × KOGEI | Playful Encounters of Pokémon and Japanese Craft, a new exhibition coming later this summer to JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles. From July 25, 2023, to January 7, 2024, this site will be home to more than 70 works that bring the Pokémon world to life through traditional Japanese artistry that has been honed over centuries as well as more modern techniques and technologies that are typical of contemporary artists.


The exhibition showcases work from 20 renowned Japanese artists, including the metal artist Morihito Katsura, who is recognized as one of Japan’s living national treasures, to exciting young artists like sculptor Taiichiro Yoshida. Pieces include images of Pikachu, Rowlet, Litten, and Popplio stencil-dyed onto silk cloth, Charizard integrated into a large ceramic jar, and a dazzling Jolteon sculpted from individual pieces of gold- and silver-plated copper hammered into the shape of lightning bolts.

There will be no admission fee to the POKÉMON × KOGEI exhibit, located at the JAPAN HOUSE Gallery on Level 2 of Ovation Hollywood in Los Angeles. During the exhibit, the gallery will be open 11 a.m.–7 p.m. PT weekdays and 11 a.m.–8 p.m. PT on Saturdays and Sundays. Stop in to enjoy a bit of culture and see some beautiful Pokémon art.

Source: https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-news/the-pokemon-kogei-art-exhibition-is-coming-to-japan-house-los-angeles

Press Release - JAPAN HOUSE LOS ANGELES UNVEILS POKÉMON EXHIBITION

“POKÉMON X KOGEI | Playful Encounters of Pokémon and Japanese Craft” Makes its US Debut ​​​​​​​

LOS ANGELES – July 25, 2023 – JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles is pleased to announce the opening of “POKÉMON X KOGEI | Playful Encounters of Pokémon and Japanese Craft,” the new exhibition making its U.S. debut today. One of the world’s biggest entertainment franchises and Japanese craft artistry and techniques, both contemporary and refined over centuries, come together in this exhibition featuring over 70 works created by 20 renowned Japanese artists using their skills and ever-evolving craft techniques to creatively channel the world of the globally popular Pokémon brand. While the exhibition is on view through January 7, 2024, certain artworks will be switched during the exhibition’s run, giving attendees an opportunity to view new artwork on return visits.

In celebration of the exhibition, a limited edition Official Exhibition Book (published by Tokyo Bijutsu) will be available for purchase (Price: $48) at JAPAN HOUSE’s WAZA Shop and online, while supplies last. In addition, The Pokémon Plush: Pokémon x Kougeiten Craft Exhibition – Pikachu, created in collaboration with the original exhibition, will be available for the first time outside of Japan beginning today at Pokémon Center in the U.S., Canada and the U.K.


Additionally, to commemorate the opening JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles will host a special complimentary talk program with Tsunekazu Ishihara, president and CEO of The Pokémon Company, and Masahiro Karasawa, director of Japan’s National Crafts Museum on opening day, July 25 from 5:00 – 6:15 p.m. (PDT). This enlightening evening will broaden attendees’ perspective on the rich world of Japanese craft opened up by the epic battles between Pokémon and kogei. Conversations will touch upon the genesis of the exhibition and The Pokémon Company President Ishihara’s reverence for and desire to spotlight kogei, as well as the stories behind the exceptional artists and artworks as Director Karasawa shares his unique knowledge and perspectives on the collection.

“The talented artists behind the POKÉMON X KOGEI exhibit bring the Pokémon world to life in a never-before-seen way while honoring traditional Japanese artistry in each piece,” said Tsunekazu Ishihara, president and CEO of The Pokémon Company. “Our collaboration with JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles offers a unique platform to celebrate Japanese culture, as well as the artists, for fans of both the Pokémon brand and art. We’re honored to have the Pokémon brand be featured in this way and leverage its modern-day popularity to share the incredible legacy of Japanese craft with new audiences in the US.”

