Ever since Palworld’s early access launch in January 2024, members of the gaming community have dubbed it “Pokémon with guns” due to its resemblance to the popular Japanese media franchise. It seems that Nintendo and The Pokémon Company are finally taking action, as the pair have filed a patent infringement lawsuit against the game’s developer Pocketpair.

Nintendo has posted a statement via a press release, which reads:

“Filing Lawsuit for Infringement of Patent Rights against Pocketpair, Inc.

Nintendo Co., Ltd. (HQ: Kyoto, Minami-ku, Japan; Representative Director and President: Shuntaro Furukawa, “Nintendo” hereafter), together with The Pokémon Company, filed a patent infringement lawsuit in the Tokyo District Court against Pocketpair, Inc. (HQ: 2-10-2 Higashigotanda, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, “Defendant” hereafter) on September 18, 2024.

This lawsuit seeks an injunction against infringement and compensation for damages on the grounds that Palworld, a game developed and released by the Defendant, infringes multiple patent rights.

Nintendo will continue to take necessary actions against any infringement of its intellectual property rights including the Nintendo brand itself, to protect the intellectual properties it has worked hard to establish over the years.“

Palworld, which was released via early access on Steam, became an instant hit among gamers, selling over 4 million copies over three days. The game took the familiar premise of catching cute monsters (referred to as Pals) but with a rather notable twist: guns. This was in stark contrast to the more family-friendly nature of the Pokémon series and was seemingly what drew players to the title.

Of course, the game’s popularity didn’t come without its fair share of criticism, with players noting the striking resemblance of some of its creature designs to those of the Pokémon franchise, promptly calling out Palworld for the alleged ripoffs. This also did not go unnoticed by The Pokémon Company, who issued a statement that said it would investigate if the game did infringe on its copyright.

Although it is unknown how Nintendo and The Pokémon Company will angle their current lawsuit, it is more than likely that their focus will be on the stark design similarities between Palworld’s creatures and that of Pokémon’s design.

Kevin Low

Kevin is a reformed PC Master Race gamer with a penchant for franchise “duds” like Darksiders III and Dead Space 3. He has made it his life-long mission to play every single major game release – lest his wallet dies trying.

The post Nintendo, The Pokémon Company Sue ‘Palworld’ Developer For Patent Infringement appeared first on Geek Culture.

The long-running legacy of Pokémon has seen countless collaborations over the years, and 7-Eleven certainly isn’t immune to its charm. As part of its latest Shop and Earn Stamps programme, the convenience store chain is launching a new themed collection from 25 September to 19 November in Singapore, starting with 3D Pokémon Builders.

Measuring 5cm tall each, these cardboard figures are constructed out of a kit that includes an instruction sheet and one stamp, used to trade for exclusive items of one’s choice. Customers can obtain a builder set for just S$1 with a purchase of any item, redeem it with 100 yuu points, or purchase any qualifying product to get two packs at S$1.

A total of 30 different designs will be available, each coming in a blind pack. The full range spans 11 elemental types, including Electric, Fire, Water, Grass, and more, with beloved Gen 1 starters, iconic Legendaries such as Mewtwo and Mew, and newer critters like Pawmi and Fidough filling out the roster. For fans with a lucky touch, keep an eye out for five ultra-rare builders with metallic foil accents, featuring Pikachu, Bulbasaur, Charmander, Squirtle and Mewtwo.

Once collected, the builders can be stored in the Poké Ball Collector’s Kit. Measuring 7cm tall and 26cm wide, it also doubles as an organiser for various objects and boasts 30 custom-fit slots. The dual-purpose storage kit retails for S$29.90, requiring 200 yuu points or 10 stamps and an accompanying top-up of S$15.90 for redemption.

To complete the Pokémon trainer look, 7-Eleven is adding Jigglypuff and Bulbasaur-inspired backpacks into the mix, joining the All-Star Backpack design sporting Eevee, other fan-favourites, and the iconic Poké Balls. The former two are equipped with two shoulder straps that can be placed inside to transform the bag into a soft plushie, while the All-Star Backpack ships with adjustable straps and water-resistant material.

Accessories-wise, customers can expect a reversible bucket hat and a cardholder. The 2-in-1 headwear allows for an interchangeable look between a navy blue colourway or a beige alternative showing Pikachu holding hands with Pichu; the latter, meanwhile, comes decked out in a yellow lanyard and Pokéball design (Charizard card not included).

