The Pokémon Company International announced today that 2018 is going to be a Legendary year for the Pokémon franchise. This is all because of a suite of announcements that include video game distributions of legendary Pokémon , TCG products, mobile game updates, and animation features that will launch throughout the rest of the year.

The Legendary Pokémon Announcements

Pokémon Video Game Distributions

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNnaJZ8Z4EY[/embedyt]

Players will be able to receive a different Legendary Pokémon each month this year from February until November. The distributions will be made through as of yet unannounced Pokémon brand partners, but we can assume that there will be download cards from places like GameStop, Toys ‘R” Us, and more.

Owners of Pokémon Sun, Pokémon Moon, Pokémon Ultra Sun, and Pokémon Ultra Moon for the 3DS family of systems will be able take advantage of the free promotions. Unfortunately, this means that players who are still hanging on to previous generation Pokémon games will be left out in the cold this time.

The Pokémon Company was very vague with the details so far, but the following Legendary Pokemon will be available:

February: Dialga, the Steel- and Dragon-type Legendary Pokémon, or Palkia, the Water- and Dragon-type Legendary Pokémon, from the Sinnoh region

March: Regigigas, the Normal-type Legendary Pokémon, or Heatran, the Fire- and Steel-type Legendary Pokémon, from the Sinnoh region

April: Raikou, the Electric-type Legendary Pokémon, or Entei, the Fire-type Legendary Pokémon, from the Johto region

May: Xerneas, the Fairy-type Legendary Pokémon, or Yveltal, the Dark- and Flying-type Legendary Pokémon, from the Kalos region

June: Zygarde, the Dragon- and Ground-type Legendary Pokémon with three distinct Formes, from the Kalos and Alola regions

July: Tornadus, the Flying-type Legendary Pokémon, or Thundurus, the Electric- and Flying-type Legendary Pokémon, from the Unova region

August: Groudon, the Ground-type Legendary Pokémon, or Kyogre, the Water-type Legendary Pokémon, from the Hoenn region

September: Latios or Latias, the Dragon- and Psychic-type Legendary Pokémon, from the Hoenn region

October: Reshiram, the Dragon- and Fire-type Legendary Pokémon, or Zekrom, the Dragon- and Electric-type Legendary Pokémon, from the Unova region

November: Ho-Oh, the Fire- and Flying-type Legendary Pokémon, or Lugia, the Psychic- and Flying-type Legendary Pokémon, from the Johto region

Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG)

The Pokémon TCG will have a number of Legendary-themed products released during 2018. The details are non-existent now, but the press release did indicate that more details would be forthcoming closer to the actual product launches.

Pokémon Mobile Games

Pokémon Shuffle for Android and iOS will be a part of the action as well. Players will have two new event stages featuring Legendary Pokémon Dialga and Palkia available for play between February 6th and 13th.

Pokémon Go

The smash hit Pokemon Go would never be left out when it comes to these types of promotions. There will be special Legendary themed events spread throughout the celebration. Details will be revealed soon.

Pokémon Animation

The Pokémon TV app for Android and iOS will feature Pokémon movies that feature Pokémon movies each month that feature the Legendary Pokémon currently being distributed. For example, Augusts Pokémon Movie will feature Groudon and Kyogre.

Pokémon The Movie: The Rise of Darkrai, which features the Legendary Pokemon Dialga and Palkia, will be on the app during the month of February.

Fans can also expect to see these movies appear on broadcast partners like Disney XD.

A Legendary celebration indeed. Will your family be partaking in any of the Pokémon fun? Let us know in the comments!

January 18, 2018 0 comment

3DS

The 2017 Gift Giving Guide to the 3DS Family of Systems

by Stephen Duetzmann October 19, 2017

written by Stephen Duetzmann

The Nintendo 3DS family of systems has been a boon to families for years. They are sturdy, compact handheld gaming systems with a huge library of cool games. Unfortunately, the way that Nintendo handled the naming, and the branding of the console as they have iterated on it over the years has created a very confusing environment for parents. Below is a low-down on the available systems in the family and our recommendations regarding them.