Opening to great acclaim at National Crafts Museum earlier this year, the exhibition showcases celebrated artists ranging from Japan’s living national treasure and metal artist Morihito Katsura, to exciting young artists like sculptor Taiichiro Yoshida. Ingenious creations include playful images of Pikachu, Rowlet, Litten, and Popplio stencil-dyed onto silk cloth, Charizard integrated into a large ceramic jar, and a dazzling Jolteon made from copper plates hammered into the shape of lightning bolts and then plated with gold and silver.

“This unique collaboration answer the question, ‘What happens when Pokémon meets kogei?’ for art enthusiasts and gamers alike,” said Yuko Kaifu, president, JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles. “We’re excited to present this unique collaboration with exceptional artists and artworks showcasing the rich world of Japanese craft through the global phenomenon of Pokémon appreciated by all ages around the world.”

The original Pokémon games, Pokémon Red and Pokémon Green launched in Japan in 1996 where their popularity quickly grew. Following tremendous success in Japan, the original games were released within a couple of years in the U.S. and the franchise expanded rapidly, remaining at the forefront of popular culture to this day. New generations of Pokémon games were launched over the years, as well as the popular Pokémon Trading Card Game, animated TV shows, movies, mobile games, toys, clothing, and other merchandise.

Complimentary exhibition tickets can now be reserved through JAPAN HOUSE’s online reservation system for Tuesday, July 25 – Thursday, August 31. Reservations for the remainder of the exhibition’s run will be released on the first day of the prior month (e.g., Tuesday, August 1 for September reservations). Guests can register for themselves plus five additional guests. Walk-ins are welcome as space allows and the gallery is open daily from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. (Mon. – Fri.) and 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. (Sat. – Sun.). The exhibition will also include related programs throughout the duration of the exhibition from July 2023 – January 2024.

The Pokémon Air Adventures Flying Pikachu Project, developed by The Pokémon Company, and the ANA Group are expanding their collaborative efforts. The Eevee Jet NH will be the second Flying Pikachu Project aircraft for the ANA Group, and it will begin operation on August 31st, 2023 with a Boeing 777-300ER aircraft (aircraft number JA784A).


In addition to ANA's original Pokémon-themed special painted aircraft cabin design, flight attendant aprons and headrest covers will have an original Eevee Jet NH design.


ANA Group started their collaboration on March 26th, 2023 with the announcement of a specially painted Pikachu Jet NH which began flights on June 4th, 2023. A series of special events such as in-flight entertainment and original goods sales have since been introduced.

Aircraft Design Concept

Eevee has the potential to evolve into various forms. The design depicts Eevee and its evolved Pokémon forms such as Showers, Thunders, and Booster moving powerfully forward into the future together with Pikachu. They depart for a journey in the sky with people who fly to new places.

With the launch of the Eevee Jet NH, even more passengers from around the world will be able to board the specially painted Pokémon-themed aircraft.

Initial Routes

Operation period: Approximately 5 years from August 31, 2023
Aircraft: Boeing 777-300ER Aircraft JA784A

The following is a list of routes that may be served from August 31st, 2023 to October 28th, 2023. The routes may be subject to change due to aircraft changes, etc.

• Haneda - London (NH211/NH212)
• Haneda - New York (NH110/NH109/NH160/NH159)
• Haneda - San Francisco (NH108/NH107)

Source: https://www.anahd.co.jp/group/pr/202306/20230625.html

It's Ash VS Leon for the title of World Champion! The Masters Eight Tournament continues with Part 3 of Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series, now available on Netflix in the United States!

YouTube Clip - Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series | Part 3 now available on Netflix

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t0UnnkzoyVE

Press Release - New Episodes of ‘Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series’ — Featuring Ash Ketchum’s Legendary World Championship Victory — Premieres Today on Netflix in the U.S.

Bellevue, Wash. — June 23, 2023 — The Pokémon Company International announced the third batch of episodes of “Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series,” the globally popular Pokémon animated series, premieres today exclusively on Netflix in the U.S.