The Pokémon X 7-Eleven collection will run from 25 September to 19 November, with the redemption period ending on 26 November. Here’s a quick look at the mechanics and pricing information for the accessories and backpacks:

Si Jia

Si Jia is a casual geek at heart – or as casual as someone with Sephiroth’s theme on her Spotify playlist can get. A fan of movies, games, and Japanese culture, Si Jia’s greatest weakness is the Steam Summer Sale. Or any Steam sale, really.

The post Pokémon X 7-Eleven Singapore Collection Embraces Trainer Life From Sept 2024 appeared first on Geek Culture.

Calling all Pokémon Trainers! Get ready to catch a set of special edition Shell Pokémon Collectibles. Shell is bringing the excitement of Pokémon back to Singapore, and Geek Culture is giving away two prize packs, each containing:

• Lapras Dehumidifier Plushie (retail price – S$18.90)
• Dragonite Dehumidifier Plushie (retail price – S$18.90)
• Psyduck Tissue Box Cover (retail price – S$23.90)
• Gengar Tissue Box Cover (retail price – S$23.90)

Starting 1 September 2024, 10am, the Pokémon Dehumidifier Plushies will be available for redemption and purchase at Shell service stations islandwide. Tissue Box Covers will only be available for redemption and purchase from 1 October 2024, 10am onwards. Spend a minimum of S$70 (including Shell fuels, Shell Recharge, and Shell Select items which excludes alcohol, tobacco, and in-store service items) and grab your favourite Dehumidifier Plushie or Tissue Box Covers at S$18.90 and S$23.90 respectively, while stocks last.

Whether for your car or office, these Dehumidifier Plushies help keep your environment fresh by absorbing moisture and preventing mildew. The Tissue Box Covers also add a touch of Pokémon charm to any room. Additionally, each purchase comes with a bonus Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) fun pack and a half mat.

Don’t Forget Snorlax! The iconic Pokémon is making a cosy comeback as a 15-inch plushie bag with a reversible blanket. This cuddly combo is perfect for snuggling up at home or on the go, and it can be yours from 1 October 2024, 10am for S$59.90 when you accumulate 150 litres of Shell V-Power via Shell GO+ from 26 August onwards, while stocks last.

Don’t miss your chance to win and collect these special edition Pokémon collectibles from Shell! More information can be found on the Shell website.

ENTER NOW TO WIN

For a chance to win this prize pack of premiums, simply complete these steps: 

1. SHARE THIS POST and TAG a friend or more** you would like to enjoy these products with.
2. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM and/or TELEGRAM. Follow @Shell_Singapore on Instagram and @ShellSGP on Facebook as well**
3. Fill in the form and answer the question(s) below.

Give us a LIKE below if you haven’t done so yet, so you won’t miss out on future similar giveaways!

The giveaway is open to all residents of Singapore. The giveaway closes on 16 September 2024 @23:59hrs (GMT+8). 2 lucky winners with the correct answer will be picked at random and contacted via email by 20 September 2024. Good luck!

**These steps are entirely optional, but we greatly appreciate it if you choose to show some support to Geek Culture by sharing and tagging the post so that we may be able to bring more giveaways to you all in the future!

Natalie

Natalie is a big fan of anything related to movies, TV shows, games, and comics — you name it. When she’s not reading or geeking out about the latest shows on Netflix, she’s probably playing gacha and tabletop games, or daydreaming of meeting her idols.

The post Win A Set Of Special Edition Shell Pokémon Collectibles appeared first on Geek Culture.

It’s the beginning of a whole new journey for the Pokémon franchise, which is expanding its horizon with a new reality series titled Pokémon: Trainer Tour, set to premiere globally on Amazon Prime Video and The Roku Channel on 31 July. The series will also feature its first episode on the official Pokémon YouTube channel, broadening its accessibility to fans worldwide.

Hosted by Pokémon content creators Meghan Camarena, known as Strawburry17, and Andrew Mahone, aka Tricky Gym, the series promises to deliver a unique blend of interviews and mentoring sessions with Pokémon Trading Card Game enthusiasts. The hosts will traverse the country in a vibrant Pikachu-themed tour bus, connecting with fans and sharing their profound stories, thus bridging the gap between virtual and real-world interactions within the Pokémon community.

Andy Gose, senior director of media production at The Pokémon Company International, emphasised the series’ novelty and its focus on celebrating the diversity within the Pokémon fanbase. “This series offers fans an inside look into the varied experiences and heartfelt stories of some of the Trainers who make up the diverse array of Pokémon fans,” Gose noted, highlighting the emotional and communal aspects that the series will encapsulate.

