Tencent have announced the release date of Timi Studio’s free-to-start MOBA Pokemon Unite.
As previously reported, players work together in 5 versus 5 battles on a battlefield with 5 goals on each side. Players must capture wild Pokemon and bring them to their opponent’s goal to score points, without being attacked while in the goal zone.
Goals will eventually break after enough points are scored, which in turn prevents them from healing that team’s Pokemon. All points earned are doubled during the final two minutes in a match.
The news that Tencent were developing a Pokemon game was met with concern and skepticism due to Tencent’s aforementioned reputation. When it was announced it was a free-to-start MOBA, the reaction was poor.
Whether it be because of the genre, the company being based in China, or fans expecting announcements of new mainline games; the trailer received many dislikes (even after being made private and re-uploaded).
However, the new release date announcement trailer has seen very few negative votes at this time of writing, revealing new Pokemon and costumes coming to the game. You can find the trailer below.
The official website confirms the game’s line up includes Pikachu, Charizard, Snorlax, Crustle, Greninja, Eldegoss, Talonflame, Lucario, Venusaur, Mr. Mime, Slowbro, Absol, Machamp, Wigglytuff, Alonal Ninetales, Cramorant, Gengar, Garchomp, and Cinderace.
Each have their own traits, Unite ultimate moves, costumes, and some need to evolve from their base form over the course of a match. The game’s Japanese YouTube channel has also shared short 30 second gameplay clips of some of the Pokemon in action, which we have linked to above.
While there is an image of a Sableye standing next to a trainer on the official website, it could be this is the Pokemon of the costume store owner Zirco. Sableye have an affinity for gemstones, and so would be a fitting companion for shop owner.
The announcement also confirms the game is planned to have cross-platform play, and cross-progress via a Nintendo Account or Pokemon Trainer Club account. French, Italian, German, and Spanish languages will become available later this year.
Pokemon Unite launches July 2021 on Nintendo Switch, and September 2021 on Android, and iOS. You can find the rundown (via the official website) below.
ALL ABOUT UNITE BATTLES
A powerful energy permeates Aeos Island that makes Pokémon grow stronger and provides them with enhanced abilities.
Pokémon Trainers from around the world come here to harness the power of Aeos energy in thrilling battles.
Before battle, each player chooses one Pokémon. Each Pokémon has its own strengths and weaknesses.
During each battle, Pokémon will experience tremendous growth and even temporarily evolve!
PREPARE FOR BATTLE
Players select the moves their Pokémon can potentially learn and the items it will hold in battle.
As the battle progresses, Pokémon will get stronger and learn a variety of new moves. Practice and discover which moves suit your playstyle the best!
HELD ITEMS AND BATTLE ITEMS
You can get the most out of your Pokémon by giving it up to three items to hold. There are over 15 types of held items, so find a combination that best complements your Pokémon’s moves.
Trainers can support their Pokémon during a battle by using battle items.
During battle, players defeat wild Pokémon or opposing Pokémon and collect the Aeos energy they drop.
Then, players deposit that Aeos energy into one of their opponents’ goal zones to score points for their team. At the end of battle, the team with the most points wins!
Work with your teammates to earn points and to defend your goal zones to limit your opponents’ opportunities to score.
REWARDS
Keep battling to earn in-game rewards that will unlock more Pokémon, as well as outfits for your Trainer and Holowear for your Pokémon.You’ll also be able to unlock rewards with Aeos gems, which can be purchased with real-world money.
Look out for powerful wild Legendary Pokémon that can quickly change the course of battle.