In the newest episodes, Trainers can join Ash Ketchum and his Pikachu on their latest adventures in the Pokémon world and witness the duo’s legendary victory as they achieve the goal of becoming World Champion after 25 seasons of countless battles and challenging quests.

For a sneak peek at the adventures leading up to Ash and Pikachu’s historic Pokémon World Coronation Series win, Trainers can watch a new trailer on the official Pokémon YouTube channel.

Ahead of the new Pokémon animated series, “Pokémon Horizons: The Series,” Trainers are invited to send off Ash and his Pikachu in the final chapter of their adventures, which will conclude with a collection of special episodes to commemorate their 25-season journey. Availability of these future episodes will be announced at a later date.

“Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series” Synopsis:

The stakes are higher than ever for Ash, Goh and Chloe as they advance toward their goals! As the Pokémon World Coronation Series tournament heats up, intensive training is in store for Ash, Pikachu and their Pokémon friends. Meanwhile, Goh embarks on a series of challenging trial missions to become a member of Project Mew. And as Chloe and Eevee learn about the different evolutionary paths that Eevee can take, will they be able to come to a decision about its future? Get ready for nonstop action, familiar faces from journeys past and more Pokémon discoveries to be made!

Source: https://press.pokemon.com/en/releases/MEDIA-ALERT-New-Episodes-of-Pokemon-Ultimate-Journeys-The-Series-19285

The Pokémon Company International has announced the Pokémon Trading Card Game: Scarlet & Violet 151 set will be coming out on September 22nd, 2023. Search far and wide for Pokémon originally discovered in the Kanto region. High resolution images from the press release have been added to an Imageboard thread.

The Pokémon Company International Launches ‘151 to 151’ Campaign Celebrating the Iconic Original 151

Pokémon with New Pokémon Trading Card Game: Scarlet & Violet—151 Coming Soon

June 16, 2023 — The Pokémon Company International is inviting Trainers to explore the original 151 Pokémon in the new “151 to 151” social media campaign featuring iconic Pokémon from the Kanto region, including Bulbasaur, Charmander, Squirtle, Snorlax, Mew and more. The 151 to 151 campaign kicks off today with the unveiling of a new special expansion for the bestselling Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG), Scarlet & Violet—151, releasing worldwide beginning Sept. 22, 2023.

Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet—151 Expansion Coming Soon

As a first for the Pokémon TCG, Scarlet & Violet—151 will feature all original 151 Pokémon from the Kanto region, newly reimagined in Paldea, allowing Trainers a chance to collect and battle with some of the brand’s most iconic Pokémon through the lens of the Scarlet & Violet Series. The expansion features cards in Pokédex order and includes a variety of illustration rare and special illustration rare alternate art to showcase a new side of these Pokémon.

Noteworthy cards from the expansion include:

• 12 Pokémon ex
• 16 illustration rare and seven special illustration rare Pokémon and Supporter cards
• 16 ultra rare full-art etched Pokémon and Supporter cards
• Three hyper rare gold etched cards

Cards from Scarlet & Violet—151 will be available in the following products:


Scarlet & Violet—151 Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box (now available for preorder at Pokémon Center in the U.S., Canada and the U.K.): Includes 11 Scarlet & Violet—151 booster packs; two copies of a Snorlax illustration rare-style promo card, with one featuring the Pokémon Center logo; and various gameplay accessories

Scarlet & Violet—151 Elite Trainer Box (available Sept. 22, 2023): Includes nine Scarlet & Violet—151 booster packs, one Snorlax illustration rare-style promo card and various gameplay accessories


Scarlet & Violet—151 Poster Collection (available Sept. 22, 2023): Includes three Scarlet & Violet—151 booster packs, three promo cards featuring Kanto first partner Pokémon and one full-size, two-sided poster featuring the original 151 Pokémon as well as the card illustrations of each Pokémon in the expansion


Scarlet & Violet—151 Binder Collection (available Sept. 22, 2023): Includes four Scarlet & Violet—151 booster packs and one nine-pocket album that holds up to 360 Pokémon TCG cards Scarlet & Violet—151 Booster Bundle (available Sept. 22, 2023): Includes six Scarlet & Violet—151 booster packs


