The Pokemon universe expands by fits and starts this week with Nintendo's releases of Pokemon Black and Pokemon White for the DS. The new adventure takes place in a new territory called Isshu which includes a bustling urban area called Hiun City, a Poke-Black exclusive area called "Black City," and the Poke-White only "White Forest." The new Pokemon located in Isshu may be found in the new Isshu-Dex and Professor Araragi greets the protagonist upon his or her arrival. New monsters inducted into the Poke-fold include the following:

• Gochiruzeru (exclusive to Pokemon Black) - Black and white color scheme
• Rankurusu (exclusive to Pokemon White) - Appears to be inside gelatin
• Reshiram - White dragon Pokemon with a flowing mane
• Zekrom - Bipedal black dragon Pokemon with gnarly claws
• Wargle - Magnificent eagle with red and purple color scheme
• Mamepato - Corpulent baby pigeon who's blessed with loads of luck
• Meguroko - Desert crocodile with raccoon eyes and broad stripes
• Minezumi - A rodent with red piercing eyes who serves as a lookout

... and more. The battle screen hews to the same presentation standard as earlier games in the series but up to three Pokemon on each side may now battle in turn-based confrontations. When a 3-vs-3 bout is in progress, the positioning of the Pokemon will affect their attacks and defenses.

Features:

• At the start of your game, choose whether you want to play as a boy or girl Trainer. No matter which Trainer you choose, you'll have the same amazing adventure!
• Your adventures take place in the Unova region, located far away from the Kanto, Johto, Hoenn, and Sinnoh regions. The region is mostly covered by greenery and is dotted with modern cities. People in the Unova region live in harmony with many previously unseen Pokémon. Plus, most of the Pokémon from other regions don't appear in the Unova region-so you'll encounter new Pokémon all the time!
• You get to decide which Pokémon you'll begin your adventure with. There are three Pokémon for you to select from: the Grass-type Snivy, the Fire-type Tepig, and the Water-type Oshawott. Choose the Pokémon you like the most-it will be with you through thick and thin as you explore the Unova region! The three starter Pokémon all have different types. Your knowledge of the strengths and weaknesses of these types will be put to the test early and often!