As the series progresses, viewers will get a rare glimpse into the lives of those who have found joy, friendship, and community through Pokémon, reinforcing the series’ aim to showcase the connective power of this global phenomenon.

Pokémon: Trainer Tour marks Pokémon’s venture into reality TV and serves as a testament to the enduring appeal and expanding universe of the Pokémon brand.

Marcus

When Marcus is not trying to full combo a song on his favourite rhythm games, he’s either reading or watching some obscure Japanese mystery show/novel. Don’t ask him how much his Arkham Horror collection costs either, it’s his most closely guarded secret.

The post ‘Pokémon: Trainer Tour’ Hits The Road On Prime Video And The Roku Channel appeared first on Geek Culture.

It’s every fan’s dream to ride a Pokémon. After all, that certainly looks and sounds cooler than going everywhere on foot, car, train, and other forms of mundane transportation, and Toyota is one step closer to making it a reality.

As reported by Famitsu, the Toyota Engineering Society, an arm of the Japanese vehicle manufacturer dedicated to prototyping and testing its technology, has built a real-life motorcycle version of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet‘s Legendary critter Miraidon. Details are scarce, but it’s presumably only meant to be a display piece and won’t be available for purchase.

The project was announced on X/Twitter, alongside a simple piece of concept art showing the electric / dragon-type Pokémon. In the game, Miraidon serves as the player’s primary means of transportation, able to switch into different forms to climb, swim, fly, and roam around like a motorcycle. Koraidon is the mascot for its sister title Pokémon Scarlet, and comes equipped with the same maneuvering abilities.

Between the two, the company has made the right decision to turn Miraidon into an actual vehicle. The latter is arguably more adorable, but it doesn’t use the wheels on its chest and legs when moving about. It’s a pity that the prototype will likely remain a pipe dream, but at least it looks the part — and impressively so, might we add.

Toyota’s Miraidon project joins The Pokémon Company’s other collaborations with vehicle manufacturers, including official blind bag skateboards and Pikachu-themed commercial planes. Interestingly, the Toyota Engineering Society have also worked on several projects outside of the automobile sector, such as a soccer-playing robot.

Si Jia

Si Jia is a casual geek at heart – or as casual as someone with Sephiroth’s theme on her Spotify playlist can get. A fan of movies, games, and Japanese culture, Si Jia’s greatest weakness is the Steam Summer Sale. Or any Steam sale, really.

The post Toyota Recreates Pokémon Scarlet And Violet’s Miraidon As Actual Working Motorcycle appeared first on Geek Culture.

The world of Pokémon is no stranger to cross-brand collaborations. From merchandise to everything under the sun, the adorable critters have charmed hearts and wallets time and time again. Now that Oreo has caught the Pokémon fever, fans can look forward to expanding their collection with more collectibles.

The Oreo Pokémon collection, which is now available for purchase in Singapore, brings 16 different cookie designs, a special edition Pikachu-inspired flavour, and 16 photo cards. Pikachu, Bulbasaur, Charmander, Squirtle, Sandshrew, Jigglypuff, Lapras, Dratini, Cyndaquil,
Sableye, Piplup, Snivy, Pancham, Rowlet, Grookey, and Mew — the rarest find of the list — will grace every pack randomly, with each cookie coming in various flavours like Vanilla, Strawberry, and Chocolate Banana.

For Pikachu enthusiasts, the striking yellow-dipped Pikachu biscuit features an embossment of the signature electric rat and a chocolate banana flavour profile. A square photocard is also included with every purchase of a multipack, with a total of 16 pieces up for grabs.

All these offerings will be showcased in a launch event celebrating the release of the Oreo Pokémon collection. Held from 18 to 24 March at VivoCity, it’s open to the public and invites them to redeem plates, glass, and other themed collectibles with a minimum spending of S$15 on any Oreo Pokémon products.

And for the lucky owners of the coveted Mew cookie, there’s a bonus treat in store. Entering the #FindMew contest grants you a shot at winning some prizes, including an two-dimensional lamp and a metal coin set. The rules of participation are as follows:

1. Purchase any Oreo Pokémon product.
2. Find the Oreo Pokémon Mew cookie.
3. Submit your details and picture on the Oreo Pokémon Microsite.
4. Click on ‘Share now’ button to share the picture / video on Facebook/ Instagram with the tags @oreo.mysg and #FindMew hashtag.

All the best at catching ’em all!