Scarlet & Violet—151 Ultra-Premium Collection (available Oct. 6, 2023): Includes 16 Scarlet & Violet—151 booster packs, one metal card featuring hyper rare Mew ex, one special illustration rare promo card featuring Mew ex, one illustration rare promo card featuring Mewtwo, one stitched-edge playmat featuring Mew, one deck box, one coin featuring Mew and various gameplay accessories


Scarlet & Violet—151 ex Box—Alakazam ex (available Oct. 6, 2023): Includes four Scarlet & Violet—151 booster packs, one double rare card featuring Alakazam ex and two foil promo cards featuring Kadabra and Abra

Scarlet & Violet—151 ex Box—Zapdos ex (available Oct. 6, 2023): Includes four Scarlet & Violet—151 booster packs, one double rare card featuring Zapdos ex, one foil promo card featuring Electabuzz and one oversize card featuring Zapdos ex


Scarlet & Violet—151 Mini Tin Collection (available Oct. 6, 2023): Includes two Scarlet & Violet—151 booster packs, one coin sporting one of 10 unique styles featuring the various Energy type symbols in the Pokémon TCG and one art card matching the tin

Ahead of the release of the tabletop version, Trainers will be able to play with Scarlet & Violet—151 digitally via the Pokémon TCG Live app for iOS, Android, macOS and Windows devices on Sept. 21, 2023. The expansion will be available in the in-game shop, where players can redeem Crystals, earned by completing daily quests, for various Scarlet & Violet—151 products.


In further celebration of the Scarlet & Violet—151 expansion, Trainers will receive a special Charmander promo card from GameStop in the U.S. and Canada, as well as EB Games in Australia and New Zealand; or a Bulbasaur promo card from Best Buy in the U.S., with any Scarlet & Violet—151 purchase while supplies last.

Source: https://press.pokemon.com/en/releases/MEDIA-ALERT-The-Pokemon-Company-International-Launches-151-to-151-Camp

Popular Japanese e-commerce company Mercari and The Pokémon Company have announced an agreement to make buying and selling Pokémon Cards on the Mercari app platform safer for players of the Pokémon Trading Card Game.

Mercari and Pokémon Sign Comprehensive Collaborative Agreement to Create a Safe and Secure Trading Environment

Mercari and The Pokémon Company announced on June 13th, 2023, that the two companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the Joint Development of the Marketplace to implement various initiatives aimed at creating a safer and more secure trading environment for Pokémon products on the Mercari marketplace.

Under this agreement, The Pokémon Company, which develops the Pokémon Trading Card Game, will share product and release information in advance, and work closely together to alert customers before and after the release of new products and take measures against counterfeit products. The aim is for customers to avoid confusion for transactions and create a safer and more secure trading environment for both companies.

Details of the Collaboration Between the Two Companies - Memorandum of Understanding for the Joint Development of the Marketplace

Pokémon

• Provide new product launch information, product details, product images, etc. to Mercari
• Post alerts on their website
• Expanding production, devise sales methods for stores to directly deliver products to people who actual play and enjoy Pokémon cards, and improving cooperation with wholesalers and retailers.

Mercari

• Post alerts about specific new products on the Mercari app and official blog from the information provided by Pokémon.
• After consulting with Pokémon, listing of certain products will be removed which violate Mercari's terms of use.

Based on this agreement, Mercari and Pokémon will work together to create an environment in which customers can use the products and services of both companies more safely and securely.

