Tomodachi

Earlier today, Nintendo and The Pokémon Company hosted a live press releasing regarding the upcoming Pokémon-themed fighting game, Pokkén Tournament. Developed by Bandai Namco, whom have worked on other popular fighting games like Tekken, Soul Calibur, the Naruto Ultimate Ninja series, and more, the game had previously only seen teasers and short footage. Today, the stream revealed more about the gameplay mechanics, fighting changes, and even new roster additions!



Pokkén Tournament, which will be played by using a traditional console controller rather than an arcade stick like other fighers, will pit two Pokémon against each other in a large 3D ring. While separated, the game will play in “field mode” in which the two fighters can freely roam around the arena and attack from a distance with a variety of moves. When the fighters approach, however, the game will seamlessly enter a more traditional 2D fighting mode, in which controls are restricted purely to horizontal movement.



As for new characters, the stream revealed three newcomers in addition to Lucario and Machamp seen in previous teasers. These new Pokémon are Pikachu, Gardevoir, and Suicune! Each character has their own unique play style, and will have different moves and abilities for different situations. On top that, non-playable Pokémon can enter the fray as assist characters, appearing on the field and unleashing a powerful move on the opponent. Pokkén Tournament demos will finally be made available to Japanese arcade goers over the next week, with more information to be released in the near future!