Si Jia

Si Jia is a casual geek at heart – or as casual as someone with Sephiroth’s theme on her Spotify playlist can get. A fan of movies, games, and Japanese culture, Si Jia’s greatest weakness is the Steam Summer Sale. Or any Steam sale, really.

The post Oreo Singapore Catches Pokémon Fever With Pikachu Cookie And 16 Photo Cards, Available Now appeared first on Geek Culture.

If, at any point, a Pokédex was on your wishlist, you’re not alone. The iconic device used to identify every Pokémon went down in history as one of the coolest gadgets, and it’s no wonder that fans still dream of having one. Nearly three years on, a YouTuber has made that a reality — well, sort of.

Engineering hobbyist Abe’s Projects, whose real name is Abe Haskins, chronicled their quest (Haskins identifies as non-binary) to become the very best at building a real, functional Pokédex in a video. In it, they detailed the challenges in designing, 3D printing, and programming the device, which sets out to achieve three goals: to look similar to its anime counterpart, be able to recognise Pokémon in most situations, and have a robotic voice like in the show.

To make it work, Haskins ran ChatGPT-4 to analyse what the replica was looking at and check it against the Pokémon API, the database of Pokémon information. The AI voice generator tool PlayHT was then used to clone the voice of Nick Stellate, who lent his voice to the Pokédex in the anime from 1997 to 1998, from a video clip.

The final product isn’t perfect — it can identify action figures and online images; not so much Pokémon plushies — but it’s still pretty darn impressive. In fact, the homemade invention has won over many fans, with many praising the YouTuber’s efforts in the comments.

“Please let this live up to the hype,” typed one user, ‘Edit: Lives up to the hype.” Another wrote, “That was incredible! Even if the end result had bugs in it, the fact that it actually works when everything is just right means that it can only improve from there :D”.

Si Jia

Si Jia is a casual geek at heart – or as casual as someone with Sephiroth’s theme on her Spotify playlist can get. A fan of movies, games, and Japanese culture, Si Jia’s greatest weakness is the Steam Summer Sale. Or any Steam sale, really.

The post YouTuber Builds Working ChatGPT-Powered Pokédex That Identifies Pokémon appeared first on Geek Culture.

Pokémon has long held a special place in the hearts of gamers worldwide, and its popularity has even cemented it as one of the biggest intellectual properties in the world, covering video games, animation, films, toys, apparel, fashion, theme parks, retail — the list is never-ending. The thrill of capturing creatures, exploring expansive worlds, and engaging in epic battles is a distinctive experience.

As the video gaming scene expands, several titles have joined the monster-taming genre, offering a Pokémon-like adventure with its own unique flavour. Here’s a roundup of some Pokémon-inspired games (in order of release date, from oldest to newest) that are worth adding to your gaming library.

1. Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth

Platform(s): PC, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch
Price: S$64.90
Release date: 12 March 2015

Digimon is perhaps the next most recognisable monster-taming franchise after Pokémon. For those who grew up with the series, this game is a nostalgic journey. Cyber Sleuth combines traditional Digimon charm with an accessible gameplay system that holds deeper layers of complexity. Players can capture, train, and evolve Digimon while taking command of up to three Digimon in strategic battles.

However, Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth is not just about battles. Digimon often boasts more mature themes compared to Pokémon, and this game is no different. Cyber Sleuth weaves a narrative tapestry filled with moral ambiguity, genuine intrigue, and touching character arcs.

2. World of Final Fantasy

Platform(s): PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Price: S$32.90
Release date: 17 October 2016

While not a traditional Pokémon-like game, World of Final Fantasy incorporates monster collecting and battling into the beloved and expansive Final Fantasy universe. Adorable chibi characters and familiar monsters from the franchise make this a delightful experience for both Final Fantasy enthusiasts and fans of creature-collection games.

3. Monster Sanctuary

Platform(s): PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Price: S$23
Release date: 28 August 2019

Monster Sanctuary combines the joys of creature collection with metroidvania-style exploration. Players traverse a beautifully crisp, pixelated world, collecting and training monsters for epic battles. By evolving monsters and solving puzzles, players can delve deeper into the eponymous Sanctuary. Additionally, there’s also the option of challenging players across the globe in PvP battles.

With a mix of turn-based combat and platforming elements, Monster Sanctuary offers a unique blend of genres that elevates the monster-taming formula.

4. Temtem

Platform(s): PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch
Price: S$62.25
Release date: 21 January 2020

Temtem is a massively multiplayer online game, distinguishing itself from the traditionally limited online features of Pokémon. While the mechanics may bear some semblance, the shift to a multiplayer platform adds a layer of dynamism and community engagement that imbues the game with a greater sense of possibility. A variety of quests contribute to a sense of purpose and progression, keeping players engaged in the immersive world.