“New” Nintendo 3DS XL

This is a redesign of the Nintendo 3DS XL hardware with a more powerful processor in it. This allows it to play a handful of “New” 3DS only games (like Minecraft). This is a great handheld for families that want to use the #D function in the games that include it.

Most of the special edition 3DS consoles that are released at this point are this model. So, if you buy one of those, then this is what you are getting.

“New” Nintendo 3DS

This is a smaller edition of the “New” 3DS. They have the improved internal tech that is built into the XL, but in a smaller package. The biggest difference between the two systems (aside from size) is that the standard addition uses

“New” Nintendo 2DS XL

This is the newest iteration of the console. It has the same screen size as the 3DS XL models, but it eschews the 3D feature much like the standard 2DS models.

Some might consider that to be a downside, but it really doesn’t make much of a difference. Most 3DS games made at this point don’t really use the 3D features on the handheld at all, and even when they do the feature is not required for gameplay.

Nintendo 3DS

This was the original release of the handheld and is nearly impossible to find. I would not recommend getting this version of the console unless it is being handed down from someone you trust. It has likely been around since around the console’s launch and might have some damage.

With that said if the handheld you are being offered is in good condition it will still work. I just recommend being cautious.

Nintendo 3DS XL

This is the original large model of the 3DS. These are still available, and are relatively inexpensive, but I find it hard to recommend this model. Its underpowered compared to its cost. If you are looking for a 3DS option that will be gentler on your wallet, then I would recommend the “New” Nintendo 2DS XL instead.

Nintendo 2DS

The Nintendo 2DS was a brilliant redesign on Nintendo’s part. They removed the standard clamshell design in favor of a flat device that looks like a cross between a tablet and a Game Boy. Removing the hinge did away

with one of the console’s biggest weaknesses as they are relatively fragile. It did some with a downside though.

The clamshell design protected the consoles dual screens from scratches.

Another significant difference is the removal of the 3D features. This is important for some parents who have concerns about their young children’s vision. It also helps Nintendo reduce the cost of the system.

This was my favorite iteration of the handheld for a very long time until the “New” Nintendo 3DS XL was released. I love the button placement and the durability. It is still readily available in a bundle that includes Mario Kart 7.

A PSA About Special Editions

There are a whole bunch of Special Editions available built for different 3DS games. They are beautiful machines, but it is important to note that they don’t include a copy of the game.

Make sure to check back out all of our other 2017 Holiday gift guides!

October 19, 2017 0 comment

Holiday & Gifts

The 2017 Holiday Gift Guide – Gaming Consoles

by Stephen Duetzmann October 19, 2017

written by Stephen Duetzmann

The Holidays are a great time for families to get new home consoles. They make great gifts for the whole family and can be responsible for a lot of great memories. Take a look below for our recommendations for home consoles this year.

Nintendo Switch

The Nintendo Switch launched in March of this year and has been a wild success for Nintendo. It is, without question, the best console for families on the market right now and it isn’t close. The console/tablet hybrid has just passed its 6 month anniversary and it is already home a better lineup of family games that either of its main competitors.

The main attraction for the Nintendo Switch is that it serves two purposes. It is both a home console that you can play on the family TV and a handheld console that you can take on the go. This can be a godsend for families that have multiple siblings because you can use it in “tabletop mode” to play multiplayer games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Edition anywhere!

Looking for some Switch games to give? Heres our list of Switch Games!

Sony PlayStation 4

The PlayStation 4 is another great console option. It doesn’t have the strongest lineup of exclusive games, but it is home to all of the major third party games like Destiny 2. You shouldn’t have any problems finding games to play with your family here. The catalog is already full of great games already and the future is bright since Spider Man will come out next year.