Press Release (Japanese) - メルカリとポケモン、安心・安全な取引環境の構築に向けた包括連携協定を締結

2023年6月13日 11時00分 フリマアプリ「メルカリ」を運営する株式会社メルカリ（以下、メルカリ）と株式会社ポケモン（以下、ポケモン）は2023年6月13日、メルカリのマーケットプレイス上で、ポケモンの商品が、より安心・安全に取引できる環境の構築を目指し、両社が共同で様々な取り組みを実施する「マーケットプレイスの共創に関する覚書」（以下、本協定）を締結いたしました。

本協定では、トレーディングカードゲーム「ポケモンカードゲーム」を展開するポケモンと二次流通事業者のメルカリが商品情報や発売情報を事前に共有し、特定の新商品発売前後の注意喚起や権利侵害品対策など緊密に連携することにより、両社のお客さまの混乱を回避し、より安全・安心に取引ができる環境の構築を目指します。

■「マーケットプレイスの共創に関する覚書」における両社の連携内容
＜ポケモン＞

• メルカリに対する、特定の新商品発売情報や商品情報、商品画像などの提供
• Webサイト等での注意喚起の実施
• 生産の強化と、ポケモンカードを純粋に楽しまれる方に商品を届けるための直販店における販売方法の工夫、問屋・小売店との協力強化

＜メルカリ＞

• ポケモンからの情報提供に基づいた、「メルカリ」アプリ上や公式ブログでの特定の新商品に関する注意喚起
• ポケモンと協議の上、合意した特定の商品について、「メルカリ」の利用規約に違反する出品への削除対応の実施

メルカリは、本協定に基づき、ポケモンとともに、お客さまがより安心・安全に両社の商品・サービスをご利用いただける環境の構築に努めてまいります。

Source: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000255.000026386.html

New information has been revealed about the popular anime Pocket Monsters (airs on the TV Tokyo Network every Friday at 6:55pm, officially abbreviated "Anipoke"). Episode 10, airing June 9th, 2023, will feature the debuts of the Paldea region Pokémon League Champion Nemo and Bowl Town Gym Leader Colza, with Eri Kitamura playing Nemo and Kazuya Nakai playing Colza. In addition, the title and synopsis for episode 10 has been revealed. The official Anipoke Twitter account also posted the interviews on June 2nd, 2023.

YouTube Clip - Pocket Monsters Episode 10 Preview

Original YouTube Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J7zWhicyczw

Friday, June 9th, 2023 / Episode 10 Nemo and Colza
When Liko and Roy arrive in Bowl Town, the two of them meet the Champion Rank Trainer Nemo who accompanies them to Gym Leader Colza, but it turns out his Gym is closed...?! What has happened to him...?!


A comment from Eri Kitamura, the voice of Nemo:
It was both fun and educational for me to bounce ideas off the anime staff as we fine-tuned Nemo's characterization based on both my personal interpretation of her characterization from when I played the Pocket Monsters Scarlet/Violet video game and the characterization they wanted to do.
The Pokémon battle fanatic Nemo you know from the video game is super intense in the anime as well! Everything she did was so filled with energy I was dripping with sweat while playing her!! I've played several Pocket Monsters characters before, both anime and video game ones, and I'm extremely honored I once again get to play such a wonderful character! I'm really looking forward to seeing what kind of expressions we'll get from Nemo in the anime myself, so please look forward to this episode!


A comment from Kazuya Nakai, the voice of Colza:
I was initially really worried about this role because Colza is a character that attracted so much attention from everyone that played the game, but when I first started playing him I had so much fun my worries were instantly blown away. Colza seems very gloomy and hard to please at first, but it's no surprise that the children that live nearby love him dearly. He's very picky, but also extremely open minded and tries to see the best in others. I just love his constantly swinging emotional state, he's such a good person. I myself am also really looking forward to seeing what Liko and Roy will get out of their encounter with him and what he'll get out of his encounter with them.