In battles, Temtem takes on a Double Battle format (the preferred format in the Pokémon Video Game Championships), demanding a thoughtful approach and fostering a genuine need for strategy. It caters to the cravings of hardcore Pokémon fans hungry for a genuine challenge.

5. Ooblets

Platform(s): PC, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Price: S$26
Release date: 15 July 2020

Ooblets marries creature collection with farming in a whimsical and charming setting. Players explore Badgetown, where they collect and train quirky Ooblets. The creature design is downright adorable, and instead of traditional fights, they participate in dance battles to show off their skills. The game’s lighthearted tone, vibrant art style, and unique blend of gameplay elements offer a refreshing take on the genre.

6. Nexomon: Extinction

Platform(s): PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android
Price: S$18.50
Release date: 28 August 2020

Nexomon: Extinction introduces players to a world on the brink of extinction, where they must capture and tame over 300 Nexomon to save humanity. The pixel art style and classic RPG gameplay pay homage to old-school Pokémon games, providing an engaging and nostalgia-inducing experience for players seeking that familiar charm. 

What’s more, the captivating storyline and beautifully-crafted world cater to both newcomers and fans of the genre.

7. Shin Megami Tensei V

Platform(s): Nintendo Switch
Price: S$44.80
Release date: 11 November 2021

The lineage of Shin Megami Tensei predates Pokémon by nearly a decade, sharing the creature collecting (or in Shin Megami Tensei’s case, demon recruiting and fusing) ethos that defines both series. Shin Megami Tensei V proudly carries the torch of its old-school roots, reinforcing the consequences of every tactical misstep, whether in a routine skirmish or a high-stakes boss battle. This stern approach keeps players on their toes, a stark reminder of the challenges inherent in the demonic landscapes they traverse.

In a departure from traditional dungeon layouts, Shin Megami Tensei V introduces expansive, open areas with visible demons on the map. This shift may appeal to modern Pokémon fans, as it echoes the design philosophy seen in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, as well as the wild areas of Pokémon Sword and Shield.

8. Cassette Beasts

Platform(s): PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo SwitchPrice: S$18.50
Release date: 26 April 2023

Cassette Beasts is a delightful indie gem crafted with Pokémon fans in mind. In a quirky twist, instead of entrapping creatures within Pokéballs, you’ll be recording them on cassette tapes. Visually, Cassette Beasts presents a nostalgic yet refreshing aesthetic, calling back to Pokémon Black/White with elements of Octopath Traveler.

Meanwhile, the game’s monster designs showcase creativity and diversity, with beasts representing one of 14 distinct types, each carrying its own set of strengths and vulnerabilities. Steeped in the charm and intricate mechanics reminiscent of Pokémon, Cassette Beasts stands shoulder to shoulder with some of the franchise’s finest entries.

9. Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince

Platform(s): Nintendo Switch
Price: S$75
Release date: 1 December 2023

As the latest entry in this Dragon Quest spin-off series, The Dark Prince draws inspiration from the monster-catching phenomenon made famous by Pokémon, with a refined and evolved take on the captivating formula. The core gameplay loop invites players to traverse expansive open areas, recruiting and training a formidable team of monsters. 

Beyond mere scouting, the game introduces a unique twist — fusion. By combining any two monsters that have reached level 10, players can enhance their team. This fusion system injects a refreshing dynamism into team-building, ensuring a constantly renewing line-up.

While the turn-based combat system might be perceived as simplistic, it stands as a testament to well-executed fundamentals. The game elevates the excitement by introducing skills and skill trees, adding layers of strategy to the battles.

10. Palworld

Platform(s): PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Price: S$26
Release date: 19 January 2024

Palworld is one of 2024’s hottest new games, gaining notoriety as ‘Pokémon with guns’, which empowered it to sell more than four million copies in three days. However, the reality is that Palworld is more akin to ‘ARK: Survival Evolved with Pokémon’ — it’s a survival game with plenty of crafting involved.

That doesn’t mean that there isn’t plenty of fun to be had with friends in Palworld. This multiplayer experience allows players to party up and explore a sprawling open world, set up campsites and craft valuable tools, cook food, and even gang up on cute and ferocious monsters (aka Pals) together. It’s an engaging gameplay loop that can lead to several lost hours.

Unfortunately, the game has received accusations of AI-generated content and plagiarised game assets, with The Pokémon Company stepping in to investigate the possibility of copyright infringement.

