New 'Pokemon Black/White' features revealed

By Hector Cortez Jan 27, 2011, 1:26 GMT

Nintendo today revealed new gameplay features for Pokémon Black and Pokémon White.

Nintendo today revealed new gameplay features for the highly-anticipated Pokémon Black and Pokémon White, including Triple Battles and the new C-Gear device.

Triple Battles debut in Pokémon Black and Pokémon White, giving players more ways to battle their customized team of Pokémon. Conducted in three-on-three format, Triple Battles introduce more strategy to the games. Depending on a Pokémon's placement in the battle lineup, it will only be able to attack certain Pokémon from an opponent's trio.

For example, a Pokémon in the center of a player's lineup can attack any of its three opponents. However, a Pokémon positioned on the left or right of the formation can only attack the Pokémon in the middle of the opposing lineup, or directly in front of it.

The new C-Gear device in Pokémon Black and Pokémon White gives players an easier way to battle with others, and multiple ways of interacting with friends. Using IR Communication that's built into the game card, players can quickly connect with friends to battle and trade Pokémon faster than ever before. Exchanging Friend Codes is easier, with only a tap of the stylus needed to add them to your list. C-Gear also grants players a variety of game play and communication tools that utilize a local wireless connection and the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service. Players have the option to always utilize the C-Gear while playing, allowing for instant access to other players around them — even displaying what nearby players are doing in the game.

Another new feature in Pokémon Black and Pokémon White is the Wi-Fi Random Matchup, which allows players to battle others from around the world over the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service without needing to exchange Friend Codes.

Pokémon Black and Pokémon White will launch in Europe on March 4 and in North America on March 6. Both games are available for pre-order at participating retailers.