Japanese Press Release

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」に、パルデア地方ポケモンリーグチャンピオン・ネモと、ボウルタウンのジムリーダー・コルサが初登場！　注目のキャストは、ネモ役に喜多村英梨さん、コルサ役に中井和哉さんに決定！　さらに第10話のサブタイトルとあらすじを公開しました。
リコの父・アレックスの導きで、ボウルタウンのジムリーダー・コルサに会いにきたリコとロイ。ふたりはボウルタウンで、チャンピオンランクのトレーナー・ネモと出会う！ネモと一緒に、コルサの元を訪ねるリコとロイだったが、現在ジムは閉鎖中…！？　コルサの身に一体何が…。
ネモ役・喜多村英梨さん、コルサ役・中井和哉さんからコメントが到着しました！ 是非この機会にご紹介のご検討を頂けますようお願い申し上げます。

【ネモ役・喜多村英梨さんコメント】
ゲーム『ポケットモンスター スカーレット・バイオレット』をプレイしていた時に自分が解釈していたネモのキャラクター像と、アニメチームのスタッフの皆様が創り上げたいネモのキャラクター像との擦り合わせや微調整が、芝居への取り組みとして楽しくもあり勉強にもなりました。
ゲームでお馴染みの「ポケモンバトル大好き！」なネモの勢いは、アニメでもとにかく熱いです！　快活な彼女の行動全てがエネルギッシュで、演じている時は汗だくでした！！
これまでも、アニメシリーズやゲームなど『ポケットモンスター』では様々なキャラクターで参加させていただきましたが、今回も素敵なキャラクターを演じるご縁がありとても光栄です！アニメでのネモがどんな表情を魅せていくのか、私自身も楽しみにしています！　是非ご期待ください！

【コルサ役・中井和哉さんコメント】
ゲームをプレイしている皆様からの注目度が高いキャラクターということで、内心「ヤバい…」と思いましたが、いざ演じてみると、そんな不安も吹っ飛ぶくらいの楽しさでした。一見、暗くて気難しそうな彼が、周りの子供たちから慕われているのも納得です。こだわりが強いけど意外と視野も広い。他者を見る目が優しい。とにかくグラグラな情緒が愛おしい。いい奴じゃないですか。
彼がリコやロイから何を得て何を与えるのか、僕も楽しみにしています。

Umbreon defends its friends when it comes to Pokémon UNITE on May 25th, 2023 as part of the Eevee Festival!

YouTube Clip - Umbreon Character Spotlight | Pokémon UNITE

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tv-GSqBnw8Y

YouTube Clip - Umbreon Moves Overview | Pokémon UNITE

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

Umbreon Is Now Available in Pokémon UNITE

Snarl and Foul Play your way through the competition with the Moonlight Pokémon on Aeos Island.

Channel your Inner Focus as Umbreon in Pokémon UNITE! Like Espeon, Glaceon, and Sylveon, the Moonlight Pokémon begins each match as Eevee before it evolves into Umbreon during battle. But unlike its fellow Eevee Evolutions, Umbreon is a Melee Defender with a bit of moxie to its name—prepare to unleash Mean Look, Snarl, and Foul Play as this Dark-type Pokémon. You can obtain Umbreon for 12,000 Aeos coins or 575 Aeos gems at the Unite Battle Committee Shop. Umbreon will only be obtainable with Aeos gems for the first seven days of its release.

Umbreon is joining the fray, but there’s even more on the horizon for fans who are over the moon for Eevee and its Evolutions. Enjoy Eevee everywhere during the Eevee Festival with Eevee Appeal-o-rama battles—special quick battles in which only Eevee can participate! Eevee will be scattered all over the map, and Gigantamax Eevee will make an appearance too. During this event, players will be able to earn fabulous prizes, including Unite license puzzle pieces for Espeon, Glaceon, and Sylveon. Players will also be able to style their favorite Eevee Evolutions with discounted Checkered Holowear. The Eevee festivities will take place until Thursday, June 22, at 4:59 p.m. PDT.

Read on to learn more about everything Umbreon has to offer and to pick up a few tips before basking in the moonlight on Aeos Island.

Umbreon Basics

Ability: Anticipation (Eevee) - When Eevee would be shoved, thrown, or left unable to act, that effect is negated. This Ability goes on cooldown after it’s triggered.

Ability: Inner Focus (Umbreon) - When Umbreon would be shoved, thrown, or left unable to act, that effect is negated. For a short time, Umbreon also becomes immune to hindrances, and its Defense and Sp. Def are increased. This Ability goes on cooldown after it’s triggered.