Whether you’re a seasoned Pokémon Trainer or a newcomer to the genre, these Pokémon-like titles provide exciting alternatives for fans of creature collection and exploration. Regardless if you’re into turn-based battles, open-world adventures, or charming pixel art, these games are sure to scratch that Pokémon itch while offering something new and delightful.

Edwin Teo

Edwin has been writing about gaming and entertainment news for almost a decade, and has loved video games, comic books, and movies longer than that. He loves interesting stories, immersive world-building, and adorable monsters.

The post 10 Pokémon-Like Games Worth Playing appeared first on Geek Culture.

Even before entering early access, Palworld was already receiving attention as the game dubbed ‘Pokémon with guns’. And true to predictions, the monster-taming survival hit quickly shot to the top of Steam’s best-selling list, selling more than four million copies in three days.

This latest milestone comes after it surpassed one million sales mark just eight hours into its release, though developer Pocketpair didn’t clarify if the numbers included Xbox Game Pass and Epic Games Store players. Previously, it was reported that Palworld saw over 1.3 million concurrent players across all platforms, making it only the sixth title to ever cross the one million threshold, joining the ranks of Cyberpunk 2077, Dota 2, Counter-Strike 2, PUBG: Battlegrounds, and Lost Ark.

According to an update on X / Twitter, the momentum has only increased, with sales coming in at 86,000 units per hour (as of the time of writing). The huge influx of players at launch has caused game servers to buckle under the weight, however, as connection issues became commonplace over the opening weekend of 19 January.

It should also be noted that the Xbox version is currently lagging behind the Steam version in terms of functionality, with some concerns surfacing amid the game’s launch success. Apart from sharing design similarities to the Pokémon series, fans have highlighted the studio CEO’s pro-artificial intelligence (AI) stance and the use of AI in its other games, prompting allegations that Palworld was created in the same way.

A new report has since offered a bit more context, shedding light on some interesting bits on the project’s background (not that it excuses Pocketpair’s past actions regarding AI use):

Si Jia

Si Jia is a casual geek at heart – or as casual as someone with Sephiroth’s theme on her Spotify playlist can get. A fan of movies, games, and Japanese culture, Si Jia’s greatest weakness is the Steam Summer Sale. Or any Steam sale, really.

The post Pokémon With Guns Game, ‘Palworld’, Sells Over 4 Million Copies In 3 Days appeared first on Geek Culture.

With December right around the corner, fans of the Pokémon anime are bound for a new adventure. Pokémon Horizons: The Series, the first mainline anime without Ash Ketchum, will debut first in the UK, before making its way to the U.S. on 23 February 2024.

Based on the Paldea region introduced in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, the Netflix exclusive follows dual protagonists Liko and Roy and their Starter partners, Sprigatito and Fuecoco, with new allies Friede and Captain Pikachu joining in on the journey. The show started airing in Japan in April, serving as the successor to the long-running Pokémon anime that starred Ash Ketchum and his trusty companion Pikachu. It came to an end with Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series, which saw the former achieving his lifelong dream of becoming the world’s top trainer after 25 years.

Here’s the official synopsis:

A new adventure is beginning within the wide world of Pokémon! Arriving at Indigo Academy, a girl named Liko receives her first partner Pokémon, Sprigatito. But she soon finds herself pursued by the Explorers, a mysterious group that’s determined to take the pendant necklace she wears. Liko isn’t on her own, though, as Friede, Captain Pikachu, and the other Rising Volt Tacklers offer her protection aboard their airship. Meanwhile, a boy named Roy dreams of becoming a Pokémon Trainer, unaware of the secret hiding within the Ancient Poké Ball he carries. As Liko, Roy, and the Rising Volt Tacklers set sail for new horizons, what kind of discoveries await?

Before Pokémon Horizons: The Series heads to Netflix, though, there’s Pokémon Concierge to check out first. The stop-motion animated series hailing from dwarf studios, the powerhouse behind the adorable Rilakuma and Kaoru, premieres this December.

Si Jia

Si Jia is a casual geek at heart – or as casual as someone with Sephiroth’s theme on her Spotify playlist can get. A fan of movies, games, and Japanese culture, Si Jia’s greatest weakness is the Steam Summer Sale. Or any Steam sale, really.

The post ‘Pokémon Horizons: The Series’, First Mainline Anime Without Ash, Debuts February On Netflix In U.S. appeared first on Geek Culture.