The biggest decision that new PlayStation owners will have to make when shopping for a PS4 is whether to purchase a base model or to spend a little bit extra for a PS4 Pro. The main difference between those two systems is going to be the graphics performance. Both of them will play the same games, but the PS4 Pro will make them look better if your family owns a 4k television.

Looking for some PS4 games to give? Here’s our list of PS4 games for this holiday!

Microsoft Xbox One

2017 has been a challenging year for Xbox fans. The exclusives have been in short supply and several high profile games have been delayed or cancelled.

There is a ray of hope though. The Xbox One X has been announced and it looks like a great console for families looking for a powerful console to help show off their new 4k television.

Looking for some Xbox One games to give? Here’s our list of Xbox One games for this holiday!

Last Generation Consoles

Families that aren’t interested in standing on the bleeding edge of console gaming technology still have plenty of reasons to pick up older consoles like the PS3, Xbox 360, and, to a lesser extent, the Wii U. These consoles should be relatively easy to find used from places like GameStop and have huge catalogs of games just waiting to be plucked from bargain bins.

In the worst case scenario a uses Xbox 360 will be a serviceable Minecraft machine for families that want to let their children play, but don’t want them using the family PC or laptop.

3DS Family of Hardware

The Nintendo Switch is the most exciting thing that Nintendo has on the market right now, but the 3DS handheld systems are still useful. They will be great purchases for families that want to introduce gaming to their children, but want something sturdier. The handheld may be entering the sunset of its life, but it has a library with hundreds of games that your children will love.

The only real problem with the 3DS family of systems is that there are so many versions that it can be hard to keep track of them. Fortunately, EFG published a handy guide to help sort all those details! You can read it here.

SNES Classic

The SNES Classic isn’t a traditional console, but it is such a big deal that I had to include it somewhere. It is a bite-sized console that includes twenty of the best games ever made. Its going to be in high demand though, so keep that in mind if you are adding it to your shopping lists.

Thats it for the consoles, but make sure to check out the rest of our 2017 Holiday Gift Guide!

October 19, 2017 1 comment

News Updates 3DS

The 2017 Nintendo World Championships Have Been Announced!

by Stephen Duetzmann August 9, 2017

written by Stephen Duetzmann

The Nintendo World Championships are back! The event will take place on October 7th at the Grand Ballroom in Manhattan Center and Nintendo is giving people of all ages and across the country a chance to participate!

The Nintendo World Championships have been held multiple times in the past and are all about giving players a chance to come together and show off their skills at Nintendo games.

For example, the 2015 Nintendo World Championships were built around NES Remix and Super Mario Maker. This year, however, it’s all about Mario Kart 7!

Qualifying events will be held starting on August 19 at eight Best Buy locations across the US. Players will be divided into two age groups (12 and below as well as 13 and up) and will play Mario Kart 7 for the 3DS! The player with the best Time Trial entry in each age group at the end of the two-day event will qualify for the Nintendo World Championships 2017!

The settings players will use are as follows:

The 12 and younger age group will play as Mario on the Nintendo DS “Luigi’s Mansion” course using Standard Kart, Standard Wheels and Super Glider.
The 13 and older age group will play as Bowser on the Game Boy Advance “Bowser Castle 1” course using Standard Kart, Standard Wheels and Super Glider.

The qualifying events will be first come, first served so I definitely recommend getting their early. They should also be pretty fun events to attend, but part of me wonders why they are only holding the event in eight cities in the US? It doesn’t really feel like much of a “world” competition.

What do you think? Will you and your family be making the trek to one of the participating Best Buy stores to compete? Let us know in the comments!