Basic Attacks

Umbreon’s basic attack becomes a boosted attack with every third attack, lunging at an opposing Pokémon and dealing damage. This boosted attack also restores Umbreon’s HP. The lower Umbreon’s remaining HP, the more HP is restored.

Lv. 1 & 2 Moves

Swift - Eevee shoots star-shaped rays, dealing damage to opposing Pokémon and applying a mark to them. Eevee’s movement speed is increased when it is near marked opposing Pokémon. When Eevee deals damage to marked opposing Pokémon, its next basic attack becomes a boosted attack. Fake Tears - Eevee feigns crying, dealing damage to nearby opposing Pokémon and decreasing their Defense and Sp. Def while granting Eevee a shield.

Lv. 4 Moves

Mean Look - Umbreon pins an opposing Pokémon with a dark, arresting look. For a short time, the opposing Pokémon becomes surrounded by a black zone, which it cannot leave. While Umbreon is in the black zone, its basic attacks become boosted attacks, and it deals increased damage. Mean Look can be upgraded to increase the black zone’s duration.
Foul Play - Umbreon charges, dealing damage to opposing Pokémon it hits and decreasing their movement speed. If the charge hits an opposing Pokémon, Foul Play can be used again. If Foul Play is used again, Umbreon sweeps in front of itself with its tail, dealing damage to opposing Pokémon it hits, decreasing their movement speed, and shoving them. The second stage of Foul Play deals increased damage based on the Attack of the opposing Pokémon hit in the first stage. The higher their Attack, the higher the damage. Foul Play can be upgraded to make Umbreon’s next basic attack after Foul Play become a boosted attack.

Lv. 6 Moves

Wish - Umbreon makes a wish for an ally Pokémon. For a set amount of time, that ally Pokémon receives reduced damage, then afterward, the wish comes true and restores HP to that Pokémon. If the targeted ally Pokémon is knocked out before the wish comes true, a different ally Pokémon near it takes the wish instead. Wish can be upgraded to further reduce the damage received by the targeted ally Pokémon—as well as increase the amount of HP restored when the wish comes true.
Snarl - Umbreon yells as if ranting about something, dealing damage to opposing Pokémon in the area around it and decreasing their Attack, Sp. Atk, and movement speed while also granting Umbreon a shield. Umbreon continues to yell for a set amount of time, then it lets loose a final shout, leaving opposing Pokémon in the area around it unable to act and further decreasing their Attack and Sp. Atk. The Attack and Sp. Atk decreases can stack. Snarl can be upgraded to increase the length of time the final shout leaves opposing Pokémon unable to act.

Umbreon’s Unite Move, Moonlight Prance

Umbreon continually recovers HP when it is not in combat. Umbreon also leaps up and absorbs the shields of opposing Pokémon in the area around it, taking them for itself. Then, Umbreon lands, dealing damage to opposing Pokémon in the area of effect and leaving them unable to act. For a short time afterward, when an opposing Pokémon in the area of effect is granted a shield, Umbreon absorbs a portion of it and takes it for itself.

Metagame Watch

Melee Defenders need to stay in the action and make space for their less durable and less mobile teammates. Umbreon is a unique Melee Defender that focuses less on hindering opposing Pokémon and more on healing with its boosted attacks and with Wish—all while making its way through opposing Pokémon with Foul Play and Snarl. These moves allow Umbreon to focus on diving in and knocking out opposing Attackers while using self-healing to avoid being knocked out itself.

Strong Against: Blastoise - Umbreon should usually avoid attacking bulkier Pokémon like Blastoise, but Umbreon’s Unite Move, Moonlight Prance, can take great advantage of Pokémon with large shields. At higher levels, Blastoise’s Unite Move, Hydro Typhoon, grants Blastoise a huge shield that allows it to dive into the enemy backline without concern. When Umbreon uses Moonlight Prance, Umbreon can immediately steal away that shield, effectively stealing some of Blastoise’s HP for itself.