Adventuring and battling to be the very best like no one ever was have always been a staple across the Pokémon series, but the first trailer for Netflix’s forthcoming Pokémon Concierge dishes out the reminder that it’s alright to take a break and relax sometimes.

Oozing plenty of wholesome and adorable charm, it offers a tantalising tease into life in a tropical resort built for critters to enjoy some much-needed downtime. The stop-motion series stars Haru (Karen Fukuhara), a young concierge working at the holiday destination who goes about satisfying different demands of its many Pokémon guests, while figuring how to get along with co-workers Alisa (Imani Hakim) and Tyler (Josh Keaton).

Longtime fans can also expect to catch appearances from beloved fan favourites, including Eevee, Snorlax, Dedenne, Pikachu, Wooper, Psyduck, Mudkip, Dragonite, Bulbasaur, and more. If it wasn’t clear before, the show will feature a new, original story — made in partnership with Dwarf Studios, who previously worked on similarly cosy works like Rilakkuma and Kaoru. “Have a Good Time Here” by renowned Japanese artiste Mariya Takeuchi will serve as the theme song.

Pokémon Concierge hits Netflix on 28 December, so it won’t be long before we can live vicariously through these Pokémon and enjoy the resort experience, because let’s be real, who wouldn’t want this life?

Si Jia

Si Jia is a casual geek at heart – or as casual as someone with Sephiroth’s theme on her Spotify playlist can get. A fan of movies, games, and Japanese culture, Si Jia’s greatest weakness is the Steam Summer Sale. Or any Steam sale, really.

The post Netflix’s ‘Pokémon Concierge’ Stop-Motion Series To Serve Cosy Vibes In Dec 2023 appeared first on Geek Culture.

GU, Uniqlo‘s vibrant sibling brand that’s renowned for its affordability and chic styles, is set to captivate the hearts of Pokémon enthusiasts with its latest collaboration, the Pokémon Peaceful Place collection, affectionately known as PokéPeace.

Crafted from cosy and plush materials ideal for leisure, the collection features loungewear sets and accessories, creating the perfect ensemble for unwinding at home. With a broad spectrum catering to both adults and kids, every item is adorned with delightful round, bubble-like illustrations showcasing some of Pokémon’s most beloved characters.

The adult line takes centre stage with three loungewear sets, each highlighting iconic Pokémon — Pikachu, Rowlet, and Espurr — priced at 3,490 yen (US$23) per set. Complementing these sets are comfy striped room socks, featuring embroidered Pokémon silhouettes in Pikachu/Milcery, Scorbunny/Espurr, and Piplup/Rowlet combinations, available at 790 yen (US$5.20) each. The collection extends its charm with Pikachu and Rowlet fake fur bags boasting large handles at 2,490 yen (US$16.40) each, and Pichu, Piplup, and Espurr fake fur pouches at 1,990 yen (US$13.12) each.

The kids’ line mirrors the whimsy with three loungewear sets showcasing Pikachu, Piplup, and Scorbunny, each priced at 2,490 yen (US$16.40) . An enchanting addition unique to this line is the embroidered Fairy-type Pokémon Milcery adorning the knee area of the pants.

The PokéPeace collection will hit GU stores across Japan and the online shop on 23 November. Get ready to catch ’em all in style!

Edwin Teo

Edwin has been writing about gaming and entertainment news for almost a decade, and has loved video games, comic books, and movies longer than that. He loves interesting stories, immersive world-building, and adorable monsters.

The post Uniqlo Sister Brand, GU, Releases Snuggly Pokémon Loungewear Line appeared first on Geek Culture.

Pokémon fans, get ready to catch all those trading cards! McDonald’s Singapore is releasing the exclusive Pokémon Match Battle Happy Meal for a limited time only.

Coming shaped as the beloved Pikachu, the newly announced Happy Meal will come with official Pokémon Match Battle trading cards, a card flip coin and instructions – everything needed to stage an at-home Pokémon Match Battle.

There are a total of 10 types of Pokémon Match Battle games up for grabs including Pikachu, Sprigatito, Fuecoco and Quaxly. A new pair of card packs will be released every Thursday at 11am for five weeks from 26 October. The limited-edition Happy Meals will be available across McDonald’s restaurants islandwide and via McDelivery, GrabFood and foodpanda, while stocks last.

Given how crazy the turnout was for the limited-edition Pokémon cards at the Van Gogh Museum – to the extent the museum withdrew the cards entirely – one can hope that Singaporeans will be much more considerate.