Best Buy Address	Dates	Times (All times local)
610 Exterior St.	Aug. 19-20	Saturday10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Bronx, NY 10451		Sunday11 a.m.-5 p.m.
181 Curtner Ave.	Aug. 19-20	Saturday10 a.m.-7 p.m.
San Jose, CA 95125		Sunday11 a.m.-5 p.m.
3675 Pacific Coast Highway	Aug. 26-27	Saturday10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Torrance, CA 90505		Sunday11 a.m.-5 p.m.
2301 Howard St.	Aug. 26-27	Saturday10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Evanston, IL, 60202		Sunday10 a.m.-5 p.m.
9378 N. Central Expressway	Sept. 2-3	Saturday10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Dallas, TX 75231		Sunday11 a.m.-5 p.m.
1000 W. 78th St.	Sept. 2-3	Saturday10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Richfield, MN, 55423		Sunday10 a.m.-5 p.m.
4001 W. 20th Ave.	Sept. 9-10	Saturday10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Hialeah, FL 33012		Sunday10 a.m.-5 p.m.
17364 Southcenter Parkway	Sept. 9-10	Saturday10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Tukwila, WA 98188		Sunday11 a.m.-5 p.m.

August 9, 2017 0 comment

News Updates 3DS Switch

World of Nintendo on the 2017 Summer of Play Tour Announced

by Stephen Duetzmann May 24, 2017

written by Stephen Duetzmann

Nintendo has announced their Summer of Play tour for 2017. They will be bringing the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo 3DS family of systems all over the country. They’ll be setting up a veritable wonderland of Nintendo greatness for families to experience.

The tour will serve as a great opportunity for Nintendo fans to get their hands on the red hot Nintendo Switch. This will be great for building interest for the system as its critical first Holiday season.

The Summer of Play tour will visit the following locations:

June 9-11

Irvine, California

Irvine Spectrum Center

June 16-18

Pleasanton, California

Alameda County Fair

June 23-25

Bloomington, Minnesota

Mall of America^®

June 30-July 2

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Henry Maier Festival Park (Summerfest Grounds)

July 7-9

Chicago

Navy Pier

July 14-16

Glendale, Arizona

Arrowhead Towne Center

July 20-23

San Diego

Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina (San Diego Comic-Con)

July 28-30

Arlington, Texas

The Parks Mall at Arlington

Aug. 4-6

Miami, Florida

Aventura Mall

Aug. 11-13

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Musikfest

Aug. 18-20

New York

DUMBO Waterfront

Aug. 25-27

King of Prussia, Pennsylvania

King of Prussia Mall

Sept. 2-4

Baltimore

Harborplace

Nintendo Switch games scheduled to appear on the tour include:

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
1-2-Switch
Snipperclips – Cut it out, together!
ARMS
Splatoon 2
Super Bomberman R
Ultra Street Fighter II: The Final Challengers
Minecraft: Nintendo Switch Edition

Nintendo 3DS games scheduled to appear on the tour include:

Pokémon Sun
Pokémon Moon
Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS
Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS
Hey! PIKMIN
Miitopia

поклейка флизелиновых обоев

May 24, 2017 0 comment

Nintendo 3ds

Episode 121: Our Top 15-ish Nintendo 3DS Games!

The Top 15ish 3DS Games

Celebrate a Year of Legendary Pokémon in 2018!

The Legendary Pokémon Announcements

Pokémon Video Game Distributions

Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG)

Pokémon Mobile Games

Pokémon Go

Pokémon Animation

The 2017 Gift Giving Guide to the 3DS Family of Systems

“New” Nintendo 3DS XL

“New” Nintendo 3DS

“New” Nintendo 2DS XL

Nintendo 3DS

Nintendo 3DS XL

Nintendo 2DS

A PSA About Special Editions

The 2017 Holiday Gift Guide – Gaming Consoles

Nintendo Switch

Sony PlayStation 4

Microsoft Xbox One

Last Generation Consoles

3DS Family of Hardware

SNES Classic

The 2017 Nintendo World Championships Have Been Announced!

Best Buy Address

Dates

Times (All times local)

World of Nintendo on the 2017 Summer of Play Tour Announced