Weak Against: Mew - Foul Play allows Umbreon to chase down most Pokémon, but Mew’s high mobility makes it difficult for Umbreon to chase down the New Species Pokémon. Mew also has long-range moves, like Solar Beam and Electro Ball, that can take down Umbreon in a one-on-one fight. As Umbreon, it’s best to target Mew with additional backup and extra hindrances. Otherwise, it can be challenging to pressure the Ranged Attacker with Snarl, Foul Play, or Mean Look.

Sources: https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-news/umbreon-is-now-available-in-pokemon-unite and https://unite.pokemon.com/en-us/news/umbreon-prances-into-pokemon-unite-to-celebrate-the-eevee-festival/

The Pokémon Company in cooperation with the NHK Symphony Orchestra, Japan's leading orchestra, have announced they will hold a special concert with a full orchestra on Thursday, August 10th, 2023. Children who love Pokémon, Pokémon fans, as well as fans of the NHK Symphony Orchestra, will be treated to familiar pieces from the Pokémon games and small classical pieces from around the world at the Pacifico Yokohama which is also the location of the Pokémon World Championships 2023.


Tickets cost 3,000 yen each but all ticket proceeds from the concert will be donated to the Pokémon with You Foundation (https://www.pokemon-foundation.or.jp/) to be used for disaster relief activities for children, support activities for children's cafeterias, and ICT education support activities. The concert will also be streamed on the official Pokémon YouTube channel for free.

Details:

Date: Thursday, August 10th, 2023
Artist: NHK Symphony Special Orchestra (NHK交響楽団スペシャルオーケストラ)
Conductor: Akito Hiraishi (NHK Symphony Orchestra Conducting Fellow) 平石章人（N響指揮研究員）
Venue: Pacifico Yokohama National Grand Hall
Price: 3,000 yen in-person, Free stream on YouTube

Source: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000504.000026665.html

YouTube Clip - Part 1

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GTccUfRR1MQ

YouTube Clip - Part 2

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bs1yyGtakCM

The Pokémon Company International is firing up its tour bus and hitting the road for a Pokémon May Half-Term Tour at select Smyths Toys Superstores this half-term.

POKÉMON HITS THE ROAD FOR PARTY HALF-TERM TOUR OF SMYTHS TOYS SUPERSTORES

Kicking off 27 May, the party tour will visit stores in Hedge End, Milton Keynes, Norwich, Mansfield, York, Hull and Leeds. A variety of exciting Pokémon activities will be on hand, including face-painting, a colouring wall, free giveaways, visits from Pikachu and photo opportunities.

Shoppers will be able to browse a diverse range of Pokémon products, including Pokémon TCG items like the exclusive Shaymin VSTAR Premium Collection and Darkrai VSTAR Premium Collection; new additions to Jazwares’ toy line, including plush of Pokémon from the Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet video games—Sprigatito, Fuecoco and Quaxly, as well as Pikachu; and a new wave of plush from the Squishmallows and Pokémon collaboration. Additional products include Pokémon Funko Pop! figures and a range of Abysse products, including Pokémon breakfast and gift sets.

“We are thrilled to celebrate our strong and successful relationship with Smyths Toys with this exciting new Pokémon May Half-Term Tour,” said Simon Benton, vice president of TCG sales for The Pokémon Company International. “We are always looking at new ways to engage with customers, and with our Pokémon bus, a host of Pokémon product and a range of fun activities on offer, we hope to provide an inspiring and engaging experience that will encourage Pokémon fans old and new to come and join the party.”

The tour will visit Smyths Toys Superstore in Hedge End on 27 May, Milton Keynes on 28 May, Norwich on 29 May, Mansfield on 30 May, York on 31 May, Hull on 1 June and Leeds on 2 June.

Source: https://pokemon.gamespress.com/POKEMON-HITS-THE-ROAD-FOR-PARTY-HALF-TERM-TOUR-OF-SMYTHS-TOYS-SUPERSTO