Additionally, McDonald’s is also releasing a new Breakfast McSaver Meal – the Chicken Bacon and Egg McMuffin for S$5.50. This meal is also for a limited time only.

For more information, click here

A'bidah Zaid

Don’t judge a book by its cover, for behind all this makeup, is a geek just like you. To simply put it, superheroes, Star Wars, Harry Potter and all things gore and creepy makes this girly girl swoon.

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The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam unveiled a captivating exhibition on 28 September, marrying the enchanting world of Pokémon with the artistic genius of Vincent van Gogh. This delightful showcase features a selection of Pokémon species reimagined in the iconic style of the Dutch master himself.

Visitors had the opportunity to not only admire the mesmerising “Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat” painting but also receive an exclusive Pokémon card bearing this enchanting artwork. However, it appears that the distribution of these limited-edition cards at the Van Gogh Museum has been halted prematurely.

The official event website displays a notice that states, “the promotional Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat trading card will no longer be issued by the Van Gogh Museum.” The FAQ section on the page goes on to address the situation with the prompt: “Why is the Pokémon x Van Gogh Museum promo card no longer available?”. The provided answer explains:

“The Van Gogh Museum and The Pokémon Company International prioritize the safety and security of visitors and staff. Regrettably, a small group of individuals has created an undesirable situation, which led us to the challenging decision to withdraw the Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat promo card from the museum. By taking this action, we aim to ensure that visitors can fully enjoy the special collection of Pokémon paintings and the entire museum in a safe and pleasant environment.”

— Van Gogh Museum

As is often the case with limited-edition Pokémon cards, opportunistic scalpers wasted no time procuring these cards and offering them for resale online at inflated prices. Copies of “Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat” is being sold on eBay, with listings ranging from US$70 and upward to over US$200, depending on the seller. There are also a number of other products from the collection that are being sold, such as an Eevee figure and artwork featuring Snorlax.

Thankfully, there’s a silver lining for fans of the “Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat” card. The English-language official Pokémon account announced on X (formerly Twitter) that the card will be accessible for Pokémon Center patrons. To secure this collectible, a purchase of US$30 will be necessary, which is considerably more reasonable than the exorbitant prices set by scalpers.

The Van Gogh Museum also mentions that Pokémon will also reintroduce the promo card in participating retailers in the Netherlands early next year. However, it will not be available via the Van Gogh Museum.

The Pokémon exhibit at the Van Gogh Museum runs till 7 January.

Edwin Teo

Edwin has been writing about gaming and entertainment news for almost a decade, and has loved video games, comic books, and movies longer than that. He loves interesting stories, immersive world-building, and adorable monsters.

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A Pokémon live-action series is coming to Japan, and it’s not what you think it is.

If you’re expecting to see Pikachu brought to life like Detective Pikachu or Venipede to jump out of the bushes and attack an innocent passerby, then you’re wrong. This new live-action series, titled Pack Your Pocket With Adventure – or PokéTsume for short -, follows a young woman as she embarks on a new adventure in her life and well, plays a lot of Pokémon.

The first trailer just dropped on Twitter and it is bound to take fans – especially those who grew up with the original Generation 1 games – on a nostalgic ride. The trailer is entirely in Japanese and has no subtitles, but this type of relatability goes beyond one’s understanding of any language.

PokéTsume follows a young woman named Madoka Akagi (former Japanese idol Nishino Nanase, Asahinagu, Your Turn To Kill) who starts working for an advertising agency in an effort to expand her resume. She gets hit with some curveballs in life and receives a care package from her mother containing some of her old stuff, including a Game Boy and a cartridge of Pokémon Red.

Madoka begins playing it and we see how the key moments and relationships she has in her life parallels her journey on Pokémon Red. For example, when she’s meeting her boss, the game shows her entering a battle with a character that looks just like him. Meanwhile, the game reflects Magikarp screaming as someone from Madoka’s life screams at the top of his lungs too.

Even though no Pokémon appeared in the trailer, PokéTsume seems like a cute series that fans of the game can still connect with. The show’s playful take celebrates the positive impact the game has on its fans, making it incredibly relatable. Plus, the presence of a Game Boy is incredibly nostalgic.

PokéTsume is expected to debut in Japan on 19 October. There is no news on a global release.

A'bidah Zaid

Don’t judge a book by its cover, for behind all this makeup, is a geek just like you. To simply put it, superheroes, Star Wars, Harry Potter and all things gore and creepy makes this girly girl swoon.

The post Pokémon Live-Action TV Series ‘PokéTsume’ Drops Nostalgic First Trailer appeared first on Geek Culture.